The short version: apply online at opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np, upload your passport + citizenship scans, wait 2–3 working days, and download the PDF. No office visit needed — it works from anywhere in the world, including Australia.
Step-by-step
- 1
Register on the OPCR portal
Go to opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np (Online Police Clearance Registration) and create an account with a working email — the certificate is issued to this account. Enter your name exactly as on your citizenship/passport; spelling errors here carry into the certificate.
- 2
Fill the application (C4 form)
Choose "police clearance report", fill personal details, addresses in Nepal, period of stay, and the purpose (foreign employment / migration / study). All fields in English.
- 3
Upload scanned documents
Upload clear scans/photos of passport, citizenship and photo. Blurry or cropped uploads are the most common reason for delays.
- 4
Submit and wait for verification
Nepal Police HQ (CID) cross-checks your record. Typical turnaround is 2–3 working days if nothing matches a person on record.
- 5
Download the certificate PDF
Log back into OPCR, download the digitally issued certificate and print it in colour. There is no physical collection — the PDF is the official document.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Nepal police clearance take?
If your details do not match any person on record, Nepal Police issues the certificate within 2–3 working days of submitting the application (excluding public holidays). Allow extra time if your record needs manual review.
Can I apply for the PCC from Australia or abroad?
Yes — the OPCR portal works from anywhere in the world. Fill the form online, upload scans, and download the PDF certificate from your OPCR account once issued. Nepal Police does not issue hard copies — print a colour copy yourself.
How long is the police clearance valid?
The certificate is generally treated as valid for 6 months by most visa offices, and the OPCR system lets you re-apply after 90 days. Check the validity your specific visa/authority requires — some accept 6 months, others ask for a fresh report.
My certificate has a spelling mistake — what do I do?
The name on the certificate comes from your OPCR registration details, so the typo was likely made while registering. Nepal Police allows correction applications in a weekly window (Saturdays, roughly 10am–5pm Nepal time) — or register a fresh application with a new email address.
I lost my passport / my departure date isn't recorded — can I still apply?
Yes. If your departure date isn't clear, visit the Immigration Office at Kalikasthan, Dillibazar (Kathmandu) with your old passport number to get a departure-date letter and upload it. If you departed via a border point other than TIA, get a recommendation letter from your ward office stating the departure date and upload it under additional documents.
Do I need the certificate attested for use abroad?
Some authorities want an embassy-verified copy. Nepali embassies can verify/attest the PCC — e.g. the London embassy charges £75 for verification. For Australia, most visa applications accept the downloaded certificate directly; check your checklist.
Summarised from Nepal Police OPCR guidance and embassy publications. Always confirm current requirements at opcr.nepalpolice.gov.np and cid.nepalpolice.gov.np.