KARACHI, June 18: The launching of the National Identity Card scheme for overseas Pakistanis has been postponed for some time because of the situation in the country.

This was stated by Col Zahid Iqbal, Director-General, National Database Registration Authority.

The programme was to be launched last month with a visit of high-powered teams to Gulf countries, the UK and the USA, to begin with.

Under this programme, application forms for the National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistani will be made available at Pakistani embassies and consulates, specified banks and PIA offices. The filled-in forms are to be submitted at the nearest Pakistani mission or sent directly to the NADRA offices in Pakistan.

After processing the applications, the card will be sent in six to eight weeks’ time to Pakistani missions where the form will be submitted, or to the address of the applicant through a designated courier.

It is mandatory for Pakistani citizens who work or intend to work outside Pakistan and are required to be registered with the Protector of Emigrants under the Emigration Ordinance and Emigration Rules 1979, to have the NIC. Overseas Pakistanis will have to pay $25 per card.—PPI