One of the most common questions we receive is about the difference between a NICOP and a POC. Both are identity documents issued by NADRA, but they serve different purposes and are designed for different groups of people. Choosing the wrong one can waste time and money, so it is important to understand the distinction.
What is a NICOP?
NICOP stands for National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis. It is for Pakistani citizens who live abroad but still hold Pakistani nationality. If you are a Pakistani citizen living in the UK — whether you have dual nationality or not — you need a NICOP.
Key facts about NICOP:
Valid for 10 years
Serves as proof of Pakistani citizenship
Allows visa-free travel to Pakistan
Required for property transactions in Pakistan
Can be used to open bank accounts in Pakistan
What is a POC?
POC stands for Pakistan Origin Card. It is for foreign nationals who are of Pakistani descent. This means people who were previously Pakistani citizens but have given up their Pakistani nationality, or whose parents or grandparents were Pakistani citizens.
Key facts about POC:
Valid for 5 years
Grants visa-free entry and unlimited stay in Pakistan
Right to purchase and sell property
Can open and operate bank accounts
Ability to conduct business in Pakistan
The Key Difference
The fundamental difference is about your current nationality status:
Still a Pakistani citizen? → You need a NICOP
No longer a Pakistani citizen but have Pakistani heritage? → You need a POC
For example, if you were born in Pakistan but later became a British citizen and formally surrendered your Pakistani nationality, you would need a POC. If you hold dual British-Pakistani nationality, you need a NICOP.
What About British-Born Children?
Children born in the UK to Pakistani parents can be registered as Pakistani citizens. In this case, they would need a NICOP. If the parents have surrendered their Pakistani nationality, the child may be eligible for a POC instead, depending on the grandparents' nationality status.
Pricing Comparison
NICOP pricing ranges from £99 (Normal, 8-10 weeks) to £160 (Executive, 2-3 weeks).
POC pricing ranges from £280 (Standard, 8-10 weeks) to £350 (Fast, 2-3 weeks).
POC applications are more expensive because they involve additional verification of your Pakistani heritage and origin.
Still Not Sure?
If you are unsure which document you need, contact us on 0330 113 0404 or via WhatsApp. We will ask a few simple questions about your nationality status and advise you on the right document. Getting this right from the start saves you time and money.