How to File an FIR in Nepal: Step-by-Step Police Complaint Guide 2026

Filing a First Information Report (FIR) is the first legal step you take when a crime occurs in Nepal. Whether you are a victim of theft, assault, fraud, domestic violence, or any other criminal offence, the FIR — known as Jaaheri (जाहेरी) or Pratham Suchana Pratibedan (प्रथम सूचना प्रतिवेदन) in Nepali — triggers the official police investigation process. Without filing an FIR, Nepal Police generally cannot begin a criminal investigation into your complaint.

Despite being a fundamental right under the National Criminal Procedure Code 2074, many people in Nepal struggle with the FIR process — unclear procedures, police reluctance, jurisdictional confusion, and fear of retaliation keep thousands from reporting crimes each year. This comprehensive guide explains every aspect of filing an FIR in Nepal in 2026, from choosing the right police station to knowing your rights when police refuse to register your complaint.

What Is an FIR (First Information Report)?

An FIR is the official written record of a crime reported to Nepal Police. It is the first step in the criminal justice process and sets the entire investigation in motion. Under Section 3 of the National Criminal Procedure (Code) Act, 2074 (2017), any person who has knowledge of a criminal offence can report it to the police.

FIR vs General Diary (GD) Entry

Not every police complaint becomes an FIR. Nepal Police distinguishes between:

• FIR (Jaaheri): Filed for cognizable offences — serious crimes where police can arrest without a warrant and must investigate immediately (e.g., murder, robbery, kidnapping, assault, fraud).
• General Diary (GD) Entry: Filed for non-cognizable offences — less serious matters where police record the complaint but may not investigate unless directed by a court (e.g., minor disputes, verbal threats, defamation).

The Criminal Code 2074 (Muluki Criminal Code) classifies offences into Schedule 1 (government as plaintiff — serious) and Schedule 2 (victim as plaintiff), which determines how the FIR proceeds.

When Should You File an FIR?

You should file an FIR whenever a cognizable criminal offence has been committed. Common situations that require an FIR include:

When NOT to File an FIR

An FIR is not appropriate for:

• Civil disputes: Property partition, contract disagreements, debt recovery — these go through civil courts.
• Family matters handled by other laws: Divorce and child custody are filed under the Muluki Civil Code, not through an FIR.
• Non-cognizable offences: Minor verbal disputes, defamation, or nuisance complaints are typically recorded as a GD entry.

Which Police Station to Go To

The general rule is to file your FIR at the police station that has jurisdiction over the area where the crime occurred. This is called the "area police station" (ilaka prahari karyalaya).

Key contacts for specialised complaints:

• Nepal Police Headquarters: 100 (emergency), 01-4411210
• Cyber Bureau: 01-4005268 / cybercrime@nepalpolice.gov.np
• Women & Children Service Directorate: 1145 (helpline)
• CIB (Central Investigation Bureau): 01-4412509

What to Bring When Filing an FIR

While there is no mandatory document requirement to file an FIR (police must register your complaint even without documents), bringing the following strengthens your case:

If you are a foreigner in Nepal and become a crime victim, you can file an FIR at any police station. Bring your passport and contact your embassy for consular assistance. If you are in Nepal for court marriage in Nepal, ensure you also get a copy of the FIR for your embassy records if needed.

Step-by-Step FIR Filing Process

Here is the complete process to file an FIR at a Nepal Police station:

Step 1: Visit the Police Station

Go to the nearest police station where the crime occurred. Police stations in Nepal are generally open 24 hours for FIR registration, though administrative staff may be available only during office hours (10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday to Friday).

Step 2: Meet the Duty Officer

At the station, ask for the Duty Officer or the officer in charge. Explain that you want to file an FIR. You will be directed to the officer responsible for recording complaints.

Step 3: Provide Your Statement

Give a detailed oral or written statement about the crime. Include:

• What happened (nature of the offence)
• When it happened (date and time)
• Where it happened (exact location)
• Who committed the crime (if known — name, description)
• Names and contact details of any witnesses
• Any evidence you have

Step 4: FIR Is Written and Recorded

The duty officer writes the FIR in the official register. Under the National Criminal Procedure Code 2074, the FIR must contain:

• Name, address, and contact details of the complainant
• Description of the offence and when/where it occurred
• Name of the accused (if known)
• Details of witnesses
• List of any evidence or documents submitted

Step 5: Read and Sign the FIR

The officer will read the FIR back to you. Read it carefully before signing. Ensure all facts are recorded accurately. Once you sign, the FIR becomes an official legal document. If you are illiterate, you can use a thumb impression, and the officer will read the FIR aloud in the presence of a witness.

Step 6: Get a Copy of the FIR

Always request a copy of the FIR. Under Section 3(5) of the National Criminal Procedure Code 2074, you are legally entitled to a free copy. This copy is your proof that you have filed the complaint, and you will need it for:

• Insurance claims
• Court proceedings
• Follow-up with police
• Embassy documentation (for foreigners)
• Applying for a police clearance certificate (the FIR will appear on record)

Step 7: Investigation Begins

Once the FIR is registered, the police are legally obligated to investigate the crime. For cognizable offences (Schedule 1 crimes), investigation begins immediately. The investigating officer may visit the crime scene, collect evidence, record statements, and arrest the suspect if required.

FIR Filing Process Flowchart

Online Police Complaint in Nepal

Nepal Police has introduced an online complaint system to make it easier for people to report crimes without physically visiting a police station. While this does not fully replace an in-person FIR for serious crimes, it is useful for initial reporting.

How to File an Online Complaint

1. Visit the Nepal Police website: nepalpolice.gov.np
2. Navigate to the "Online Complaint" or "Complaint Box" section
3. Fill in your name, contact details, and a description of the complaint
4. Upload any supporting evidence (photos, screenshots, documents)
5. Submit the complaint — you will receive a reference number

Online Complaint vs In-Person FIR

For cyber crimes, you can also file complaints directly with the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau at Bhotahity, Kathmandu, or email them at cybercrime@nepalpolice.gov.np.

What Happens After Filing an FIR?

Once an FIR is registered, the following legal process begins:

Investigation Phase

The police assign an Investigating Officer (IO) to the case. Under the National Criminal Procedure Code 2074, the IO must:

• Visit and inspect the crime scene
• Collect physical evidence and preserve it
• Record statements of the victim, witnesses, and accused
• Arrest the accused if there is reasonable suspicion (for cognizable offences)
• Complete the investigation and file a report with the Government Attorney (Sarkari Wakil)

Time Limits for Investigation

After Investigation: Prosecution or Closure

The police forward the investigation file to the Government Attorney (District Attorney's Office). The attorney then decides whether to:

• File a charge sheet (Abhiyog Patra) in court — prosecution begins
• Request further investigation — if evidence is insufficient
• Close the case — if no evidence supports the complaint (the complainant can challenge this in court)

If prosecution begins, the case moves to the District Court for trial. The victim/complainant becomes a witness. Learn more about the complete criminal procedure in our guide to the Criminal Code 2074.

Can Police Refuse to Take Your FIR?

No. Under Section 3 of the National Criminal Procedure Code 2074, police are legally obligated to register an FIR when a cognizable offence is reported. Refusal to register an FIR is a violation of your legal rights.

What to Do If Police Refuse

Unfortunately, FIR refusal is a real problem in Nepal. If the police refuse to register your FIR, you have several legal remedies:

Common Reasons Police May Hesitate

• The offence is non-cognizable (they will record a GD entry instead)
• Jurisdictional issues — the crime occurred in another area
• Lack of awareness or training among officers
• Pressure from influential persons (corruption)
• Attempting to settle the matter informally (mediation)

Important: Even if police suggest mediation or informal settlement, you have the right to insist on filing an FIR. For serious crimes, never accept informal resolution.

FIR for Domestic Violence and Marriage-Related Crimes

Domestic violence is one of the most common reasons people file FIRs in Nepal. The Domestic Violence (Offence and Punishment) Act 2066 (2009) provides special protections and streamlined procedures for victims.

Special Provisions for Domestic Violence FIRs

• Any police station: You can file a DV complaint at any police station, not just the jurisdictional one
• Women & Children Service Centre: Every district has a specialised centre within the police for handling DV cases
• Confidentiality: Police must maintain the privacy of the victim
• Immediate protection: Police can issue immediate protection orders while the case is being processed
• No withdrawal pressure: Police should not pressure victims to withdraw complaints or settle with the abuser

Marriage-Related Offences

Several marriage-related crimes can be reported through an FIR:

If you are experiencing any of these issues within a marriage — whether a court marriage in Nepal or traditional marriage — you have the legal right to file an FIR and seek protection.

Statute of Limitations for Filing FIR

Nepal's Criminal Code 2074 prescribes time limits within which an FIR must be filed. If you file after the limitation period, police may still register it but prosecution becomes difficult.

Important: These are general guidelines. The exact limitation period depends on the specific section of the Criminal Code applicable to the offence. Consult a lawyer to determine the exact deadline for your case.

Rights of the Complainant After Filing FIR

After filing an FIR, you have several legal rights under Nepali law:

• Right to a free copy of the FIR — Section 3(5), Criminal Procedure Code 2074
• Right to information about investigation progress — police must update you on request
• Right to legal representation — you can hire a lawyer at any stage
• Right to free legal aid — if you cannot afford a lawyer, the government provides free legal aid through the District Legal Aid Committee
• Right to victim protection — especially in domestic violence, trafficking, and sexual offence cases
• Right to compensation — courts can order the offender to pay compensation to the victim
• Right to appeal — if the case is closed without prosecution, you can challenge it in court

If you have questions about your employment rights or need a police clearance certificate after being involved in a criminal case, our lawyers can advise you on how the FIR impacts these processes.

Can You Withdraw an FIR in Nepal?

Withdrawal depends on the type of offence:

For Schedule 1 offences (murder, rape, kidnapping, drug trafficking, etc.), once an FIR is filed, the state takes over as the plaintiff. The complainant cannot withdraw the case. For Schedule 2 offences, withdrawal or compromise is possible through the court with the consent of both parties.

False FIR: Legal Consequences

Filing a false FIR is a criminal offence in Nepal. Under Section 234 of the Criminal Code 2074, providing false information to police with the intent to frame someone or mislead an investigation is punishable by:

• Imprisonment: Up to 1 year
• Fine: Up to NPR 10,000
• Compensation: The falsely accused person can demand compensation

This provision exists to prevent misuse of the FIR system for personal vendettas, property disputes, or harassment. Before filing an FIR, ensure your complaint is genuine and supported by facts.

FIR for Foreigners in Nepal

Foreign nationals who are victims of crime in Nepal have the same right to file an FIR as Nepali citizens. Whether you are a tourist, a foreign worker, or in Nepal for visa purposes, you can report a crime at any police station.

Tips for Foreigners Filing FIR

• Carry your passport and a copy of your Nepal visa
• If you do not speak Nepali, request an interpreter — or bring a Nepali-speaking friend
• Contact your embassy or consulate immediately after filing
• Request a certified English translation of the FIR from the police station
• For insurance claims (theft, medical), the FIR copy is essential documentation
• If the crime is related to a workplace dispute or involves an employer, also contact the Department of Labour

Important Contacts for Filing FIR in Nepal