What is a Company Name Reservation?
Company name reservation is the process of requesting and obtaining approval from the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) to use a specific name for a new company in Nepal. How to Reserve a Company Name Online in Nepal?. It is the first and mandatory step before registering any type of company under the Companies Act, 2063. The reservation ensures that the name is unique, lawful, and not already used by another business entity. Medha Law and Partners Is a leading law firm in Nepal.
Why Reserve a Name Before Registration?
Reserving a name helps secure the intended identity of the business and prevents others from claiming it. The OCR checks for duplication, offensive words, or names that conflict with existing trademarks or entities. Reservation simplifies the subsequent registration process and reduces the risk of rejection later. It is a required prerequisite under Section 4 of the Companies Act, 2063.
Step-by-Step Online Name Reservation Guide
Follow these steps for online name reservation in Nepal:
- Visit www.ocr.gov.np
- Create an OCR user account with your email and mobile number
- Log in to the portal
- Click “Name Reservation”
- Enter proposed company name and select company type
- Upload promoter’s citizenship or passport
- Mention objectives and business activity
- Submit the form for review
- Wait for OCR‘s approval or rejection
The process is fully digital, and OCR notifies via email.
OCR Portal for Name Reservation Explained
The OCR portal is an online service platform managed by the Office of the Company Registrar under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. It is designed for company-related services, including name reservation, registration, updates, and compliance filings. The portal allows secure submission and tracking of applications with real-time status updates.
How to Check if Name is Available?
To check name availability:
- Visit the “Check Company Name” feature on OCR’s portal
- Enter the desired name and search
- Review search results to ensure no similar or identical names exist
This helps avoid duplication or rejection. Avoid names already used by other companies, NGOs, or trademarks.
Common Mistakes When Reserving a Name
- Choosing a name that is already registered
- Using restricted or sensitive terms (e.g., bank, trust)
- Misspelling words
- Entering inconsistent details
- Not describing company objectives clearly
- Failing to upload required ID documents
Correct input improves approval chances.
Legal Rules for Choosing a Company Name
As per Companies Act, 2063 and OCR Guidelines:
- The name must not resemble an existing company
- It must not imply government ownership
- Words like “Bank,” “University,” “Trust” require special approval
- The name must reflect the company’s objective and not mislead the public
- Avoid obscene or misleading terms
Violating these may result in rejection.
How Long is a Name Reservation Valid?
Once approved, the reserved name is valid for 35 days. The applicant must complete the company registration within this period. If the deadline is missed, the name becomes available to others and a new reservation must be made.
What Happens After Name Is Approved?
After name approval:
- The applicant downloads the approval notice
- Proceeds to fill out company registration Form
- Drafts MoA and AoA
- Uploads documents to complete the registration process
OCR uses the approved name in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Can You Change the Reserved Name Later?
Yes, you can cancel the existing reservation and request a new one. However, if registration is already in process or completed, name changes are more complex and require formal amendment procedures with OCR.
Does the Name Need to Reflect Business?
Yes. The Companies Act requires the name to align with the main objective of the business. For example, a tech company should include relevant words like “Technology,” “Software,” or “IT.” This provides clarity and avoids misleading stakeholders.
What Documents are Needed for Reservation?
- Citizenship certificate or passport of the promoter
- Company objectives or brief description
- Proposed name and type of company
- Contact details (email, phone)
No notarization is needed for online reservation.
Where to Contact OCR for Name Issues?
For assistance, contact:
- Office of the Company Registrar (OCR)
- Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Phone: +977 9700499414
- Email: info@ocr.gov.np
- Website: www.ocr.gov.np
Alternatively, you can use the “Contact Us” page of the portal.
OCR Response Time for Name Approvals
OCR typically processes name reservation requests within 24 to 48 working hours. Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or the name needs further review. Public holidays and peak periods may extend response times.
How Medha Law Assists in Name Reservation
Medha Law and Partners provides:
- Pre-screening of proposed names
- Legal review of name compliance
- Preparation and upload of all documents
- Follow-up with OCR if delays occur
- Re-submission in case of rejection
Our experts ensure smooth and compliant approval for all company types.
FAQs
Is name approval mandatory in Nepal?
Yes. Name approval from OCR is a mandatory requirement before company registration.
Can I reserve a name online?
Yes. You can reserve a company name online using OCR’s portal at www.ocr.gov.np.
Is company name permanent after approval?
No. The name must be registered within 35 days or it expires.
What if my name gets rejected?
You can revise and reapply with a new or modified name.
Can two companies have same name?
No. Duplicate names are not permitted under the Companies Act, 2063.
Is English name allowed in Nepal?
Yes. You can use names in English, Nepali, or both, as long as they meet legal criteria.
Can I cancel my name reservation?
Yes. You may cancel and submit a new name reservation request.
Is there a fee for name booking?
No. Currently, OCR does not charge a separate fee for name reservation.
Can I use my own name?
Yes. Personal names can be used if they are not already registered.
Can foreigners reserve company names?
Yes. Foreign promoters can reserve names after creating an OCR portal account.