Starting a business in Nepal begins with a legal foundation. Registering your company ensures legitimacy and long-term growth. Here is a detailed guide on how to register a company in Nepal, including the process, required documents, fees, and timelines.
Types of Companies in Nepal
Before registering, you must choose the type of company:
Private Limited Company
Public Limited Company
Non-Profit Organization (NGO/INGO)
Most businesses start as a Private Limited Company, suitable for small and medium enterprises.
Benefits of Company Registration in Nepal
Legal recognition from the Government of Nepal
Eligibility to open a business bank account
Tax registration and PAN/VAT
Ability to apply for tenders and funding
Intellectual property protection
Easier to raise capital and attract investors
Step-by-Step Company Registration Process
1. Choose a Company Name
Start by checking name availability through the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) website. Your company name should be:
Unique and not already registered
Not against public interest or national unity
Free from restricted words (e.g., Government, Bank, Nepal Rastra)
2. Reserve the Company Name
After selection, reserve your company name online at ocr.gov.np. This ensures the name is locked for 35 days.
3. Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need to collect and prepare the following documents:
Application for registration (Form A)
Two copies of Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Two copies of Articles of Association (AoA)
Copy of citizenship certificate of all shareholders
Copy of passport if a foreign investor is involved
Consent letter from board members (if applicable)
Lease/rent agreement for business location
Power of attorney (if submitted by a third party)
Covering letter
4. Submit Application to OCR
Submit the documents physically at the Office of the Company Registrar or upload them online via the OCR portal. Digital submission is now encouraged.
5. Verification and Approval
The OCR will review all documents. If everything is valid, approval is granted. This usually takes 3 to 7 working days.
6. Obtain Company Registration Certificate
Once approved, the registrar issues the Certificate of Incorporation. This document officially legalizes your business in Nepal.
Post-Registration Requirements
PAN/VAT Registration from the Inland Revenue Office
Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
Opening a Bank Account under company name
Industry Registration if applicable
Social Security Fund (SSF) registration for employees
Renew company annually with OCR
Company Registration Fees in Nepal
Fees depend on the authorized capital of your business:
| Authorized Capital (NPR) | Registration Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,00,000 | 1,000 |
| 1,00,001 – 5,00,000 | 4,500 |
| 5,00,001 – 25,00,000 | 9,500 |
| 25,00,001 – 1,00,00,000 | 16,000 |
| 1,00,00,001 – 2,00,00,000 | 19,000 |
| Over 2,00,00,000 | 22,000 |
Note: VAT/PAN registration costs an additional NPR 100.
Timeframe for Company Registration
Name Reservation: 1 day
Document Preparation: 1–2 days
Submission and Approval: 3–7 working days
PAN/VAT Registration: 2–3 days
Total Estimated Time: 7–12 days
Online Company Registration in Nepal
OCR has made online registration simpler through its Company Registration Portal. You can:
Register a name
Upload documents
Track application status
Download your certificate
Visit: ocr.gov.np
Conclusion
Registering your company in Nepal is straightforward with the right guidance. Ensure your documents are complete and accurate. The OCR process is efficient if all steps are followed properly. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, legal registration is the first step toward success in Nepal’s growing market.