National ID now mandatory for digital wallet users in Nepal

Kathmandu- Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has made the National Identity Card mandatory for users of digital payment wallets, introducing new customer verification rules aimed at strengthening identity authentication across the country’s digital payment system.

Under a directive issued by the central bank, payment service providers (PSPs) must verify the details of Nepali citizens against the electronic records of the National Identity Card before opening new digital wallet accounts.

The NRB has also instructed wallet service providers to collect self-declarations from existing users through mobile applications or other suitable digital platforms by mid-October 2026 (end of Ashwin 2083 BS), confirming whether they possess a National Identity Card.

For users who already have the card, wallet providers must update their National Identity Card number in their records by the same deadline.

Customers who have not yet obtained a National Identity Card will receive monthly notifications through mobile applications or other appropriate channels, reminding them to complete the process and update their customer identification details.

The central bank has, however, provided some flexibility for Nepali citizens residing abroad. They will be allowed to open digital wallets online using other required identification documents if they do not yet have a National Identity Card. Once they return to Nepal, they must update their wallet records with their National Identity Card details within 35 days.

Similarly, persons with disabilities who are unable to obtain a National Identity Card or National Identity Card number may continue to open and use digital wallets by submitting alternative documents required under the central bank’s customer identification guidelines.

The new measures are part of Nepal Rastra Bank’s efforts to enhance customer verification standards, improve digital payment security, and ensure greater compliance within the country’s expanding digital financial ecosystem.