National ID Registration in Nepal: Step-by-Step Guide

The National Identity Card is becoming a crucial part of digital governance in Nepal. Officially known as the Rastriya Parichaya Patra, it aims to provide a unique identification number for every citizen, ensuring easier access to government services, digital identity, and efficient administrative management.

What is the National Identity Card of Nepal?

The National ID Card (NID) is a smart card-based identification system, containing:

  1. Unique 16-digit number,
  2. Biometric information (fingerprints, photo, eye scan),
  3. Embedded smart chip for secure data storage.

It is designed to replace traditional citizenship certificates in the long term and to serve as the primary ID for all legal and administrative purposes in Nepal.

Benefits of National ID Card Registration in Nepal

Benefits Description
One Identity, One Number Reduces duplication and fraud
Digital Access Enables access to e-governance services
Biometric Verification Safer and tamper-proof identification
Replaces Multiple Documents Citizenship, voter ID, tax ID integrated
International Recognition Brings Nepal closer to global ID standards

Who Can Register for National ID in Nepal?

Eligibility Details
Age All Nepali citizens aged 16 and above are eligible.
Citizenship Must have a valid Nepali citizenship certificate.
Location All 77 districts gradually included under the NID program.

National Identity Card Online Registration Portal Nepal

You can register online through the Department of National ID and Civil Registration (DoNIDCR) official portal.

Official Website:
https://registration.donidcr.gov.np

How to Register National ID in Nepal (Online Process)

  1. Visit https://registration.donidcr.gov.np
  2. Click on “Online Pre-Registration”
  3. Choose your District and Registration Office
  4. Fill in personal, parental, and address information
  5. Upload scanned citizenship certificate and photo
  6. Choose your appointment date for biometric registration
  7. Visit your selected ward/registration office for biometric verification
  8. Receive acknowledgment slip and wait for ID card distribution

Documents Required for National ID Registration in Nepal

Mandatory Documents:

  1. Nepali Citizenship Certificate (Original + Copy)
  2. Passport-sized Photograph (Soft and Hard Copy)
  3. Ward Recommendation Letter (if needed)
  4. Birth Certificate (for young applicants optional)

Timeline for National ID Registration Process

Stage Time Duration
Online Pre-Registration 10-15 minutes
Biometric Appointment 1-2 weeks (subject to slots)
ID Card Printing & Distribution 2-6 months depending on district

Common Mistakes to Avoid During National ID Registration

  1. Mismatch of names with citizenship
  2. Not carrying original documents on biometric appointment day
  3. Incorrect personal details during pre-registration
  4. Missing the biometric appointment date

Pro Tip: Double-check everything before final submission and take screenshots of your confirmation slip.

How to Track National ID Application Status?

  1. Visit https://donidcr.gov.np/status
  2. Enter your pre-registration code or citizenship number
  3. Track your application progress and ID card status

Where to Collect National ID in Nepal?

After card printing, you will receive SMS notification.
You can collect it from:

  1. Your Ward Office
  2. District Administration Office (DAO)

 Integration of National ID with Voter ID in Nepal

Since 2079 BS, the National ID card is gradually being merged with the voter ID. In many elections, people will use Rastriya Parichaya Patra as the sole voting identification.

FAQs

1. Is National ID card mandatory in Nepal?
Not yet fully mandatory, but soon it will be essential for all government services.

2. Can I register National ID card online from home?
Yes, you can complete pre-registration online, but you must visit the local office for biometrics.

3. How long does it take to get a National ID card?
On average 2-6 months depending on your district.

4. Is there any fee for National ID registration?
Currently, free of cost, though re-issuance may have fees in future.

 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as legal advice, advertisement, personal communication, solicitation or inducement of any sort from the firm or any of its members. The firm shall not be liable for consequences arising out of any action undertaken by any person relying on the information provided herein.