NADRA Simplifies Succession Certificate Process in Pakistan: A Game-Changer for Legal Heirs

In a significant step toward enhancing accessibility and convenience, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has revolutionized the process of obtaining a Succession Certificate in Pakistan. As of August 2025, legal heirs can now apply for a Succession Certificate at any of the 186 Succession Facilitation Units (SFUs) established across the country, regardless of the location of the inherited property. This reform eliminates previous regional restrictions, making the process more efficient and user-friendly. Additionally, NADRA has enhanced its biometric verification system, allowing legal heirs to complete the process either at a nearby NADRA center or remotely via the Pak ID Mobile App. This article explores the updated process, its benefits, and how it aligns with modern civic service standards.

What is a Succession Certificate?

A Succession Certificate is a legal document issued by NADRA to the heirs of a deceased person, granting them the authority to claim and manage movable assets such as bank accounts, shares, bonds, and insurance amounts. For immovable properties, a Letter of Administration may be required. The certificate ensures transparent and lawful distribution of the deceased’s assets, preventing disputes among legal heirs. NADRA’s streamlined process, introduced under the Letters of Administration and Succession Certificates Act, 2019, has shifted this responsibility from civil courts to NADRA, significantly reducing processing time and judicial burden.

Key Updates to the Succession Certificate Process

NADRA’s recent reforms, announced on August 5, 2025, have made obtaining a Succession Certificate more accessible and efficient. Below are the key changes:

• Nationwide Application Submission: Legal heirs can now submit applications at any of the 186 Succession Facilitation Units located in Islamabad, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan, irrespective of where the inherited property is located.
• Enhanced Biometric Verification: The biometric verification process has been simplified. Legal heirs can complete it at any designated NADRA center or remotely using the Pak ID Mobile App, available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
• Removal of Provincial Restrictions: Previously, applications had to be filed in the province where the property was located, creating logistical challenges for heirs living elsewhere. The new policy eliminates this barrier.
• Streamlined Five-Step Process: The process involves application initiation, submission of legal heir and asset details, biometric verification, public notice for objections, and certificate issuance.

Benefits of NADRA’s Simplified Process

The updated process offers several advantages, aligning with NADRA’s commitment to transparency, accessibility, and efficiency:

• Time-Saving: The process, which previously required court visits and could take years, is now completed in 15–20 working days if all documents are in order.
• Reduced Judicial Burden: By handling Succession Certificates, NADRA has reduced the judiciary’s workload by 30%, allowing courts to focus on complex cases.
• Accessibility for Overseas Pakistanis: Legal heirs abroad can authorize a representative in Pakistan or use the Pak ID Mobile App for biometric verification.
• Transparency and Security: The digital certificate includes advanced security features and real-time verification capabilities, minimizing fraud risks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Succession Certificate

The process for obtaining a Succession Certificate through NADRA involves five straightforward steps:

1. Application Initiation: A legal heir submits an application at a NADRA Succession Facilitation Unit, providing their CNIC/NICOP, the deceased’s Death Certificate, and a Letter of Authorization from all legal heirs.
2. Details of Legal Heirs and Assets: The applicant provides details of all legal heirs (names, relationships, CNIC numbers) and the deceased’s assets (movable and immovable).
3. Biometric Verification: All legal heirs undergo biometric verification at a NADRA center or via the Pak ID Mobile App.
4. Public Notice: NADRA publishes a notice in leading newspapers and on its official website for 14 days to invite objections.
5. Certificate Issuance: If no objections are raised, NADRA issues the Succession Certificate, which can be verified online for authenticity.

Required Documents

To ensure a smooth application process, applicants must provide the following documents:

Document	Details
Death Certificate	Certified copy from a government authority confirming the deceased’s death.
CNIC/NICOP of Deceased	Proof of the deceased’s identity.
CNIC/NICOP of Applicant(s)	Identity proof of the legal heir(s) applying for the certificate.
Family Registration Certificate (FRC)	Obtained from NADRA to verify relationships with the deceased.
Heirship Certificate (Optional)	May be required to confirm multiple heirs, issued by the local union council.
Letter of Authorization	Signed by all legal heirs to authorize the applicant to file on their behalf.

Note: All documents must be attested by a gazetted officer or the Pakistani embassy/consulate if the applicant resides abroad.

Fees for NADRA Succession Certificate

The cost of obtaining a Succession Certificate varies based on the value of the assets:

Asset Value	Fee (PKR)
Up to PKR 100,000	10,000
Above PKR 100,000	20,000
Duplicate Certificate	5,000
Modification/Reprint	5,000
Certificate Verification	50

Source: Wego Travel Blog

Challenges and Solutions

While NADRA’s process is streamlined, applicants may face challenges such as:

• Incomplete Documents: Missing documents like the Death Certificate or FRC can cause delays. Solution: Double-check all documents before submission.
• Disputes Among Heirs: Disagreements over heirship can lead to objections during the public notice period. Solution: Provide a clear family tree or consult a legal expert.
• Biometric Verification Issues: Overseas heirs may face difficulties with app-based verification. Solution: Use Pakistan Missions abroad or authorize a representative in Pakistan.
• Data Mismatches: Errors in CNIC details can delay processing. Solution: Update NADRA records before applying.

For assistance, applicants can contact NADRA’s helpline at +92-51-111-786-100 or visit NADRA’s official website.

FAQs

How long does it take to obtain a Succession Certificate?

NADRA typically processes the certificate in 15–20 working days after document verification, provided no objections are raised.

Can overseas Pakistanis apply for a Succession Certificate?

Yes, overseas Pakistanis can authorize a representative in Pakistan via a Power of Attorney or complete biometric verification at Pakistan Missions or through the Pak ID Mobile App.

What happens if objections are raised during the public notice period?

If objections are raised, NADRA investigates the claims. If valid, the application may be rejected, and applicants may need to approach a civil court.

Can a Succession Certificate be used for immovable properties?

No, a Succession Certificate is for movable assets only. For immovable properties, a Letter of Administration is required.

What if a legal heir is a minor?

If a legal heir is a minor, NADRA may issue a Letter of Decline, and the case must be handled by a civil court with a Guardianship Certificate.

Conclusion

NADRA’s reforms to the Succession Certificate process mark a significant milestone in Pakistan’s civic services. By allowing applications at 186 Succession Facilitation Units nationwide and enhancing biometric verification through the Pak ID Mobile App, NADRA has made the process more accessible, transparent, and efficient. These changes benefit both local and overseas Pakistanis, reducing logistical hurdles and ensuring faster asset distribution. To avoid delays, applicants should ensure all documents are complete and accurate. For further details, visit NADRA’s Succession Certificate Portal or contact their helpline. This initiative reflects NADRA’s commitment to modernizing services and aligns with global standards for efficient governance.

قانونی ورثاء جانشینی سرٹیفکیٹ حاصل کرنے کی درخواست اسلام آباد سمیت ملک کے چاروں صوبوں (پنجاب، سندھ، بلوچستان اور خیبرپختونخوا) اور گلگت بلتستان میں نادرا دفاتر اور دیگر مقامات پر قائم 186 جانشینی سہولت مراکز یا سکسیشن فیسلیٹیشن یونٹس پر جمع کرا سکتے ہیں۔
اسی طرح قانونی ورثاء کی بائیومیٹرک تصدیق کی سہولت بھی مزید بہتر بنا دی گئی ہے اور اب یہ کارروائی کسی بھی مقررہ قریبی مرکز میں جا کر مکمل کی جا سکتی ہے یا قانونی ورثاء اس مقصد کے لئے نادرا کی پاک آئی ڈی موبائل ایپ بھی استعمال کر سکتے ہیں۔
سابقہ طریقہ کار کے تحت جانشینی سرٹیفکیٹ کی درخواست صرف اسی صوبے میں جمع کرانا لازم تھا جہاں وراثتی جائیداد موجود ہو جس کی وجہ سے دیگر شہروں میں مقیم شہریوں کو پریشانی کا سامنا کرنا پڑتا تھا۔ نادرا نے پہلے مرحلے میں بائیومیٹرک تصدیق کی سہولت پاک آئی ڈی موبائل ایپ پر متعارف کرائی تاہم درخواست جمع کرانے کے لئے متعلقہ صوبے کی شرط اب بھی موجود تھی۔
نادرا کی اس نئی سہولت کی بدولت شہریوں کے لئے جانشینی سرٹیفکیٹ کا حصول مزید آسان ہو گیا ہے اور وہ کسی بھی صوبے کے متعلقہ نادرا دفتر، جہاں جانشینی سہولت مرکز قائم ہو، میں اپنی درخواست جمع کرا سکتے ہیں۔ بائیومیٹرک تصدیق کے لئے قانونی ورثاء نہ صرف نادرا کے کسی بھی مرکز پر آ سکتے ہیں بلکہ نادرا کی پاک آئی ڈی موبائل ایپ سے بھی فائدہ اٹھا سکتے ہیں۔
ترجمان نادرا کے مطابق اس سلسلے میں نادرا ہیڈکوارٹرز کی جانب سے تمام متعلقہ دفاتر کو نوٹیفکیشن جاری کر دیا گیا ہے اور شہری اب اس سہولت سے فائدہ اٹھا سکتے ہیں۔