NRB Financial Awareness Message: Know Your Rights on Banking Service Charges
21st April 2026, Kathmandu
In a move to strengthen the relationship between financial institutions and the public, Nepal Rastra Bank has issued a vital awareness message encouraging all customers to stay informed about fees and services.
NRB Financial Awareness Message
This campaign is a core part of the central bank’s mission to protect consumers from unnecessary or hidden charges while promoting a more transparent financial system across Nepal. As the banking landscape becomes more complex with various digital and international offerings, NRB is emphasizing that an aware customer is the best defense against unfair practices and inflated costs.
The central bank acknowledges that modern banks and financial institutions may not always provide every specialized service independently. To offer a wide range of facilities, they often collaborate with various national and international institutions to deliver extended services to their clients.
While these partnerships are beneficial for expanding access to global markets and specialized credit tools, NRB has observed that customers can sometimes be confused about how charges are applied in these arrangements. To address this, the regulator has clarified that these collaborations must remain fair and should not be used as a means to generate hidden profits from service fees.
The most critical principle highlighted by NRB in this awareness drive is the rule regarding third party service charges. According to the central bank, if a bank obtains a service from another institution on behalf of a customer, it is only permitted to charge the customer the actual fee paid to that institution.
There is a strict prohibition against imposing additional or inflated charges on these pass-through services. For example, when a bank retrieves a credit information report from a credit bureau, the customer should only be billed the exact amount that the bureau charged the bank, without any extra administrative or service markup added by the bank itself.
Accountability is a major focus of this initiative, and Nepal Rastra Bank has provided a clear path for those who feel they have been mistreated. If any bank or financial institution is found to be charging more than the actual service cost or imposing unauthorized fees, customers are encouraged to file a formal complaint with the central bank.
This mechanism ensures that institutions remain accountable to the public and that the rights of individual consumers are protected. By providing a direct channel for grievances, NRB aims to create a culture of fairness where institutions prioritize ethics over short term gains.
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In addition to transparency regarding fees, NRB has also reminded the public that certain basic banking services must be provided completely free of cost. These essential services are considered a fundamental right for account holders, and banks are strictly prohibited from charging any fees for them.
This policy is intended to encourage more people to join the formal banking sector by reducing the entry and maintenance barriers for small savers. By ensuring that basic account operations remain affordable, the central bank is fostering greater financial inclusion for citizens across all economic levels in Nepal.
The broader objective of this initiative is to increase financial literacy and ensure safe and secure transactions for everyone. NRB believes that when customers understand their rights and the rules governing bank fees, they can make more informed decisions about their money.
This initiative is a part of a wider effort to modernize the banking sector while keeping consumer protection at the forefront of policy making. Promoting fair and transparent practices is not just about protecting individuals; it is about building trust in the entire financial ecosystem, which is essential for national economic stability.
The message from the central bank concludes with a powerful reminder for every citizen to be an aware customer and conduct secure transactions. Financial awareness is the first step toward financial security, and by staying updated on NRB’s guidelines, customers can avoid the pitfalls of overcharging and unauthorized fees.
As Nepal’s banking sector continues to innovate, the central bank remains committed to being a vigilant regulator that puts the interests of the public first. Every customer is urged to review their bank statements regularly and ask for clarification whenever they see a charge they do not understand.
In conclusion, the latest public awareness message from Nepal Rastra Bank is a significant step toward a more equitable financial future. By clarifying the rules on third party service charges and reminding the public of their rights, the regulator is empowering millions of bank users across the country.
Whether you are a small business owner, a student, or a professional, understanding these rules helps you keep more of your hard earned money. Remember that the law is on your side, and with the support of NRB, you can ensure that your banking experience remains transparent, fair, and secure. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and continue to support the growth of a transparent and trustworthy banking culture in Nepal. This dedication to consumer rights is what will ultimately lead to a more prosperous and inclusive economy for all.
For More: NRB Financial Awareness Message
