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Introduction to Nepal’s E-Passport System
Nepal’s electronic passport (e-passport) system has revolutionized international travel documentation for Nepali citizens. The Department of Passport (DoP), Nepal’s first ISO 9001:2015 certified government organization, now issues secure chip-enabled passports that meet international standards.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a Nepal passport in 2025, from online pre-enrollment to passport collection.
Understanding Nepal’s E-Passport Features
Advanced Security Features
Nepal’s e-passport incorporates cutting-edge security technology:
- RFID Chip Technology: Stores biometric and personal data securely
- Facial Recognition Data: Digital photograph stored on chip
- Fingerprint Biometrics: Enhanced identity verification
- ICAO Compliance: Meets International Civil Aviation Organization standards
- Anti-Counterfeiting Measures: Multiple security layers prevent fraud
Types of Nepal Passports Available
| Passport Type | Color | Eligibility | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport | Maroon | General citizens | 10 years |
| Official Passport | Blue | Government officials | 5 years |
| Diplomatic Passport | Black | Diplomats & high officials | 5 years |
| Service Passport | Green | UN & IO employees | 5 years |
Complete Nepal Passport Application Process
Method 1: Online Application Through Official Portal Nepal Passport
Step 1: Access the Pre-Enrollment System
Visit the official portal: emrtds.nepalpassport.gov.np
Step 2: Create Your Account
- Click on “New User Registration”
- Enter your mobile number
- Verify through OTP
- Set up a secure password
- Complete email verification
Step 3: Fill Personal Information
Complete the online form with accurate details:
- Personal Details: Name, date of birth, gender
- Address Information: Permanent and temporary addresses
- Family Details: Father’s and mother’s names
- Emergency Contact: Relative or friend’s information
- Travel History: Previous passport details (if applicable)
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload clear images of:
- Nepali Citizenship Certificate (both sides)
- Recent Passport-size Photographs (ICAO standard)
- Marriage Certificate (if married)
- Previous Passport (if renewal)
Step 5: Select Application Type and Pages
| Application Type | Pages | Regular Fee | Fast Track Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| New/Renewal | 34 Pages | NPR 5,000 | NPR 12,000 |
| New/Renewal | 66 Pages | NPR 10,000 | NPR 20,000 |
| Emergency | 34 Pages | NPR 12,000-15,000 | Same Day |
| Emergency | 66 Pages | NPR 20,000-25,000 | Same Day |
Step 6: Payment and Appointment Booking
- Online Payment: Use eSewa, Khalti, or banking apps
- Appointment Selection: Choose convenient date and time
- Center Selection: Pick nearest passport office
- Confirmation: Print appointment slip
Method 2: Offline Application at District Administration Office
Step 1: Collect Application Form
Visit your nearest District Administration Office (DAO) to obtain Form 1 (passport application form)
Step 2: Complete Documentation
Fill the form completely with accurate information in both Nepali and English
Step 3: Document Submission
Submit the completed form with all required documents and fees
Step 4: Biometric Appointment
Receive appointment slip for biometric data collection
Required Documents for Nepal Passport Application
For First-Time Applicants
Essential Documents
- Original Nepali Citizenship Certificate
- Recent passport-size photographs (3 copies, ICAO compliant)
- Birth Certificate (if under 16)
- Marriage Certificate (if married)
- Previous educational certificates (Class 10 minimum)
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- No Objection Certificate (for government employees)
- Court Permission (if facing legal proceedings)
- Divorce Certificate (if divorced)
- Death Certificate (if spouse deceased)
For Passport Renewal
Required Documents
- Original current/expired passport
- Nepali citizenship certificate
- Recent photographs (ICAO standard)
- Name change certificate (if applicable)
Photo Specifications (ICAO Standard)
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 35mm x 45mm |
| Background | White or light gray |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Eyes | Open, clearly visible |
| Head Position | Straight, facing camera |
| Clothing | Formal, no uniform |
Biometric Enrollment Process
Preparation for Biometric Appointment
Before Your Visit
- Arrive Early: Reach 15 minutes before scheduled time
- Bring Originals: All required documents for verification
- Proper Attire: Formal clothing for photograph
- Clean Hands: For quality fingerprint scanning
What to Expect During Enrollment
- Document Verification: Officials verify your documents
- Biometric Data Collection:
- Fingerprint Scanning: All 10 fingers
- Facial Recognition: High-resolution photograph
- Digital Signature: Electronic signature capture
- Data Verification: Review information on screen
- Final Confirmation: Sign verification form
- Receipt Collection: Collect acknowledgment slip
Quality Standards Maintained
The Department ensures processing typically takes 2-3 working days after enrollment, though additional verification may be required if documents don’t meet standards.
Processing Timeline and Collection
Standard Processing Timeline
| Application Method | Processing Time | Collection Method |
|---|---|---|
| Online (Regular) | 7-15 days | Passport office |
| Online (Fast Track) | 2-3 days | Passport office |
| DAO Application | 15-21 days | District office |
| Embassy Application | 6-8 weeks | Embassy collection |
Passport Collection Process
At Passport Office
- Bring Required Items:
- Original citizenship certificate
- Appointment slip/receipt
- Valid photo ID
- Verification Process:
- Identity confirmation
- Biometric matching
- Document cross-checking
- Passport Delivery:
- Quality inspection
- Personal handover
- Acknowledgment signature
Important Collection Notes
- Personal Collection Only: Passports cannot be collected by others
- Validity Check: Verify all details immediately
- Damage Inspection: Report any printing errors immediately
Fee Structure and Payment Methods
Detailed Fee Structure (2025)
| Service Type | 34 Pages | 66 Pages | Emergency |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Application | NPR 5,000 | NPR 10,000 | +NPR 7,000-10,000 |
| Renewal | NPR 5,000 | NPR 10,000 | +NPR 7,000-10,000 |
| Replacement | NPR 5,000 | NPR 10,000 | +NPR 7,000-10,000 |
| Correction | NPR 2,000 | NPR 2,000 | +NPR 5,000 |
Accepted Payment Methods
Online Payment Options
- eSewa: Most popular digital wallet
- Khalti: Secure mobile payment
- IME Pay: Bank-integrated payment
- Connect IPS: Direct bank transfer
- Mobile Banking: Major banks supported
Offline Payment Options
- Bank Deposit: Rastriya Banijya Bank vouchers
- Cash Payment: At designated counters
- Demand Draft: Payable to DoP Nepal
Special Categories and Considerations
For Minors (Under 16)
Special Requirements
- Both Parents’ Consent: Written permission required
- Birth Certificate: Mandatory document
- Parent/Guardian Presence: Required during application
- Shorter Validity: 5-year validity period
For Government Employees
Additional Requirements
- No Objection Certificate from employing department
- Service Record: Employment verification
- Official Clearance: Department head approval
For Nepali Citizens Abroad
Embassy Application Process
- Pre-enrollment: Complete online form
- Document Submission: At nearest Nepal embassy
- Extended Processing: 6-8 weeks typical processing time
- Higher Fees: Approximately USD 80 for new passports
Common Issues and Solutions
Document-Related Problems
Problem: Citizenship Certificate Issues
Solutions:
- Damaged Certificate: Apply for renewal first
- Name Mismatch: File name correction petition
- Missing Certificate: Apply for duplicate copy
Problem: Photo Rejection
Solutions:
- ICAO Non-compliance: Retake photos with proper specifications
- Poor Quality: Use professional photography services
- Background Issues: Ensure white/light gray background
Technical Difficulties
Problem: Online Portal Issues
Solutions:
- Browser Compatibility: Use updated Chrome or Firefox
- Internet Connectivity: Ensure stable connection
- Clear Cache: Delete browser cookies and cache
- Alternative Access: Visit DAO for offline application
Problem: Payment Failures
Solutions:
- Bank Account Issues: Ensure sufficient balance
- Payment Gateway: Try alternative payment methods
- Network Problems: Retry after some time
- Contact Support: Call DoP helpline at 01-4266906
Advanced Tips for Successful Application
Pre-Application Preparation
- Document Organization: Arrange all documents chronologically
- Photo Preparation: Take ICAO-compliant photos professionally
- Information Accuracy: Double-check all personal details
- Backup Documentation: Keep photocopies of all documents
During Application Process
- Online Form Completion: Fill all fields accurately
- Upload Quality: Ensure clear, readable document scans
- Payment Confirmation: Save all payment receipts
- Appointment Scheduling: Choose convenient time slots
Post-Application Follow-up
- Status Tracking: Monitor application progress online
- Contact Information: Keep phone number active for updates
- Collection Preparation: Arrange time for passport pickup
- Verification: Check all passport details upon receipt
Integration with Digital Services
Current Digital Integrations
The Nepal passport system connects with:
- Immigration Database: Automated entry/exit records
- Visa Processing Systems: Streamlined visa applications
- Airport Security: Enhanced travel verification
- Banking Services: KYC compliance for international accounts
Future Enhancements Planned
- Mobile App Integration: Smartphone-based services
- Blockchain Security: Enhanced data protection
- AI-Powered Verification: Faster processing times
- Global Database Connectivity: International security cooperation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Application Questions
How long is a Nepal passport valid?
Ordinary passports are valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors under 16.
Can I apply for a passport without original citizenship?
No, original Nepali citizenship certificate is mandatory for all passport applications.
What’s the difference between 34-page and 66-page passports?
34-page costs NPR 5,000 while 66-page costs NPR 10,000. Choose 66 pages if you travel frequently.
How much does fast-track processing cost?
Fast-track service costs NPR 12,000 for 34 pages and NPR 20,000 for 66 pages.
Technical Questions
Is online pre-enrollment mandatory?
While not mandatory, online pre-enrollment significantly reduces processing time and waiting periods.
Can I change appointment dates after booking?
Yes, you can reschedule appointments through the online portal up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.
What if my biometric data doesn’t scan properly?
The enrollment center will attempt multiple scans and may reschedule if necessary.
Document and Process Questions
Can someone else collect my passport?
No, passports must be collected personally by the applicant with proper identification.
What if I find errors in my passport after collection?
Report errors immediately to the issuing office for correction or replacement.
How do I track my passport application status?
Use the tracking system on nepalpassport.gov.np with your application reference number.
Expert Recommendations
Best Practices from DoP Officials
- Complete Online Pre-enrollment: Reduces waiting time significantly
- Professional Photography: Invest in ICAO-compliant photos
- Document Verification: Ensure all documents are current and valid
- Early Application: Apply 2-3 months before travel plans
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing required certificates
- Poor Photo Quality: Non-ICAO compliant photographs
- Information Inconsistency: Mismatched details across documents
- Late Application: Applying close to travel dates
- Payment Issues: Using invalid payment methods
Conclusion: Your Gateway to International Travel
Obtaining a Nepal passport through the streamlined e-passport system opens doors to international travel and opportunities worldwide. The Department of Passport’s commitment to quality and efficiency, combined with advanced security features, ensures that your travel document meets global standards.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing passport, following this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process smoothly. The online pre-enrollment system, biometric security, and fast-track options make passport acquisition more convenient than ever before.
Take advantage of the digital transformation in Nepal’s passport services by starting your application today through the official portal at emrtds.nepalpassport.gov.np. Your journey to the world begins with a single click.
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