NRB Makes National ID Mandatory for Digital Wallet Users

Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has revised its Integrated Payment System Directive, requiring digital wallet users to update their National Identity Card details as part of strengthened customer verification measures. Under the amended directive, payment service providers must verify new wallet registrations for Nepali citizens using data from the National Identity Card system, while existing users are required to update their National ID information by the end of Ashwin 2083 BS. Wallet providers have also been instructed to obtain self-declarations from users regarding their National Identity Card status and remind those without one to update their details after obtaining the card. The central bank has introduced a flexible provision for Nepali citizens residing abroad. They will continue to be allowed to open digital wallets online using other required identification documents without a National Identity Card number. However, once they return to Nepal, they must update their wallet with their National Identity Card details within 35 days. The amended directive also includes special provisions allowing incapacitated and dependent individuals to open and operate digital wallets using alternative identification documents where obtaining or using a National Identity Card is not feasible.