Nepal has asked India to recognise its biometric National Identity (NID) card as a valid travel document for Nepali citizens entering the country. If approved, the move could make cross-border travel between the two neighbours even more seamless. Here’s everything you need to know.
Nepal Seeks National Identity Card Recognition For For India Travel
According to Hindustan Times, Nepal has formally asked India to recognise its biometric National Identity card as a valid travel document for Nepali citizens. A proposal has already been sent to the Indian government through diplomatic channels, and Nepal is now awaiting a response.
If India approves the request, the NID card will become the third accepted travel document for Nepali citizens entering India by air or land, alongside the citizenship certificate and passport.
Currently, Nepali nationals travelling to India by air must carry either a citizenship certificate or a passport. Meanwhile, Indian citizens travelling to Nepal by air are required to carry either a valid passport or an Election Commission of India-issued voter ID card.
Also Read: No Ban On Indian Mango Imports In Nepal; 2,005 Metric Tonnes Exported Since Jan
Here’s All You Need To Know About This
Nepal introduced its biometric National Identity Card nationwide in 2018 as part of a broader push to modernise public services. The card is now mandatory for accessing several government services and banking facilities. The government also plans to eventually replace the traditional citizenship certificate with the biometric NID.
Under the 1950 India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, citizens of both countries can travel and work in either nation without a visa, provided they carry a valid identification document. If India approves Nepal’s proposal, the biometric NID card will also be accepted as a valid travel document for Nepali citizens travelling to India.
Alongside the proposal on travel documents, Nepal has also relaxed rules around carrying Indian currency. Indian and Nepali travellers can now carry ₹200 and ₹500 Indian currency notes while travelling between the two countries, within the existing limit of ₹25,000. Earlier, higher denomination Indian notes were not permitted, but the new rule allows both Indian and Nepali nationals to carry them during cross-border travel.
We hope this information was helpful to you all.
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FAQs
What is Nepal's National Identity (NID) card?
The National Identity (NID) card is a biometric identification document issued by the Nepal government. It is used to verify identity and access various government and banking services.
What documents can Nepali citizens currently use to travel to India?
At present, Nepali citizens travelling to India can use a valid citizenship certificate or passport, depending on the mode of travel.
Do Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Nepal?
No. Under the 1950 India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, citizens of both countries can travel and work in each other's country without a visa, provided they carry valid identification.
