Nepal ePassport 2026: Apply, Renew and Book a Slot
Applying for a new Nepali ePassport or renewing an existing one begins with the Department of Passports' official online pre-enrolment system. You choose the correct application type, book an available appointment, submit details and bring the required original documents to the selected enrolment centre.
This guide is for Nepali citizens applying within Nepal. Rules for overseas missions and special cases may differ. Official instructions checked 29 October 2026. Appointment availability and charges can change.
Official passport links you need
| Task | Official source |
|---|---|
| Begin online pre-enrolment | Passport application portal |
| Read the application procedure | Department of Passports process |
| Check documents | Passport documents guide |
| Check expedited payment conditions | Official online payment information |
| Check general notices and service centres | Department of Passports |
Avoid third-party sites that imitate government portals or promise guaranteed appointment slots.
Step 1: Choose the correct application type
The official pre-enrolment process distinguishes first issuance, renewal, lost or stolen passport replacement, damaged passport replacement, and, where shown in the current application flow, modification/data correction.
If you have previously held a machine-readable passport or ePassport and do not need to change its details, renewal is generally the relevant option. The Department's updated process page distinguishes data correction from routine renewal. If your passport was lost, stolen or damaged, do not select renewal simply because it looks easier.
For an application involving changed names, dates or other personal information, consult the Department's specific documentary instructions before submitting.
Step 2: Select passport size and appointment location
The official process describes a choice between 34-page and 66-page passports. Select the type that suits your needs and the applicable fee. Then select the enrolment location and an available date and time.
The Department of Passports identifies expedited service at its Tripureshwor office in Kathmandu, while regular passport services are available through district or area administration offices and diplomatic missions. Service availability varies by location. An online form is not a completed passport issuance; the applicant must attend the enrolment process.
Step 3: Enter details exactly as shown on your documents
Check spelling, citizenship number, date of birth, parents' details, address and contact information. Use the official instructions if the citizenship number exceeds the online field's character limit or if your address has changed.
The Department advises using a valid email and telephone number for notifications. Do not let a third party enter their own contact details without your informed agreement.
Upload legible scans of the required original documents. Two official Department pages show different historical upload-size limits (300 KB and 1 MB); follow the current portal's on-screen limit rather than relying on an old guide or screenshot.
Step 4: Download and review the application PDF
After submission, download the generated PDF containing the barcode or QR code. The Department says you can bring a printed copy or the original downloaded PDF on your phone, not merely a screenshot.
Read the complete application before the appointment. The Department says certain errors can be corrected during the enrolment/photo stage, but changes become much more difficult after final approval and may require a new application and payment.
Step 5: Bring the correct original documents
For an ordinary application within Nepal, the Department's document checklist includes:
- Submitted application PDF with barcode or QR code.
- Original Nepali citizenship certificate, or minor identity card for eligible children.
- Existing or expired passport if the applicant has one.
- National Identity Card or National Identity Card number.
- Applicable bank voucher or revenue receipt.
- Any additional evidence required for name, address or data changes.
For minors, additional identity-card verification and parents' or guardians' citizenship documents may be required. Read the official document requirements before travelling.
Step 6: Understand fees and payment correctly
Do not pay based on an outdated social-media fee chart. The amount depends on passport type, service channel and special circumstances. Check the current official revenue schedule and the selected office.
The Department's online payment terms state that its online payment service applies to expedited applications through the Department, not routine applications submitted through district administration offices. Those using a regular district service should not pay through the expedited online payment portal. The Department also warns that paid revenue may not be refundable.
Keep all payment confirmations and receipts. Never send OTPs or card credentials to appointment brokers.
Step 7: Attend enrolment and track the result
Arrive at the correct office on the booked date with the original documents and downloaded application. Staff will check your documents and complete the necessary enrolment steps. Follow the official instructions for collection and status checking.
Allow for holidays, document discrepancies and appointment availability. Avoid booking non-refundable international travel solely on an assumed passport delivery date.
Common application mistakes
| Mistake | Safer approach |
|---|---|
| Selecting renewal when data correction is required | Check the Department's current application categories |
| Using an incorrect date of birth or citizenship number | Compare each field with original documents |
| Arriving with only a screenshot | Keep the original generated PDF and originals |
| Paying an unofficial agent for an appointment | Use the official government portal |
| Paying expedited fees for a regular district application | Read the official payment terms |
| Assuming a submission means approval | Attend enrolment and monitor official status |
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew a Nepali passport online from home?
You can complete the pre-enrolment application and book an appointment online. You generally still need to attend the authorised enrolment centre with original documents.
Is a National Identity Card required?
The Department's within-Nepal document list specifies a National Identity Card or its number. Read our National ID application and status guide if you need to verify your details.
Can I apply at a district office instead of Kathmandu?
Regular passport services are offered through designated district and area administration offices. Check which centre is available in the official appointment system.
What if my old passport is lost?
Use the lost/stolen replacement route and follow its evidence requirements rather than treating it as an ordinary renewal.
Is the passport application form itself the passport?
No. It is a pre-enrolment application. The official appointment, identity checks and issuance process must still be completed.
Final checklist before your appointment
- Correct application type and passport size selected.
- Appointment centre, date and time confirmed.
- Name and identity fields match original documents.
- Submitted PDF downloaded and safely saved.
- Original citizenship or minor ID and existing passport packed.
- National ID number and applicable supporting documents ready.
- Payment instructions checked for the correct service type.
- No personal details or OTPs shared with unofficial intermediaries.
Official sources and editorial note
This article was checked against the Department of Passports' current process, within-Nepal document list, application portal and online payment terms on 29 October 2026. Verify the latest portal instructions before applying.
Ratings Nepal welcomes genuine reviews of document-support businesses and service experiences. Never publish passport numbers, application barcodes or personal identification documents in a public review.