Do You Need a CNIC and Biometric Verification for an eSIM in Pakistan?

The Short Answer: Yes (For Local eSIMs)

Yes, CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) and biometric verification are mandatory for getting a local Pakistani eSIM from any traditional operator like Jazz, Zong, or Ufone. This requirement applies to all Pakistani citizens and is strictly enforced under PTA regulations to ensure the SIM is registered to your verified identity.

Why Are CNIC and Biometric Verification Required?

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) mandates biometric verification for all local SIM activations – physical or digital – to:

• Prevent unauthorized SIM issuance and identity theft

• Ensure the SIM is registered to your CNIC and linked to NADRA's database

• Comply with anti-fraud regulations and the DIRBS (Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System) framework

• Maintain legal accountability for all active SIMs in the country

How Does the Verification Process Work?

For Traditional Operators (Jazz, Zong, Ufone):

1. You visit a Jazz Experience Center, Zong Customer Service Centre, or Ufone Service Center with your original CNIC

2. You complete biometric verification – your thumbprint is scanned at the service center

3. The biometric scan is matched against NADRA's records to confirm your identity

4. Once verified, you receive a QR code to activate your eSIM

For Onic (Digital-First Network):

Onic offers a fully digital eSIM experience. Biometric verification is completed through the Onic app using your CNIC and digital verification methods. No physical store visit is required, but identity verification remains mandatory.

Who Needs CNIC and Biometric Verification?

For Pakistani citizens, a valid CNIC is mandatory. Overseas Pakistanis need NICOP. Foreigners need an original passport with a valid visa, but biometric verification is still required. Afghan citizens need an original Afghan Citizen Card issued by NADRA.

The PTA eSIM Policy 2026 Update

The PTA introduced a revised eSIM policy effective August 17, 2026, which includes:

• Maximum issuance fee capped at Rs. 1,500

• Up to 10 free eSIM transfers between devices

However, the biometric verification requirement remains unchanged. The policy does not remove identity verification requirements – it only reduces fees and allows free transfers.

What About Future Biometric Verification Methods?

The PTA is working with NADRA and cellular operators to introduce alternative verification methods:

• Facial recognition – under consideration for remote verification through the Pak ID app

• Iris/retina scanning – being proposed for people whose fingerprints cannot be matched

• Self-service biometric verification – through operators' mobile applications

These are future proposals and not currently available. The current requirement remains fingerprint-based biometric verification.

Exceptions: When CNIC and Biometric Verification Are NOT Required

Travel eSIMs (Data-Only)

If you are a traveler and do not need a local Pakistani mobile number, you can get a data-only travel eSIM with no CNIC and no biometric verification. These eSIMs:

• Are purchased online before travel

• Work on local partner networks (Jazz, Zong, Telenor, Ufone)

• Are data-only (no Pakistani phone number for calls or SMS)

• Do not require PTA registration or biometric verification

Note: Local airport counters in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad will turn away foreigners without a Pakistani CNIC or NICOP for local SIMs – eSIM is the only realistic option for tourists needing data.

Exemptions for Special Cases

PTA already allows exemptions in three specified categories for people who cannot complete fingerprint verification:

• Elderly people

• Workers with damaged fingerprints

• People with disabilities

• Patients with medical conditions affecting fingerprints

People seeking an exemption may need to submit a medical certificate or obtain verification from NADRA. The Senate committee has also directed PTA to explore alternative methods like retina scans and facial recognition to make SIM verification easier for these users.

Guide Information

Step-by-Step Process

1. Step-by-Step: Get an eSIM with CNIC & Biometric Verification (Zong/Jazz/Ufone)

2. Check device compatibility: Dial *#06# – if an EID number appears, your device supports eSIM

3. Visit a service center: Zong Customer Service Centre, Jazz Experience Center, or Ufone Service Center

4. Bring your original CNIC: Required for identity verification

5. Complete biometric verification: Provide your thumbprint at the center

6. Pay the fee: Pay the applicable eSIM issuance fee

7. Receive a QR code: Get a physical voucher containing the QR code

8. At home, scan the QR code in your device settings:

9. On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan > Scan QR Code

10. On Android: Settings > SIM Card Manager > eSIM > Add Mobile Plan > Scan QR Code

11. Ensure you are connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data

12. Enter PIN: Type default code "0000" when asked

13. Your eSIM will be active in 5 minutes

14. Step-by-Step: Get an Onic eSIM with Digital Verification

15. Visit onic.pk or download the Onic app

16. Choose your plan and select eSIM option

17. Complete digital biometric verification through the app using your CNIC

18. Receive your QR code digitally in the app or by email

19. Scan the QR code in your device settings

20. Connect to Wi-Fi during activation

21. Your eSIM is now active – no store visit needed

22. Step-by-Step: Get a Travel eSIM (No CNIC or Biometric Required)

23. Choose a travel eSIM provider (HelloRoam, HelloSIM, Bcengi, etc.)

24. Select a data plan and complete purchase online

25. Receive QR code by email within minutes

26. Install before travel on home Wi-Fi – scan QR code in device settings

27. On arrival in Pakistan, enable the eSIM line and turn on Data Roaming

28. The eSIM connects to local networks automatically (Jazz, Zong, Telenor, or Ufone)