Welcome to the definitive guide to Entertainment Law in Nepal, curated by the specialized legal team at MedhaCorpLaw. We aim to provide a complete overview of the legal framework, governing authorities, licensing procedures, and our firm’s unique contributions to the entertainment legal industry in Nepal.
Introduction to Entertainment Law in Nepal
Entertainment law in Nepal covers multiple sectors including music, film, television, theater, sports, publishing, and more. Legal practices under this umbrella include intellectual property law, contract law, corporate law, employment law, and privacy law.
At MedhaCorpLaw, our entertainment law practice encompasses the end-to-end legal needs of stakeholders in Nepal’s growing creative industries.
Laws and Authorities Governing Entertainment Law in Nepal
Key Legislation:
- The National Broadcasting Act, 2049 (1993)
- The Press Council Act, 2048 (1992)
- The Motion Picture (Production, Exhibition, and Distribution) Act, 2026 (1969)
- The Copyright Act, 2059 (2002)
- Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement Laws
- Labour Act, 2074 (2017)
- Consumer Protection Act, 2075 (2018)
- Electronic Transaction Act, 2063 (2008)
Legal Authorities:
- The Film Development Board
- Press Council Nepal
- Ministry of Communication and Information Technology
- Department of Information and Broadcasting
- Nepal Copyright Registrar’s Office
Key Legal Matters in Nepal’s Entertainment Industry
Entertainment industry stakeholders often face legal issues around:
- Copyright protection and licensing
- Employment and labor contracts
- Distribution and broadcasting agreements
- Privacy and defamation issues
- Taxation and royalty structures
- Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
- Cybersecurity and digital rights management (DRM)
MedhaCorpLaw assists with:
- Drafting and negotiating contracts
- Filing and enforcing intellectual property rights
- Advising production houses and digital platforms
- Handling litigation and arbitration in the entertainment sector
Broadcasting Law and Licensing in Nepal
National Broadcasting Law:
As per the National Broadcasting Act, 1993, broadcasting without a license is strictly prohibited.
Broadcasting License Application Process
Step 1: Application Preparation
File the application with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology for starting a broadcasting service (satellite, cable, FM radio, IPTV).
Step 2: Application Submission
Submit a completed form with all required documentation and prescribed fees.
Step 3: Application Review
The ministry reviews the documents, checks eligibility, and conducts inquiries as necessary.
Step 4: License Issuance
Upon approval, the broadcasting license is granted.
Broadcasting License Fees in Nepal
| Broadcasting Area | Fee (in NPR) |
| Kathmandu Valley | 500,000 |
| Metropolitan Area | 100,000 |
| Sub-Metropolitan Area | 50,000 |
| Municipality Area | 25,000 |
Terms and Conditions
- Obtain prior consent for broadcasting programs
- No transfer or sale of license permitted
- Must broadcast government programs as per specified quota
- Free broadcast of government information during emergencies
- Provide call signs at specific intervals
- Sign agreements with consumers and service providers
- Follow Ministry directives and national interest requirements
Motion Picture and Cinema Law in Nepal
Governing Legislation:
The Motion Picture (Production, Exhibition, and Distribution) Act, 2026 (1969) governs motion picture laws in Nepal.
Licensing Requirements for Films:
To produce, distribute, or exhibit films, a license from the Government of Nepal or an authorized officer is required for:
- Feature Films
- Documentaries and Short Films
- Web Series and Online Motion Pictures
Cinema Hall Operation Licensing
No cinema hall may be built or operated without obtaining a license. Factors considered include:
- Public inconvenience (schools, hospitals, etc.)
- Population density and demand for cinemas
- Design safety, health, and audience comfort
- Compliance with national and local laws
Intellectual Property Protection in Entertainment
Copyright Law in Nepal
The Copyright Act, 2059 (2002) provides comprehensive protection for:
- Literary Works
- Musical Compositions
- Films and Audio-Visual Works
- Broadcasts and Publications
Licensing and Royalty Agreements
MedhaCorpLaw specializes in:
- Copyright registration
- Licensing agreements
- Royalty negotiations
- Anti-piracy legal enforcement
IP Litigation & Enforcement
Our team leads IP litigation and enforces copyright claims through:
- Cease and desist notices
- Court proceedings
- Enforcement through police and customs coordination
MedhaCorpLaw’s Entertainment Law Services
We provide full-spectrum entertainment law services, including:
- Business Registration & Licensing
- Media House Compliance
- Drafting & Negotiating Contracts (employment, licensing, distribution, joint ventures)
- Intellectual Property Protection
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
- Tax Filing and Regulatory Advisory
- Cyber Law and Digital Media Compliance
Why Choose MedhaCorpLaw for Entertainment Law in Nepal?
- Dedicated Team of Legal Experts in entertainment, IP, and corporate law
- Personalized Legal Strategy tailored for each client
- Proven Track Record in handling high-profile clients
- One-Stop Solution for all legal needs in the entertainment industry
Contact Us
Ready to protect and grow your creative business in Nepal? Contact MedhaCorpLaw today for a consultation on entertainment law in Nepal.
Email: info@medhacorplaw.com
Phone: +977 9700499414