Nepal seeks India’s recognition of NID card as valid travel document

Nepal is seeking India's approval to use its National Identity (NID) card as a third valid travel document, aiming to simplify travel for its citizens. Currently, Nepalis traveling to India must present either a passport or a citizenship certificate. The Department of Immigration (DoI) has submitted a proposal to the Indian government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is awaiting a response.

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We have already forwarded the proposal to the Indian side through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Indian citizens traveling to Nepal are required to show a passport or an original Indian voter identity card with a photograph. The DoI's proposal comes as the NID card is becoming mandatory for various government and banking services in Nepal, with plans to eventually replace the citizenship certificate. Officials believe the NID card is verified, authentic, and technology-friendly.

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In the long run, we will have a single identity card replacing the citizenship certificate. It is verified, authentic and technology-friendly.

Discussions have also included mechanisms for systematically recording and regulating cross-border travelers. More than 4.5 million Nepalis have received NID cards, with an additional 20 million applications pending. The card contains biometric information like fingerprints, facial images, and iris scans. The DoI hopes that recognizing the NID card will facilitate travel for Nepali citizens on both land and air routes.

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Although all Nepali citizens have not yet received the NID card, it is secure and technology-friendly. Therefore, we have proposed that India allow its use while travelling to and within India.