A police clearance certificate Nepal is an official document issued by Nepal Police confirming whether an individual has any criminal record in the country. This certificate is mandatory for foreign employment, visa applications, immigration, overseas education, and legal proceedings. Over 500,000 Nepalis apply for PCC annually, yet many face delays, rejections, and confusion about the process.
Nepal Police has modernized the PCC system significantly. The Online Police Clearance Report (OPCR) portal at opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np now processes applications in 2-3 working days completely free of charge. Additionally, the Nagarik App provides a mobile alternative, while offline applications remain available at District Police Offices for those without internet access.
Understanding every aspect of the police clearance certificate Nepal process, from eligibility and documentation to attestation and troubleshooting, ensures smooth processing and avoids costly delays that can derail visa applications and job offers.
A police clearance certificate Nepal is an official verification document issued by Nepal Police Headquarters in Naxal, Kathmandu. The certificate confirms the applicant's criminal record status based on national police databases.
The document is also known as:
All these terms refer to the same document issued by Nepal Police. The official government designation is "Police Clearance Certificate," while "Police Report" is the commonly used Nepali term.
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Foreign employment | Required by employers in Gulf countries, Europe, East Asia, and North America |
| Visa and immigration | Mandatory for work visas, permanent residency, and citizenship applications |
| Overseas education | Required by universities and scholarship programs for admission |
| Adoption proceedings | International adoption agencies require background verification |
| Legal matters | Court proceedings, NGO registration, professional licensing |
| Security-sensitive roles | Government and corporate positions requiring background checks |
Nepal Police does not print an expiry date on the PCC itself. Validity is determined by the requesting authority:
| Requesting Authority | Typical Validity Requirement |
|---|---|
| Schengen visa applications | Issued within 3 months of visa submission |
| UK, USA, Australia, Canada | Issued within 6 months of submission |
| Foreign employment contracts | Not older than 3 months at signing |
| University admissions | 3-6 months depending on institution |
| Permanent residency | Check destination country specific requirements |
Critical Advice: Apply for your police clearance certificate Nepal as close to your visa or job application date as possible. Applying too early risks expiration and reapplication costs.
Not everyone qualifies for a PCC. Understanding eligibility requirements before applying saves time and prevents rejection.
| Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Nepali citizens | Valid Nepali citizenship certificate, age 16 or above |
| Foreign nationals in Nepal | Valid visa, proof of residence, purpose documentation |
| Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) | Citizenship certificate, may apply through embassy or representative |
| Minors under 16 | Application through parent or legal guardian |
The September 2023 directive introduced liberalized provisions for minor offences. However, serious convictions are still disclosed.
| Scenario | PCC Outcome |
|---|---|
| No criminal record | Clean certificate issued |
| Minor offence, fine paid | Clean certificate (fine-only offences not mentioned) |
| Less than 1 year imprisonment, served | Clean certificate (offence not mentioned) |
| Acquitted by court | Clean certificate |
| Case withdrawn by government | Clean certificate |
| Case sub judice in first jurisdiction | Clean certificate |
| Serious offence conviction | Certificate issued with offence mentioned |
| Corruption, rape, human trafficking, drug smuggling, money laundering | Certificate issued with conviction disclosed |
| Repeat offender | Certificate issued with record disclosed |
| Offence carrying more than 1 year imprisonment | Certificate issued with conviction mentioned |
| Pending unresolved criminal case | Application withheld until resolution |
Document preparation is the most common cause of PCC delays and rejections. Ensuring accuracy and consistency across all documents is essential.
| Document | Format | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Nepali Citizenship Certificate | Scan/Photo | Clear, legible, all details visible |
| Passport (bio-data page) | Scan/Photo | Valid, not expired, first and last page |
| Recent passport-size photograph | Digital upload | 35mm × 45mm, white background, 600-1200 DPI, 1-2.5 MB, color only |
| Purpose letter or selection letter | Scan/Document | Job offer, university admission, visa application, or self-declaration |
| Scenario | Additional Document |
|---|---|
| Previous PCC holder | Previous PCC copy for renewal reference |
| Name mismatch between documents | Notarized affidavit of name correction |
| Application through representative | Signed authorization letter or Power of Attorney |
| Foreign national applicant | Nepal visa with entry/exit stamps, residence proof |
| NRN applying from abroad | Notarized Power of Attorney for representative in Nepal |
| Check | Common Rejection Cause |
|---|---|
| Name spelling | Must match exactly across citizenship, passport, and application |
| Date of birth | Must be identical on all documents |
| Address details | Permanent address must match citizenship record |
| Photo quality | Blurry, cropped, or non-compliant photos trigger rejection |
| File format | JPG or PDF only; maximum 1 MB per file |
| Scan resolution | Minimum 300 DPI; blurry scans are rejected |
The police clearance certificate Nepal can be obtained through three distinct channels. Each method has different timelines, costs, and requirements.
The Online Police Clearance Report (OPCR) portal at opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np is the fastest, most convenient, and completely free method.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Website | opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np |
| Government fee | Free (NPR 0) |
| Processing time | 2-3 working days |
| Collection method | Digital download with QR code |
| Availability | 24/7 online application |
Step-by-Step OPCR Portal Process:
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit portal and register | Click "New Registration," enter email and mobile number, verify via email |
| 2 | Log in and start application | Click "Apply for PCC" from dashboard |
| 3 | Fill application form | Enter name exactly as per citizenship, citizenship number, DOB, permanent address, purpose |
| 4 | Select issuing district | Choose district from dropdown menu |
| 5 | Upload documents | Citizenship, passport, photograph, purpose letter (JPG/PDF, max 1 MB each) |
| 6 | Submit application | No payment required; note Application Reference Number |
| 7 | Track status | Monitor online using reference number; SMS/email notification when ready |
| 8 | Download certificate | Log in, download digitally signed PDF with QR verification code |
OPCR Helpdesk: 01-5719865 / 9851285920 | Email: [email protected]
The Nagarik App provides a mobile-friendly alternative for police clearance certificate Nepal applications.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Download | Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store |
| Government fee | Free |
| Processing time | 3-7 working days (longer than OPCR portal) |
| Collection | Digital download within app |
| Limitation | Individual use only; cannot apply on behalf of others |
Step-by-Step Nagarik App Process:
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Download and install app | Search "Nagarik App" in app store |
| 2 | Register and verify identity | Create account with mobile number and email |
| 3 | Link required documents | Citizenship certificate (mandatory), e-Passport (for foreign purposes), Voter ID, Driving License (if available) |
| 4 | Navigate to PCC section | Tap "Police Clearance Certificate" then "Request Report" |
| 5 | Fill personal details | Name, address, contact information |
| 6 | Upload photograph | Must meet exact specifications: 35mm×45mm, white background, 70-80% face coverage, 600-1200 DPI, 1-2.5 MB, color only, both ears visible, no glasses or hats |
| 7 | Select purpose and submit | Choose from foreign employment, visa, study, immigration, personal record |
| 8 | Wait for verification and download | Certificate available in app once approved |
Important Note: The Nagarik App processing time is generally longer than the OPCR portal. If speed is critical, use opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np directly.
For applicants without internet access or those facing technical difficulties, offline application remains available.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Nearest District Police Office (Jilla Prahari Karyalaya) |
| Government fee | NPR 500 |
| Processing time | 2-4 weeks |
| Collection | In person at police office |
Step-by-Step Offline Process:
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit District Police Office | Request PCC application form at counter |
| 2 | Complete application form | Ensure name and address match citizenship exactly |
| 3 | Attach document copies | Citizenship, passport, photographs, purpose letter |
| 4 | Pay fee | NPR 500 at cash counter or via bank deposit slip |
| 5 | Submit and receive acknowledgment | Keep acknowledgment slip for collection |
| 6 | Collect PCC | Return when notified, typically within 2-4 weeks |
When time is critical, urgent processing options are available for police clearance certificate Nepal applications.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Nepal Police Headquarters, Naxal, Kathmandu |
| Fee | NPR 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Processing time | Same day to 1-2 working days |
| Requirement | In-person visit with all documents |
| Best for | Emergency visa deadlines, urgent job requirements |
Understanding the complete cost structure helps in budgeting and avoiding overpayment.
| Service | Government Fee (NPR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online OPCR Portal application | Free | No charge for online submission |
| Nagarik App application | Free | No charge for mobile submission |
| Offline District Police Office | 500 | Standard processing fee |
| Express/Urgent at Police HQ, Naxal | 1,500 – 2,000 | Same-day or 1-2 day processing |
| MOFA Consular Attestation | 500 per document | Required for international use |
| Connect IPS transaction fee | 2 extra | Small gateway charge on MOFA payment |
| Door-to-door stamp delivery (MOFA) | 1,000 – 1,200 | Optional pickup/delivery service |
Important: Beware of unauthorized intermediaries charging excessive fees. The official government fee for online PCC is zero.
A police clearance certificate Nepal often requires additional authentication before foreign authorities will accept it.
For most international purposes, MOFA attestation is the minimum requirement.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Portal | att.nepalconsular.gov.np |
| Fee | NPR 500 per document |
| Processing time | Same day to 1-2 working days |
| Method | Online application, payment, and digital stamp download |
| Payment methods | eSewa, Khalti, Connect IPS, IME Pay, bank voucher at Global IME Bank |
| Physical office | Department of Consular Services, Tripureshwor, Kathmandu |
MOFA Attestation Process:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit att.nepalconsular.gov.np |
| 2 | Register and upload PCC document |
| 3 | Pay NPR 500 fee online |
| 4 | Download attested document with official stamp |
| 5 | Submit to embassy or foreign authority as required |
Some countries require additional embassy legalization after MOFA attestation.
| Destination Region | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Gulf countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait) | MOFA attestation + embassy legalization |
| European countries | MOFA attestation; some require apostille (Nepal is not Hague Apostille Convention member, so full legalization applies) |
| USA, Canada, Australia, UK | MOFA attestation usually sufficient; verify with specific embassy |
| Spain (special process from April 2026) | MOFA attestation + in-person submission at Spain Embassy in New Delhi; 100 daily slots, first-come-first-served; INR 799 fee; documents returned to Honorary Consulate in Kathmandu |
| Country | PCC Validity | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | 6 months | May require RCMP-equivalent check if residing in Canada |
| Australia | 6 months | AFP check required if residing in Australia |
| USA | 6 months | FBI check may be required for long-term residency |
| UK | 6 months | ACRO check if residing in UK |
| Schengen countries | 3 months | MOFA attestation mandatory |
| UAE | 3 months | Embassy legalization required |
| Saudi Arabia | 3 months | Embassy legalization + translation |
| Qatar | 3 months | Embassy legalization required |
| South Korea | 6 months | EPS system may have specific requirements |
Even with careful preparation, problems can arise during police clearance certificate Nepal applications. Understanding solutions in advance saves critical time.
This is the most common delay. Your name partially or fully matches another person in the police database.
| Symptom | Status shows "Pending," "Under Verification," or "Name Match" |
|---|---|
| Cause | System flags application for manual verification |
| Does not mean | You have a criminal record |
| Solution | Visit Nepal Police Headquarters, Naxal, with citizenship photocopy with Application ID and phone number written on back |
| Processing time after visit | 2-3 working days |
| Prevention | Ensure name spelling is unique and consistent across all documents |
| Common Rejection Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Name mismatch between citizenship and passport | Obtain notarized affidavit of name correction before reapplying |
| Blurry or low-resolution document scans | Rescan at minimum 300 DPI, ensure clarity |
| Incomplete application form | Fill all mandatory fields completely |
| Expired passport | Renew passport before reapplying |
| Active or unresolved criminal case | Resolve case or obtain court clearance first |
| Incorrect photo specifications | Retake photo meeting exact size and quality requirements |
| Wrong purpose category selected | Reapply with correct purpose selection |
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| High application volume during peak season (September-December, March-May) | Apply at least 2-3 weeks before deadline |
| Public holidays and festival seasons | Plan around Nepali holidays; check calendar |
| Technical issues with portal | Try alternative method (Nagarik App or offline) |
| Document verification complexity | Contact OPCR helpdesk: 01-5719865 / 9851285920 |
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Limited foreign national data in system | Apply well in advance (7-15 working days expected) |
| Visa history complexity | Ensure all entry/exit stamps are documented |
| Residence proof issues | Obtain formal rent agreement or utility bills |
| Option | Process | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Apply through nearest Nepali Embassy/Consulate | Embassy forwards request to Nepal Police | 3-6 weeks |
| Authorize representative in Nepal | Notarized Power of Attorney to trusted person | 2-3 weeks (standard online processing) |
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application method | OPCR portal (select "Foreigner" during registration) or Metropolitan Police Office |
| Locations | Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Pokhara, or Bharatpur |
| Processing time | 7-15 working days |
| Documents | Valid passport, Nepal visa with stamps, residence proof, employer/university/embassy letter, purpose letter, photographs |
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application through | Parent or legal guardian |
| Guardian documents | Guardian's citizenship, proof of relationship |
| Minor documents | Minor's citizenship (if available), birth certificate |
| Purpose | Usually adoption, family immigration, or dependent visa |
| Application Method | Submission | Processing | Attestation | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online OPCR (standard) | Same day | 2-3 working days | 1-2 days (MOFA) | 3-5 working days |
| Online OPCR (name match issue) | Same day | 1-2 weeks (after HQ visit) | 1-2 days | 2-3 weeks |
| Nagarik App | Same day | 3-7 working days | 1-2 days | 4-9 working days |
| Offline District Police | Same day | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 days | 2-4 weeks + 1-2 days |
| Express at Police HQ | Same day | Same day to 1-2 days | 1-2 days | 1-3 working days |
| NRN through embassy | Same day | 3-6 weeks | Variable | 3-6 weeks + |
| Office | Location | Working Days | Hours | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPCR Online Portal | opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np | 24/7 | Always available | — |
| Nepal Police HQ — Naxal | Naxal, Kathmandu | Sunday-Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 01-5719865 |
| OPCR Helpline | — | Sunday-Friday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 9851285920 |
| Department of Consular Services (MOFA) | Tripureshwor, Kathmandu | Sunday-Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | — |
| MOFA Attestation Correction Window | Tripureshwor | Saturdays only | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | — |
| Metropolitan Police Range | Teku, Kathmandu | Sunday-Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 01-4270536 |
Q1: What is a Police Clearance Certificate in Nepal?
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is an official document issued by Nepal Police confirming whether an individual has any criminal record in Nepal. It is required for foreign employment, visa applications, immigration, overseas education, and legal proceedings.
Q2: How long does it take to get a PCC in Nepal?
Online applications through the OPCR portal take 2-3 working days. The Nagarik App takes 3-7 working days. Offline applications at District Police Offices take 2-4 weeks. Express processing at Nepal Police HQ, Naxal, takes same day to 1-2 working days.
Q3: Is the online PCC application free in Nepal?
Yes, online applications through both the OPCR portal and Nagarik App are completely free. Only offline applications at District Police Offices incur a NPR 500 fee, and express processing at Police HQ costs NPR 1,500-2,000.
Q4: What documents are required for PCC in Nepal?
Mandatory documents include Nepali citizenship certificate, valid passport, recent passport-size photograph (35mm×45mm, white background, 600-1200 DPI), and purpose letter or selection letter. Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances.
Q5: What is the validity of a Nepal PCC?
Nepal Police does not print an expiry date. Most embassies and employers require the PCC to be issued within 3-6 months of submission. Schengen countries typically require 3 months, while UK, USA, Australia, and Canada usually accept 6 months.
Q6: Can I apply for PCC from outside Nepal?
Yes. Non-Resident Nepalis can apply through the nearest Nepali Embassy or Consulate (3-6 weeks processing) or authorize a representative in Nepal with a notarized Power of Attorney (2-3 weeks processing).
Q7: What should I do if my PCC application shows "Name Match" or is pending?
Visit Nepal Police Headquarters in Naxal, Kathmandu, with a photocopy of your citizenship certificate. Write your PCC Application ID and phone number on the back. Submit to the relevant counter. The issue is usually resolved within 2-3 working days.
Q8: Is MOFA attestation required for PCC used abroad?
Yes, for most international purposes, MOFA attestation is required. The process is completed online at att.nepalconsular.gov.np for NPR 500 per document, typically processed within 1-2 working days.
Q9: What is the difference between PCC and Police Report in Nepal?
They are the same document. "Police Clearance Certificate" is the official government name, while "Police Report" is the commonly used Nepali term. Both are issued by Nepal Police and serve the identical purpose.
Q10: Can someone else apply for PCC on my behalf?
Yes, through a signed authorization letter or notarized Power of Attorney. The representative can submit the application using your details. However, verify with the receiving embassy or institution whether third-party submitted applications are accepted.
Q11: What happens if I have a past criminal record?
Minor offences (fine-only, less than 1 year imprisonment served, acquitted, case withdrawn) result in a clean certificate under the 2023 directive. Serious offences (corruption, rape, human trafficking, drug smuggling, money laundering, offences carrying more than 1 year imprisonment) are disclosed on the certificate.
Q12: Which is faster — OPCR portal or Nagarik App?
The OPCR portal at opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np is generally faster (2-3 working days) compared to the Nagarik App (3-7 working days). For urgent needs, use the OPCR portal directly.
Navigating the police clearance certificate Nepal process can be complex, especially for urgent applications, name match issues, or international attestation requirements. Attorney Nepal Pvt. Ltd. provides comprehensive PCC support services including:
Contact Attorney Nepal Pvt. Ltd. today for expert guidance on your Police Clearance Certificate requirements.
Disclaimer: This blog is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. Procedures, fees, and requirements for police clearance certificate Nepal are subject to change by Nepal Police and government authorities. Specific circumstances vary significantly, and professional consultation is recommended for complex cases, name match issues, or urgent processing needs. Attorney Nepal Pvt. Ltd. assumes no liability for actions taken based on the information contained herein. Always verify current requirements with official authorities before applying.
February 03, 2026 - BY Admin