Central Bank orders disability-friendly banking services, Bans forced overtime for employees

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s central bank has strengthened provisions for inclusive banking services, directing banks and financial institutions to ensure disability-friendly access while also prohibiting the forced deployment of employees beyond official working hours without proper compensation.

In a fresh directive aimed at improving financial accessibility and employee welfare, Nepal Rastra Bank has instructed banks and financial institutions to provide special priority banking services to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and illiterate individuals.

Under the new arrangement, banks will be required to designate special service counters to ensure convenient and simplified access to banking services for vulnerable groups.

Mandatory Disability-Friendly Branches in Every Local Level

The central bank has also mandated banks and financial institutions to collaborate and ensure that at least one branch in every local government unit is disability-friendly.

According to the directive, banks must publicly disclose details of such branches on their official websites to improve accessibility and awareness among customers.

The move is expected to strengthen financial inclusion in Nepal, especially for people with physical and visual impairments who often face barriers in accessing formal banking services.

Braille and Audio-Supported ATMs Required

To make ATM services more accessible, the central bank has directed licensed financial institutions to jointly establish at least one disability-friendly ATM equipped with Braille sign control buttons and audio support in locations that have ATM lounges.

Banks will also be required to publish details of these accessible ATMs on their websites.

Additionally, if persons with disabilities self-declare that they are unable to independently operate digital financial services such as ATMs, mobile banking, or internet banking, banks must ensure that such services are made available in a supportive and accessible manner.

Accessible Websites, Apps, and Cards

The directive further requires banks and financial institutions to develop websites and mobile banking applications that can be used by visually impaired individuals.

Similarly, all debit and credit cards issued by banks must include vision-impaired-friendly tactile features, enabling easier identification and use by visually challenged customers.

Banks Prohibited from Forcing Employees to Work Extra Hours

In a separate but significant provision, the central bank has also tightened labor compliance standards for banks and financial institutions.

Banks have been instructed not to compel employees to work beyond office hours, except in accordance with prevailing labor laws and central bank regulations.

If employees are required to work overtime, banks must provide additional remuneration as prescribed under existing laws and regulations.

The directive clearly states that employees cannot be forced to work beyond official office hours, a move that could improve workplace standards and labor protection in Nepal’s banking sector.

The latest measures come as regulators increasingly push for inclusive banking, digital accessibility, and stronger employee rights, amid broader reforms aimed at modernizing Nepal’s financial system and improving customer service standards.