How much do APF earn in Nepal in 2026?

What is the Salary of APF?

The monthly salary for APF officers ranges from NPR 33,034 for a jawan to NPR 76,888 for the Inspector General of APF (IGP). This salary varies based on rank, responsibility, and years of service. A jawan, who is in an entry-level position, earns the lowest amount, while officers in higher positions, such as inspectors, DSPs, and SSPs, earn significantly more. Even junior officers receive additional allowances for food, uniforms, and other daily necessities, which means their total compensation is more than the basic salary alone.

APF salaries are periodically revised whenever the government updates public service pay scales. These revisions ensure that officers maintain a stable income despite inflation or economic changes. Job security is another important aspect of APF employment, making it more reliable than most private-sector positions. Officers also enjoy benefits like pensions, housing allowances, and medical care, which further enhance the total package. While the base pay may seem modest to some, the complete salary package is substantial.

Being part of APF is demanding and requires dedication. Officers work long hours under high pressure, often facing dangerous situations. The salary reflects both the rank and the level of responsibility held. Higher ranks naturally come with larger pay due to the added responsibilities. As of 2025, the APF salary structure continues to provide fair compensation for the challenging and critical work performed by its officers.

APF Salary by Position/Rank

The pay in APF differs according to the officer’s rank. Jawans earn the least, while the Inspector General earns the most. Salary increases with each promotion because higher positions carry additional responsibilities, leadership duties, and operational pressures.

Allowances play a key role in the total income for APF officers. These include housing support, food rations, and travel allowances, which enhance overall financial security. Such benefits make the career more sustainable and rewarding. Officers at senior ranks, like DSPs and SSPs, receive even more extensive perks that reflect their higher duties. Even entry-level jawans benefit from allowances that help cover essential expenses. These additional payments ensure that officers’ lives are supported beyond the basic salary.

Here is the APF salary by rank and position for 2026:

Allowances and Benefits in APF

APF officers receive much more than their basic salary. Alongside their monthly pay, they are eligible for several allowances and benefits that help cover essential living costs. This makes a career in APF financially secure and sustainable over the long term. From rations to medical care, these perks significantly reduce personal expenses and enhance job satisfaction.

1. Ration, Uniform, and Equipment

Every APF officer receives a monthly ration allowance, either as money or in-kind provisions, helping cover meals and reduce household costs. Officers also receive official uniforms and other necessary items, including boots, belts, and protective gear. These provisions ensure that officers don’t need to spend personal funds on essential work equipment. Over the years, these allowances save a significant amount of money. Even entry-level officers benefit from this support, which complements their basic salary. The inclusion of rations and equipment ensures that officers are fully equipped to perform their duties effectively.

2. Medical Facilities and Healthcare

Medical support is a major benefit provided to APF officers. Both officers and their families can access healthcare at APF hospitals and government facilities, often at minimal cost or free. This reduces the financial burden of medical emergencies and regular treatments. Such healthcare provision ensures family well-being and adds to the officer’s sense of security. Access to high-quality medical care is particularly valuable, considering the risks officers face on duty. The government’s investment in officer health highlights the importance of their safety. These benefits are often considered more valuable than the basic salary itself.

3. Housing and Travel Allowances

APF officers are frequently posted to different parts of the country. When official housing is unavailable, they receive a housing allowance or access to government accommodations at low or no cost. Travel allowances are provided to cover official transfers, patrol duties, and routine movement. These benefits reduce personal expenditure significantly, making the officer’s life easier. By supporting accommodation and travel, APF ensures that officers can focus on their duties without financial stress. Combined, these allowances make the career more sustainable and attractive.

APF Pension and Retirement Benefits

While salary and allowances are important during service, post-retirement benefits are equally significant. APF officers are entitled to pensions and other retirement benefits that ensure financial stability after leaving active duty. These perks make APF one of the most secure government professions.

1. Pension Eligibility and Calculation

APF officers typically become eligible for pensions after around 20 years of service. The pension is calculated based on the officer’s last drawn basic salary and total years of service. Higher ranks and longer service periods result in higher pension amounts. Payments are made monthly, providing a steady and reliable income for retired officers. This encourages long-term commitment and professional growth. The pension system ensures that officers can retire with financial security and dignity. It is considered a major advantage compared to many private-sector jobs.

2. Family Benefits and Gratuity

In addition to pensions, APF officers receive gratuity payments after retirement. Gratuity is calculated based on salary and service years and can help with family needs, business investment, or property purchase. In the event of an officer’s death, families are entitled to pension benefits, ensuring their financial stability. These family benefits add another layer of security and make the APF package more appealing. Officers can be confident that both they and their families are protected. Gratuity and family support strengthen the overall compensation and job satisfaction.

Why Youth Choose APF as a Career?

Many young people are drawn to APF because of secure employment, regular salary, allowances, pensions, and societal respect. The work provides pride, stability, and a sense of contribution to national safety. Compared to private-sector jobs, APF offers consistent income and long-term career growth. Thousands of aspirants apply every year, attracted by these factors.

1. Job Security and Steady Income

APF offers a guaranteed monthly salary and allowances, which ensure stable financial planning. Pension and gratuity plans protect future finances, making the career highly reliable. Even lower-level officers earn more than many private-sector employees, adding to the appeal. The income stability is a major reason for youth interest in APF careers.

2. Respect and Social Standing

APF officers are widely respected for their role in maintaining public safety. Promotions bring increased responsibility and societal recognition. Uniformed service brings personal pride and social esteem, motivating many young people to pursue this career.

3. Growth and Training Opportunities

APF offers structured training programs and career advancement opportunities. Officers can advance from jawan to senior ranks, learning leadership, management, and operational skills along the way. Promotions increase pay, allowances, and responsibilities. Continuous training ensures officers remain skilled and competent, providing a lifelong career pathway.

Challenges of APF Life

Despite financial benefits, APF officers face multiple challenges. Work is intense, risky, and involves long hours. Frequent postings may separate them from family. These hardships emphasize the dedication required to serve in APF.

Despite the attractive salary and benefits, life as an APF officer comes with significant challenges. Officers often face high-pressure situations that demand physical endurance and mental strength. Work is intense, sometimes dangerous, and involves long hours that can take a toll on personal life. Frequent postings across the country can separate them from family and loved ones for extended periods. The unpredictable nature of duty requires officers to be constantly alert and ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Handling Emergencies, protests, natural disasters, and criminal incidents are part of the everyday routine. These difficulties highlight the dedication, courage, and commitment needed to serve in the Armed Police Force.

1. Long Working Hours

APF officers frequently work 12-hour shifts or more, often covering nights, weekends, and holidays. The demanding schedule requires officers to remain attentive, even during extended duty hours. Continuous readiness and high-stress situations can affect mental and physical health over time. Despite these pressures, officers are expected to perform their duties efficiently and professionally. Personal and family life can be disrupted due to irregular schedules. Many officers sacrifice personal leisure time to maintain their commitment to the force. Coping with fatigue while staying focused is a constant challenge in their day-to-day life.

2. Safety Risks

Serving in APF involves facing real dangers on a daily basis. Officers encounter criminals, violent situations, accidents, public unrest, and natural calamities while performing their duties. Protective equipment and training reduce the risk but cannot completely eliminate potential harm. Every decision and action can carry serious consequences, adding to the stress of the job. Officers need to remain vigilant and cautious at all times. Risk is particularly high in remote or conflict-prone areas where immediate backup may not be available. Understanding and managing these dangers requires courage, discipline, and constant preparedness.

3. Transfers and Family Disruption

Frequent transfers are a regular part of an APF officer’s career. Moving to different locations often means leaving behind family, friends, and familiar surroundings. This can affect children’s education and their spouses’ work or daily life. Housing allowances and government accommodations help reduce some of the inconvenience, but they cannot replace being close to family. Officers must adapt quickly to new environments, local cultures, and community expectations. Flexibility and resilience become essential qualities for managing both professional and personal life. Despite these challenges, officers continue to serve knowing their role is vital to national security and public safety.