How to Apply for e-Passport in Nepal 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Why You Need an e-Passport

Gone are the days of the green Machine Readable Passport (MRP). Nepal has fully transitioned to the Electronic Passport (e-Passport). This new passport contains an embedded electronic chip that stores your biometric data, making it more secure and internationally accepted.

If your old MRP has expired or has less than 6 months of validity, you MUST apply for an e-Passport. You cannot renew an MRP; you can only get a new e-Passport. The process has become more digital, but also slightly more rigorous regarding documentation.

Mandatory Documents (The NID Rule)

The most important change in 2026 is the National Identity Card (NID) requirement. You cannot apply for a passport without an NID number.

Required List:

1. National Identity Card (NID) Number: You don't need the physical card, but you need the NID number (reciept from DAO).
2. Citizenship Certificate: Original and a photocopy.
3. Old Passport: If you are renewing.
4. Marriage Certificate: For married women whose citizenship surname differs from their husband's surname (if they wish to change it).
5. Minor Certificate: For applicants under 16.

Pro Tip: If your NID details (spelling, DOB) do not EXACTLY match your citizenship or old passport, your application will be rejected. Fix NID errors first!

Passport Fees & Pricing (2026)

The fee depends on where you apply and how fast you need it.

Location	Service Type	Cost (34 Pages)	Cost (66 Pages)
District Administration Office (DAO)	Normal (15-30 days)	Rs. 5,000	Rs. 10,000
Department of Passports (Tripureshwor)	Emergency (2-3 days)	Rs. 12,000	Rs. 20,000
Lost/Damaged (DAO)	Normal	Rs. 10,000	Rs. 20,000

Step 1: Pre-Enrollment (Online Form)

You cannot just walk into the passport office. You must fill out the form online first.

1. Visit the official website: emrtds.nepalpassport.gov.np.
2. Select "Apply for Passport".
3. Choose "First Issuance" or "Renewal".
4. Select Appointment Location:
   • Choose "Department of Passports (DOP)" for fast-track (Rs. 12k).
   • Choose your District (DAO) for normal service (Rs. 5k).
5. Fill in your demographic details exactly as per your National Identity Card.
6. Upload your Citizenship and NID documents (if asked).

Step 2: Booking the Appointment

This is the hardest part. The "Date" field often shows "No Slots Available" in red.

Hacks to get a date:

• Check at 11:00 AM or 3:30 PM: New slots usually open around these times.
• Refresh, Don't Reload: If the calendar doesn't load, change the "Location" dropdown to another district and back to your district to force a refresh.
• Be Flexible: If Kathmandu DAO is full, consider waiting or opting for the DOP fast track if you can afford the extra Rs. 7,000.

Once you secure a date and time, Save the PDF and print it. You cannot enter the office without this barcode sheet.

Step 3: Visiting the DAO/DOP

On your appointment day, go to the office. Do not go too early; they simply won't let you in until 30 mins before your time.

The Process Inside:

1. Verification Queue: An officer checks your printed form, citizenship, and payment voucher.
2. Payment: Pay the fee at the bank counter inside the premises (or designated bank outside if directed). Keep the receipt!
3. Biometrics: You will be called to a booth. They take your photo, fingerprints (all 10 fingers), and iris scan.
4. Final Signature: You verify your details on a screen and sign digitally. Check spelling carefully! This is your last chance to fix errors.

Step 4: Tracking & Collection

After submission, you will receive an SMS when your passport is ready.

• DOP (Tripureshwor): Usually ready in 2-3 working days. Collection is from the basement level.
• DAO (Districts): Takes 15-30 days depending on the district's courier speed.

You can track status via the "Nepal Passport" mobile app by entering your Request Number.

Emergency Passport (Fast Track)

If you need a passport urgently (for visa deadlines, exams, or medical reasons), apply at the Department of Passports, Tripureshwor.

• Cost: Rs. 12,000.
• Benefit: You get the passport in your hand within 3 days (sometimes even next day).
• Requirement: Anyone from any district can apply here, but you must select "Department of Passports" in the online form location.

Lost or Damaged Passport

If you lost your passport, the process is slightly different:

1. Getting a Police Report is mandatory. You can apply for this online via the Nepal Police mobile app.
2. Once you get the police report, apply for an e-Passport selecting "Lost/Stolen".
3. The fee is double (Rs. 10,000 for normal, Rs. 24,000 for emergency).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need NID card physical copy?

No. You just need the NID Number. If you have applied but haven't received the card, take the "NID Confirmation Letter" from your DAO.

Can I apply from Kathmandu if my citizenship is from Jhapa?

Yes. You can apply at the Department of Passports (Tripureshwor) for fast track. For normal service (Rs. 5000), you generally have to go to your home district DAO, or show proof of residence (Basai Sarai) in Kathmandu.

How do I correct a spelling mistake in my passport?

You cannot "edit" a printed passport. You have to apply for a new one as a "Correction". You will need proof (like a corrected citizenship) to justify the change.

What if I miss my appointment date?

You can usually go within a few days of your missed date, but it depends on the guard/officer. It is better to re-book if possible, but the system might lock you out for a few days.