How to Apply for Police Report Online in Nepal (Character Certificate Guide)
Step-by-step guide to apply for a Police Clearance Certificate (Online Police Report) in Nepal. Learn documents required, processing time, and download instructions.
Whether you are applying for a student visa, working visa, or permanent residency (PR) abroad, a Police Character Certificate (often called a “Police Report”) is a mandatory document.
Gone are the days of queuing up at the Police Headquarters in Naxal. The Nepal Police has digitized the entire process, allowing you to apply and download the certificate from the comfort of your home.
Documents Required
Before you start the online application, keep digital scans (JPEG/PNG, under 200KB usually) of the following ready:
- Citizenship Certificate: Both front and back sides.
- Passport: Make sure the bio-page is clear.
- Passport Size Photo: Recent color photograph with a plain background.
- Marriage Certificate: If you are married (especially important if your surname has changed).
- Migration Certificate: If you have moved from your permanent address mentioned in citizenship.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
You can apply via the Nagarik App or the official OPCR website. Here is the web process:
- Visit the Portal: Go to opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np.
- Register: Create an account using your email and mobile number. Solve the Captcha.
- Fill Personal Details: Enter your name, date of birth, and address exactly as they appear on your Citizenship/Passport.
- Upload Documents: Upload the scanned images in the respective fields. Ensure they are not blurry.
- Submit: Review everything and click submit. You will get an Application Number.
Check Status and Download
After submitting, the police verify your criminal background.
- Processing Time: Usually takes 3 to 5 working days.
- Status: Log in to the portal to check. It will show “Pending”, “Processing”, or “Completed”.
- Download: Once the status says “Completed”, click the download button to get the PDF.
- Print: You must print this PDF in COLOR. It contains a QR code that foreign embassies use to verify authenticity.
Do I Need MOFA Attestation?
For many countries (like USA, Canada, Australia), the color print with QR code is often accepted. However, for widespread acceptance, especially in Gulf Countries (UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait) and parts of Europe, you MUST get the printout attested by the Department of Consular Services (MOFA) in Tripureshwor.
- MOFA Attestation Fee: Approx. NPR 500.
- Process: You can pay online via eSewa/Khalti after filling the form on the MOFA website, or visit in person.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I apply for a Police Report from abroad? A: Yes! Since the process is fully online, you can apply from anywhere in the world. Just ensure you have the scanned documents.
Q: My application was rejected. Why? A: Common reasons include blurry documents, mismatched names, or missing marriage certificate. Check the “Remarks” section in the rejection email to see exactly what to fix.
Q: Is there a fee? A: Currently, the standard Police Character Certificate service is Free of Cost. You do not need to pay any government fee for the report itself.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes. For technical issues with the portal, please contact the Nepal Police technical support.
Important Note
This article provides general information and should not be considered as specific legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for your particular situation.
Pawan Mahat
Senior Legal Advisor with expertise in corporate law and legal consultation.