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Introduction to Account-Based API Model

The Account-Based API Model enables API consumers to initiate and process transactions directly against a linked bank account, without maintaining a prefunded CellPay wallet balance. Under this model, funds are debited from the API consumer’s designated bank account at the time of transaction execution, in accordance with the agreed settlement and authorization framework.

This model is designed for partners who prefer direct bank settlement, higher transaction throughput, and streamlined liquidity management. It is particularly suitable for enterprises, institutions, and service providers that operate with bank-centric treasury processes and do not require wallet prefunding.

All transactions initiated through the Account-Based API Model are processed through CellPay’s regulated infrastructure and partner banking network, ensuring compliance with Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) regulations, transaction traceability, and real-time validation.

Account Provisioning and Onboarding​

To enable the Account-Based API Model, API consumers must complete a structured onboarding and account provisioning process with CellPay. This process ensures regulatory compliance, operational readiness, and secure transaction processing.

Account Provisioning Overview​

Account provisioning refers to the process by which a dedicated settlement account is configured and linked to the API consumer within the CellPay system. This account acts as the source of funds for all transactions initiated through the Account-Based API Model.

The provisioned account is typically a bank account maintained with a CellPay partner bank and is subject to predefined transaction limits, settlement rules, and risk controls.

Onboarding Process​

The onboarding process for the Account-Based API Model includes the following stages:

  1. Partner Registration and Due Diligence The API consumer must complete CellPay’s partner registration process, including submission of legal, business, and compliance documentation as required under NRB guidelines. This includes KYC, KYB, and AML verification.

  2. Bank Account Linking A designated bank account is identified and securely linked to the CellPay system. This account will be used as the primary source of funds for API-initiated transactions.

  3. Account Configuration CellPay configures the linked account within its system, defining transaction permissions, service access, daily and per-transaction limits, and settlement behavior based on the agreed commercial and risk framework.

  4. Credential Issuance Once provisioning is completed, API credentials for the Account-Based model are issued. These credentials are environment-specific and must be used only for authorized transaction types.

  5. Sandbox Testing and Validation The API consumer is required to perform end-to-end testing in the sandbox environment to validate transaction flows, error handling, and reconciliation behavior before production access is granted.

  6. Production Enablement Upon successful testing and final approval, the Account-Based API Model is enabled in the production environment.