When a person passes away, the distribution of their assets among legal heirs can be a complex and emotional process. In Pakistan, the government has established a clear procedure to simplify this process through the issuance of a Succession Certificate (جانشینی سرٹیفیکیٹ) or Letter of Administration. This document is crucial for legal heirs to assert their rights over the deceased's movable and immovable properties. Whether you're handling inheritance matters or assisting someone in this situation, it's essential to understand the process, requirements, and legal implications of obtaining a Succession Certificate.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every aspect of the Succession Certificate in Pakistan, including its significance, the application process, required documents, and potential challenges, along with tips to navigate the procedure smoothly.

What is a Succession Certificate?

A Succession Certificate is a legal document issued by the court or the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) that authorizes the legal heirs of a deceased individual to inherit their movable or immovable assets. It serves as proof of entitlement to the deceased’s property, enabling the heirs to claim ownership, transfer bank accounts, claim insurance policies, or manage other financial assets.

The Letter of Administration, on the other hand, is used when there is no will, allowing the legal heirs to administer or manage the estate of the deceased.

Importance of a Succession Certificate

Without a Succession Certificate, legal heirs face challenges in accessing the deceased’s financial assets such as bank accounts, securities, or shares, or transferring ownership of immovable properties. Banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions require this document to release funds or hand over assets to the legal heirs. Additionally, the certificate ensures transparency and avoids disputes among family members regarding inheritance.

Who Needs a Succession Certificate?

A Succession Certificate is essential for any legal heir looking to claim rights over the deceased's property. It’s required for:

  • Transfer of movable assets like bank balances, securities, investments, or stocks.
  • Managing immovable property such as houses, plots, or agricultural land.
  • Settling debts and liabilities of the deceased, if any.
  • Claiming insurance benefits from the deceased’s life insurance policy.

If multiple heirs exist, they are required to submit joint applications or designate one person to handle the process on behalf of all legal heirs.

The Application Process for a Succession Certificate in Pakistan

In Pakistan, NADRA has simplified the process of obtaining a Succession Certificate or Letter of Administration. The following steps outline how to apply:

1. Initiation of Application

The legal heir, or the applicant, initiates the application by providing basic information about themselves and the deceased. This includes:

  • Applicant’s CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card).
  • Applicant’s biometric verification and photograph.
  • Deceased’s CNIC number.
  • Deceased’s parents’ names, if they are not found in the NADRA database.
  • The religion and sect of the deceased.

The deceased’s CNIC must be marked with “CD” in NADRA’s records, indicating that the individual has passed away.

2. Details of Legal Heirs and Assets

The applicant must submit detailed information about all legal heirs and their respective shares of the deceased’s assets. This step involves:

  • The name, CNIC number, and relation of each legal heir with the deceased.
  • Details about the deceased’s movable and immovable assets.
  • Each legal heir’s gender, relation with the applicant, religion, and sect.

An affidavit signed by all heirs should be submitted, outlining the asset distribution as per the law.

3. Biometric Verification

NADRA requires the biometric verification of each legal heir. This can be done physically at a NADRA office or through the VERISYS system in cases of elderly or disabled individuals with biometric difficulties.

4. Document Scanning and Submission

Along with the affidavits and identification documents, other relevant documents must be scanned and uploaded to the NADRA system. These include:

  • Copies of legal heirs’ CNICs.
  • Details of movable assets being claimed through the certificate.
  • Any additional documents deemed necessary by NADRA.

5. Advertisement in Newspapers

To prevent any fraudulent claims, NADRA publishes the details of the Succession Certificate application in two national newspapers—one in English and one in Urdu. This allows the public to raise any objections to the claim within 14 days.

6. Objections and Case Denial

If anyone raises an objection to the application, NADRA halts the process and issues a system-generated denial certificate. The applicant must then approach a court of law to resolve the dispute. If no objections are received within 14 days, the application proceeds to the approval stage.

7. Case Approval

If no objections are raised, the application is approved, and the Succession Certificate is issued.

8. Printing and Delivery

Once the application is approved, the applicant receives the Succession Certificate. The document is handed over after the applicant reviews and confirms the details of the certificate.

Required Documents for a Succession Certificate

When applying for a Succession Certificate in Pakistan, the following documents are typically required:

  • Applicant’s CNIC and photograph.
  • Deceased’s CNIC.
  • Legal heirs’ affidavit with details of asset distribution.
  • Legal heirs’ CNIC copies.
  • Proof of the deceased’s assets (bank accounts, property documents, etc.).
  • Newspaper advertisement copies after publication.

Common Challenges in Obtaining a Succession Certificate

Although NADRA has streamlined the process, applicants may face certain challenges during the procedure:

  • Incorrect or missing data in NADRA’s database: If the deceased’s record is incomplete, it can delay the process.
  • Objections from family members: Disputes among legal heirs can lead to complications, requiring court intervention.
  • Biometric verification issues: Elderly or disabled individuals may face difficulties with biometric verification, necessitating alternative methods like VERISYS.

Document discrepancies: Any mismatch in names, identification numbers, or asset details can cause delays.

How to Avoid Delays

To avoid delays in obtaining the certificate, applicants should ensure:

  • All documents are complete and accurate.
  • Legal heirs are available for biometric verification.
  • Proper asset details are provided, including the deceased’s movable and immovable properties.

Cost and Processing Time

The cost of obtaining a Succession Certificate includes NADRA’s processing fees and the cost of publishing newspaper advertisements. The fees may vary depending on the number of legal heirs and assets involved. On average, the process takes about 4 to 6 weeks, assuming no objections are raised.

What to Do if the Succession Certificate is Denied

In case of a denial due to an objection or incomplete documentation, the applicant should:

  • Consult a legal expert for advice.
  • File a case in the appropriate court to resolve the issue.
  • Resubmit the application once the dispute is settled.

Conclusion: Navigating the Succession Certificate Process

Obtaining a Succession Certificate is an essential step in managing the estate of a deceased individual in Pakistan. By following NADRA’s outlined procedure and ensuring all documentation is accurate, legal heirs can avoid unnecessary delays and disputes. Whether the deceased left behind bank accounts, property, or other valuable assets, the Succession Certificate serves as a vital tool to facilitate the legal transfer of these assets to rightful heirs.

By understanding the complete process, legal requirements, and potential challenges, applicants can navigate the process smoothly and ensure a fair distribution of inheritance among all legal heirs.


Succession Certificate Jansheen Certificate: Complete Article on Urdu PDF Download


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