Company Registration Process in Nepal
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 company registration in Nepal online, 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 Making Private Limited Company
Most businesses start as a Private Limited Company, suitable for small and medium enterprises.
Navigating the company registration in Nepal online process can be straightforward with the right information at hand.
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.