The Department of Immigration has launched a “Digital Time Card” system. During a press conference held on Thursday, the department announced that the new system will allow service seekers to track the status of their applications in real time.
According to the department, the system has been implemented under the government’s governance reform agenda approved by the Cabinet meeting on Chaitra 13, 2082, with the objective of making public service processes digital, trackable, and transparent.
The department stated that the Digital Time Card has been integrated as an additional module into the existing “NepaliPort” software. Through this system, applicants will receive instant updates on every stage of their application, know the estimated remaining processing time, and avoid the hassle of repeatedly visiting counters for inquiries.
According to the department, once a voucher is issued, payments can now be made through the Digital Time Card system using online methods, cards, or banking systems.
The Digital Time Card system will measure the processing time and decision-making speed of applications. The department described it as a “time and motion tracking” system. It is expected to improve transparency in service delivery and promote a culture of accountability for completing work within the designated time frame.
The department also stated that applicants will be able to check the status of their applications and the estimated remaining processing time through mobile devices or the website. The system is expected to support daily performance evaluations and provide a basis for business process reengineering.
Under digital time card system, the application process has been divided into stages including:
“Applicant,” “Verification,” “Voucher Issuance,” “Payment Verification,” “Visa Printing,” and “Service Completion.”
The department said that automatic time-stamp records will be maintained at each stage, and the details will appear on the Digital Time Card.
The department clarified that, except for services such as Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), trekking permits, and institutional applications, the Digital Time Card process will begin only after applicants physically appear at the department for identity verification and document submission.
The department warned that services may be affected if technical problems occur in the Revenue Management Information System, NepaliPort, or banking systems.
Applicants will be able to track their applications through the department’s website or by scanning QR codes placed on standees in the waiting areas of each branch. The department also stated that administrative dashboards will be used to evaluate and monitor daily performance.