Guide to Residency in Nepal

Obtaining a residency visa in Nepal is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Nepal gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research Nepal's residency requirements
  • Visit the official website of the Department of Immigration Nepal at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/ for detailed information on residency requirements.
  • Understand the different types of visas and residency permits available, such as business, student, work, marriage, or family visas.
• Prepare necessary documentation
  • Gather personal documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and any other identification.
  • Obtain a police clearance certificate from your home country to prove you have no criminal record.
  • Get a health certificate from a recognized medical institution to prove you are in good health.
• Apply for a visa
  • Choose the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of stay.
  • Complete the visa application form, which can be found on the Department of Immigration's website.
  • Submit the visa application along with the required documents to the nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate, or apply online if available.
• Enter Nepal
  • Once your visa is approved, travel to Nepal and ensure you have all your documents ready for presentation at the port of entry.
  • Keep copies of your visa and passport in a safe place in case of loss or theft.
• Apply for residency status
  • Visit the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or its regional offices to apply for residency.
  • Fill out the residency application form and submit it along with your visa, passport, and other required documents.
  • Pay the applicable residency permit fee, which varies depending on the type of residency you are applying for.
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Visit the Inland Revenue Department's website at http://www.ird.gov.np/ for information on obtaining a TIN.
  • Complete the TIN application form, which can be downloaded from the website or obtained from a tax office.
  • Submit the completed form along with your identification documents to the nearest tax office.
• Open a local bank account
  • Choose a bank with good international services and a reputation for serving expatriates.
  • Visit the bank in person with your passport, visa, proof of address in Nepal, and any other required documents.
  • Complete the account opening forms and deposit the minimum required balance if applicable.
• Register with the local authorities
  • Depending on your area of residence, register with the local ward office (Ward Karyalaya) or municipality.
  • Provide your personal details, address in Nepal, and purpose of stay.
  • Obtain a certificate of registration, which may be required for various services and formalities in Nepal.
• Comply with ongoing residency requirements
  • Renew your residency permit as required, usually on an annual basis.
  • Keep your documents up to date, including your passport, visa, and residency permit.
  • Stay informed about any changes in immigration laws that may affect your residency status.

Please note that the process for obtaining residency status in Nepal may change, and it is important to consult the latest information from official sources or seek assistance from an immigration lawyer or consultant.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Nepal?

"To enter Nepal, visitors must obtain a visa from a Nepalese embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting a completed visa application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and the applicable visa fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Nepal, applicants must submit a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and the applicable fee. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. The application must be submitted to the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. After the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residency permit," commented one member living in Nepal.