If you’re wondering how to apply for passport in Nepal, here’s the updated process for 2025:
- Pre-enroll online at the official portal: emrtds.nepalpassport.gov.np
- Upload necessary documents such as citizenship certificate, birth certificate (for minors), and old passport if you’re renewing.
- Book an appointment at your preferred passport office or district administration office.
- Visit the office in person for biometric enrollment, including photo, fingerprints, and signature.
- Pay the fee and collect your e-passport once it’s ready, usually within days for fast-track and weeks for normal service.
- This is the simplest breakdown. Now, let’s dive deeper into the details, tips, updates, and mistakes to avoid when applying for your Nepali passport.
Passports are more than just travel documents, they serve as proof of identity, citizenship, and security in global mobility. Nepal has fully transitioned to e-passports, replacing older machine-readable versions, making the process more modern and secure.
Yet, many Nepali citizens still find the application procedure confusing, whether they’re first-time applicants, renewing, or applying for their children. To simplify, this guide provides 5 trusted quick tips along with the latest 2025 updates, so you won’t face delays or rejections.
Passport System in Nepal
The Department of Passports under Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the authority that issues passports. Currently, Nepal provides:
- E-passports (34 pages and 66 pages) – biometric-enabled with higher security.
- Normal service and Fast-track service – depending on how quickly you need your passport.
- Embassy/consulate services abroad – for Nepalis applying from foreign countries.
The move to e-passports is part of global compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards, ensuring Nepali passports are recognized worldwide.
Latest Updates (2025)
Before diving into tips, here are the newest updates you must know when learning how to apply for passport in Nepal:
- Pre-enrollment is mandatory: You cannot walk in without registering online first.
- Document upload rules: Scanned documents must be JPEG/PNG within specific size limits.
- Appointments: Slots are limited and must be booked in advance.
- Biometrics: Personal presence is required for photographs, fingerprints, and signatures.
Fees (2025):
- Normal (34 pages): NPR 5,000
- Fast-track (34 pages): NPR 12,000
- Normal (66 pages): NPR 10,000
- Fast-track (66 pages): NPR 20,000
(Fees may vary slightly depending on office, so always check the latest updates on the official site.)
5 Trusted Quick Tips to Apply Successfully
1. Prepare Your Documents Early
One of the most common reasons for rejection is missing or incomplete documents. You’ll need:
- Citizenship certificate (original + copy)
- Old passport (for renewal)
- Birth certificate and parent’s documents (if applying for minors)
- Marriage certificate (if applying under married name)
Pro tip: Keep both digital and physical copies ready. The online system often rejects incorrect file sizes, so resize your files before uploading.
2. Fill Out the Pre-Enrollment Form Correctly
The online pre-enrollment form is the heart of your application. Any mismatch with your citizenship details can cause delays.
Steps:
- Visit emrtds.nepalpassport.gov.np
- Enter your personal info exactly as per your citizenship certificate.
- Select the type of passport (34 or 66 pages, normal or fast-track).
- Upload documents in the required format.
- Print the confirmation slip after submission.
Mistake to avoid: Don’t use nicknames or different spellings. Use the exact spelling from your citizenship.
3. Schedule Your Appointment Wisely
- Once the form is submitted, you need to book an appointment for live enrollment.
- Book as early as possible, slots fill up quickly.
- Choose your nearest passport office or District Administration Office (DAO).
- Keep a printed appointment slip, as it is required at the entrance.
Pro tip: Morning slots are usually faster; avoid peak days like Mondays.
4. Attend Biometric Enrollment in Person
You cannot delegate this part. Biometric enrollment requires you to:
- Capture your digital photo (no glasses or hats allowed).
- Provide fingerprints and a digital signature.
- Verify details before submission.
This is also when you pay the official fee. Keep the receipt safe for collection.
5. Track Your Passport and Collect It Safely
- After biometric enrollment, you can track your application online via nepalpassport.gov.np
- For normal service, it may take 2–3 weeks.
- For fast-track, it can be ready in 2–5 days.
- Always check details (name, DOB, nationality) before leaving the collection counter.
Pro tip: Report errors immediately, they are costly and time-consuming to fix later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading oversized files online.
- Forgetting to carry original citizenship certificate.
- Missing appointment slots.
- Not checking passport details upon collection.
- By avoiding these, you’ll save time and effort.
Why This Guide is Reliable
- Based on official 2025 updates from the Department of Passport, Nepal.
- Verified with embassy notices for Nepalis abroad.
- Practical tips collected from real applicants’ experiences.
- References included at the end for transparency.
Step-by-Step Checklist
✔ Pre-enrollment form filled online
✔ Required documents scanned & uploaded
✔ Appointment booked & slip printed
✔ Attended biometric enrollment in person
✔ Paid fee & collected receipt
✔ Passport collected after approval
FAQs
Q1. How long does it take to get a passport in Nepal?
- Normal: 2–3 weeks. Fast-track: 2–5 working days.
Q2. Can I apply without a citizenship certificate?
- No. Citizenship is mandatory for Nepali passports.
Q3. How to apply from abroad?
- Nepali embassies/consulates abroad allow applications, following similar steps.
Q4. What happens if I lose my passport?
- File a police report, then apply for reissue with supporting documents.
Q5. How much does it cost?
- Fees vary (NPR 5,000–20,000) depending on pages and service type.
Related Topic: Applying for UK Seasonal Visa from Nepal
Many readers who search how to apply for passport in Nepal also explore opportunities abroad. One common query is how to apply UK seasonal visa from Nepal.
The UK Seasonal Worker Visa allows Nepali citizens to work in agriculture for up to 6 months. To apply:
- Have a valid Nepali passport (hence the importance of applying correctly).
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed UK employer.
- Apply online at the UK Government visa portal.
- Pay the application fee and immigration health surcharge.
- Provide biometrics at the UK Visa Application Center in Nepal.
This process is entirely separate from applying for a passport, but your passport is the foundation for any international application. If you’re planning to apply for jobs abroad, learning both how to apply for passport in Nepal and how to apply UK seasonal visa from Nepal is crucial.
Knowing how to apply for passport in Nepal is a vital skill for every citizen, whether you’re traveling for study, work, or leisure. By following these 5 trusted quick tips, preparing documents, completing pre-enrollment, scheduling appointments, attending biometrics, and collecting safely, you’ll ensure a smooth process.
Always start early, double-check your details, and rely on official portals for accurate updates. And if your dream extends abroad—like learning how to apply UK seasonal visa from Nepal, a valid passport is your first key.
Your passport is not just a travel document, it’s your identity, your opportunity, and your access to the world.
