26th September 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant move to facilitate seamless digital transactions during Nepal’s major festivals, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has temporarily increased the daily limit for loading money into mobile wallets to 40 transactions per day.
NRB Increases Wallet Load Limit
This directive, issued on September 25 (Ashwin 9, 2082), is a proactive measure by the central bank to support the nation’s push towards a cashless economy, especially during the festive seasons of Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath when financial activities are at their peak. By allowing users to top up their e-wallets more frequently, the NRB aims to reduce the reliance on physical cash, ease the pressure on bank branches and ATMs, and ensure that customers can carry out their festive shopping, travel, and gifting without any payment-related hitches.
Temporary Increase to Meet Festive Demand
The temporary change in the wallet load frequency is a direct response to the surge in transactions that typically occurs during the holiday season. The new limit will be effective for two distinct periods:
- Dashain: From September 29 (Ashwin 13) to October 7 (Ashwin 21) users can load their wallets up to 40 times a day.
- Tihar and Chhath: The same 40-times-per-day limit will be reinstated from October 20 (Kartik 3) to October 27 (Kartik 10).
This measure is a significant increase from the previous, lower daily transaction limit. This is a timely and consumer-friendly decision, as it provides much-needed flexibility for millions of digital wallet users in Nepal. The increased limit allows users to manage their festive budgets more effectively and ensures they can make payments on the go without being constrained by transaction limits. This directive also encourages a smoother experience for customers who may be traveling to and from their hometowns, as they can rely on their mobile wallets for payments even in areas where banking facilities may be limited.
Directives for Payment Service Providers
The NRB notice specifically instructs all licensed Payment Service Providers (PSPs) and Payment System Operators (PSOs), including major digital wallet companies like eSewa, Khalti, and IME Pay, to implement this temporary change in their systems. This ensures a uniform and seamless experience for users across different platforms. The central bank has also mandated that these service providers report their transaction data for the specified periods to the Payment Systems Department of the NRB. This reporting requirement will allow the central bank to monitor the impact of the policy and gain insights into the digital payment trends during the festive season.
Benefits for Consumers and Merchants
The temporary increase in the daily wallet load limit is a welcome development for both consumers and merchants. For consumers, it offers greater convenience, reduces the stress of carrying cash, and provides more financial flexibility during a time of increased spending. This also helps in promoting a safer and more secure method of payment, as digital transactions are less susceptible to theft and loss. For merchants, particularly small businesses and vendors who accept digital wallet payments, this directive means smoother transactions, fewer instances of failed payments due to transaction limits, and the potential for increased sales as customers are encouraged to use cashless methods. This move is part of a broader strategy by the NRB to promote digital financial literacy and adoption, which is crucial for building a modern and inclusive economy.
The NRB’s decision to proactively adjust its regulations to accommodate the seasonal surge in digital payments is a testament to its forward-thinking approach. It not only supports the immediate needs of the public but also strengthens the foundation for a robust and resilient digital financial ecosystem in Nepal. The success of such a policy will depend on the quick and effective implementation by the PSPs, which are expected to make the necessary adjustments to their systems. The Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals are not just a time for celebration but also a critical period for the digital economy, and this new directive ensures that it operates smoothly for the benefit of all.
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