1. Background

Implementation of nationwide electronic image-based cheque clearing (NCHL-ECC) system and interbank payment system (NCHL-IPS), connectIPS e-Payment System and Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) were major transition in the payment systems of Nepal. National Payments Interface (NPI) was implemented and in operation as an extended interface of the underlying NCHL-IPS system, connectIPS (real-time retail payment system operated by NCHL) and for integrating with BFIs and service providers. And now, in process of extending the payment systems in Nepal and as part of the National Payment Switch - NPS (implementation as per NRB’s approval Ref. No. PSD/11/6/077/78, dated 19th Kartik 2077), it is required to establish a domestic card scheme for Nepal.

An initial guideline for Nepal payment card (NEPALPAY Card) brand, along with NPS & NEPALPAY Brand Guideline has been published in the document (NPS/M001) and is available in the NCHL corporate website (www.nchl.com.np). And now with the roll out of domestic card scheme, detailed guidelines with related information is being published in this document.

1.1 Scope of the document

With the implementation of Nepal’s own domestic card scheme - Nepal payment card (NEPALPAY Card) brand, this NEPALPAY Payment Card Brand Guidelines has been formulated as the main brand guideline of "NEPALPAY Card". This includes details of the ‘NEPALPAY Card’ as public brand including specific details regarding card dimension, card placement, size, font, material type, specifications, suggested layouts and variants. The objective is to ensure that ‘NEPALPAY Card’ brand is visible and consistency is maintained across all platforms.

This guideline has been published for stakeholders within the NPS ecosystem, including member BFIs, Third-Party Processors, card vendors and card manufacturers, who utilize or support NEPALPAY card instruments to access NPS services.