How to Apply for a Nepal Citizenship Certificate (Nagarikta) in 2026: Requirements, Fees and Processing Times

Eligibility at a glance

Anyone who is at least 16 years old and can prove permanent residence in Nepal may apply for a Nagarikta. The law also requires that at least one parent be a Nepali citizen, or that the applicant was born in Nepal to parents who were legally residing there. Minors can be included on a parent’s application, but they will receive their own certificate once they reach the qualifying age.

Step‑by‑step application process

First, collect the application form. It is available free of charge at any District Administration Office (DAO) or can be downloaded from the Ministry of Home Affairs website. Fill the form in Nepali or English, making sure every field matches the supporting documents.

Next, gather the required paperwork (see the next section) and head to the DAO in the district where you reside. If you live in Kathmandu Valley, you may also submit the file at the Ministry’s central office in Singha Durbar. Submit the completed form together with the originals and photocopies; the clerk will keep the copies and return the originals after verification.

Documents you will need

• Birth certificate issued by the local ward office
• Citizenship certificate of your father or mother (or both)
• Proof of residence – land ownership deed, house rent agreement, or recent tax receipt
• Two recent passport‑size photographs (white background)
• If married, a copy of the marriage certificate

Because requirements can be updated, always check the latest checklist on the Ministry of Home Affairs portal before you go.

Fees and processing times

The fee schedule is set by the Ministry of Home Affairs and published on its official site. As of the most recent publicly available notice (2025), the standard fee for a new citizenship certificate is NPR 5,000, with a reduced rate of NPR 2,500 for applicants from economically disadvantaged groups. A 2026 fee schedule has not yet been released, so treat the 2025 figures as a reference point and verify the current amount before paying.

Official notices from the past year indicate a typical processing window of 15 to 30 working days once a complete file is accepted. Actual time can stretch longer during peak periods or if the office requests additional evidence.

Tracking, collection and next steps

After submission you will receive a receipt with a reference number. Use that number on the Ministry’s online tracking portal or visit the DAO in person to check status. When the certificate is ready, you will be notified to collect it in person; bring the receipt and a valid ID.

If the application is rejected, the office will issue a written reason. Common issues include mismatched names, missing parental certificates, or incomplete residence proof. You can appeal by submitting the missing documents within 15 days or by filing a formal review request with the Ministry.

Frequently asked questions

Can I hold dual citizenship?

Nepal does not recognize dual citizenship. Acquiring a foreign citizenship automatically terminates Nepali citizenship, so plan accordingly.

What if I need to change my name?

Name changes require a separate deed poll or court order, which must be presented along with the citizenship application.

Can minors apply on their own?

Minors cannot apply independently. They are added to a parent’s application and receive their own certificate once they turn 16.

Avoid unofficial agents

Some private agents claim they can speed up the process for an extra fee. These services are not authorized by the government and may violate regulations. Stick to the official DAO or Ministry channels to avoid complications.