New Passport Registration Process in Nepal

Introduction to Nepal's New Passport Registration System

Applying for a Nepal passport is now primarily an electronic process. Whether you are applying for a first passport, renewing an existing passport, replacing a lost or damaged passport, or applying for a child, you generally begin through the online ePassport pre-enrollment system and then appear in person for document verification and biometric enrollment.
This guide explains the Nepal passport application process, required documents, passport fees, appointment booking, regular and expedited service, renewal, National ID requirements, applications from abroad, lost or damaged passports, passport status checking, and common mistakes.
Important: Passport fees, documents, appointment arrangements, enrollment locations and procedures can change. Always verify the latest requirements with the official Department of Passports, Government of Nepal before applying or making payment.

Quick Answer: How to Apply for a Nepal Passport?

For most applicants in Nepal, the process is:
Online pre-enrollment → choose application type → select passport size → choose enrollment location → book appointment → submit form → pay applicable fee → attend enrollment center → document verification and biometrics → passport processing → collection
The entire process cannot be completed online. Applicants generally need to appear at the relevant enrollment center for verification, photograph, signature and biometric enrollment.
 

What is a Nepal ePassport?

A Nepal ePassport is the electronic passport currently issued by the Department of Passports. It contains an electronic chip and security features that support secure identity and travel-document verification.
Nepal previously issued Machine Readable Passports (MRPs).
A valid MRP does not need to be replaced simply because Nepal now issues ePassports. A valid MRP can generally continue to be used until expiry. When applying for a new passport after previously holding an MRP or ePassport, applicants should normally select Renewal, not New.
 

Who can Apply for a Nepal Passport?

Nepali citizens can apply for an ordinary passport under the appropriate category:

• New - first passport
• Renewal - previous MRP or ePassport
• Replacement - Lost/Stolen
• Damaged - existing passport damaged or unusable

Choosing the correct application category is important. If you previously held an MRP or ePassport, select Renewal.
You must also choose between a 34-page and 66-page passport. A 34-page passport is generally sufficient for occasional travelers, while frequent travelers may prefer 66 pages.
A 66-page passport does not provide any advantage in obtaining a visa.

Nepal Passport Application Process

1. Complete Online ePassport Pre-Enrollment

Visit the official Department of Passports website and select the passport application/pre-enrollment service.
Enter your personal details carefully, including:

• Full name and surname
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Citizenship number
• National Identity Number, where applicable
• Parents' details
• Address
• Contact information
• Emergency contact

Your information should match your official documents.
For place of birth, applicants born in Nepal should select the relevant district, while applicants born outside Nepal should select the appropriate country.

2. Choose Passport Type and Enrollment Location

Select the correct application category and choose 34 or 66 pages.
If applying in Nepal, regular passport services are generally available through designated District Administration Offices and Area Administration Offices.
Expedited passport service is available through the Department of Passports at Tripureshwor, Kathmandu.
Nepali citizens living abroad can apply through the relevant Nepali embassy or diplomatic mission. Requirements, fees and processing times may differ by country and mission.

3. Upload Required Documents

The documents depend on your age and application category.
For a standard adult application in Nepal, applicants generally need documents such as:

• Completed ePassport application form with barcode/QR code
• Original Nepali citizenship certificate
• Existing or expired passport, if applicable
• National Identity Card or National Identity Number, where required
• Applicable payment voucher or receipt

Children, lost/stolen passport applicants and other special cases may require additional documents.
Always check the current official checklist before submitting the application.

4. Review and Submit the Application

Carefully check your application before submission.
Pay particular attention to:

• Name spelling
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Citizenship number
• National Identity Number
• Parents' details
• Passport category
• 34/66-page selection
• Enrollment location
• Appointment date

Errors can create delays or may require cancellation and a new application.

After submission, download and save the application PDF. Keep the actual PDF rather than relying only on a screenshot.

5. Pay the Passport Fee

The payment method depends on the service selected.
For expedited service at the Department of Passports, payment is made through the designated online payment system.
For regular service, payment arrangements are handled according to the relevant District or Area Administration Office.
Do not use the expedited-service payment portal simply because you are applying for a passport. Follow the payment instructions for your selected enrollment location.
Government payments may be non-refundable once deposited, so check the details before paying.

6. Attend the Passport Appointment

Attend the selected enrollment center on the appointment date with your original documents and application materials.
The enrollment process generally includes:

• Document verification
• Photograph
• Fingerprints/biometrics
• Signature
• Final review

If you notice an error during verification or live enrollment, immediately inform the enrollment staff. Correcting an error before final approval is generally easier than trying to correct it afterward.

7. Passport Processing and Collection

Processing time depends on:

• Regular or expedited service
• Enrollment location
• Application type
• Verification requirements
• Current workload

The Department of Passports states that expedited applications at Tripureshwor are generally received within two working days, although applicants should not treat this as an unconditional guarantee.
Regular applications and applications through Nepali missions abroad may take longer.

Nepal Passport Fees

Passport fees depend on the applicant's age, number of pages, application type and service.
The Department of Passports currently publishes the following fees for passports issued through the Department:

Nepal Passport Fees Regular vs. Expedited Passport Service

Regular service is available through designated administration offices and Nepali diplomatic missions abroad. Expedited service is available at the Department of Passports in Tripureshwor.

Do you need National ID for a Nepal Passport?

The requirement depends on your age and where you apply.
Applicants aged 16 or above applying in Nepal
A National Identity Card/National Identity Number (NID/NIN) is currently required for passport applications made through the Department of Passports, District Administration Offices and Area Administration Offices.
Applicants under 16
NID/NIN is not mandatory for the passport application.
Applicants applying through Nepali missions abroad
NID/NIN is currently not mandatory for passport applications made through Nepali diplomatic missions abroad.

Nepal Passport Renewal

If you previously held an MRP or ePassport, select Renewal when applying.
A valid MRP does not have to be replaced merely because Nepal now issues ePassports.
The Department currently states that a passport with less than one year of validity remaining can generally be renewed. Earlier replacement may also be possible if the passport is:

• Lost or stolen
• Damaged
• Unusable
• Lacking sufficient pages
• Affected by an official or other significant error

Keep your old passport if it contains valid visas and check the rules of the relevant country before traveling.

Nepal Passport for Children and Minors

Passport applications for minors may require additional documents, including:

• Minor's citizenship/identity document
• Parents' citizenship certificates
• Parents' marriage registration certificate
• District verification documents where applicable
• Existing passport, if renewing

Requirements can vary according to the child's circumstances. Do not automatically use the adult passport checklist for a minor.

Applying for a Nepal Passport from Abroad

Nepali citizens living outside Nepal can apply through the relevant Nepali embassy or diplomatic mission.
Before applying, check the mission's current requirements for:

• Appointment
• Passport fees
• Required documents
• Payment method
• Biometrics
• Processing time
• Passport collection or delivery

Because procedures vary between missions, applicants abroad should follow the instructions of the specific Nepali diplomatic mission.

Lost, Stolen or Damaged Nepal Passpoort

If your passport is lost or stolen, select Replacement - Lost/Stolen during the application process.
A passport reported lost or stolen should not be used for international travel even if it is later recovered.
For a damaged passport, select the Damaged category. Examples include passports that are torn, heavily damaged, water-damaged or otherwise unusable.
The fees for lost or damaged passports are higher than ordinary new or renewal applications.
The Department currently states that a newspaper notice or police report is not required simply to apply for a replacement after loss or theft, but applicants should verify the latest requirements for their circumstances.

How to Check Nepal Passport Status

Applicants can check their ePassport status through the Department of Passports.
The status system may require information such as:

• Citizenship number
• Date of birth in AD
• Place of birth
• Surname

Official passport status: Department of Passports' ePassport status service.
Once the passport is ready, follow the collection instructions provided by the relevant enrollment center.
When receiving the passport, check:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Date of issue
• Date of expiry

Report any error immediately.

Common Nepal Passport Application Mistakes

Avoid these common problems:
Selecting "New" instead of "Renewal"
If you previously held an MRP or ePassport, select Renewal.

Entering information differently from official documents
Check your name, date of birth, citizenship number and other details carefully.

Choosing the wrong enrollment location
Regular and expedited services use different locations.

Paying through the wrong portal
The online payment system for expedited service should not be confused with regular-service payment arrangements.

Not checking the application before final approval
Correct errors during verification rather than after the passport has been issued.

Assuming NID is mandatory for everyone
The requirement differs for applicants under 16 and applicants applying through Nepali missions abroad.

Using unofficial websites
Only use official Government of Nepal passport websites when submitting sensitive identity information or making payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I apply for a Nepal passport?
Complete online ePassport pre-enrollment, select the appropriate application category and passport size, choose an enrollment location, book an appointment, pay the applicable fee and attend the enrollment center for verification and biometrics.
Can I apply for a Nepal passport completely online?
No. Pre-enrollment and appointment booking are online, but applicants generally need to appear in person for document verification and biometric enrollment.
How much does a Nepal passport cost?
The fee depends on age, passport size, application type, location and service. The Department currently lists NPR 12,000 for an adult 34-page new/renewal passport and NPR 20,000 for 66 pages through the Department.
How long does a Nepal passport take?
Expedited service at Tripureshwor is generally processed within about two working days according to the Department. Regular service and applications through missions abroad may take longer.
Can I renew an MRP?
Yes. A valid MRP can generally be used until expiry. If you previously held an MRP, select Renewal when applying for a new passport.
Do I need National ID for a Nepal passport?
Applicants aged 16 or above applying in Nepal currently need NID/NIN. It is not mandatory for applicants under 16 or applicants applying through Nepali missions abroad.
Can I apply for a Nepal passport from abroad?
Yes. Nepali citizens can apply through the relevant Nepali embassy or diplomatic mission, subject to that mission's requirements.
What should I do if my passport is lost?
Select Replacement - Lost/Stolen and follow the Department of Passports' current instructions. Do not use a passport that has already been reported lost or stolen.

Conclusion

The new passport registration process in Nepal has significantly improved efficiency and accessibility for citizens seeking travel documents. By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the application process smoothly and avoid common pitfalls that might delay your passport issuance.

Remember to prepare all documents in advance, double-check your application for accuracy, and follow the official guidelines for photographs and biometric data. The Department of Passport continues to enhance its services, so regularly check the official website for any updates to the process or requirements.

For the most current information and to begin your application, visit the official Department of Passport website at www.nepalpassport.gov.np or contact their helpline at +977-1-4429500.

Ready to apply for your passport? Start your online application today and ensure you have all the necessary documents prepared for a smooth process!
 

Official Sources:

For the latest passport application process, fees, documents, appointments and notices, consult:

• Department of Passports, Government of Nepal: https://nepalpassport.gov.np/

• Online ePassport Application: https://online.nepalpassport.gov.np/

• Passport Status: Department of Passports official status service

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Nepal passport procedures and is not a substitute for official instructions or legal advice. Passport fees, documents, procedures, appointment arrangements, processing times and enrollment locations may change. Always verify the latest requirements with the Department of Passports, Government of Nepal before applying or making payment