Govt introduces app-based “Proof of Life” for pensioners

Biometric verification via NADRA made mandatory every 6 months for Federal, Provincial pensioners

Islamabad – The Finance Division has announced a new digital “Proof of Life” mechanism for federal and provincial government pensioners, making biometric verification through NADRA mandatory twice a year for continued pension payments.

In a notification issued on 22nd August 2026, the government said the move is aimed at facilitating pensioners and ensuring transparency in pension disbursement through the direct credit system.

New Rules Under Federal Govt. Receipt and Payment Rules, 2025

According to Rule 35(1), every pensioner drawing pension through direct credit will now have to:

1. Undergo biometric verification biannually on the NADRA system from any bank branch, or
2. Use any other facility made available by NADRA or the Government for biometric verification, or
3. Submit a life certificate to the Accountant General/District Accounts Officer.

The letter, sent by *Wajeeha Bashir, Deputy Secretary PFMR* to the *Governor of State Bank of Pakistan*, references SBP’s letter dated 9th July 2026.

Pension to be Stopped if Verification Missed

Under *Rule 35(2)*, the notification warns that if a pensioner *fails to submit a life certificate or does not complete NADRA biometric verification*, the relevant authority *shall not credit pension* to the pensioner’s bank account.

Importantly, the government clarified that *the normal “dormancy” requirement on bank accounts will not be applicable* for pensioners under these new rules.

Implementation

Copies of the notification have been sent to *Chairman NADRA, Controller General of Accounts, Military Accountant General, AGPR, DG-MIS, and Director BPRD SBP* for implementation.

Officials say the shift to an *app-based and biometric Proof of Life system* will reduce the need for pensioners, especially elderly and those living abroad, to physically visit offices for verification.

This is part of the government’s broader push for *digital facilitation of pensioners* under the 2025 Receipt and Payment Rules.

Key Points:

• Frequency: Biometric verification required *every 6 months*
• Method*: NADRA biometric at banks or govt facilities, OR submit life certificate
• Consequence*: Pension payment will be stopped if not complied with
• Effective*: For all Federal and Provincial Govt pensioners on direct credit