Citizens Bank Announces Winter Office and Transaction Hours
5th November 2025, Kathmandu
Citizens Bank International Limited (CBIL) has rolled out its updated operational schedule, specifically tailored for the winter season in Nepal.
Winter Office and Transaction Hours
Effective from November 2 to January 29, this seasonal change in office and transaction hours aligns with the national banking norms often mandated during the shorter days and colder months. This essential adjustment ensures that both customers and staff can manage their banking activities conveniently during this period.
The transition to a shorter winter schedule, a common practice among financial institutions in Nepal, is primarily driven by regulatory guidelines set by the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) and is generally implemented to account for the reduced daylight hours and sometimes challenging travel conditions, particularly in the early morning and late evening during peak winter. For customers of Citizens Bank, understanding this temporary shift is crucial for a smooth and efficient banking experience.
Detailed Breakdown of Citizens Bank’s Winter Schedule
The new winter schedule impacts three key operational areas: the total office working hours, the primary time window for public transactions, and the extended evening counter services.
Office Hours (Sunday to Thursday)
During the main weekdays, the bank’s Office Hours—the time when staff are at work—will begin at 9:30 AM and conclude at 5:00 PM. This represents a slight adjustment compared to the typical summer schedule. This time is dedicated to both internal operations and customer-facing activities.
Regular Transaction Hours (Sunday to Thursday)
The most critical timing for the general public is the Regular Transaction Hours, which determines the official window for cash deposits, withdrawals, and other over-the-counter services.
From Sunday to Thursday, regular transactions will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This three-hour window remains the peak time for most of the bank’s services. Customers planning their major transactions should prioritize this period.
The transaction time sees a marginal reduction compared to the standard hours observed in other parts of the year, emphasizing the need for customers to plan their branch visits accordingly.
Friday and Weekend Timings
Banking operations are generally shorter on Fridays across Nepal, and this practice is maintained and slightly adjusted in the winter schedule:
Office Hours on Friday are significantly reduced, running from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
Regular Transaction Hours on Friday are from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, providing a concise three-hour window for public service before the half-day closing.
The Convenience of Evening Counter Services
Citizens Bank also offers Evening Counter Services to cater to the needs of customers who are unable to visit the branch during the regular daytime hours, a service that provides remarkable flexibility and customer focus. This extended facility ensures that crucial services, often including deposits and other basic needs, are available outside the traditional banking window.
The Evening Counter Schedule for the winter period is as follows:
Sunday to Thursday: Services are available from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. This one-and-a-half-hour extension is particularly beneficial for professionals and business owners who finish their workday after 4:00 PM.
Friday: Services are available from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. This extended afternoon window compensates for the early closing of the regular Friday transaction period, ensuring access remains feasible.
Impact on Customers and Encouragement for Digital Banking
This periodic shift in timing is a great reminder for customers to re-evaluate how they conduct their banking. While the physical branch remains essential, the reduced winter hours inherently encourage the greater use of digital banking channels.
Customers are strongly advised to utilize the full suite of Citizens Bank digital services, including:
Mobile Banking (M-banking): For instant fund transfers, bill payments, and balance inquiries, available 24/7.
Internet Banking: Ideal for larger transactions, utility payments, and downloading statements from the comfort of one’s home or office.
ATM Network: For cash withdrawals, which are available round-the-clock, reducing the dependency on in-branch cash transactions.
By leveraging these digital tools, customers can minimize their need to visit the branch during the reduced operational hours, ensuring continuity of service and saving valuable time during the colder season. The bank’s proactive announcement reflects its commitment to transparency and seamless service delivery, urging customers to “plan their banking activities according to these timings for a smooth and convenient service experience.” This ensures that every Citizen Bank International Limited customer can successfully manage their finances without any seasonal disruption.
For More: Winter Office and Transaction Hours
