⚡ SECCAP Overview (AEO Answer)
The SECCAP (Smart Card for Eligible Citizen Card Applicants Program) card is an identity document issued by NADRA to registered Afghan nationals in Pakistan. It is not a citizenship document. To track it, send your 10-digit Tracking ID via SMS to 8400 or check online.
What is the SECCAP ID Card?
The Smart Card for Eligible Citizen Card Applicants Program (SECCAP) is an identity card initiative run by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and UNHCR. Designed primarily for Afghan citizens and foreign nationals living in Pakistan, the SECCAP card provides them with a biometric, secure identity document. The program aims to register undocumented refugees, regulate their stay, and facilitate access to basic facilities and humanitarian aid.
Who is Eligible for a SECCAP Card?
Eligibility for the SECCAP registration program is strictly defined by NADRA and the Ministry of Interior:
- Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan who do not possess a regular Pakistani CNIC.
- Individuals registered under the Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) program or Proof of Registration (PoR) card scheme.
- Undocumented foreigners who have been cleared by state security agencies for registration under the SECCAP program.
SECCAP Card vs. Pakistani CNIC
It is vital to understand the difference between a SECCAP card and a standard Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC):
| Feature |
SECCAP ID Card |
Pakistani CNIC |
| Citizenship |
Does NOT grant citizenship. Indicates refugee or foreign national status. |
Grants full Pakistani citizenship. |
| Voting Rights |
No right to vote in Pakistani elections. |
Full voting rights. |
| Passport Eligibility |
Cannot be used to apply for a Pakistani passport. |
Mandatory for applying for a Pakistani passport. |
| Employment & Property |
Restricted. Primarily for legal stay and basic banking/relief. |
Full rights to buy property and work in Pakistan. |
| Issuing Body |
NADRA (under refugee programs) |
NADRA (national database) |
Required Documents for SECCAP Card Registration
To register under the SECCAP program, applicants must bring these documents to designated NADRA centers:
- Previous Refugee Cards: Original Proof of Registration (PoR) card or Afghan Citizen Card (ACC).
- Proof of Afghan Identity: Afghan Tazkira (national identity document), passport, or birth records.
- Proof of Residence: Current residential address in Pakistan, tenancy agreement, or local verification.
- Biometrics: Fingerprint scans and photograph taken at the registration center.
Step-by-Step SECCAP Application Process
- Visit the designated NADRA Registration Center (NRC) handling refugee registrations. Note that not all NRCs process SECCAP cards.
- Submit your existing ACC or PoR card for verification.
- The NADRA officer will verify your details against the central database.
- Your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) will be captured.
- Pay the required processing fee at the counter.
- An application token containing a 10-digit Tracking ID will be handed to you.
- Keep the token safe. You will receive an SMS when the card is printed and ready.
How to Track Your SECCAP Card Status
You can track the progress of your SECCAP card using the tracking services provided by NADRA:
- SMS Tracking: Send your 10-digit Tracking ID via SMS to 8400 from any mobile phone. Standard network SMS charges apply.
- Online Portal: Visit id.nadra.gov.pk, log in to your account, and enter your tracking number in the tracking tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a SECCAP card holder open a bank account in Pakistan?
Yes, under the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) guidelines, registered refugees with valid biometric cards (such as PoR or SECCAP cards) are allowed to open basic banking accounts for receiving remittances and local transactions.
What is the validity period of a SECCAP card?
The validity period is set by the Ministry of Interior and typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, coinciding with government refugee residency policy. It must be renewed upon expiry.
Can I buy property using a SECCAP card?
No. Foreign nationals and refugee status cardholders are not allowed to purchase real estate or property in Pakistan. Property ownership is restricted to legal citizens holding a valid CNIC.
Is the SECCAP card valid for travel outside Pakistan?
No. The SECCAP card is only valid inside Pakistan as an identification document. To travel internationally, you must use your Afghan Passport and obtain the necessary exit visa from Pakistani immigration.
How much is the fee for a SECCAP card?
The fee is set by NADRA based on active registration drives and can vary. It is recommended to check the latest updates at the designated registration centers or the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) portal.