How to Apply for a Nepal Passport (2082 / 2026)
A complete, up-to-date walkthrough for applying for or renewing a Nepali passport — documents, fees, processing time, and the new e-Passport.
नेपाली राहदानी (पासपोर्ट) बनाउने र नवीकरण गर्ने पूरा प्रक्रिया — कागजात, शुल्क र समय।
The Department of Passports (राहदानी विभाग) issues Nepali passports. Since 2021, Nepal has moved to the e-Passport (electronic chip passport), replacing the older MRP (Machine Readable Passport). You can apply at the Department of Passports in Narayanhiti, Kathmandu, at your District Administration Office (DAO / CDO), or at a Nepali embassy if you are abroad.
Quick summary: Fill the online form → book an appointment → visit with documents → give biometrics → pay the fee → collect or track your e-Passport.
Documents Required
- Nepali citizenship certificate (नागरिकता) — original + one clear photocopy.
- Old passport (original + copy) if you are renewing.
- Recent MRP-size photo (for reference; biometric photo is taken at the office).
- For minors (below 16): birth certificate, both parents' citizenship, and parents' passports if available.
- Filled application form (online pre-enrollment is now standard).
Step-by-Step Process
- Fill the online application on the Department of Passports portal (nepalpassport.gov.np) and note your application number.
- Book an appointment and choose your pickup location (Department, DAO, or embassy).
- Pay the fee online or at the counter (see fees below).
- Visit on your date with all original documents for verification.
- Give biometrics — photo, fingerprints and signature are captured digitally.
- Collect your passport or track it online and pick it up when ready.
Passport Fees (indicative)
Fees change periodically — always confirm the current rate at the office or on the official portal before paying.
| Service | Where | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Normal (34-page) | Department / DAO | ~7–15 working days |
| Fast-track / urgent | Department, Kathmandu | ~1–3 working days |
| 66-page (frequent travellers) | Department | Varies |
💡 Tip: Fast-track is only available at the Department of Passports in Kathmandu, not at district offices. Fees are higher for urgent service.
e-Passport vs MRP — What Changed?
The e-Passport contains an embedded chip storing your biometric data, making it more secure and accepted at automated border gates. If you still hold a valid MRP, it remains usable until its expiry, but all new issuances are e-Passports.
Renewing an Expired Passport
The renewal process is the same as a new application — you simply submit your old passport along with your citizenship. There is no separate "renewal" shortcut; a fresh e-Passport is issued.
Applying From Abroad
Nepali citizens living overseas can apply at the nearest Nepali embassy or consulate. Processing takes longer because applications are forwarded to Kathmandu. Keep your citizenship certificate and old passport ready.
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