Nepal Relaxes ID Rules for Non-Resident Citizens’ Bank Accounts

Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has requested the Department of National ID and Registration, and the Nepal Rastra Bank to make it easier for non-resident Nepali citizens to open bank accounts.

The ministry has stated that non-resident Nepalis will no longer require a national ID card or number to operate a bank account or conduct other financial transactions.

This decision is based on a cabinet meeting held on Jestha 24, 2081, and a notice published in the official gazette on Ashar 10, 2081.

The ministry has acknowledged that non-resident Nepalis have been facing difficulties in opening bank accounts and conducting financial transactions.

Background

Until now, the practice of issuing national ID cards to non-resident Nepalis who have acquired Nepali citizenship or non-resident Nepali IDs has not been in place.

On the other hand, the Nepal Rastra Bank has allowed for alternative identification documents, such as proof of Nepali citizenship or a national ID card, to be used for customer identification.

This means that citizens without a national ID card or those who are unable to obtain one can use any other legally recognized identification document to verify their identity.

The ministry has requested the Department of National ID and Registration and the Nepal Rastra Bank to direct banks and financial institutions to implement this new provision.