Arms License - All Pakistan (Non-Prohibited Bore)

An All Pakistan Arms License (NonProhibited Bore or NPB) is a federal firearm license issued by the Secretary Interior Division that allows the holder to legally possess and carry approved non prohibited bore weapons throughout Pakistan. Unlike provincial licenses that are restricted to a specific territory, an All Pakistan NPB arms license remains valid across all four provinces, Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). Issued under the framework of the Pakistan Arms Ordinance 1965 and Pakistan Arms Rules 2023, it is considered the highest level of civilian firearm licensing available for eligible Pakistani citizens seeking nationwide validity.

All Pakistan License vs Provincial Arms License — What's the Difference?

The primary difference between an All Pakistan arms license and a provincial arms license is territorial validity. An All Pakistan NPB license is issued by the Secretary Interior Division at the federal level and is recognized throughout Pakistan, including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Balochistan, AJK, and GB. In contrast, a provincial license is generally issued through the relevant Home Department or Deputy Commissioner and is only valid within the issuing province.

Following the 18th Constitutional Amendment, provincial governments received independent licensing authority. However, the federal All Pakistan arms license continues to be the preferred option for individuals who travel frequently, conduct business across provinces, or require nationwide firearm authorization. With one license covering the entire country, there is no need to obtain separate provincial permissions when relocating or travelling within Pakistan.

Which Weapons Are Covered Under Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB)?

A Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license covers firearms that are not classified as prohibited bore weapons under applicable government notifications. Common NPB firearms include 9mm pistols, 30 bore pistols, .32 bore pistols, revolvers, .22 caliber rifles, and shotguns, including approved non-automatic, semi-automatic, and pump-action models. In contrast, Prohibited Bore (PB) weapons generally include fully automatic firearms and certain military-grade weapons that are subject to stricter controls and special approvals. These weapons fall outside the standard civilian licensing process and may require authorization from higher federal authorities. For most civilian applicants, an All Pakistan NPB arms license provides legal access to the most commonly owned personal protection and sporting firearms in Pakistan.

Eligibility Criteria — All Pakistan Arms License

Requirements

To qualify for an All Pakistan Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license, applicants must satisfy the eligibility requirements prescribed under Pakistan Arms Rules 2023 and the applicable Ministry of Interior guidelines. Before submitting an application, it is important to ensure that all eligibility conditions are met, as failure to do so may result in delays or rejection during the verification process.

To be eligible for an All Pakistan NPB arms license, an applicant must:

1. Be a Pakistani citizen with a valid CNIC or NICOP
2. Be at least 25 years of age at the time of application
3. Successfully clear local police verification and security screening.
4. Not be a member of any proscribed organization or involved in anti-state activities
5. Be physically, mentally, and psychologically fit to possess and carry a firearm.
6. Have no criminal record or pending serious criminal proceedings before any court of law.

The Ministry of Interior may conduct additional background checks where necessary before granting approval.

Not sure whether you qualify? Zumar Law Firm offers a free eligibility review to assess your case before you begin the application process. Contact our team today for professional guidance and a preliminary eligibility assessment.

Documents Required for All Pakistan NPB Arms License

Submitting complete and correctly prepared documents is one of the most important steps in the All Pakistan NPB arms license application process. The Ministry of Interior reviews each application carefully, and missing or improperly prepared documents can lead to delays or rejection. Before applying, ensure that all required paperwork is available and properly attested where necessary.

Mandatory Documents Checklist

Applicants seeking an All Pakistan Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license should prepare the following documents:

•  Attested color copy of CNIC or NICOP (front and back) 
•  Recent passport-size photographs (typically 2–4 copies)
•  Medical certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner confirming physical and mental fitness to possess a firearm 
•  Character certificate issued by the local police authority 
• Affidavit declaring eligibility and confirming no criminal record
•  Written application addressed to the Section Officer (Arms), Ministry of Interior 
•  Additional documents that may be requested during verification or NADRA biometric processing

What Type of Affidavit and Character Certificate Is Required?

The character certificate must be issued by the DSP or SP of the applicant's area of residence. Generic character certificates from unauthorized sources are generally not accepted during the verification process.

Similarly, the affidavit should be prepared on PKR 100 or higher-value stamp paper and must be duly attested by a notary public or oath commissioner. The affidavit typically confirms the applicant's eligibility, lawful background, and absence of serious criminal proceedings.

As part of its professional service, Zumar Law Firm prepares compliant affidavit drafts and provides guidance throughout the character certificate process, helping applicants avoid common documentation errors that can delay approval.

Step-by-Step Process

Obtaining an All Pakistan Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license involves multiple stages of verification, approval, biometric processing, and firearm registration. Understanding the complete arms license registration process in Pakistan can help applicants avoid delays and ensure compliance with Ministry of Interior requirements.

Step-by-Step Application Process (Ministry of Interior to NADRA)

• Eligibility Review & Document Preparation
  Confirm eligibility requirements and obtain all necessary documents, including CNIC copies, character certificate, medical certificate, photographs, and affidavit.
• Application Submission
  Submit a written application addressed to the Section Officer (Arms), Ministry of Interior, along with the required supporting documents.
• Ministry of Interior Review
  

  The Ministry reviews the application and conducts background verification through local police and relevant security agencies.

• Approval Letter Issuance
  If the application is approved, the Ministry of Interior issues an official approval letter.

• Approval Upload to NADRA System
  The approved license authorization is electronically uploaded to the NADRA database.

• NADRA Biometric Verification
  The applicant visits a designated NADRA center for biometric verification. Major processing centers include Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Multan, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Quetta

• NADRA Demand Notice Issuance
  Following successful biometric verification, NADRA issues a Demand Notice authorizing the purchase of an eligible firearm.

• Weapon Purchase from an Authorized Dealer
  The applicant purchases a firearm from an authorized arms dealer, and the weapon details are recorded on the Demand Notice.

• DC Office Entry & NADRA Smart Card Issuance
  The completed Demand Notice is submitted to the relevant Deputy Commissioner (DC) Office for weapon registration. NADRA then issues a computerized PVC arms license smart card, replacing the traditional booklet-style license system.

How Long Does All Pakistan Arms License Take?

The processing timeline for an All Pakistan NPB arms license can vary depending on document completeness, background verification, and government workload. In most cases, applications move through multiple stages involving the Ministry of Interior, local police verification, NADRA biometric processing, and final registration procedures.

With Zumar Law Firm's professional document preparation, application management, and follow-up support, the expected processing timeline is approximately 45 working days from the submission of complete documents.

Need professional assistance? Zumar Law Firm handles the entire process—from document drafting and Ministry filing to NADRA follow-up and final registration support. Professional Fee: PKR 190,000. Contact us online or via WhatsApp today to start your application.

All Pak Arms License Fee 2025–2026

Understanding the complete cost of an All Pakistan Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license is important before starting the application process. The total amount generally consists of the applicable Ministry of Interior government fee and the NADRA processing fee. Costs may vary depending on the type of license being issued and whether the applicant qualifies for any available tax filer concessions.

Government Fee + NADRA Fee Breakdown

Note: Fee figures are based on published government rates applicable during 2024–2026. Applicants should verify the latest charges with their relevant Deputy Commissioner (DC) Office or NADRA center before making any payment.

Both 9mm pistols and 30 bore pistols fall within the Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) category. Therefore, the standard NPB fee structure generally applies to both weapon types.

Tax Filer Discount on Arms License Fee

Under current government policy, eligible tax filers who have paid PKR 50,000 or more in income tax may qualify for a 50% reduction in the government fee applicable to NPB arms licenses. Applicants seeking this concession should carry relevant tax payment evidence and supporting documentation when completing NADRA processing and Demand Notice requirements.

It is important to note that Zumar Law Firm's professional fee of PKR 190,000 is separate from government and NADRA charges. Our service fee covers complete application handling, document preparation, affidavit drafting, character certificate guidance, filing with the Ministry of Interior, and follow-up assistance throughout the registration process. All government fees and NADRA processing charges remain payable directly to the relevant authorities.

All Pakistan Arms License Renewal — Online Process, Fee & Timeline

Renewing your All Pakistan Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license before its expiry date is essential to maintain lawful possession and carrying rights. The renewal process typically involves verification through NADRA systems, fee payment, and, in some cases, biometric re-validation. Timely renewal helps avoid penalties, additional charges, and unnecessary delays in obtaining an updated arms license smart card.

How to Renew All Pak Arms License Online

The renewal process generally follows these steps:

• Check the expiry date printed on your NADRA PVC arms license smart card.
• Initiate the renewal process through a NADRA e-Sahulat center or the online verification system at pal.nadra.gov.pk, where available.
• Obtain and submit the required renewal challan at the designated NADRA office or authorized bank counter.
• Complete biometric re-verification if requested during processing.
• Receive your updated NADRA smart card after successful verification and approval.
  

Applicants should ensure that all personal information and weapon records remain accurate before submitting a renewal request.

Arms License Renewal Fee — 9mm, 30 Bore, and Other NPB Weapons

The standard NPB arms license renewal fee varies according to the applicable provincial rules and government notifications. For example, Punjab renewals are processed in accordance with the Punjab Arms Rules 2023, and applicants should confirm current rates through NADRA e-Sahulat centers or their local Deputy Commissioner office.

Both 9mm pistols and 30 bore pistols are classified as Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) firearms. As a result, the standard NPB renewal fee generally applies to both categories.

License holders should avoid allowing their licenses to expire. Following the prescribed grace period, late renewal penalties may apply. In cases where a license remains expired for an extended period, renewal charges can increase significantly, potentially reaching multiple times the standard renewal fee under applicable regulations.

Zumar Law Firm assists clients with renewal paperwork, compliance requirements, and Deputy Commissioner office follow-up to help ensure a smooth and timely renewal process.

Why Choose Professional Help for All Pak Arms License?

Applying for an All Pakistan Non-Prohibited Bore (NPB) arms license involves more than simply submitting documents. Many applications are delayed or rejected due to incomplete paperwork, incorrect affidavit formats, character certificates issued by the wrong authority, medical certificate deficiencies, or missing CNIC attestations. Even minor documentation errors can result in lengthy delays during the Ministry of Interior review process. 

Professional assistance helps ensure that your application meets all procedural requirements from the outset. Zumar Law Firm provides complete support, including document review, affidavit drafting, character certificate guidance, filing coordination with the Section Officer (Arms), Ministry of Interior, and follow-up with NADRA and relevant DC offices.

 With a professional fee of PKR 190,000 and an estimated processing timeline of 45 working days, our team manages the process efficiently while helping minimize avoidable delays. 

Start your application today. Call +92 303 598 8574, contact us via WhatsApp, or apply through our online portal for professional arms license registration assistance anywhere in Pakistan.