Many Nepali citizens travel abroad for work, study, and leisure, making a passport a necessity. The good news is that the Nepali government has introduced an electronic passport or E-Passport system, which allows Nepali citizens to apply for and obtain passports online. In this article, we will explain the process of applying for an E-Passport online in Nepal.
Table of Contents
What is an E-Passport?
An E-Passport is a passport that contains a microchip with biometric information about the passport holder, such as their photograph and fingerprints. The chip also contains information about the passport, such as the passport number and expiration date. The E-Passport system is designed to enhance the security and integrity of the passport, making it more difficult for fraudsters to tamper with or forge passports.
The E-Passport system in Nepal was launched in 2019 by the Department of Passport under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The system allows Nepali citizens to apply for and obtain passports online, making the process faster, more convenient, and more secure.
How to Apply for an E-Passport Online in Nepal?
The process of applying for an E-Passport online in Nepal is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before you begin the application process, you need to gather all the required documents. The documents you will need include:
- A scanned copy of your citizenship certificate
- A scanned copy of your academic certificates (SLC/SEE and above)
- A recent digital photograph with a white background (size: 400×514 pixels)
- Your digital signature (size: 300×80 pixels)
- Your fingerprints (you can get your fingerprints scanned at any passport office)
Step 2: Visit the Department of Passport Website
Visit the Department of Passport website at www.online.nepalpassport.gov.np and click on the “New User Registration” button to create an account. You will need to provide your personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and contact details.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Once you have registered, log in to your account and complete the application form. You will need to provide information such as your name, address, contact details, and passport details. Make sure to double-check all the information you provide to avoid any mistakes.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
After completing the application form, you will need to upload all the required documents. Make sure that the documents are clear and legible. Any unclear or incomplete documents may result in your application being rejected.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Once you have uploaded all the required documents, you will need to pay the application fee. The fee for an E-Passport in Nepal varies depending on the type of passport and the duration of validity. You can pay the fee using a credit/debit card or through online banking.
Step 6: Schedule an Appointment
After paying the application fee, you will be given an appointment date and time to visit the passport office for biometric verification. You will need to visit the passport office on the appointed date and time with your original citizenship certificate and other original documents.
Step 7: Collect Your E-Passport
After completing the biometric verification process, your E-Passport will be processed
and sent to your registered address within the specified time. You can track the status of your passport application online through the Department of Passport website.
Tips for Applying for an E-Passport Online in Nepal
- Make sure to gather all the required documents before beginning the application process.
- Double-check all the information you provide in the application form to avoid any mistakes.
- Make sure that the documents you upload are clear and legible.
- Pay the application fee using a secure payment method.
- Schedule an appointment for biometric verification as soon as possible to avoid any delays in the processing of your passport application.
- Keep track of your passport application status through the Department of Passport website.
Conclusion
The introduction of the E-Passport system in Nepal has made it easier and more convenient for Nepali citizens to apply for and obtain passports. The process of applying for an E-Passport online is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps. By following the steps outlined in this article and keeping the tips in mind, you can apply for an E-Passport online in Nepal with ease.
