Introduction to Timeframe Consideration
The timeframe to register a liaison office in Nepal involves multiple stages including documentation, submission, evaluation, and approval. Understanding each step helps foreign companies manage expectations and timelines effectively.
Usual Time Taken for Registration
The average time required to register a liaison office is 30 to 45 working days from the date of complete application submission. Delays are possible depending on document accuracy and workload at the Department of Industry.
Timeline for Each Registration Step
- Document Preparation: 7-10 working days
- Application Submission: 1 day
- Initial Review by Department of Industry: 7-10 working days
- Approval and License Issuance: 15-20 working days
- PAN Registration: 2-5 working days
Factors Affecting Approval Duration
The following may affect processing time:
- Incomplete documentation
- Need for document translation and notarization
- Delays in embassy authentication
- Public holidays and government workload
Time for Document Verification
Verification includes confirming legal status of the parent company, translations, and notarized documents. This step typically takes 5-7 working days depending on the volume and accuracy of submitted papers.
Duration of License Validity
Once issued, a liaison office license remains valid for five years. The validity period is clearly mentioned in the approval letter issued by the Department of Industry.
Time Required for Renewal or Closure
- Renewal Process: 15-20 working days
- Closure and Deregistration: 20-30 working days Timely renewal ensures continued operations without penalties or license suspension.
Expedited Processing Availability
Nepal does not officially offer fast-track services for liaison office registration. Processing depends entirely on submission completeness and procedural efficiency at the Department of Industry.
Delay Scenarios and How to Handle
Common delay causes:
- Missing documents
- Incorrect formats or translations
- Lack of embassy certification Remedy: Review the checklist and seek professional assistance to minimize rework and delays.
Government Processing Standards
The Department of Industry follows internal guidelines for application handling but does not guarantee a fixed timeline. Standards are based on workload and compliance with the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2019.
Time Estimation by Service Providers
Local law firms and consultants typically estimate 30-60 working days for end-to-end registration, including preparatory and post-approval tasks. Actual time may vary based on document readiness and cooperation from the applicant.
Time for Tax and PAN Registration
Obtaining a Permanent Account Number (PAN) from the Inland Revenue Office takes 2 to 5 working days post license issuance. PAN is mandatory even for non-revenue generating liaison offices.
Working Days vs Calendar Days
Government offices in Nepal operate Sunday to Friday (excluding public holidays). Applicants must calculate durations based on working days to avoid misjudging the timeline.
How to Track Application Status
Currently, status tracking is manual. Applicants can follow up directly with the Department of Industry via email, phone, or in-person visits. Online tracking features are not fully operational.
Time Management Checklist for Applicants
- Prepare documents in advance
- Verify translations and notarizations
- Allocate buffer time for embassy attestation
- Track submission date
- Follow up every 10 working days
FAQs
- How long does registration take?
Registration usually takes 30 to 45 working days. - Can the process be fast-tracked?
No official fast-track is available. Timely submission helps speed it up. - What causes delays?
Missing or incorrect documents and translation issues are common causes. - How long is approval valid?
Approval is valid for five years from the date of issuance. - What is renewal time?
Renewal takes 15 to 20 working days if done before expiration. - Is there an online status check?
No. Status must be checked manually with the Department of Industry. - What if documents are missing?
Applications with missing documents will be returned for correction. - Does review take long?
Initial review may take 7-10 working days depending on workload. - Is the process done in person?
Submission must be done in person or through a local representative. - Who processes the application?
The Department of Industry under the Ministry of Industry processes the registration.