ISLAMABAD, Feb 15: National identity cards for overseas Pakistanis, recently introduced by the National Database and Registration Authority, have received a good response.

The scheme was launched on Tuesday by Interior Minister Moinuddin Haider, and till Thursday there were 4,500 queries on various communications instruments besides the issuance of over 5,000 application forms, said the director of the Pakistan cards, Sohail Asif.

The application forms have been made available at all the regional offices of Nadra and subsequently, a private firm has been awarded contract for the job.

Simultaneously, he said, PIA made arrangements to provide application forms at all its 83 offices abroad from where information and assistance would be provided to the desirous.

In reply to a question, Mr Asif said Nadra would issue the card within six weeks of the receipt of an application.

The card for an adult will cost $100 and $50 in case of those applicants who are under 18.