If you've looked into accepting online payments in Nepal, you've probably come across ConnectIPS. It's different from Khalti and eSewa, and for many types of transactions, it's actually better. Here's everything you need to know.
What is ConnectIPS?
ConnectIPS (Connect Interbank Payment System) is an online payment platform operated by Nepal Clearing House Ltd (NCHL), a company owned by Nepal's major banks and Nepal Rastra Bank (the central bank).
Unlike Khalti and eSewa, which are private wallet companies, ConnectIPS is part of the banking infrastructure. This matters for:
- Trust: Backed by the banks and the central bank
- Limits: Higher transaction limits than wallets
- Coverage: Works with almost every Nepali bank account
How ConnectIPS Works
ConnectIPS enables direct bank-to-bank transfers over the internet. Here's the flow:
- Customer selects ConnectIPS at checkout
- They log in with their connectIPS credentials and pick a bank account they linked when they registered (nobody types an account number at checkout)
- ConnectIPS debits that bank account directly
- You get the payment confirmation in real time
- The money usually reflects in your bank account straight away; the banks settle between themselves separately, on NCHL's settlement cycles
No wallet balance needed. No top-up required. Just direct bank access.
ConnectIPS vs Khalti/eSewa
| Feature | ConnectIPS | Khalti / eSewa |
|---|---|---|
| Requires wallet | No | Yes |
| Bank account required | Yes | Linked but not required |
| Transaction limit | Higher, set by your bank | Lower, set by the wallet |
| Best for | Large amounts, B2B | Small/everyday purchases |
| Speed | Instant confirmation; usually reflects in the account straight away | Near-instant |
| UX | More steps | Simpler, familiar |
When to Prefer ConnectIPS
High-value transactions: For higher-value orders, check whether the buyer's wallet limit covers the purchase. ConnectIPS is often preferred for these because wallet limits can restrict them.
B2B payments: Businesses paying other businesses often prefer bank transfers. ConnectIPS is the digital version of a cheque.
Customers who don't use wallets: Plenty of people in Nepal have a bank account but do not actively use Khalti or eSewa. ConnectIPS captures this segment.
Recurring invoices: For monthly subscription payments or service invoices, ConnectIPS provides a bank-transfer alternative.
Accepting ConnectIPS on Your Website
Today there is one path for ConnectIPS itself: integrate directly with NCHL. If what you need is to get paid online now, the wallets and bank-app QR below cover most Nepali buyers.
Option 1: Direct Integration with NCHL
Apply directly to NCHL for a merchant account. This is a multi-step process:
- Submit application to your bank
- Bank forwards to NCHL
- NCHL review and approval
- API access granted
Timeline: varies by bank; confirm the current schedule with your bank or NCHL.
Option 2: Accept eSewa, Khalti and Fonepay now
PayBridgeNP supports eSewa, Khalti, and Fonepay through a single integration. Fonepay's QR is paid from almost any Nepali bank app, so buyers without a wallet can still pay from their bank account. ConnectIPS is something we are exploring, not a committed plan, so do not hold a launch for it; if direct bank transfer is critical for your use case, contact us or follow the public roadmap.
ConnectIPS Transaction Limits
Limits are set by each bank and generally run higher than wallet-based providers, which makes ConnectIPS a good fit for high-value goods and services. Check your own bank's ConnectIPS limits for the exact figures, since they vary from bank to bank.
Fees
ConnectIPS charges are typically a small flat amount per transaction rather than a percentage, which makes it cost-effective for large transactions compared to percentage-based wallet fees. The exact figure varies, so confirm the current charges with your bank or NCHL.
Should You Add ConnectIPS to Your Checkout?
Yes, if:
- Your average order value is above Rs 10,000
- You sell to businesses or professionals
- You sell insurance, real estate, vehicles, or high-value goods
- You want maximum payment coverage
It's optional if:
- You only sell low-cost items (under Rs 500)
- Your customers are all young wallet-heavy users
For most serious Nepali e-commerce businesses, ConnectIPS alongside Khalti and eSewa gives you complete market coverage. See the full guide on how to accept online payments in Nepal. PayBridgeNP covers eSewa, Khalti, and Fonepay through a single integration today; ConnectIPS is not available through PayBridgeNP.