Nepal has established a legal framework to recognize and facilitate the relationship between Nepal and Nepali citizens or persons of Nepali origin living abroad. The principal legislation governing Non-Resident Nepalis (“NRNs”) is the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064 (2008) and the Non-Resident Nepali Rules, 2066 (2009). In addition, the Constitution of Nepal, 2015 and amendments to the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063, provide the legal basis for Non-Resident Nepali citizenship.
For NRNs planning to live, invest, acquire property, establish a business, or maintain long-term ties with Nepal, it is important to understand the difference between an NRN Identity Card, NRN citizenship, and an NRN visa. These are separate legal mechanisms and do not provide identical rights.
This article by Niti Partners and Associates is a leading law firm in Nepal explains the major aspects of NRN law in Nepal, including what an NRN is, what an NRN Card is, who can obtain NRN citizenship, how to obtain an NRN Card in Nepal, how to obtain NRN citizenship in Nepal, NRN visa requirements, and property rights of NRNs in Nepal.
What Is an NRN Under Nepali Law?
An NRN, or Non-Resident Nepali, is broadly recognized under the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064 as a foreign citizen of Nepali origin and, in the statutory definition, also includes certain Nepali citizens residing abroad.
A “foreign citizen of Nepali origin” generally means a person who, or whose father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother, was previously a Nepali citizen and who subsequently acquired citizenship of a country other than a SAARC member state. A Nepali citizen residing abroad may also fall within the statutory NRN definition when the applicable residence and employment/business conditions are satisfied. A litigation law firm in Nepal can help you also in the dispute matters of Property issues of NRN.
Why Is NRN Status Important in Nepal?
NRN status can provide access to various facilities relating to:
- Investment in Nepal;
- Business and economic activities;
- NRN Identity Cards;
- Long-term NRN visas;
- Prescribed property-purchase facilities;
- Repatriation of qualifying investment and profits; and
- Certain economic, social and cultural rights through NRN citizenship where the applicant satisfies the citizenship legislation.
However, an NRN Card is not the same thing as NRN citizenship. The legal consequences of each should be considered separately.
What Is an NRN Card in Nepal?
An NRN Card, formally known as the Non-Resident Nepali Identity Card, is an identification document issued to eligible Non-Resident Nepalis under the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064.
A person whose name has been recorded as an NRN may apply for an NRN Identity Card before the prescribed authority. Following the required examination and payment of the prescribed fee, the authority may issue the card.
The Act provides that an NRN Identity Card issued to a foreign citizen of Nepali origin may remain valid for up to 10 years, subject to the applicable visa period. For a Nepali citizen residing abroad, the card may generally remain valid for up to two years, subject to the statutory exceptions and applicable renewal provisions.
Who Can Apply for an NRN Card in Nepal?
Generally, an applicant must establish that he or she falls within the statutory definition of an NRN.
For a foreign citizen of Nepali origin, the applicant may need to establish the Nepali citizenship connection of the applicant or the applicant’s parent or grandparent and demonstrate the acquisition of foreign citizenship from a qualifying country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides NRN-related information and online application resources, including separate application categories for Foreign Citizen of Nepali Origin and Nepali Citizen Residing Abroad. Law firm in Nepal.
How to Obtain an NRN Card in Nepal?
The process of obtaining an NRN Card generally involves NRN registration followed by an application for the NRN Identity Card.
Step 1: Determine Your NRN Category
First, determine whether you qualify as:
- A foreign citizen of Nepali origin; or
- A Nepali citizen residing abroad.
The documentary requirements can differ according to the category.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, documents may include:
- Foreign citizenship certificate;
- Foreign passport;
- Evidence of previous Nepali citizenship, where applicable;
- Evidence establishing the Nepali citizenship of a parent or grandparent;
- Evidence relating to residence abroad;
- Employment, business or professional documents, where applicable;
- Previous NRN Card, if applying for renewal; and
- Recent photographs and other prescribed documents.
The NRN Rules, 2066 contain prescribed application forms and supporting-document requirements.
Step 3: Submit the NRN Application
The NRN Rules provide for an application to be submitted to the prescribed authority. An applicant abroad may generally apply through the relevant Nepali diplomatic mission, while the rules also provide for applications within Nepal through the prescribed authority.
Step 4: Verification by the Authority
The relevant authority examines the application and supporting evidence before recording the applicant’s NRN status and issuing the Identity Card.
Step 5: Receive the NRN Card
Once the application is approved and the prescribed fee is paid, the NRN Identity Card may be issued.
Important: Requirements, forms, fees and administrative procedures may change. Applicants should verify the current requirements with the relevant Nepali authority before filing.
What Is NRN Citizenship in Nepal?
NRN citizenship, formally Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship, is different from an NRN Identity Card.
The Constitution of Nepal, Article 14, provides a constitutional basis for granting Non-Resident Nepali citizenship to a person who has acquired foreign citizenship, resides in a country other than a SAARC member state, and who previously held, or whose father, mother, grandfather or grandmother held, Nepali citizenship by descent or birth, subject to federal law. Such citizenship is intended to permit the holder to exercise economic, social and cultural rights in accordance with federal law.
The Nepal Citizenship Act was amended to establish the statutory mechanism for obtaining NRN citizenship, and the relevant citizenship regulations were subsequently amended to provide procedural requirements.
Who Is Eligible for NRN Citizenship in Nepal?
An applicant generally needs to satisfy the statutory conditions, including:
- Being a citizen of a foreign country other than a SAARC member state;
- Residing in that foreign country;
- Having a qualifying Nepali citizenship connection by descent or birth;
- Establishing that the applicant, or the applicant’s father, mother, grandfather or grandmother, was a Nepali citizen by descent or birth; and
- Satisfying the documentary and procedural requirements prescribed by Nepalese citizenship law.
Therefore, not every person holding an NRN Card automatically qualifies for NRN citizenship. NRN citizenship has its own statutory eligibility requirements.
How to Get NRN Citizenship in Nepal?
The procedure for obtaining NRN citizenship is governed by the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 as amended, together with the applicable Citizenship Rules. The amended rules contain a specific application framework for NRN citizenship.
Typical NRN Citizenship Application Process
1. Confirm eligibility
The applicant should first establish that the statutory requirements for NRN citizenship are satisfied.
2. Collect evidence of Nepali origin
Applicants may need documentary evidence relating to:
- Their own former Nepali citizenship;
- Father’s or mother’s Nepali citizenship;
- Grandfather’s or grandmother’s Nepali citizenship; and
- The applicable basis of Nepali citizenship.
3. Provide foreign citizenship documents
The applicant should provide evidence of current foreign citizenship and the relevant foreign passport.
4. Provide NRN Identity Card details
The citizenship application framework includes details concerning the applicant’s NRN Identity Card. The citizenship rules also prescribe information concerning previous Nepali citizenship and foreign citizenship.
5. Submit the application to the competent authority
The application must be submitted to the authority prescribed by the citizenship legislation and regulations. Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, this may involve the relevant District Administration Office in Nepal or the appropriate Nepali diplomatic mission abroad.
6. Verification and oath
The competent authority examines the application and supporting documents. The applicable rules also provide for an oath in connection with NRN citizenship.
7. Issuance of NRN Citizenship Certificate
If the applicant satisfies the legal requirements, the competent authority may issue the Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship Certificate.
What Rights Does an NRN Citizen Have in Nepal?
NRN citizenship is constitutionally linked to economic, social and cultural rights, rather than full political rights.
Article 14 of the Constitution specifically describes NRN citizenship as citizenship granted for the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights in accordance with federal law.
Accordingly, NRN citizenship should not be treated as equivalent to ordinary Nepali citizenship for all legal purposes.
In particular, NRN citizenship does not automatically confer the full range of political rights associated with ordinary Nepali citizenship.
This distinction is important when advising NRNs about voting, elections, public office, political participation, property, investment and other legal matters.
Can NRN Citizens Vote or Hold Political Office in Nepal?
Generally, NRN citizenship is not a substitute for ordinary Nepali citizenship for political rights.
The constitutional framework limits NRN citizenship to economic, social and cultural rights. The distinction between political rights and the rights available to NRN citizens has also been recognized in judicial interpretation and public legal discussion.
Therefore, NRN citizenship should not be understood as giving an individual the same political rights as a Nepali citizen holding ordinary citizenship.
What Is an NRN Visa in Nepal?
An NRN Visa is a special visa facility available to qualifying foreign citizens of Nepali origin holding an NRN Identity Card.
Under Section 11 of the Non-Resident Nepali Act, a foreign citizen of Nepali origin who holds an NRN Identity Card and resides in Nepal or has made an investment in Nepal may be eligible for a non-residential visa for up to 10 years, subject to the applicable law and visa procedures. The Act also permits extension of the visa period as necessary.
The immigration rules also contain provisions relating to NRN visas and the competent authorities responsible for issuance and renewal.
How Can You Obtain an NRN Visa in Nepal?
The general process involves:
- Obtaining and maintaining valid NRN status/NRN Identity Card;
- Holding a valid foreign passport;
- Completing the applicable NRN visa application;
- Providing the required documents;
- Paying the applicable visa fee; and
- Obtaining the visa from the competent immigration authority or Nepali diplomatic mission, depending on the circumstances.
Because immigration procedures, fees and documentary requirements may change, applicants should confirm the current requirements before submitting an NRN visa application.
What Are the Property Rights of NRNs in Nepal?
Property ownership is one of the most important issues for NRNs.
The Non-Resident Nepali Act provides that a foreign citizen of Nepali origin may, subject to prescribed conditions, purchase specified land or other immovable property in Nepal for the purpose of residing in Nepal for themselves or their family.
However, this is not an unrestricted right to purchase any amount of land anywhere in Nepal.
The NRN Rules, 2066 prescribe geographical and area limitations for property purchases by foreign citizens of Nepali origin.
How Much Land Can an NRN Purchase in Nepal?
Under the prescribed NRN Rules, the specified limits include:
| Location | Maximum area |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu Valley | 2 Ropani |
| Municipalities in the Terai | 8 Kattha |
| Other municipalities | 4 Ropani |
| Terai areas outside the specified municipalities | 1 Bigha |
| Other areas | 10 Ropani |
These limits arise from the NRN Rules, 2066 and should be checked against the latest applicable legal and administrative requirements before a transaction is completed.
What Documents Are Required for NRN Property Purchase in Nepal?
An NRN seeking approval for a qualifying property purchase may be required to submit documents such as:
- Original NRN Identity Card and a copy;
- Foreign citizenship certificate;
- Foreign passport;
- Land ownership certificate (Lalpurja);
- Copy of the seller’s citizenship certificate;
- Trace map/blueprint;
- Building map where applicable;
- Current land-tax receipt;
- Building-completion certificate where applicable; and
- Properly completed property-purchase application form.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs specifically lists documentary requirements for NRN property-purchase applications.
How Does an NRN Apply to Purchase Property in Nepal?
The NRN Rules require a foreign citizen of Nepali origin intending to purchase qualifying land or immovable property to submit an application containing information such as the location, area and agreed purchase price of the property.
Approval is then obtained from the competent authority before the qualifying acquisition is completed.
This makes legal due diligence particularly important before signing or completing a property transaction.
At Niti Partners and Assoiates, NRN clients should consider obtaining legal review of the property’s title, ownership history, land classification, applicable area limits, seller’s authority, government approvals, tax status and registration requirements before committing funds.
Can NRNs Sell Property in Nepal?
Yes, subject to applicable law.
Section 10 of the Non-Resident Nepali Act provides that property purchased by a foreign citizen of Nepali origin under the NRN property facility may be transferred in accordance with prevailing law.
However, the method and legality of a subsequent transfer should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis because property registration, taxation, foreign exchange, inheritance and other laws may also apply.
What Happens to NRN Property After Death?
The Non-Resident Nepali Act contains a specific inheritance provision.
Where a foreign citizen of Nepali origin dies leaving property in Nepal, the property may devolve upon an heir who is also a foreign citizen of Nepali origin holding an NRN Identity Card. If there is no such heir, the matter is dealt with according to prevailing law.
NRNs should therefore consider succession planning and obtain legal advice where substantial property is held in Nepal.
Can NRNs Invest in Nepal?
Yes. Nepalese law provides a framework for NRN investment in Nepal.
The Non-Resident Nepali Act permits investment-related activities and provides a mechanism under which qualifying investment and profits may, subject to applicable requirements, be repatriated in convertible foreign currency.
However, an NRN investment should not be considered in isolation from other applicable laws, including legislation governing foreign investment, companies, industries, taxation, banking and foreign exchange.
What Is the Difference Between an NRN Card, NRN Citizenship and NRN Visa?
The distinction can be summarized as follows:
| Issue | NRN Card | NRN Citizenship | NRN Visa |
| Main purpose | Establishes NRN identity/status | Provides citizenship status under Article 14 and federal law | Allows qualifying foreign NRNs to stay in Nepal |
| Legal basis | NRN Act, 2064 | Constitution + Citizenship Act/Rules | NRN Act + immigration law/rules |
| Available to foreign citizens of Nepali origin | Yes, subject to eligibility | Yes, subject to citizenship requirements | Yes, subject to applicable requirements |
| Validity | Up to 10 years for foreign citizens of Nepali origin, subject to visa | Citizenship certificate; subject to citizenship law | Up to 10 years under the NRN Act, subject to applicable rules |
| Political rights | No | No political rights merely by virtue of NRN citizenship | No |
| Property facility | Yes, subject to prescribed conditions | Rights depend on applicable citizenship/property law | Visa itself does not create property ownership rights |
| Economic/social/cultural rights | Facilities under NRN law | Constitutionally recognized scope | Visa is primarily an immigration facility |
The three documents should therefore not be treated as interchangeable.
What Are the Key NRN Laws in Nepal?
The principal laws and legal instruments relevant to NRNs include:
1. Constitution of Nepal, 2015
Article 14 provides the constitutional basis for Non-Resident Nepali citizenship and its economic, social and cultural-rights framework.
2. Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064
The NRN Act establishes the statutory framework for:
- NRN registration;
- NRN Identity Cards;
- NRN investment;
- Repatriation of qualifying investment and profits;
- Property facilities;
- NRN visas; and
- Other facilities and concessions.
3. Non-Resident Nepali Rules, 2066
The Rules prescribe important procedures and requirements concerning NRN registration, Identity Cards, property purchase and related matters.
4. Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 and Amendments
The amended citizenship legislation provides the statutory framework for Non-Resident Nepali citizenship.
5. Nepal Citizenship Rules
The amended Citizenship Rules provide procedural and documentary requirements for applications involving NRN citizenship.
6. Immigration Laws and Rules
Immigration legislation and rules regulate the issuance and renewal of NRN visas and other immigration matters.
Frequently Asked Questions About NRN Law in Nepal
What is NRN law in Nepal?
NRN law in Nepal is the body of constitutional, statutory, regulatory and immigration provisions governing Non-Resident Nepalis, including NRN registration, NRN Cards, investment, property, visas and NRN citizenship.
Who qualifies as an NRN in Nepal?
A foreign citizen of Nepali origin may qualify where the statutory requirements are satisfied, including the required Nepali citizenship connection and residence/citizenship conditions.
Is an NRN Card the same as NRN citizenship?
No. An NRN Identity Card establishes NRN status/identity, while NRN citizenship is a separate citizenship status governed by the Constitution and Citizenship Act.
Can an NRN buy land in Nepal?
A qualifying foreign citizen of Nepali origin may purchase prescribed land or immovable property for residence for themselves or their family, subject to statutory conditions, area limits and approval requirements.
Can an NRN buy a house in Nepal?
A qualifying NRN may be able to purchase a house or other qualifying immovable property subject to the applicable NRN property rules, area restrictions, approvals and documentation.
How much land can an NRN buy in Nepal?
The NRN Rules prescribe different maximum areas depending on the location, including 2 Ropani in Kathmandu Valley, 8 Kattha in Terai municipalities, 4 Ropani in other municipalities, 1 Bigha in specified Terai areas, and 10 Ropani in other areas.
How long is an NRN Card valid?
For a foreign citizen of Nepali origin, the NRN Identity Card may be valid for up to 10 years, subject to the applicable visa period.
How long is an NRN visa valid in Nepal?
The NRN Act provides for a non-residential visa of up to 10 years for qualifying foreign citizens of Nepali origin holding an NRN Identity Card, subject to applicable requirements.
Can an NRN obtain citizenship in Nepal?
Yes, an eligible person may obtain Non-Resident Nepali citizenship if the statutory requirements under the Constitution and Citizenship Act are satisfied.
Does NRN citizenship give political rights?
NRN citizenship is constitutionally structured around economic, social and cultural rights and does not confer the full political rights associated with ordinary Nepali citizenship.
Can an NRN inherit property in Nepal?
Inheritance rights depend on the applicable legal status of the heir and the nature of the property. The NRN Act specifically addresses inheritance of property held by a foreign citizen of Nepali origin and provides for inheritance by a qualifying NRN heir holding an NRN Identity Card, with other cases governed by prevailing law.
Can an NRN sell property in Nepal?
Property acquired under the NRN property facility may be transferred subject to prevailing law. Legal and tax implications should be reviewed before sale.
Why Should NRNs Consult a Lawyer in Nepal?
NRN-related matters frequently involve multiple areas of Nepalese law at the same time. An NRN may need to comply with citizenship law, immigration law, property law, foreign-exchange requirements, taxation, investment regulations, company law and administrative procedures.
A seemingly straightforward transaction—such as purchasing a house in Kathmandu—may therefore require verification of:
- NRN eligibility;
- NRN Card validity;
- Property-purchase eligibility;
- Area restrictions;
- Title and ownership;
- Land classification;
- Government approvals;
- Tax liabilities;
- Registration requirements;
- Foreign exchange considerations; and
- Succession and inheritance implications.
Similarly, obtaining NRN citizenship requires careful documentary preparation because the applicant must establish the statutory connection with Nepal and satisfy the citizenship-law requirements.
NRN Legal Services in Nepal | Niti Partners and Assoiates
Niti Partners and Associates provides legal assistance to NRNs, foreign citizens of Nepali origin, investors and families dealing with legal matters in Nepal.
Our NRN-related legal assistance may include:
- NRN Card application and renewal assistance;
- NRN citizenship application guidance;
- NRN visa and immigration assistance;
- NRN property-purchase legal due diligence;
- Land and house purchase documentation;
- Property title verification;
- NRN investment and business legal advice;
- Property transfer and sale;
- Inheritance and succession matters;
- Corporate and commercial legal services;
- Contract drafting and review; and
- Representation before relevant authorities where legally appropriate.
For NRNs living abroad, obtaining legal advice before signing a property agreement, transferring funds, applying for citizenship, or establishing an investment structure in Nepal can help identify legal and regulatory issues at an early stage.
Conclusion: Understanding NRN Law in Nepal
Nepal’s NRN legal framework provides important mechanisms for people of Nepali origin living abroad to maintain legal and economic connections with Nepal. The NRN Card, NRN citizenship, NRN visa and NRN property rights each have different legal foundations and should not be treated as the same legal status.
The Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064 and NRN Rules, 2066 provide the principal framework for NRN registration, Identity Cards, investment, property facilities and visas, while the Constitution of Nepal and amended citizenship legislation provide the basis for Non-Resident Nepali citizenship.
Because NRN law can involve several overlapping areas of law, individual eligibility and documentation should be assessed based on the applicant’s nationality, family history, previous Nepali citizenship, current residence, NRN status, intended investment and property transaction.
Card, NRN citizenship, visa, investment or property matter.