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    • International Payment in Nepal: Problems and Solutions

    International Payment in Nepal: Problems and Solutions

    If you've ever tried to buy an international product, subscribe to a foreign app, or run ads on platforms like Google or Facebook from Nepal, you've likely faced one big issue i.e. payment failure.

    Despite being in the digital age, international payment in Nepal still feels like climbing a mountain without gear. But don’t worry — things are slowly changing.

    Let’s break down the problems, and most importantly, explore real solutions like dollar cards, Google Pay/UPI hopes, and what’s working (and what’s not).

    The Problems We Face While Doing International Payment

    1. No Direct Access to Global Payment Platforms: Popular platforms like Google Pay, PayPal, or Apple Pay are not officially available in Nepal for international transactions. 
    2. INR-based UPI is Limited: While UPI works in Nepal for domestic users (via banks like PhonePe, Fonepay), Indian UPI apps don’t support cross-border payments easily unless you're in India.
    3. Limited International Cards: Most Nepali debit cards are not allowed for international use. Only certain prepaid dollar cards (issued by a few banks) work abroad — and even they have a strict USD 500 yearly limit.
    4. Students and Freelancers Struggle: Paying for online courses, subscriptions, or receiving payments (like PayPal or Stripe) is nearly impossible for freelancers and students without workarounds.
    5. Manual Process, Too Much Red Tape: Applying for dollar cards often feels like applying for a visa — too many documents, approvals, and a long wait.

    The Solutions (Some Already Here, Some on the Way)

    1. Dollar Prepaid Cards

    Nepal Rastra Bank now allows prepaid USD cards through select banks like Nabil, Global IME, or NMB.

    You can load up to $500/year (from your own earnings only). Perfect for:

    • Buying software/tools (Adobe, ChatGPT, etc.)
    • Subscribing to platforms (Coursera, Spotify, etc.)
    • Paying for hosting or domains (GoDaddy, Namecheap)
    Dollar Prepaid Card
    2. Google Pay & UPI – Coming Soon?

    Talks are ongoing between India and Nepal to allow cross-border UPI payments, which would be a game-changer.

    This could allow:

    • QR scanning to pay in INR
    • Direct transfers between Nepali and Indian wallets
    • Easier small transactions across borders

    Let’s hope this rolls out for real soon!

    Google Pay
    3. Digital Wallet Integrations (Under Development)

    Fonepay and other local wallets are working to integrate international gateways.

    Possibility: You may someday load your eSewa or Khalti and pay internationally, but it's still in the future.

    4. Virtual Cards & Fintech Workarounds

    Some Nepali users use virtual cards or friends abroad to make payments — not ideal, but still common.

    Alternative:

    • Connect with local IT service providers who can assist with licensed purchases.
    • Look for resellers of software or vouchers (just make sure they’re trusted).
    Virtual Card

    What Can Be Done Better?

    • Increase annual limits for verified users.
    • Allow freelancers and entrepreneurs to receive payments through platforms like PayPal.
    • Fast-track UPI integration with India and official Google Pay support.

    Final Thoughts

    Nepal is catching up, but international payment is still a work in progress. As more businesses go global and digital, accessible and secure international payment options are not just nice-to-have but a must.

    Got stuck while making a payment or curious about using dollar cards? Quality Computer is here to guide you.


    Shark Tank Nepal