Step-by-Step Guide: How to Register a Company in Nepal Easily

Starting your own company in Nepal is an exciting step towards independence, innovation, and economic growth. However, many aspiring entrepreneurs find the legal process confusing and intimidating. In reality, registering a company in Nepal is straightforward once you understand each step clearly. Whether you are setting up a private limited company, public company, or partnership, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to register a company legally under Nepalese law.

Understand What Type of Company You Want to Register

Before starting the process, you must decide which type of company structure fits your business plan. In Nepal, the main types of companies are:

• Private Limited Company (Pvt. Ltd.): For small to medium businesses with up to 101 shareholders.

• Public Limited Company (Ltd.): For larger businesses that can sell shares to the public.

• Non-Profit Company (NGO/INGO Type): For social welfare and non-profit activities.

Most small business owners prefer registering as a Private Limited Company because it is quicker, requires fewer compliances, and offers flexibility.

Prepare Company Name and Get Name Approval

Choosing the right name is critical. You cannot use a name that is already registered by another company. Here’s what you need to do:

• Visit the Office of Company Registrar (OCR) website: ocr.gov.np.

• Search for existing names to make sure yours is unique.

• Apply online for name reservation by submitting the proposed company name and objectives.

• Wait for OCR to approve the name. This usually takes 2–3 working days if there are no issues.

Tip: Choose a meaningful, simple, and legally appropriate name that reflects your business activities.

Prepare Necessary Documents

Once your company name is approved, start collecting and preparing the required documents:

• Application for Registration (as per Company Act, 2063)

• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)

• Copy of Citizenship Certificates of all shareholders and directors

• Agreement between Shareholders (if applicable)

• Power of Attorney to authorize someone for registration process (if needed)

• Details of Registered Office Address along with ownership documents or rental agreement

Each document must be neatly prepared, stamped where necessary, and signed by the concerned parties.

Online Submission of Documents

Nepal has shifted much of the company registration process online to make it easier. Here’s how to do it:

• Log in to the OCR portal: ocr.gov.np.

• Create a new user account if you don’t have one.

• Fill out the online application form with company details.

• Upload scanned copies of the required documents in PDF format.

• Submit the application for preliminary approval.

Make sure all information entered matches exactly with your documents to avoid rejection or delays.

Payment of Registration Fee

After your documents are reviewed and approved, you will be asked to pay the company registration fee. The fee structure depends on your company’s authorized capital:

• NPR 1 lakh capital: Around NPR 1,000 fee

• NPR 5 lakh capital: Around NPR 4,500 fee

• NPR 10 lakh capital: Around NPR 9,500 fee

• And so on based on incremental scales.

Payment can usually be made via bank deposit slip into the designated government account. OCR will provide payment instructions when needed.

Collect Your Company Registration Certificate

After successful payment confirmation, OCR will issue your Company Registration Certificate. You can either:

• Download a soft copy from the OCR portal, or

• Visit the Office of Company Registrar physically to collect the hard copy.

Along with the certificate, you will also receive your registered Memorandum and Articles of Association stamped and approved.

Congratulations! Your company is now officially registered in Nepal.

Post-Registration Steps

Registering your company is just the first step. After registration, there are a few important things you need to do:

• PAN/VAT Registration: Apply at the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) or VAT if your business needs it.

• Open a Company Bank Account: Use your registration documents to open a corporate bank account.

• Social Security Fund (SSF) Registration: If you have employees, you must register with the SSF for employee welfare contributions.

• Renewals and Compliance: Every year, companies must renew their registration and submit annual reports to OCR.

Missing these obligations can lead to fines, penalties, or even company deregistration.

Registering a company in Nepal may seem complicated at first, but by following these steps carefully, you can set up your business smoothly and legally. Good preparation, organized documents, and following the online system properly will save you time, money, and frustration. Always keep copies of all submitted forms, receipts, and certificates for future reference.

If you feel stuck or confused at any step, it’s better to consult with a professional company registration agent or a legal advisor. Investing a little help at the beginning can save big troubles later.

Building your company is a bold journey — and getting your registration done right is the first big milestone. Good luck on your entrepreneurial adventure!