Passport shortage issue is on way to resolution: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Kathmandu, Nov 6: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that, although there is a small number of passport booklets available in response to the high demand from service seekers, this issue is being addressed.

The Ministry has clarified that the passport booklet shortage is not to the extent as publicized outside. The Department of Passport under the Ministry has already signed a purchase agreement with a new supplier for electronic passports in Saun 2082.

According to the agreement, the Ministry stated that the work related to the installation of infrastructure and systems is progressing rapidly so that passport services can be started from February 23, 2026.

The Ministry's spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri said, "We are currently in a transitional period of handover–takeover between the new supplier and the current supplier. According to the new purchase agreement, the new service provider is confirmed to start passport production from February 23."

Although essential passport services provided by the Department will continue to operate, the Ministry has requested that only individuals requiring urgent treatment, immediate employment, or facing difficulties abroad proceed ahead with the current passport application process.

The Ministry has also urged everyone to be patient and assist the government in such a situation.

Spokesperson Chhetri said that necessary measures are being taken to ensure that there is no shortage of passports during the current transitional situation, stating arrangements have been made since 5pm on November 3 to accept applications from one thousand people daily (except the day before a public holiday).

The Ministry expects that this arrangement can meet the current urgent demand for passports and it has urged everyone to apply for passport only if absolutely necessary until passport services are fully operational from February 23. (RSS)