How to Easily Apply for NADRA Arms License Online – Learn Now!

NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) plays a crucial role in managing the issuance of computerized arms licenses in Pakistan. Working in collaboration with federal and provincial governments, NADRA ensures a secure and efficient system for arms licensing, replacing the older booklet system with modern, highly secure PVC cards.

These cards are not only convenient to carry but also include electronic data about the weapon and the owner, which integrates with other national verification systems for enhanced security and tracking.

The importance of legal firearm ownership in Pakistan cannot be overstated. Legal arms licenses help the government maintain a controlled environment where firearm ownership is monitored and regulated.

This not only deters illegal arms possession but also contributes to public safety by ensuring that only eligible, law-abiding citizens can own firearms. Owning a firearm without a valid license is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Therefore, it is vital for anyone owning a firearm to follow the legal procedures for obtaining and maintaining an arms license.

Eligibility Criteria for Arm License

To apply for an arms license through NADRA in Pakistan, there are specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. These criteria are designed to ensure that only responsible and law-abiding citizens are granted the right to own firearms.

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Citizenship	Must be a citizen of Pakistan with a valid CNIC or NICOP.
Minimum Age	25 years
Police Clearance	No criminal record; requires a Police Clearance Certificate.
Mental and Physical Health	Must be mentally and physically fit; those with impairments or mental health issues are not eligible.
Prohibited Associations	Must not be affiliated with proscribed organizations or involved in anti-state activities.

Citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of Pakistan with a valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) or NICOP for overseas Pakistanis.

Age Requirement: The minimum age to apply for an arms license is 25 years.

Police Clearance: The applicant must not have a criminal record. A Police Clearance Certificate is required, confirming that the individual is not involved in any criminal activities.

Mental and Physical Health: The applicant must be mentally and physically fit to carry and use a firearm. Those with any mental health issues or physical conditions that could impair their ability to handle a weapon safely are not eligible.

Prohibited Associations: The applicant must not be a member of any proscribed organization or involved in any activities that could be considered anti-state.

Required Documents For Arm License

To apply for a NADRA arms license in Pakistan, you need to gather several important documents. These documents ensure that your application is complete and meets all legal requirements. Here’s a simple list of what you need:

Required Document	Description
Copy of CNIC	A photocopy of your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
Application Form	The completed arms license application form, available online or at the Deputy Commissioner’s office.
Passport-Size Photographs	Two recent passport-size photographs to be attached to the application.
NTN Certificate	A copy of the National Tax Number (NTN) certificate, required for taxpayers.
Proof of Profession/Service	Documentation or a certificate verifying your current profession or service.

1. Copy of CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card): A photocopy of your CNIC is required as proof of your identity.
2. Application Form: You need to fill out the arms license application form, which can be obtained online or from the Deputy Commissioner’s office.
3. Passport-Size Photographs: Typically, two recent passport-size photos are required to be attached to your application.
4. NTN Certificate: If you are a taxpayer, you must include a copy of your National Tax Number (NTN) certificate.
5. Proof of Profession or Service: This can be a certificate or document that verifies your current profession or service, which is necessary to establish your eligibility for owning a firearm.

Step-by-Step Application Process For Arm License

Step 1: Obtaining the Application Form

To start the process of applying for a NADRA arms license in Pakistan, the first step is to obtain the application form. This form is essential for providing your personal details and the necessary information to proceed with your application.

How and Where to Download or Collect the Form

1. Online Download:

• NADRA Website: You can easily download the application form from the official NADRA website. This is a convenient option if you have access to a computer or smartphone with internet connectivity.
• Ministry of Interior Website: Alternatively, the form is also available on the Ministry of Interior’s website. This option ensures you are accessing the most up-to-date version of the application.

Get Application Form

2. In-Person Collection:

• Deputy Commissioner’s Office: If you prefer or require an in-person visit, you can collect the application form directly from your local Deputy Commissioner’s office. This is a good option if you have any immediate questions or need assistance with the application process.
• Interior Ministry Offices: You can also visit the regional offices of the Ministry of Interior to pick up the form.

Make sure to download or collect the form from a reliable source to avoid any issues during the submission process. This form is the foundation of your application, so ensure it is correctly filled out and that all the required information is provided.

Step 2: Filling Out the Application

Filling out the application form for a NADRA arms license is a crucial step that requires attention to detail. Here’s how to do it accurately:

Required Item	Description
Personal Information	Full name, CNIC number, and other personal details as per your ID.
Address and Contact Details	Current residential address and contact information.
Details of the Firearm	Type, bore, and serial number of the firearm (if required).
CNIC Copy	A clear photocopy of your Computerized National Identity Card.
Passport-Size Photographs	Two recent passport-size photographs.
NTN Certificate	Copy of your National Tax Number certificate (for taxpayers only).
Proof of Profession/Service	Certificate or document verifying your current profession or service.
Signatures	Ensure you sign the form where required.

1. Personal Information: Start by entering your full name, CNIC number, and other personal details exactly as they appear on your ID. Any discrepancies can cause delays.
2. Address and Contact Details: Ensure your current residential address and contact information are correctly filled in. This will be used for correspondence.
3. Details of the Firearm: If the form asks for details about the firearm you intend to license (such as type, bore, or serial number), provide this information accurately.
4. Supporting Documents: Attach the required documents, such as your CNIC copy, passport-size photographs, NTN certificate (if applicable), and proof of profession. Ensure these documents are clear and legible.
5. Verification and Signatures: Make sure to sign the form where required. If there are sections for official use or verification by authorities, leave those blank unless instructed otherwise.
6. Review: Before submitting, double-check all entries for accuracy. Mistakes can lead to your application being rejected or delayed.

Once your form is correctly filled out and you’ve attached all necessary documents, you’re ready to move on to the submission step.

Step 3: Submitting the Application

Once you have filled out your NADRA arms license application form and gathered all the necessary documents, the next step is to submit your application. Here’s what you need to know about the submission process and biometric verification:

Where to Submit the Form and Documents

1. Deputy Commissioner’s Office: The primary place to submit your application is at the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) Office in your district. This office will handle the initial review of your application and verify the attached documents.
2. Ministry of Interior: In certain cases, especially for specialized arms licenses, you may need to submit your application directly to the Ministry of Interior. This is typically required for more sensitive cases or specific types of firearms.
3. NADRA Data Acquisition Unit (DAU): After your application is initially approved, you’ll proceed to the NADRA Data Acquisition Unit. This is where the final steps of your application process take place.

Explanation of the Submission Process

• Document Submission: At the submission point (DC Office, Ministry of Interior, or NADRA DAU), you’ll hand over your completed application form along with all required documents. Make sure that all your documents are in order to avoid delays.
• Biometric Verification: During the submission, you will undergo biometric verification, which typically includes scanning your fingerprints. This step is crucial as it links your physical identity with your application, ensuring that the license is issued to the correct individual.
• Fee Payment: You may need to pay a submission or processing fee during this stage. This fee varies depending on the type of license and the processing requirements.
• Final Processing: After submitting your application and completing biometric verification, your documents will be reviewed by the relevant authorities. Once approved, you’ll be notified, usually via SMS, to collect your arms license from the NADRA office.

Step 4: Approval and Issuance

After submitting your NADRA arms license application and completing the biometric verification, the next critical step is obtaining the approval certificate and proceeding with the final issuance process at NADRA’s Data Acquisition Unit (DAU). Here’s how to do it:

Obtaining the Approval Certificate

1. Application Review: Once your application is submitted, it undergoes a thorough review by the authorities at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office or the Ministry of Interior. They will check all the documents and information you provided to ensure everything is accurate and complete.
2. Approval Notification: If your application meets all the requirements, you will be issued an approval certificate. This certificate is a formal document confirming that your application has been approved, and it is necessary for the next step in the process.

Proceeding with NADRA’s Data Acquisition Unit (DAU)

1. Visit the DAU: With the approval certificate in hand, you need to visit the nearest NADRA Data Acquisition Unit (DAU). The DAU is responsible for finalizing the processing of your arms license.
2. Document Submission: At the DAU, you will submit your approval certificate along with any other required documents. Ensure that all your documents are in order to avoid any delays.
3. Biometric Verification: During this visit, you will also undergo a final round of biometric verification. This step ensures that the license is issued to the correct individual by matching your fingerprints and other biometric data with the information in your application.
4. Final Issuance: After completing the biometric verification and submitting all necessary documents, NADRA will process your license. Once everything is verified and approved, your arms license will be issued.
5. Collection: You will be notified, typically via SMS, when your arms license is ready for collection. You can then pick up your license from the designated NADRA office.

Step 5: Final Submission and Collection

The final step in the process of obtaining your NADRA arms license involves completing the submission at the Data Acquisition Unit (DAU) and collecting your license once it’s ready. Here’s how to navigate this last phase:

Completing the Process

1. Final Document Submission: After obtaining your approval certificate, visit the NADRA Data Acquisition Unit (DAU). Submit the approval certificate along with any remaining documents that might be required. This ensures that all necessary paperwork is in place for the issuance of your license.
2. Verification: NADRA will conduct a final verification of your documents and biometric data. This step confirms that all the information provided matches and that there are no discrepancies.
3. Payment of Fees: If there are any remaining fees, ensure they are paid during this visit. Keep all receipts and proof of payment for your records.

Receiving the Arms License

1. Processing Time: Once all submissions are complete, your application will be processed by NADRA. This may take some time, so patience is necessary. NADRA will notify you, usually via SMS, once your arms license is ready for collection.
2. Collection Notification: When your license is ready, you will receive a notification, typically sent to the mobile number you provided during the application process. This message will inform you that your license is available for pick-up.
3. Pick-Up: Go to the NADRA office where you submitted your application to collect your arms license. Bring your original CNIC and any other required documents to verify your identity.
4. Final Check: Before leaving, ensure that all the details on your license are correct. If there are any errors, report them immediately to the NADRA officials so they can be rectified.

Fees and Costs

When applying for a NADRA arms license in Pakistan, the fees vary depending on the type of license you are applying for. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with both non-prohibited bore (NPB) and prohibited bore (PB) licenses:

Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) Licenses

• Initial Fee: The fee for obtaining a new NPB arms license typically ranges from PKR 8,000 to PKR 15,000. This category includes licenses for firearms such as pistols, revolvers, and shotguns.
• Renewal Fee: To renew an NPB license, the cost is usually between PKR 5,000 and PKR 7,500 annually. Renewal is necessary to maintain the legal validity of your license.

Prohibited Bore (PB) Licenses

• Initial Fee: For prohibited bore licenses, which cover fully automatic weapons and certain high-caliber firearms, the initial fee is higher, usually ranging from PKR 20,000 to PKR 35,000.
• Renewal Fee: The annual renewal fee for a PB license is typically around PKR 15,000 to PKR 20,000.

Additional Costs

• Processing Fees: There may also be additional processing fees, which can range from PKR 1,000 to PKR 3,000 depending on the specific requirements of the application process.
• Duplicate License Fee: If you need a duplicate of your arms license, the fee is generally PKR 5,000.

Renewal and Duplicate License

When you have an arms license, it’s important to keep it valid by renewing it on time. Additionally, if your original license is lost or damaged, you will need to apply for a duplicate. Here’s how to handle both situations:

Procedure for Renewing an Arms License

1. Renewal Application: To renew your arms license, you need to fill out a renewal application form. This form can typically be obtained from the Deputy Commissioner’s Office or downloaded from the Ministry of Interior’s website.
2. Required Documents: Along with the renewal form, you will need to submit:
   • A copy of your original arms license.
   • A copy of your CNIC.
   • Recent passport-size photographs.
   • Proof of payment for the renewal fee.
3. Submission: Submit the renewal application and required documents to the relevant office, such as the Deputy Commissioner’s Office or the Ministry of Interior. Ensure you submit the application before the expiration date of your current license to avoid any penalties or legal issues.
4. Processing Time: Once submitted, the renewal process may take several days to a few weeks. You will be notified when your renewed license is ready for collection.

How to Apply for a Duplicate License

If your original arms license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate license by following these steps:

1. File a Report: If your license is lost or stolen, you must first file a report with the local police. This report will be necessary when applying for a duplicate license.
2. Duplicate Application Form: Obtain the duplicate license application form from the Deputy Commissioner’s Office or the Ministry of Interior. Fill out the form accurately, providing details of the loss or damage.
3. Supporting Documents: Along with the application form, you need to submit:
   • A copy of the police report (if lost or stolen).
   • A copy of your CNIC.
   • Any remnants of the damaged license (if applicable).
   • Passport-size photographs.
   • Proof of payment for the duplicate license fee.
4. Submission: Submit the completed application and documents to the appropriate office. The processing time for a duplicate license may vary, but you will be informed once the duplicate is ready for collection.
5. Collection: Once notified, you can collect your duplicate license from the designated NADRA office.

Renewing your license on time and replacing it promptly if lost or damaged ensures that you remain in compliance with the law, allowing you to continue legally owning and carrying your firearm​.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When applying for a NADRA arms license, it’s common to have several questions about the process, eligibility, and other related concerns. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions, along with straightforward answers to help guide you:

1. Who is eligible to apply for a NADRA arms license?

   To be eligible for a NADRA arms license, you must:
   Be a Pakistani citizen with a valid CNIC.
   Be at least 21 years old (this age requirement may vary based on the type of license and location).
   Have no criminal record.
   Be mentally and physically fit to own and operate a firearm.

2. What types of firearms can I apply for under a NADRA arms license?

   There are two main types of licenses:
   Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB): Includes firearms like pistols, revolvers, and shotguns.
   Prohibited Bore (PB): Covers automatic weapons and certain high-caliber firearms. Special approval is required for these licenses.

3. How long does it take to process an arms license application?

   The processing time can vary depending on the completeness of your application and the specific type of license. Typically, it may take several weeks to a few months. NADRA or the relevant authority will notify you once your application is processed.

4. What documents are required for the application?

   You will generally need:
   1: A completed application form.
   2: A copy of your CNIC.
   3: Passport-size photographs.
   4: Proof of profession or service.
   5: NTN certificate (for taxpayers).
   6:Any additional documents as required by your local authorities.

5. Can I apply for a NADRA arms license online?

   In some regions, particularly in Punjab, you can apply online through government portals. This allows you to upload documents and track your application status without visiting an office in person.

6. What should I do if my arms license is lost or damaged?

   If your license is lost or damaged, you must apply for a duplicate license. This involves filing a police report if the license is lost or stolen, completing a duplicate application form, and submitting the necessary documents to NADRA or the relevant authority.

7. How often do I need to renew my arms license?

   Arms licenses must typically be renewed annually. Ensure you apply for renewal before your current license expires to avoid penalties or legal issues.

8. What is the cost of applying for and renewing an arms license?

   The cost varies depending on the type of license (NPB or PB). Initial fees for NPB licenses generally range from PKR 8,000 to PKR 15,000, while PB licenses can cost between PKR 20,000 to PKR 35,000. Renewal fees are lower, but still necessary every year.

Conclusion

Following the legal procedures for arms ownership in Pakistan is crucial for ensuring that firearms are used safely and responsibly.

By adhering to the proper steps for obtaining, renewing, or replacing a NADRA arms license, you help maintain public safety and uphold the law.

Legal ownership of firearms comes with significant responsibilities, including the need to renew licenses regularly and ensure all documentation is up to date.

It’s also essential to stay informed about any changes in the process or regulations. The best way to do this is by using official NADRA channels, such as their website or contacting their offices directly.

This will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information, ensuring that you comply with all legal requirements.