National ID verification now mandatory for digital wallets in Nepal

Digital wallets have become a common way to send money, pay bills, and make everyday payments in Nepal. However, as more people rely on these services, ensuring user accounts are properly verified has also become an important part of maintaining a secure digital payment system.

With that in mind, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has introduced a new requirement that brings National ID verification into digital wallet services, raising several questions among users, especially about whether they need to update their accounts and what happens if they do not have a National ID yet. So, in this article, I will explain NRB's new National ID requirement for digital wallets, who it affects, what users need to do, and what to expect in the coming months.

What changed with NRB’s new digital wallet rule?

Earlier, digital wallet users could register and manage their accounts through the regular KYC process provided by wallet companies. However, with the latest update to the 15th Amendment to the Integrated Payment Systems Directive, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has now made National ID verification mandatory for digital wallet services.

In simple terms, this means wallet users will need to verify their accounts with their National ID details. The new rule applies to digital wallets operated by licensed payment service providers in Nepal, while the exact process and requirements will depend on each user's situation. 

Who is affected by NRB’s new digital wallet rule?

Since the new requirement applies to digital wallet services in Nepal, users of wallets operated by NRB-licensed payment service providers will fall under this change. This includes popular digital wallets like eSewa, Khalti, IME Pay, and other licensed services.

It affects both existing wallet users and people who are planning to open a new account. While new users will need to complete National ID verification during registration, existing users will also need to update their account details according to the new guidelines. 

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What should digital wallet users do?

The steps you need to take next depend on your current situation. Here’s what different types of wallet users need to know:

If you already have a National ID

For users who already have a National ID, the next step is to update their wallet account with their National ID details. Wallet providers will allow users to complete this update through their platforms, and the process needs to be completed before the current deadline of October 17, 2026.

If you do not have a National ID yet

If you have not received your National ID yet, you do not need to stop using your digital wallet immediately. Once you receive your National ID, you will need to update your wallet details accordingly.

Meanwhile, wallet providers will send reminders to obtain the National ID and complete the update process later. 

If you are opening a new digital wallet

For new users, National ID verification will become part of the wallet registration process. This means you will need to verify your identity using your National ID details before creating a new wallet account.

If you are living abroad

For Nepali citizens living abroad, NRB has also included a provision under the new guideline. Since some users may not be able to complete the National ID verification process immediately while outside Nepal, they can continue using their wallet services under the existing arrangement.

However, after returning to Nepal, they will need to update their wallet details with their National ID information within six months.

If you cannot obtain a National ID

While NRB has made National ID verification mandatory for digital wallets, there can be situations where some users are unable to obtain a National ID. This includes people who may face difficulties completing the process, such as persons with disabilities or individuals who cannot manage their own affairs.

In such cases, wallet providers may allow alternative verification methods based on NRB’s provisions. Users facing these situations should contact their respective wallet providers to understand the required process and documents.

How can you update your National ID details in a digital wallet?

Updating your National ID details in a digital wallet is a straightforward process. Users can complete the update through their wallet app by accessing the KYC or profile update section and providing their National ID details.

As mentioned, existing wallet users in Nepal need to complete this update by October 17, 2026 (the end of Ashwin 2083 BS), as required by Nepal Rastra Bank. 

Steps to update your National ID details

• Open your wallet app: Log in to the mobile wallet application you use.
• Find the KYC update section: Go to the KYC update, profile settings, or a similar section available in the app.
• Enter your National ID details: Select the National ID option, enter your ID number correctly, and submit any additional verification details requested by the wallet provider.
• Complete the self-declaration form: Fill out the required digital form confirming your National ID status before submitting the update.

Note: The exact steps may vary slightly depending on the digital wallet you use.  

Why is NRB making National ID verification mandatory for digital wallets?

As digital wallet usage continues to grow in Nepal, proper user verification has become an important part of maintaining a secure digital payment system. With National ID verification, Nepal Rastra Bank aims to make the KYC process more reliable and ensure that user information across digital payment platforms is properly verified.

The move is also expected to help reduce issues related to fake identities, misuse of wallet accounts, and other risks associated with digital transactions. By linking wallet accounts with verified identity details, regulators and payment providers can maintain better records of users.

What can digital wallet users expect next?

As wallet providers start implementing the new requirement, users may notice changes in their apps, such as new KYC update options or prompts related to National ID verification. The exact rollout may vary between wallet providers, so users should follow official announcements from their respective services for any updates.

Final Thoughts

NRB’s new National ID verification requirement is another step toward making digital payment services more secure and properly verified. While the update adds an extra verification step for wallet users, the process should be relatively simple once the feature becomes available through wallet apps.

If you already use a digital wallet, make sure your account details are updated within the given timeframe. Meanwhile, users with different situations, such as those without a National ID or living abroad, should follow the process that applies to them.