Introduction
The National Identity (NID) Card is one of Nepal’s most ambitious digital governance projects. Similar to PAN registration in Nepal, the card is designed to streamline identification, improve service delivery, and enhance security. The Department of National ID and Civil Registration (DoNIDCR) is responsible for collecting biometric and demographic data, issuing ID cards, and managing the National Identity Management Information System (NIDMIS).
What is National Identity Card in Nepal?
The National Identity Card (Rastriya Parichaya Patra) is a federal-level digital smart card containing demographic and biometric data of every Nepali citizen. Each card is issued with a unique National Identity Number (NIN) that serves as a permanent identity marker.
The card contains:
- A unique NIN (National Identity Number)
- Personal details (name, address, citizenship info)
- Demographic information
- Photograph
- Biometric data: fingerprints of both hands
- Embedded chip for digital authentication
Governing Laws for National Identity in Nepal
The legal framework for the National ID card is governed by:
These laws make NID the primary proof of identity for Nepali citizens above 18 years of age.
Key Features of the National Identity Card
- Digital Smart Card – Stores demographic & biometric data securely on a chip.
- Federal-Level Identification – A single identification system for all Nepali citizens.
- Replacement of Citizenship Card – Designed to replace the existing Nepalese Citizenship Certificate.
- Secure Data – Biometric data ensures accurate verification and prevents duplication.
Purposes of the National Identity Card
The NID card has multiple uses, including:
- Proof of National Identity & Citizenship
- Voter ID card – linked with election rolls
- Social Security Card – linked to government welfare schemes
- Digital Identity – used for e-governance and online verification
- Access to Government & Private Services – including banking, telecom, taxation, and more
- Improved Data Management & Security – helps build a centralized, fraud-free citizen database
Step-by-Step Procedure for National ID Registration
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
- Go to the NID official portal
- Click “Login for Individual”
- Enter your mobile number and verify via OTP
Step 2: New Enrollment & Filling the Application
- Click “New Enrollment”
- Fill out the details carefully (mandatory fields marked with
*) - Sections include:
- Contact Details – permanent and temporary addresses
- Family Details – father, mother, grandfather, grandmother, spouse
- After filling in, click “Next”
Step 3: Selecting Appointment for Biometrics
- Choose the place and date for biometrics.
- The system usually assigns the earliest available date.
- If no location appears near you, select “Others” and click Submit.
- Then, visit your District Administration Office (DAO) or Area Administration Office to finalize your appointment.
Step 4: Visiting the Office for Biometrics
- On the appointment date, visit the DAO or local office.
- Provide original documents for verification.
- Biometric data collection includes:
- Fingerprints (10 fingers)
- Photograph
- Iris scan (in some locations)
- Note: Hair must be in natural color for the photo.
Required Documents for National ID Registration in Nepal
Applicants must carry the following documents:
- Application form (generated by the system)
- Original Nepali citizenship (mandatory)
- Proof of date of birth (if not mentioned in citizenship)
- Migration/Basai Sarai certificate (if migrated)
- Original marriage certificate (if spouse name not included in citizenship)
- Passport (if already issued)
How to Get a National ID Card in Nepal?
The process of getting an NID card in Nepal involves:
- Visiting the DONIDCR online portal
- Enrolling and submitting an application
- Booking an appointment and visiting the office for biometrics
- Collecting your National ID card after verification
How to Check Your National Identity Card Status Online?
Citizens can check their application status through:
- The NID official portal
- Submitting required credentials and documents
- Visiting the concerned District Administration Office for updates
Issues & Challenges of National ID in Nepal
Despite being a landmark project, there are challenges:
- Technical delays – card printing and distribution often take time
- Limited awareness – many citizens still do not know the online process
- Data security concerns – centralization raises cyber security risks
- Infrastructural limitations – rural areas face network and logistical issues
- Dependency on citizenship certificate – although the goal is to replace citizenship, currently both are needed in practice
Conclusion
The National Identity Card of Nepal is a major step toward digital governance, transparency, and service efficiency. By integrating identity verification with e-governance and social security, the NID aims to become the primary identification system for all Nepali citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the National Identity Card in Nepal?
The NID is a digital, federal-level identification card issued by the Department of National ID and Civil Registration. It contains demographic and biometric data, including a unique National Identity Number (NIN), photo, and fingerprints.
2. Is the National ID card mandatory in Nepal?
Yes, under the National ID and Civil Registration Act, the NID card is mandatory for all Nepali citizens. It is gradually being rolled out to replace the traditional Citizenship Certificate.
3. What is the minimum age to apply for a National Identity Card?
Citizens aged 16 years and above can apply for the National ID.
4. Does the National ID replace my Citizenship Certificate?
Yes, the long-term plan is for the National Identity Card to completely replace the traditional Citizenship Card as the primary proof of identity.
5. Can I use the National ID card for voting?
Yes, the NID will serve as a Voter ID card, allowing citizens to register and participate in elections.
6. Can I use the National ID card for banking purposes?
Yes, banks in Nepal will gradually integrate the NID card as a primary KYC (Know Your Customer) document.
7. How can I apply for the National ID card online?
You can visit the official NID portal, log in using your mobile number and OTP, fill in the enrollment form, and book an appointment for biometrics.
8. What documents are required for the National ID card?
You need:
- Application form (system-generated)
- Original Citizenship Certificate (compulsory)
- Birth certificate (if DOB is missing in citizenship)
- Migration certificate (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Passport (if available)
9. How do I check the status of my NID card application?
You can log in to the NID official portal and track your application status, or contact the respective District Administration Office.
10. How long does it take to receive the NID card?
It usually takes a few weeks to months after biometrics, depending on the processing speed of the department.
11. Is there any fee for getting the National Identity card?
Currently, the NID card is being issued free of charge during the government rollout phase.
12. Can Nepali citizens living abroad apply for the National Identity card?
Yes, Nepali citizens abroad can apply through designated embassies or consulates once the system is fully functional internationally.
13. What happens if I lose my National Identity card?
You must immediately report to the local District Administration Office (DAO) or ward office and apply for a reissue by submitting an application and required documents.
14. Can the NID card be used as a Social Security Card?
Yes, the NID is linked with social security systems and is expected to replace the existing Social Security Identity Card in the future.
15. What are the benefits of having an National ID card?
- Single digital identity
- Use in elections, banking, government benefits
- Stronger data security & management
- Easy verification for services