The Smart National Identity Card (SNIC) launched by the Pakistani consul general in Jeddah will benefit overseas Pakistanis in a number of ways.

Jeddah is the first overseas destination to have launched the SNIC also known as the “3rd generation ID card” which will ensure overall convenience and security for Pakistanis living abroad.

Speaking to the media at the launching ceremony of the card by NADRA officials (National Database and Registration Authority) at his residence, Pakistan Consul General Aftab A. Khokher said: “This is a landmark development as it is the first time SNIC has been launched outside Pakistan, and Jeddah is the first overseas destination to do so.”

NADRA is planning to link some special services with the SNIC, including cash transfer facilities, frequent flying miles programs, store chain discounts, Haj and Umrah packages, pension payments, conditional cash transfers, welfare schemes, cash grants, E-voting and driving license issuance.

Khokher said that after its launch in Jeddah, the card will be introduced in Dubai, followed by the United Kingdom, adding that the card will preserve citizens’ identity more efficiently by preventing all types of forgery.

“It is also more reliable and secure with almost 36 built-in security features which will benefit Pakistani nationals in different ways in the future,” he said.

The main features of the card are laser engraving and chip encryption. The card is made of durable ply-carbonated material guaranteeing over a 10-year product life.

“Based on processor-based chip technology with a storage capacity of 72K, the SNIC will have the most advanced printing features with tamper-proof personalized laser engraved printing,” Khoker said, adding that the card can also be used at immigration check points for identity proof.

He urged all overseas Pakistanis living in the Kingdom to apply for the new smart card as soon as possible. The SNIC system, which has already been adopted in Pakistan, has proved to be very successful.

The application for the SNIC could be expedited for those living in other cities without access to consular services. The card has a built-in system for verification. Printing and delivery can be done on the spot.

“We are planning to have the SNIC delivered directly to the applicant’s home through synchronizing the mobile number of the applicant with the system,” he said.

Currently, the card carries an accidental insurance of 100,000 Pakistani rupees, inclusive of the premium.

A normal SNIC, which will have a validity of seven years, will cost SR132 while the executive card will cost SR172.