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NRN Citizenship Process in Nepal 2025

1. Introduction

NRN (Non-Resident Nepali) citizenship provides Nepali descent individuals residing abroad the ability to acquire Nepali citizenship while retaining foreign residence. Nepal recognizes NRNs under Section 11 of the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006), as amended in subsequent years including 2025. NRN citizenship facilitates investment, business operations, property ownership, and voting rights in Nepal. The process is strictly regulated by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and concerned District Administration Offices (DAO), ensuring compliance with nationality laws, anti-fraud measures, and identity verification. Medha Law and Partners assists NRNs in meeting legal requirements, preparing documentation, and successfully completing the citizenship application process in Nepal. Medha Law and Partners Is a best law firm in Nepal.

2. Legal Framework for NRN Citizenship in Nepal

The primary legal provisions governing NRN citizenship include:

  • Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006): Defines acquisition, verification, and NRN rights.

  • Nepal Citizenship Regulation, 2064 (2007): Provides detailed procedural guidelines for NRN applications.

  • Amendments in 2079 and 2081: Introduced digital submission, document verification, and clarifications on dual citizenship limitations.

  • Local Administration Act, 2023: Empowers DAO offices to facilitate applications and verification.

These laws collectively ensure NRN applicants comply with citizenship eligibility, documentation requirements, and verification standards mandated by Nepalese law.

3. Governing Authority

The main authorities handling NRN citizenship applications include:

  • Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA): Policy oversight and approval authority.

  • District Administration Office (DAO): Primary application processing, document verification, and recommendation issuance.

  • Department of Immigration (DoI): Verifies foreign residence and identity of the applicant if required.

MoHA issues final approval after DAO verification, ensuring all statutory criteria are met and applications comply with NRN citizenship laws.

4. Eligibility Criteria for NRN Citizenship

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be a Nepali origin individual born to a Nepali father or mother, or have previously held Nepali citizenship.

  • Must be legally residing outside Nepal as an NRN with valid residence documents.

  • Must not hold citizenship of any country that disallows dual nationality unless explicitly permitted under Nepalese law.

  • Must be at least 16 years of age, capable of fulfilling responsibilities of citizenship.

  • Must not have been convicted of criminal offenses in Nepal or abroad.

These eligibility standards ensure that applicants qualify for NRN citizenship without violating national or international law.

5. Types of NRN Citizenship Applications

NRN citizenship can be acquired through:

  • By Descent: If applicant’s parent(s) are Nepali citizens.

  • By Registration: For those born abroad who hold foreign nationality but have Nepali heritage.

  • By Reacquisition: For former Nepali citizens seeking to regain citizenship after renunciation.

  • By Marriage: Foreign spouses of Nepali citizens may apply under specific conditions for derivative NRN status.

Each category requires specific documentation and eligibility verification according to Sections 7, 11, and 16 of the Citizenship Act, 2063.

6. Documents Required for NRN Citizenship

NRN applicants must submit verified documents to the DAO:

  • Completed NRN Citizenship Application Form (MoHA prescribed)

  • Birth certificate or equivalent proof of Nepali origin

  • Passport or national identity from foreign country

  • Parent(s) citizenship certificate or proof of Nepali heritage

  • NRN registration certificate from foreign country (if available)

  • Proof of residence abroad (visa, work permit, or utility bills)

  • Marriage certificate (if applying through spouse)

  • Two passport-size photographs

  • Affidavit confirming no criminal record and authenticity of documents

Complete and authentic documentation ensures smooth processing of the application.

7. Step-by-Step NRN Citizenship Process in Nepal 2025

  1. Gather all required documents as per MoHA and DAO guidelines.

  2. Complete the NRN citizenship application form with accurate personal and parental information.

  3. Submit application to the District Administration Office (DAO) of the applicant’s intended residence.

  4. DAO verifies submitted documents, parentage, and foreign residence.

  5. Conduct background checks, including police clearance, if required.

  6. DAO forwards the verified application with recommendation to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA).

  7. MoHA reviews, approves, and issues NRN citizenship certificate.

  8. Applicant receives NRN citizenship certificate along with guidance on legal rights and obligations.

Processing time typically ranges between 30 to 90 days, depending on verification and document completeness.

8. Verification and Background Checks

Verification ensures authenticity and prevents fraudulent claims:

  • Parentage and birth certificate verification with local municipality or ward office.

  • Police clearance certificate from Nepal and abroad.

  • Verification of foreign residence through embassy or consulate documents.

  • Cross-checking previous citizenship records and renunciation certificates if applicable.

Thorough verification ensures NRN applicants are lawfully eligible and maintains integrity of Nepalese citizenship records.

9. Dual Citizenship Considerations

Nepal does not fully allow dual citizenship. NRNs acquiring Nepali citizenship must comply with Sections 9 and 11 of the Citizenship Act, 2063:

  • Applicants holding foreign nationality may need to renounce previous citizenship unless specific exceptions are granted by the government.

  • NRNs retain residency abroad while enjoying rights similar to full citizens, such as property ownership and voting in designated elections.

  • Legal counsel is recommended to ensure compliance with foreign and Nepalese nationality laws.

Clear understanding prevents legal conflicts and ensures eligibility for NRN rights.

10. Rights and Privileges of NRN Citizens

NRNs enjoy the following rights:

  • Ownership of property and land in Nepal, subject to sector-specific restrictions.

  • Investment opportunities and business operation rights.

  • Ability to participate in cultural, social, and community programs.

  • Voting rights in designated NRN elections or representation committees.

  • Access to Nepali passports for travel purposes.

These rights enable NRNs to maintain strong connections with Nepal and contribute to economic and social development.

11. Responsibilities and Obligations of NRN Citizens

NRNs must comply with Nepalese laws:

  • Abide by the Constitution of Nepal and other applicable legislation.

  • Report changes in residence or status to Nepalese authorities.

  • Pay applicable taxes on property or business income in Nepal.

  • Avoid actions detrimental to Nepal’s sovereignty or security.

  • Cooperate during background verification and document authentication.

Clear understanding of obligations prevents legal complications and maintains citizenship validity.

12. Processing Fees and Charges

Applicants must pay prescribed fees for NRN citizenship:

  • NRN citizenship application fee: NPR 10,000

  • Verification and document authentication fee: NPR 5,000

  • Optional courier or administrative handling fees: NPR 1,000–3,000

Fees are subject to updates by MoHA and may vary by district. Payment receipts must be submitted along with application.

13. NRN Citizenship Certificate Issuance

Upon approval, applicants receive a legally recognized NRN Citizenship Certificate issued by MoHA:

  • Includes full name, date of birth, parentage, and registration number.

  • Confers property ownership, investment, and cultural rights.

  • Can be used to apply for Nepali passport or identity verification in Nepal.

  • Certificate remains valid unless revoked due to fraud or misrepresentation.

Possession of this certificate formalizes the NRN’s legal status in Nepal.

14. Renewal and Update of NRN Records

NRN records must be periodically updated:

  • Changes in residence, marital status, or parentage documents

  • Replacement of lost or damaged certificates

  • Updates to contact information for government notifications

Regular updates maintain the validity of NRN citizenship and ensure legal compliance with Nepalese regulations.

15. Challenges in NRN Citizenship Process

Common challenges faced by NRNs include:

  • Verification delays due to incomplete documents

  • Confusion regarding dual citizenship compliance

  • Difficulty obtaining police clearance abroad

  • Complexities in parentage verification

  • Administrative delays at DAO or MoHA

Professional legal assistance helps overcome these challenges efficiently.

16. Role of Legal Professionals in NRN Citizenship Process

Legal experts assist NRNs by:

  • Preparing complete and accurate applications

  • Ensuring compliance with Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063

  • Liaising with DAO and MoHA for verification

  • Advising on dual citizenship and property ownership rules

  • Handling appeals in case of rejection

Legal guidance reduces errors, accelerates processing, and ensures smooth citizenship acquisition.

17. Property and Investment Rights for NRNs

NRNs can acquire:

  • Land and property, subject to restrictions on agricultural land.

  • Investment in Nepali companies or startups.

  • Participation in joint ventures and real estate development.

These rights are protected under Section 12 of the Citizenship Act, 2063 and other sector-specific regulations.

18. Digital Submission and Online Verification

Recent amendments allow online application submission:

  • Digital forms available via MoHA portal

  • Uploading of verified documents and photographs

  • Online payment of application fees

  • Real-time status tracking of applications

Digital submission reduces processing delays, ensures transparency, and simplifies document verification.

19. NRN Citizenship for Children Born Abroad

Children of Nepali origin born abroad may acquire NRN citizenship:

  • Must submit birth certificate and parentage documents

  • Parents’ citizenship certificates required

  • Verification of foreign birth records by embassy or consulate

  • Children under 16 may apply with parental consent

This ensures continuity of citizenship across generations.

20. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for NRN citizenship in Nepal 2025?
NRNs of Nepali origin born abroad or residing overseas with proof of Nepali parentage and legal residence are eligible under the Citizenship Act, 2063.

2. What documents are required for NRN citizenship?
Documents include birth certificate, parentage proof, passport, foreign residence documents, NRN registration certificate, photographs, and police clearance.

3. Can NRNs hold dual citizenship?
Nepal generally does not allow full dual citizenship. NRNs may retain foreign residence while complying with Nepalese citizenship laws under Sections 9 and 11.

4. How long does the NRN citizenship process take?
Processing time varies from 30 to 90 days depending on document verification, background checks, and DAO inspection.

5. Can children born abroad obtain NRN citizenship?
Yes, children under 16 born abroad with Nepali parentage can apply with parental consent and proper verification.

6. What are the rights of NRN citizens?
NRNs can own property, invest in businesses, participate in cultural activities, and apply for Nepali passports while maintaining foreign residence.

7. Is legal assistance necessary for NRN citizenship?
Professional assistance ensures accurate documentation, verification compliance, and smooth processing with DAO and MoHA authorities.

Conclusion

Acquiring NRN citizenship in Nepal in 2025 requires adherence to Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063, proper documentation, verification, and compliance with dual citizenship rules. NRN applicants gain legal recognition, property rights, investment opportunities, and continued connection to Nepal. Medha Law and Partners provides complete support for NRNs, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, successful application submission, and acquisition of citizenship while safeguarding rights and obligations.

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