Starting a new business in Nepal begins with a critical step—company registration. This process legally establishes a business entity under the Government of Nepal, allowing it to operate, enter contracts, open bank accounts, and more. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding the current registration process is essential.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to register a company in Nepal as of 2025.
1. Choose the Type of Company
Nepal’s Companies Act, 2063 (2006) allows for different types of companies:
- Private Limited Company – Up to 101 shareholders.
- Public Limited Company – Requires at least 7 shareholders; can raise capital from the public.
- Non-Profit Company – For social, educational, or charitable purposes.
Most startups begin with a private limited company due to flexibility and ease of formation.
2. Name Reservation
Before registering a company, you must reserve a unique name.
3. Prepare Required Documents
You will need the following documents to proceed:
- Application for Registration (as per Schedule 1 of the Companies Act)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Articles of Association (AOA)
- Citizenship copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport copies and non-tourist visa (for foreign nationals)
- Photographs of shareholders and directors
- Power of Attorney (if applicable)
- Copy of Name Reservation Certificate
For a non-profit company, additional documentation and ministry approval are often required.
4. Submit Application to OCR
Applications can be submitted in two ways:
- Online Portal: OCR provides a full online submission platform.
- In-Person Submission: Submit hard copies to OCR in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu.
Once submitted, the OCR will review the documents and may ask for clarification or corrections.
5. Pay Registration Fees
The registration fee is based on the authorized capital of the company. For example:
| Authorized Capital (NPR) | Registration Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,00,000 | 1,000 |
| 1,00,001 to 5,00,000 | 4,500 |
| 5,00,001 to 25,00,000 | 9,500 |
| 25,00,001 to 1 crore | 16,000 |
| Over 1 crore | 30,000+ |
Payment can be made via bank voucher or e-payment through the OCR portal.
6. Company Registration Certificate
Once everything is approved and fees are paid, OCR issues the Company Registration Certificate along with a registered PAN (Permanent Account Number) and company number.
7. Post-Registration Requirements
After registration, ensure the following steps are completed:
- PAN/VAT Registration with Inland Revenue Office (for tax compliance)
- Open a Bank Account in the company’s name
- Register with Local Government for trade license if needed
- Employee Registration with Social Security Fund (if hiring)
- Maintain Statutory Records – including meetings, financials, and filings
8. Estimated Timeframe
The process typically takes 7 to 15 business days, depending on document accuracy and OCR workload. Online submissions tend to be faster.
Registering a company in Nepal is a streamlined yet vital process. Entrepreneurs should ensure proper documentation and compliance at every step. For complex cases—especially for foreign investors or public companies—consulting a legal or business professional is recommended.
The Office of the Company Registrar continues to digitize and simplify the process, making it easier than ever to start your entrepreneurial journey in Nepal.
Useful Links:
- OCR Website: https://www.ocr.gov.np
- Inland Revenue Department: https://ird.gov.np
Starting a new business in Nepal begins with a critical step—company registration. This process legally establishes a business entity under the Government of Nepal, allowing it to operate, enter contracts, open bank accounts, and more. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding the current registration process is essential.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to register a company in Nepal as of 2025.
1. Choose the Type of Company
Nepal’s Companies Act, 2063 (2006) allows for different types of companies:
- Private Limited Company – Up to 101 shareholders.
- Public Limited Company – Requires at least 7 shareholders; can raise capital from the public.
- Non-Profit Company – For social, educational, or charitable purposes.
Most startups begin with a private limited company due to flexibility and ease of formation.
2. Name Reservation
Before registering a company, you must reserve a unique name.
3. Prepare Required Documents
You will need the following documents to proceed:
- Application for Registration (as per Schedule 1 of the Companies Act)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Articles of Association (AOA)
- Citizenship copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport copies and non-tourist visa (for foreign nationals)
- Photographs of shareholders and directors
- Power of Attorney (if applicable)
- Copy of Name Reservation Certificate
For a non-profit company, additional documentation and ministry approval are often required.
4. Submit Application to OCR
Applications can be submitted in two ways:
- Online Portal: OCR provides a full online submission platform.
- In-Person Submission: Submit hard copies to OCR in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu.
Once submitted, the OCR will review the documents and may ask for clarification or corrections.
5. Pay Registration Fees
The registration fee is based on the authorized capital of the company. For example:
| Authorized Capital (NPR) | Registration Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Up to 1,00,000 | 1,000 |
| 1,00,001 to 5,00,000 | 4,500 |
| 5,00,001 to 25,00,000 | 9,500 |
| 25,00,001 to 1 crore | 16,000 |
| Over 1 crore | 30,000+ |
Payment can be made via bank voucher or e-payment through the OCR portal.
6. Company Registration Certificate
Once everything is approved and fees are paid, OCR issues the Company Registration Certificate along with a registered PAN (Permanent Account Number) and company number.
7. Post-Registration Requirements
After registration, ensure the following steps are completed:
- PAN/VAT Registration with Inland Revenue Office (for tax compliance)
- Open a Bank Account in the company’s name
- Register with Local Government for trade license if needed
- Employee Registration with Social Security Fund (if hiring)
- Maintain Statutory Records – including meetings, financials, and filings
8. Estimated Timeframe
The process typically takes 7 to 15 business days, depending on document accuracy and OCR workload. Online submissions tend to be faster.
Registering a company in Nepal is a streamlined yet vital process. Entrepreneurs should ensure proper documentation and compliance at every step. For complex cases—especially for foreign investors or public companies—consulting a legal or business professional is recommended.
The Office of the Company Registrar continues to digitize and simplify the process, making it easier than ever to start your entrepreneurial journey in Nepal.
Useful Links:
- OCR Website: https://www.ocr.gov.np
- Inland Revenue Department: https://ird.gov.np