: Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has amended the Integrated Payment Systems Directive, 2082, introducing mandatory National Identity Card (National ID) verification for digital wallet registration and user information updates.

Under the 15th amendment issued by the Payment Systems Department, licensed payment service providers (PSPs) must electronically verify the National ID records of Nepali citizens before opening a digital wallet.

The revised directive also requires PSPs to obtain a self-declaration from all wallet users by the end of Ashwin 2083 confirming whether they possess a National ID. The declaration may be collected through mobile applications or other suitable digital channels.

Users who already have a National ID must update their wallet details with their National ID number by the deadline. For users who have not yet obtained the card, PSPs are required to establish a system that sends monthly reminders encouraging them to update their information once they receive the National ID.

The existing provision allowing Nepali citizens residing abroad to open digital wallets online using the required documents remains unchanged. However, such users must update their National ID details with the concerned payment service provider within six months of returning to Nepal.

The amended directive also introduces special provisions allowing persons with disabilities and helpless citizens who are unable to manage their own affairs to open digital wallets and conduct transactions using other valid supporting documents, even if they do not possess a National ID card or National ID number.