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14 Aug, 2025

Credit Card in Nepal: Everything You Need to Know Before Getting One

Have you found yourself in a tricky spot, seeing the latest flagship phones coming out in the market, but your bank balance is looking a little shy? Or maybe you’ve heard about the 0% interest EMI offers to buy expensive gadgets using credit cards?

If you’ve been thinking of a credit card for a long time but haven’t gotten one yourself, you're not alone. Credit cards in Nepal are becoming a popular financial tool, but with so many options and rules, it can feel like trying to solve a maze.

But don't worry, we're here to help. At Saral Banking Sewa (SBS), we simplify the difficult process and provide easy-to-understand information so that you can make smart financial decisions every single time. 

And the good news is, this is your complete guide to understanding credit cards in Nepal, from the basics to small details, so you can confidently choose the best credit cards available for your needs.

Credit Card vs. Debit Card: What’s the Difference

Before we dive deep, let's clear up some common confusion that most people in Nepal tend to have: what’s the difference between a credit card and a debit card?

  • Debit Card: When you use a debit card, the amount is immediately deducted from your bank account. So, it’s a ‘Pay Now’ system, meaning if you have money saved in your account, you can use it. No money in the account means your debit card is just a card.
  • Credit Card: A credit card gives you a pre-approved loan that you can use to make purchases. It’s a "buy now, pay later" system. You are basically borrowing money from the bank, which you then pay back, usually within a grace period to avoid interest.

You can think of it this way: a debit card is like a key to your own wallet, while a credit card is like a key to a temporary loan from the bank.

Types of Credit Cards in Nepal

Nepali banks offer a variety of types of credit cards in Nepal to suit different lifestyles and spending habits. The most common types are:

  • Classic/Standard Credit Cards: These are the most basic and widely available credit cards. They come with standard features, a decent credit limit, and are accepted at most locations in Nepal, India, and Bhutan.
  • Gold/Platinum/Premium/UNO Credit Cards: As the name suggests, these cards are an upgraded version of a standard credit card. They typically offer higher credit limits, more extensive rewards programs, and additional perks like airport lounge access, travel insurance, exclusive discounts, and 0% interest EMI options.
  • International Visa/Mastercard: While most domestic cards work in India and Bhutan, international Visa/Mastercard (usually travel cards) allow you to perform international transactions, whether you're traveling abroad or shopping on international e-commerce sites.

What are the Benefits of a Credit Card in Nepal?

Apart from the convenience of not carrying cash 24/7, a credit card offers several compelling benefits in Nepal:

  • Financial Flexibility: It gives you the power to make large purchases, like a new gadget or a flight ticket, and pay them off over time without dipping into your savings.
  • Rewards and Discounts: Many cards offer reward points, cashback, or exclusive discounts at various partner merchants, restaurants, and hotels. So, these can add up to significant savings.
  • Building a Credit History: Using a credit card responsibly and paying your bills on time helps you build a positive credit history, which is very important for getting larger loans (like home or car loans) in the future.
  • Emergency Fund: A credit card can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations, providing you with a financial cushion when you need it the most.
  • Fraud Protection: Unlike a debit card, a credit card offers a layer of protection against fraudulent transactions. It means that if somebody used your card without your notice and permission, you are typically not responsible for the charges.

Credit Card Requirements and Eligibility in Nepal

So, who can get a credit card? In Nepal, there is still a misconception that a credit card is only for wealthy people with very high income sources. However, it is entirely false as anyone with a stable income source can apply for a credit card in Nepal. 

Additionally, the credit card eligibility and requirements are generally straightforward, but they can vary from bank to bank.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: You must be a Nepalese citizen, generally aged 18 or 21 and above.
  • Stable Income: Banks require a stable source of income. This could be a monthly salary (often a minimum of NPR 15,000 to NPR 25,000 for a standard card) or a business income for self-employed individuals.
  • Bank Account: In most cases, you must have a savings or current account with the bank you are applying to. If you don’t have it, you can open an account during the application process as well.

Required Documents

Here is the list of documents that are usually standard across most banks in Nepal to apply for a credit card:

  • A duly filled and signed application form
  • Copy of your Nepali citizenship and national ID card
  • Recently taken passport-sized photos
  • Proof of Income: For salaried individuals, you will need a salary certificate from your employer and a bank statement of the last 6 months. Meanwhile, if you are self-employed, you will need company registration documents, PAN, tax clearance, and recent audited financial reports.

Are you unsure whether you are eligible for a credit card? Find that out instantly using our Credit Card Eligibility Checker.

How to Apply for a Credit Card in Nepal

Applying for a credit card is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Research and Compare: This is where Saral Banking Sewa comes in. Don't just walk into the nearest bank. Use Saral Banking Sewa to compare the features, benefits, fees, and credit card interest rates Nepal has to offer from various banks.
  2. Start your Application Process: Once you’ve chosen the right credit card, you can directly apply online from Saral Banking Sewa’s website. Otherwise, visit a branch of the issuing bank physically or via its website.
  3. Submit Documents: Fill out the application form and submit all the required documents.
  4. Wait for Approval: The bank will review your application and documents. The processing time can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
  5. Activate Your Card: Once approved, you will receive your new credit card and a PIN mailer. Sign the back of the card, activate it as per the bank's instructions, and you're good to go!

Pro Tip: If you apply for a credit card from Saral Banking Sewa, our team will guide you with documentation and help you get the card as soon as possible. So, start your credit card application with us, right now.

Understanding Credit Card Fees and Charges in Nepal

Using a credit card comes with responsibilities, and part of that is understanding the costs. Here are the common credit card fees and charges Nepal readers should be aware of:

  • Joining Fee: A one-time fee to issue the card.
  • Annual Fee: A recurring fee charged every year.
  • Interest Rate: This is the most crucial one. Banks typically offer an interest-free grace period (e.g., up to 45 days). If you pay your full balance by the due date, you pay no interest. If you only make the minimum payment or miss the deadline, interest is charged on the outstanding balance. For in-depth details on how interest rate works on a credit card, check this blog post.
  • Late Payment Fee: A penalty fee for not paying the minimum due amount by the due date.
  • Cash Advance Fee: A fee charged for withdrawing cash from an ATM using your credit card. This is typically a costly transaction and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Banks Offering Best Credit Cards in Nepal

Almost all commercial banks in Nepal now offer best credit cards, but some are more popular and have a wider range of products. Some of the major banks offering best credit cards in Nepal include:

  • Nabil Bank
  • Siddhartha Bank
  • Standard Chartered Bank
  • Global IME Bank
  • NIC Asia Bank
  • Everest Bank
  • Laxmi Sunrise Bank

Each bank offers different features and benefits. It’s essential to compare them to find the perfect match for your financial profile.

Don’t worry! You don’t have to visit each bank to compare its interest rates. Use Saral Banking Sewa’s credit card comparison tool that brings all banks to one place.

Final Takeaway: A Tool, Not a Treasure Chest

A credit card is a powerful financial tool that can provide flexibility and convenience when used wisely. It's not free money, but rather a short-term loan that needs to be paid back. The key to successful credit card use is simple: pay your bills on time and in full every month.

Ready to find the perfect credit card for you? 

Don't get lost in the fine print. Visit Saral Banking Sewa to compare all the options side-by-side and get the transparent, unbiased information you need to make a confident decision. Your financial journey starts with a single, smart choice.

FAQs

1.How much is the credit card limit in Nepal?

In Nepal, the credit card limit usually ranges from NPR 20,000 to 100,000 for standard cards, NPR 500,000 to 1,000,000 for premium cards, and can go up to NPR 1,500,000 for high-limit or collateral-secured cards. Cash withdrawals are generally allowed up to 10% of the credit limit, and the exact limit depends on your income, banking history, and the bank’s policy.

2. What is the minimum salary for a credit card in Nepal?

The minimum salary for a credit card in Nepal varies depending on the bank and the type of card you are applying for. However, based on general bank policies, a monthly salary of around NPR 15,000 to NPR 25,000 is often the minimum requirement for a standard credit card.

3. Can I withdraw money from my credit card?

Yes, you can withdraw money from a credit card in Nepal, but it's important to be aware that this is a "cash advance" and comes with specific conditions and higher costs compared to using your card for purchases.

4. How to make a credit card in Nepal?

To make a credit card in Nepal, first check your eligibility: you must be a Nepali citizen, aged 18 or above, with a stable income and a bank account. Choose the credit card that suits your needs, gather required documents (ID, photos, proof of income), and submit your application online or at a bank branch. Once approved, you’ll receive your card and PIN, which you can activate and start using responsibly.

5. What is the difference between a debit card and a credit card?

A debit card lets you spend money directly from your bank account. When you make a purchase, the amount is deducted from your available balance instantly. A credit card, on the other hand, allows you to borrow money from the bank up to a set limit. You then repay the borrowed amount later, either in full or through monthly installments (often with interest if not paid in full).