Passport renewal in Nepal
Renewing a Nepalese passport generally involves completing an online application, gathering required documents, and submitting them at a designated office in Nepal or a Nepalese Embassy/Consulate abroad. The process may require an in-person visit for biometric data collection.
It is advisable for individuals to begin the passport renewal process several months before their current passport expires. This allows ample time to secure appointments, accommodate processing times, and address any unforeseen issues without risking travel disruptions. Processing times can vary significantly, especially for applications submitted from abroad.
Start 60 days ahead
This lead time accounts for potential appointment waiting periods, document preparation, and standard processing times, especially for applications submitted through embassies or consulates outside Nepal. In-country processing might be faster.
The process
- 1Verify eligibility for renewal and identify the appropriate passport type (e.g., ordinary, diplomatic, official).
- 2Complete the online passport application form available on the Department of Passport's official website.
- 3Schedule an appointment for document submission and biometric data collection, if required, at the chosen passport office in Nepal or a Nepalese Embassy/Consulate abroad.
- 4Gather all necessary original documents and their photocopies as specified by the Department of Passport.
- 5Attend the scheduled appointment to submit the application, required documents, and provide biometric data (e.g., fingerprints, photograph).
- 6Pay the prescribed passport renewal fee.
- 7Collect the new passport once it is processed and ready, either in person or through designated delivery services where available.
What to bring
- Original expiring/expired passport
- Nepalese Citizenship Certificate (Nepali Nagarikta Praman Patra)
- Marriage Certificate (for married women applying for passport with husband's name)
- Temporary residence certificate (for applicants residing abroad, where applicable)
- Proof of payment of the passport fee
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (specific dimensions and background may be required, verify current guidelines)
Who handles it
Department of Passport (DoP), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nepal (परराष्ट्र मन्त्रालय, राहदानी विभाग, नेपाल)
The fee for passport renewal varies depending on the type of passport, processing speed (normal or express), and the location of application (Nepal or abroad). Current fees should be confirmed directly with the Department of Passport or the relevant Nepalese Embassy/Consulate.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all submitted documents, especially the Citizenship Certificate, are valid and accurately reflect current personal details.
- Pay close attention to photograph specifications, as incorrect photos are a common reason for application delays or rejections.
- Processing times can vary; it is advisable not to finalize travel plans until the new passport is received.
- Rules and requirements can differ for applications submitted through Nepalese Embassies or Consulates compared to those submitted within Nepal; verify local requirements carefully.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
- Department of Passport, Nepal - Official Website nepalpassport.gov.np
Other documents in Nepal
Passport renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
Don't rely on remembering
Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.