If you are a Nepali living abroad or a foreign citizen with Nepalese ancestry, Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Citizenship is a legal pathway that allows you to enjoy economic, social, and cultural rights in Nepal — even after acquiring foreign citizenship. Introduced through the third amendment to the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006), NRN citizenship bridges the gap between foreign nationality and Nepalese heritage.
This comprehensive guide covers everything about NRN citizenship in Nepal — from the legal framework and eligibility criteria to the step-by-step application process, required documents, fees, property purchase rights, and grounds for cancellation. Whether you are a former Nepalese citizen now holding a foreign passport or a second-generation Nepali born abroad, this guide will help you understand your rights and navigate the process.
The term “Non-Resident Nepali” is legally defined under the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064 (2008). NRNs fall into two distinct categories:
1. Foreign Citizens of Nepalese Origin (FNNOs)
This includes any person who was a citizen of Nepal at any time, or whose father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother held Nepali citizenship, and has subsequently acquired citizenship of a foreign country. However, citizens of SAARC member countries (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, and Afghanistan) are not eligible for NRN status.
2. Nepali Citizens Residing Abroad
If you are a Nepali citizen who has been residing in a foreign country for at least two years for work, business, or any other occupation, you qualify as an NRN. This excludes Nepali citizens residing in SAARC countries, those serving in Nepali diplomatic missions abroad, and students studying at foreign academic institutions.
Understanding which category you fall under is essential because the application process, NRN identity card fees, and validity periods differ between the two groups.
NRN citizenship is a special, non-political citizenship introduced under Section 7A of the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (inserted by the third amendment). It entitles the holder to enjoy economic, social, and cultural rights within Nepal’s territorial jurisdiction. This means NRN citizens can own property, start businesses, invest in Nepal’s economy, and participate in cultural activities.
However, NRN citizenship expressly excludes political and administrative rights. This means NRN citizens cannot:
It is important to understand that NRN citizenship is not dual citizenship. Nepal does not permit dual citizenship. NRN citizenship is a constitutionally recognized special status that allows you to maintain your foreign nationality while exercising specific non-political rights in Nepal.
NRN citizenship is governed by several key legal instruments:
| Law | Key Provision |
|---|---|
| Constitution of Nepal, 2072 (2015) | Article 14 — Provides constitutional basis for NRN citizenship with economic, social, and cultural rights |
| Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006) | Section 7A — Establishes eligibility criteria and application procedures for NRN citizenship |
| Nepal Citizenship Rules, 2063 (2006) | Procedural regulations for citizenship applications including NRN category |
| Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064 (2008) | Defines NRN categories, registration process, and NRN identity card provisions |
| Non-Resident Nepali Rules, 2066 (2009) | Details on NRN ID card fees, validity, property purchase limits, and investment provisions |
The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has been actively advocating for the implementation of these provisions, including the promulgation of proper regulations to ensure NRN citizens can exercise their constitutional rights without administrative hurdles.
Under Section 7A of the Nepal Citizenship Act, NRN citizenship can be acquired by the following persons:
1. Former Nepalese Citizens
Any person who was previously a citizen of Nepal by descent or birth and has subsequently acquired the citizenship of a foreign country (other than a SAARC member country).
2. Foreign Citizens of Nepali Origin
Any person whose father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother was previously a citizen of Nepal by descent or birth, and who has acquired foreign citizenship of a non-SAARC country.
Who is NOT eligible?
This eligibility is particularly relevant for the large Nepali diaspora in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Gulf countries — all non-SAARC nations where significant Nepali populations reside.
There are two channels for applying for NRN citizenship:
A. Direct Application at the District Administration Office (DAO)
You can apply in person at the DAO of the district where your (or your parents’/grandparents’) Nepalese citizenship was originally issued. This is the recommended and faster method. The entire process — from submission to issuance — typically takes 10 to 12 working days when all documentation is in order.
B. Through a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate (Abroad)
If you are living overseas, you can submit your application at a Nepalese embassy or consulate general. The diplomatic mission forwards the application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which then transmits it to the concerned DAO for verification and issuance.
Practical Reality: Despite the legal provision allowing embassy applications, most Nepali embassies and consulates currently advise applicants to apply directly in Nepal at the relevant DAO. Embassy-based applications often face delays and procedural uncertainty. If you cannot travel to Nepal, consider appointing a representative through a power of attorney to handle the process on your behalf.
The documentation requirements depend on whether you need to first renounce your Nepalese citizenship and then apply for NRN citizenship, or if you are applying as a foreign citizen of Nepali origin.
| # | Document | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Application Form | Available at the DAO or Nepalese embassy (Schedule-1, Part B of NRN Rules 2066) |
| 2 | Citizenship Renunciation Certificate | Obtained from the DAO after renouncing Nepalese citizenship (if previously held) |
| 3 | Ward Office Recommendation Letter | From the local Ward Office verifying ancestral connection to Nepal |
| 4 | Commitment Letter | Declaration to abide by Nepal’s Constitution and laws (format available at DAO) |
| 5 | Parents’/Grandparents’ Citizenship Copy | Evidence that father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother was a Nepalese citizen |
| 6 | Foreign Passport and Citizenship Copy | Proof of current foreign citizenship |
| 7 | Proof of Foreign Residence | Utility bill, tenancy contract, or similar document |
| 8 | NRN Card Copy | If previously obtained |
| 9 | Passport-Sized Photos | Recent photographs as required by DAO |
Important: If you previously obtained Nepalese citizenship but failed to submit your original certificate during renunciation, that document must be furnished at the time of applying for NRN citizenship. Incomplete paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays.
The NRN citizenship application process involves eight key steps. If applying directly at the DAO in Nepal, the process takes approximately 10 to 12 working days provided all documentation is complete.
Step 1: Submit Application at the District Administration Office
Begin by submitting your application along with all required documents at the DAO of the district where your (or your ancestors’) citizenship was originally issued.
Step 2: Police Verification Request
The DAO will write a letter to the concerned police office requesting a background check on the applicant. This step is initiated if the CDO (Chief District Officer) has any doubt about the legitimacy or accuracy of the submitted documents.
Step 3: Police Investigation and Report
The police office conducts the necessary investigation and provides its findings to the DAO. This is a standard verification procedure.
Step 4: Obtain Citizenship Renunciation Letter
If you were previously a Nepalese citizen, you must obtain a citizenship renunciation letter from the same DAO that issued your original citizenship. This step confirms you have formally given up your previous Nepalese citizenship.
Step 5: Apply to Ward Office for Recommendation Letter
File an application at the local Ward Office (where your family resides or originates) requesting a recommendation letter for NRN citizenship. This letter verifies your familial and ancestral connection to Nepal.
Step 6: Obtain Recommendation Letter from Ward Office
The Ward Office reviews your application and issues a recommendation letter confirming your ancestral ties. This is a critical document that the DAO requires before processing your NRN citizenship.
Step 7: Identity Verification by Nepalese Relatives at DAO
Two close relatives (or any Nepalese citizens familiar with the applicant) must appear before the DAO to verify your identity and connection to Nepal. This process is called “sanakhat” — a legal affirmation confirming that you are who you claim to be. Additionally, the applicant must take an oath affirming allegiance to Nepal’s Constitution and legal system.
Step 8: Issuance of NRN Citizenship Certificate
Upon successful verification of all documents and completion of the identity verification process, the DAO grants the NRN Citizenship Certificate. Once issued, the certificate remains valid indefinitely, provided there are no disqualifying changes in status.
Separate from NRN citizenship, the Government of Nepal issues an NRN Identity Card under the Non-Resident Nepali Rules, 2066. The fees and validity differ based on your NRN category and country of residence.
| Category | Region | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Citizens of Nepalese Origin | Europe, North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea | USD 500 |
| All other countries | USD 250 | |
| Nepali Citizens Residing Abroad | All countries | USD 50 |
Name Registration Fee: NPR 1,500 if applying in Nepal, or USD 20 if applying abroad (Schedule-2, NRN Rules 2066).
| NRN Category | Maximum Validity | Renewal |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Citizens of Nepalese Origin | 10 years | Submit renewal application before expiry |
| Nepali Citizens Residing Abroad | 2 years | Submit renewal application before expiry |
If your identity card expires without renewal, it is automatically cancelled. To renew, submit an application in the format prescribed in Schedule-6 of the NRN Rules 2066 to the Chief of Mission (if abroad) or the Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (if in Nepal).
One of the most significant benefits of NRN citizenship is the ability to purchase immovable property in Nepal. Under Rule 11 of the Non-Resident Nepali Rules, 2066, foreign citizens of Nepalese origin may purchase land in one region for residential purposes, subject to the following area limits:
| Location | Maximum Area |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu Valley | 2 Ropani |
| Municipalities in Terai Districts | 8 Kattha |
| Other Municipalities (outside Kathmandu & Terai) | 4 Ropani |
| Village Development Committees in Terai | 1 Bigaha |
| All Other Areas | 10 Ropani |
Key conditions for property purchase:
For detailed guidance on property law in Nepal and real estate transactions, consult with a qualified legal professional.
NRN citizenship opens significant investment opportunities in Nepal. Under Section 7 of the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064, NRN citizens can invest in various sectors of Nepal’s economy. Key provisions include:
NRN citizenship is not absolute and can be cancelled under the following circumstances:
It is advisable to retain multiple certified copies of your NRN citizenship certificate and notify local authorities in Nepal when engaging in property or business transactions.
Yes. Former Nepalese citizens who wish to regain full citizenship can do so under Section 11 of the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063. The requirements include:
This is an important option for NRNs who wish to return permanently to Nepal and enjoy full political and administrative rights, including voting and holding public office. For related legal procedures, refer to our guide on civil registration in Nepal.
A common misconception is that NRN citizenship is equivalent to dual citizenship. It is not. Here is how they differ:
| Feature | NRN Citizenship (Nepal) | Dual Citizenship (Other Countries) |
|---|---|---|
| Political Rights | No voting, no public office | Full political rights in both countries |
| Passport | No Nepalese passport | Passports from both countries |
| Property Rights | Limited area (region-wise caps) | Typically unrestricted |
| Economic Rights | Investment, business, employment | Full economic participation |
| Legal Basis | Special constitutional provision | Citizenship law of respective country |
The NRNA has been actively lobbying the Government of Nepal for full dual citizenship rights for NRNs, including advocacy for dissolution of Clause 291 of Nepal’s Constitution, which has restricted the fundamental rights of permanent Non-Resident Nepalis. Until such amendments are made, NRN citizenship remains a special non-political status.
NRN citizenship status has significant implications for family law matters in Nepal. If you are an NRN going through a divorce or need to handle family legal matters in Nepal, your NRN citizenship establishes your legal standing to engage with the Nepalese court system for civil matters.
Many NRNs face situations where they need to file for divorce from abroad or resolve child custody matters in Nepal. Having NRN citizenship, combined with a properly executed power of attorney, allows your legal representative to act on your behalf in Nepalese courts. For comprehensive guidance on immigration law in Nepal, including visa requirements for NRNs, consult with a qualified attorney.
If you apply directly at the concerned District Administration Office (DAO) in Nepal with all documents in order, the entire process from submission to issuance of the NRN citizenship certificate typically takes 10 to 12 working days. Applications through embassies abroad may take significantly longer due to forwarding and procedural delays.
Yes. Under Rule 11 of the Non-Resident Nepali Rules, 2066, foreign citizens of Nepalese origin can purchase land in one region of Nepal for residential purposes. The maximum area allowed depends on the location — for example, up to 2 Ropani in Kathmandu Valley, 8 Kattha in Terai municipalities, and 10 Ropani in other areas. Prior permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is required. For detailed guidance, refer to our guide on property law in Nepal.
NRN citizenship excludes political and administrative rights. NRN citizens cannot vote in elections, run for public office, serve in any government capacity, or obtain a Nepalese passport. NRN citizenship grants only economic, social, and cultural rights within Nepal.
No. Persons holding citizenship of any SAARC member country — including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, and Afghanistan — are explicitly excluded from eligibility for NRN citizenship under the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2064.
The fee depends on your NRN category and country of residence. For foreign citizens of Nepalese origin, the fee is USD 500 for residents of Europe, North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, and USD 250 for residents of other countries. For Nepali citizens residing abroad, the fee is USD 50. For more details on NRN regulations, see our guide on NRN laws in Nepal.
No. Nepal does not permit dual citizenship. NRN citizenship is a special, non-political status that allows you to maintain your foreign nationality while enjoying economic, social, and cultural rights in Nepal. Unlike dual citizenship, it does not grant political rights, voting rights, or the right to hold a Nepalese passport.
Legally, you can submit your application at a Nepalese embassy or consulate. However, in practice, most embassies advise applicants to apply directly at the District Administration Office (DAO) in Nepal. If you cannot travel, you may consider appointing a representative through a power of attorney to handle certain procedural steps.
Yes. If your children meet the eligibility criteria — meaning their father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother was a Nepalese citizen — they can apply for NRN citizenship. They must hold citizenship of a non-SAARC foreign country and provide documentary proof of Nepalese ancestry.
If your NRN identity card expires without renewal, it is automatically cancelled under Rule 6 of the NRN Rules, 2066. You must submit a renewal application before the expiry date. The identity card is valid for a maximum of 10 years for foreign citizens of Nepalese origin and 2 years for Nepali citizens residing abroad.
Key documents include: the application form, citizenship renunciation certificate (if previously a Nepali citizen), Ward Office recommendation letter, commitment letter to abide by Nepal's laws, copies of parents'/grandparents' Nepalese citizenship, foreign passport and citizenship copy, proof of foreign residence, and passport-sized photos. For more on citizenship documentation, see our guide on civil registration in Nepal.
Yes. NRN citizenship can be cancelled if it was acquired through false information or forged documents, or if the holder is convicted of acts threatening Nepal's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national interest.
Yes. Under Section 11 of the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063, former Nepalese citizens can regain full citizenship by formally renouncing their foreign citizenship and applying to the relevant District Administration Office. This restores full political and administrative rights. For related procedures, consult our guide on immigration law in Nepal.
The Ward Office issues a recommendation letter verifying the applicant's ancestral connection to Nepal. This letter confirms that the applicant's family has ties to that particular locality. It is a mandatory document required by the DAO before processing the NRN citizenship application.
Persons eligible for the NRN identity card are exempt from paying visa fees for Nepal under Rule 11(6) of the NRN Rules, 2066. However, as a foreign passport holder, you still need to enter Nepal through proper immigration channels. For comprehensive visa and entry information, see our guide on immigration law in Nepal.
Yes. NRN citizens can invest in Nepal and repatriate their investment along with equivalent profits to their country of residence. This requires providing proof of investment permission, tax clearance certificate, audited balance sheets, and a declaration of no outstanding liabilities in Nepal, as prescribed under Rule 10 of the NRN Rules, 2066.
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