Company Registration in Nepal | New Online Registration Process
Starting a business in Nepal requires proper legal registration. Whether you are a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding the company registration in Nepal is crucial. Nepal has made significant strides in easing business registration, allowing both offline and online company registration in Nepal to facilitate entrepreneurs.
This guide covers everything you need to know from the process of company registration in Nepal to the cost of company registration in Nepal and the necessary documents.
Why Company Registration in Nepal Important?
Registering a company in Nepal is mandatory for opening business legally. The governing body for company registration is the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies.
Businesses can register under various categories, including:
- Private Limited Company
- Public Limited Company
- NGOs and INGOs (Profit-not Distributing Company)
- Foreign Company Registration in Nepal
Private Limited Company Registration in Nepal
- Most popular type for small and medium businesses
- Requires at least one shareholder and one director
- Limited liability protection for owners
- No requirement to disclose financial records publicly.
Public Limited Company (Ltd.)
- Requires a minimum of seven shareholders
- Shares can be publicly traded
- Must have a minimum paid-up capital of NPR 10 million
- More regulatory requirements compared to private companies
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) & INGOs
- Registered under the Association Registration Act, 2034 (1977)
- Not for profit but subject to legal compliance.
Foreign Company Registration in Nepal
Foreign companies can establish a presence in Nepal through different legal structures:
- Wholly Owned Subsidiary :A company fully owned by a foreign entity.
- Joint Venture (JV) Company :A partnership between a local and a foreign company.
- Branch Office : A foreign company opening a branch in Nepal without forming a separate entity.
- Liaison Office (Representative Office) : An office for market research and coordination but without direct commercial activities.
Process of Company Registration in Nepal
The company registration process in Nepal involves several key steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Name Reservation
- Visit the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) website: www.ocr.gov.np
- Submit a company name request
- The name must be unique and comply with Nepal’s company name guidelines
Step 2: Draft and Submit Documents
- Prepare necessary documents required for company registration in Nepal (listed below)
- Submit them online via OCR’s portal or physically at the office
Step 3: Verification and Approval
- OCR verifies documents and business objectives
- Approval is granted within 3-7 working days
Step 4: Registration Certificate Issuance
- Once approved, you will receive the Company Registration Certificate
Step 5: Tax Registration (PAN/VAT) & Industry License
- Register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for PAN and VAT
Apply for necessary business operation licenses.
Online Company Registration in Nepal
Entrepreneurs can now register their companies online through the OCR portal:
- Visit the OCR website
- Create an account and log in
- Fill out the application form with company details
- Upload scanned copies of required documents
- Submit and track application status online
Online registration makes the process of company registration in Nepal much easier, saving time and reducing paperwork.
Documents Required for Company Registration in Nepal
The following documents are mandatory for new company registration in Nepal:
- Company Name Reservation Approval
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Articles of Association (AoA)
- Application Form (as per Company Act 2063)
- Citizenship Certificate of Promoters (for Nepalese citizens)
- Passport & Visa Copy of Foreign Investors (if applicable)
- Agreement Between Shareholders (if applicable)
- Tax Clearance Certificate (for existing businesses)
These documents must be submitted in Nepali or with certified translations.
Cost of Company Registration in Nepal
The cost of company registration in Nepal varies depending on the company type and capital investment.
Registration Fees Based on Authorized Capital
| Authorized Capital (NPR) | Private Limited (Fee) | Public Limited (Fee) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 million | NPR 1,000 | NPR 15,000 |
| 1M – 10 million | NPR 4,500 | NPR 40,000 |
| 10M – 100 million | NPR 9,500 | NPR 100,000 |
| Above 100 million | NPR 16,000+ | NPR 300,000+ |
Additional costs may include:
- Stamp Duty Fees
- Industry-Specific Licenses
- Legal Consultation Fees
How to Check Company Registration in Nepal?
To verify if a company is registered in Nepal:
- Visit the OCR Website: www.ocr.gov.np
- Click on “Company Search”
- Enter the Company Name or Registration Number
- View registration details, including legal status and ownership
This online system helps entrepreneurs and investors verify business legitimacy before engaging in transactions.
Conclusion
Setting up a business in Nepal is now easier than ever with streamlined company registration Nepal Kathmandu processes. Whether you opt for private company registration in Nepal or a public company, following the legal steps ensures smooth operations.
By understanding the cost of company registration in Nepal, the necessary documents required for company registration in Nepal, and leveraging online company registration in Nepal, entrepreneurs can efficiently start their businesses.
How long does it take to register a company in Nepal?
Typically, it takes 3-7 working days to complete registration if all documents are correct.
Can foreigners register a company in Nepal?
Yes, but foreign investors must obtain approval from the Department of Industry (DOI) and the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB).
Is online company registration in Nepal free?
No, registration fees apply based on authorized capital. However, online filing reduces paperwork and processing time
Do I need a lawyer to register my company?
Not necessarily, but legal consultation can help ensure compliance with Nepalese laws.
What happens if my company name is already taken?
You must choose a different name. The OCR does not allow duplicate business names.
What are the tax obligations after registration?
Businesses must register for PAN/VAT, file annual tax returns, and comply with Nepalese tax laws.