Nepal's Passport Department Grapples with Unprecedented Demand Amidst EPS Application Rush

Kathmandu, Nepal – The Department of Passports (DoP) in Nepal is currently facing an extraordinary surge in demand for e-passports, leading to significant operational challenges and widespread public frustration. Even on public holidays, the department's offices are teeming with applicants, primarily individuals seeking passports to apply for the Employment Permit System (EPS) for South Korea. This unprecedented rush has put immense pressure on the DoP's infrastructure and service delivery mechanisms.

In response to the overwhelming number of service seekers, the DoP has implemented extended service hours, including operating on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. Additionally, for the critical period from July 30th to August 7th (Saun 14-22), the department has introduced a two-shift system, running from 7 AM to 2 PM and 2 PM to 9 PM, specifically to accommodate EPS applicants. Despite these measures, many applicants are reporting considerable delays, with some expressing concerns about missing crucial deadlines for their foreign employment applications.

One such applicant, Tilak Bahadur Gharti Magar from Rolpa, shared his ordeal, stating he has been in Kathmandu for over a week, yet to receive his passport for the EPS examination. He highlighted initial difficulties with the online application portal, which was frequently down, and subsequent delays in receiving the promised SMS notification for passport readiness. The standard fast-track service, which is supposed to deliver passports within two working days, is reportedly failing to meet expectations for many, leading to anxiety among those whose future employment prospects hinge on timely passport acquisition.

Director Deepak Banjade of the Department of Passports acknowledged the challenges, attributing the current situation to the stabilization process of a new system and the sudden, massive influx of EPS-related applications. While assuring the public that there is no shortage of passport booklets, Banjade admitted to technical glitches within the system that have prevented some applicants from receiving their passports on schedule. He clarified that while the 'urgent' passport service is designed for a 48-working-hour turnaround, the daily processing of thousands of additional EPS applications has made it extremely difficult to adhere strictly to this timeline. Technical errors in specific files could further extend the processing time by an additional working day.

Banjade also addressed issues related to communication, explaining that a temporary disruption in SMS services occurred due to a payment lapse with the service provider, which has since been resolved. Furthermore, coordination problems with the National ID (NID) system had previously halted some passport processes. To mitigate this, NID staff have now been deployed directly at the DoP to resolve such discrepancies promptly.

Looking ahead, Director Banjade urged only those with immediate and essential needs to apply for passports in the coming days. He dispelled rumors of a passport crisis, emphasizing that the department has ample stock. To manage the current rush and streamline future applications, the DoP plans to open application forms for a full month starting next week, a significant departure from the previous day-ahead booking system. This move aims to alleviate pressure and allow non-urgent applicants to plan their submissions more effectively. The department is currently printing and distributing approximately 1,500 passports daily, striving to clear the backlog and ensure efficient service delivery for all citizens.