Nepal is undergoing a digital transformation—and at the heart of this shift is the National Identity Card (NID). Designed to replace traditional paper-based identification systems, the NID is a biometric, electronic card that serves as a unified proof of identity for Nepali citizens.

Whether you're applying for the first time or checking your enrollment status, this guide will walk you through the National ID registration process in Nepal, including online pre-enrollment, biometric appointments, and how to check your card status online.

What Is the National Identity Card in Nepal?

The National Identity Card (राष्ट्रिय परिचयपत्र) is a government-issued biometric ID that contains:

• Personal details (name, DOB, gender, address)

• Facial photograph

• Fingerprints

• Digital signature

• Unique National Identity Number (NIN)

It is issued by the Department of National ID and Civil Registration (DoNIDCR) under the National Identity Card and Civil Registration Act, 2076.

Who Needs a National ID Card?

As of 2025, the NID card is being rolled out nationwide. It is:

• Mandatory for all Nepali citizens aged 16 years and above

• Required for students applying for scholarships and exams

• Used for banking, KYC, and government services

• Valid for voter registration and elections

• Essential for passport, citizenship, and travel documentation

Step-by-Step Procedure: How to Get a National ID Card in Nepal

Here’s a complete breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Online Pre-Enrollment

Start by visiting the official portal: https://enrollment.donidcr.gov.np/

How to Fill the Online Form:

1. Click on “Login for Individual”

2. Enter your mobile number and verify via OTP

3. Click “New Enrollment”

4. Fill in the following sections:

   • Personal details (name, DOB, gender)

   • Contact details (permanent and temporary address)

   • Family details (parents, grandparents, spouse)

   • Citizenship details

5. Select your province and district

6. Choose your biometric appointment location and date

7. Submit the form and download/print your token slip

Note: Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory.

Step 2: Biometric Appointment

On your selected date, visit the District Administration Office (DAO) or Area Administration Office with:

Required Documents:

• Original citizenship certificate

• Printed token slip

• Marriage certificate or migration certificate (if applicable)

• Passport-size photo (optional; biometric photo taken on-site)

At the center, your:

• Photo

• Fingerprints

• Signature

will be digitally captured.

Step 3: Submission & Verification

Once biometrics are completed:

• Your data is verified by officials

• You’ll receive a receipt with enrollment number

• This number is used to track your application status

Step 4: Issuance of National ID Card

After processing:

• Your National Identity Number (NIN) is generated

• The card is printed and dispatched to your local DAO

• You’ll be notified via SMS or email when it’s ready for pickup

Estimated Time: 2–8 weeks depending on district and workload

How to Check Your National Identity Card Online

To check your NID status:

1. Visit: https://donidcr.gov.np/

2. Click on “Check NIN Status”

3. Enter your:

   • Enrollment number

   • Token number

4. View your NIN and card status

You can print your token and NIN confirmation for reference, but direct online printing of the card is not available.

What Is the National Identity Number (NIN)?

The NIN is a unique 16-digit number assigned to each citizen. It will eventually replace:

• Citizenship number

• Voter ID

• Taxpayer ID

• Social security number

Think of it as your digital fingerprint in Nepal’s e-governance system.

Legal Framework Behind the NID Card

The rollout is governed by:

• National Identity Card and Civil Registration Act, 2076

• Directive on NID Enrollment and Issuance, 2077

• Privacy Act, 2075 (for data protection)

These laws ensure:

• Secure handling of biometric data

• Legal validity of the NID card

• Integration with other government services

Benefits of Having a National ID Card

• Simplified banking and KYC

• Voter registration and election participation

• Passport and visa applications

• Access to health and social security services

• Digital signature and e-governance access

Special Cases

For Citizens Living Abroad:

• NID registration is being piloted at select Nepali embassies

• Biometric kits will be deployed globally by 2026

For Lost or Damaged Cards:

• Report immediately to DAO or ward office

• Submit reissue application with citizenship and token slip.

Common Issues & Solutions

Future of National ID in Nepal

By 2026, the NID card will become:

• The primary identity document for all citizens

• Integrated with digital wallets, e-tax, and social security

• Required for property registration, vehicle ownership, and government jobs

Nepal is also exploring smart card upgrades and mobile-based identity verification.

Role of Local Governments

Municipalities and ward offices are responsible for:

• Assisting with pre-enrollment

• Organizing biometric camps

• Distributing cards

• Handling complaints and corrections

Final Thoughts

The National Identity Card in Nepal is more than just a piece of plastic—it’s a gateway to digital citizenship. With biometric security, centralized data, and integration across services, the NID card is transforming how Nepali citizens interact with the state.

Whether you're applying for the first time or checking your status, following the step-by-step procedure ensures a smooth experience. As Nepal moves toward full digital governance, the NID card will be your key to accessing rights, services, and opportunities.