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26 Sep, 2025

Credit Cards from Different Banks in Nepal – Features, Benefits & How to Apply

In Nepal, the role of credit cards is no longer limited to just swiping at a hotel or a big store. They’ve become an everyday financial tool. From shopping during Dashain and Tihar, to paying for online subscriptions, to booking flights for international travel, credit cards are now part of how Nepalis spend and manage money.

But here’s the real challenge: with so many options: Visa, Mastercard, Dollar Prepaid, Standard, Platinum, Uno, and co-branded cards. So, it’s not always easy to know which is the best credit card in Nepal for your lifestyle. Some cards are built for affordability, others for travel perks, and some focus on discounts or EMI flexibility.

That’s why in this guide, we break down the credit card offerings from four leading banks: Siddhartha,  NIC Asia, Nabil, and Global IME Bank. By looking at their features, benefits, and application process, you’ll have the clarity you need to choose the right card and apply without hassle.

Why Credit Cards are Useful in Nepal

With Dashain expenses kicking in this year, many families are already juggling travel plans, shopping, and festive celebrations. Add to that the rise of online bookings and digital payments, and it’s clear why more people in Nepal are choosing credit cards as part of their financial tool.

Here’s what makes them so useful:

  • Convenience in daily life: No need to carry large amounts of cash during shopping or travel.
  • EMI options: Split big Dashain or Tihar purchases into easy monthly payments.
  • International acceptance: Perfect for those booking flights, hotels, or shopping from global platforms.
  • Security: Chip-enabled cards and fraud protection add a layer of safety.

In simple words, a credit card isn’t just about swiping; it's about having flexibility and control over your spending, especially during high-spend seasons like Dashain.

Credit Cards by Different Banks

Nepal’s banking sector has expanded its credit card services over the past few years, giving customers more choice than ever. Whether you’re looking for the best credit card in Nepal for daily shopping, a card that makes festival expenses easier with EMI, or one that supports international travel and online payments, the top banks have options tailored to different lifestyles.

The four major banks leading this space, Siddhartha, NIC Asia, Nabil, and Global IME Bank, each provide a unique lineup of credit cards. From lifetime free cards and merchant discounts to co-branded perks and USD options, these banks cover the diverse needs of Nepali cardholders.

Let’s break them down one by one.

1. Siddhartha Credit Card

Siddhartha Bank takes a slightly different route by offering cards that combine banking with lifestyle perks. If you want discounts, privileges, and higher spending power, Siddhartha’s cards are worth a look.

Cards Offered:

  • Standard Credit Card
  • Platinum Credit Card
  • Uno Credit Card
  • Co-branded Cards (Rotary, NYEF, Nepal Medical College)

Features:

  • Tiered privileges across card types
  • Special co-branded discounts

Benefits:

  • Lifestyle perks such as merchant discounts (up to 40% with Uno Card)
  • Higher credit limits for Platinum users
  • Flexible repayment with wide acceptance

In short, Siddhartha Bank credit cards are for users who want more than just payments, like special perks, discounts, and a premium lifestyle experience.

Click Here to Apply Siddhartha Bank Credit Card with Saral Banking Sewa Today!

2. NIC Asia Credit Card

NIC Asia has positioned itself as a digitally forward bank, and its credit cards mirror that image. Whether you’re shopping locally during Dashain sales or paying for an online subscription in USD, these cards are built to adapt to your needs.

Cards Offered:

  • Visa Credit Card
  • Dollar Prepaid / FCY Freedom Card

Features:

  • Domestic and international usability
  • EMI options through “Insta Buy”
  • Secure chip-enabled payments

Benefits:

  • Accepted widely in Nepal and abroad
  • Flexible repayment options
  • Great for festival shopping, travel, and online purchases

In short, NIC Asia’s cards are best for those who want digital flexibility and EMI support without compromising on global usability.

3. Nabil Credit Card

As the pioneer of credit cards in Nepal, Nabil Bank continues to hold strong with reliable, globally accepted cards. If you’re looking for a mix of affordability and reach, Nabil’s lineup makes sense.

Cards Offered:

  • Visa Credit Card
  • Mastercard (Domestic & Contactless)

Features:

  • International acceptance for shopping and travel
  • Tap-to-pay contactless option for quick transactions

Benefits:

  • Global coverage in both online and offline use
  • Promotional offers with select merchants
  • Strong security measures for safe payments

In short: Nabil’s cards are ideal for frequent travelers and shoppers who want global usability backed by Nepal’s most established banking network.

4. Global IME Credit Card

Global IME Bank has built its credit card portfolio to support both domestic and international spending. If you frequently travel across borders or shop online, their cards deliver dependable value.

Cards Offered:

  • Visa Domestic Classic
  • Visa International USD Credit Card

Features:

  • Accepted in Nepal, India, Bhutan, and worldwide
  • Flexible repayment facilities

Benefits:

  • Traveler-friendly with international acceptance
  • Eases cross-border transactions
  • Reliable repayment options for better control over expenses

In short, Global IME cards are best suited for travelers and online shoppers who want a balance of affordability and worldwide use.

How to Apply for a Credit Card in Nepal

Applying for a credit card in Nepal isn’t as complicated as it sounds. Banks generally ask for a few standard documents to verify your identity and income:

Requirements:

  • Citizenship certificate or passport
  • A recent passport-sized photo
  • Proof of income (salary slip, tax return, or business income)
  • Bank account statement

Process:

  1. Fill out the bank’s application form (available online or at a branch).
  2. Submit the required documents.
  3. Wait for verification and approval, which usually takes a few working days.

That said, doing this right before Dashain or Tihar, when branches are crowded and approval queues get longer, can feel like a headache.

This is where Saral Banking Sewa makes life easier. Compare different cards online, check your eligibility, and apply in just a few clicks. No paperwork stress, no chasing after bank officers.

Conclusion

Credit cards in Nepal are no longer just about convenience. They are about making your money work smarter. From managing Dashain expenses and booking flights to enjoying discounts at partner stores, the right credit card can ease financial pressure while adding extra value to your lifestyle.

NIC Asia shines with its EMI flexibility and digital-first features, while Nabil offers global coverage with affordable options, including lifetime free cards. Global IME is a strong choice for frequent travelers and online shoppers, whereas Siddhartha appeals to those who want lifestyle perks and co-branded privileges. Each bank has its own strengths, and the best card for you depends on how you spend and what you value most.

Instead of visiting multiple bank websites, let Saral Banking Sewa help you compare, choose, and apply in one place. It’s the fastest way to get the right credit card in Nepal.