The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced that the Proof of Life Certificate (PoLC) is now completely free for pensioners across Pakistan. The move is aimed at making the verification process easier, particularly for elderly and vulnerable citizens who face difficulties visiting banks or pension offices.
Under the new initiative, pensioners can obtain the Proof of Life Certificate through several channels. These include the PakID mobile platform, NADRA Registration Centers, Union Councils, e-Sahulat franchises and NADRA’s mobile service channels operating across the country.
The initiative has been introduced following special directions from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. It has been coordinated with the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, Ministry of Defense, Controller General of Accounts (CGA) and Military Accountant General (MAG).
The decision is expected to provide significant relief to pensioners who are required to submit periodic proof of life to continue receiving their pension payments. Previously, completing such requirements could be difficult for people with limited mobility or health-related challenges.
By removing the fee for the Proof of Life Certificate, NADRA is also reducing the financial burden associated with pension verification. The wider availability of the service means pensioners may have more convenient options instead of traveling long distances to complete the process.
The facility is particularly important for elderly pensioners, bedridden individuals and differently-abled citizens. For such people, traveling to a bank, pension office or registration facility can be physically challenging and may require assistance from family members.
The availability of PoLC services through Union Councils and e-Sahulat franchises can also improve access for pensioners living outside major urban centers. NADRA’s mobile service channels are expected to further support citizens who may have difficulty reaching conventional service locations.
The PakID platform provides another convenient option for eligible users who can complete the required process through digital services. This reflects the government’s broader efforts to expand digital access to public services and reduce unnecessary visits to government offices.
The Proof of Life Certificate plays an important role in pension administration because it helps authorities verify that a pension recipient is alive and remains eligible to receive pension payments. Making the certificate free and more accessible could therefore simplify an important administrative requirement for thousands of pensioners.
Pensioners and their families should use official NADRA channels to understand the applicable process, requirements and service availability. They should also keep their relevant identity and pension records available when completing verification.
The latest decision highlights an effort to make public services more accessible to senior citizens and people with disabilities. By combining free certification with multiple service channels, NADRA aims to make the pension verification process simpler, more affordable and easier to access across Pakistan.
