What is a Pharmacy?
A pharmacy, as defined by the Nepal Pharmacy Council Act, 2057 (2000), is a licensed establishment where medicines are prepared, compounded, dispensed, and sold under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. In Nepal, pharmacies play a vital role in the healthcare system, serving as primary points of access for medications and health-related products.
Requirements for Pharmacy Registration in Nepal
To register a pharmacy in Nepal, several key requirements must be met:
- Qualified Pharmacist: The pharmacy must be operated under the supervision of a registered pharmacist who holds a valid license from the Nepal Pharmacy Council.
- Premises: The proposed pharmacy location must meet specific standards set by the Department of Drug Administration (DDA) regarding size, layout, and sanitation.
- Equipment and Storage: Adequate equipment for storing and dispensing medications, including refrigeration facilities for temperature-sensitive drugs, must be available.
- Stock Management: A proper system for inventory management and record-keeping of medicines must be in place.
- Compliance with Regulations: The pharmacy must adhere to all relevant laws and regulations, including the Drug Act, 2035 (1978) and its subsequent amendments.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Pharmacy in Nepal
Registering a pharmacy in Nepal is essential to ensure the legal, safe, and ethical operation of medicine sales and distribution. It allows the pharmacy to operate under the supervision and guidelines of the Department of Drug Administration (DDA), which regulates drug quality, pricing, and public safety. A registered pharmacy builds trust with customers and suppliers, allowing access to genuine and approved medicines.
- Registration                                   Â
      Registering with the DDA:
- Register your pharmacy as a company or Firm at the Office of the Company Registrar or at Department of Cottage and Small Industries or at Department of commerce and supply Management.
- Compulsorily register your pharmacy at local ward office.
- Get registered in DDA (Department of Drug Administration)
- Obtain a PAN/VAT registration certificate from the Inland Revenue Department.
- Location Setup and Requirements
Your pharmacy should meet the minimum infrastructure requirements:
- Proper shelving, counters, storage, and refrigeration (for temperature-sensitive medicines)
- Clean and hygienic environment
- Visible pharmacy signage
- Secure storage for narcotic and psychotropic drugs (if applicable)
- Appoint a Qualified Pharmacist
You must have a registered pharmacist or pharmacy assistant:
- Must have a Nepal Pharmacy Council (NPC) license.
- Their license and presence is legally required for the registration and operation of a pharmacy.
- Pharmacist must be provided with Job Appointment letter including remuneration and other facilities if provided (In case if the owner himself is not a NPC License Holder).
- Required Documents
Following are the require documents to be prepared and submit:
          Document | Description |
Application form | Available at DDA office or online at dda.gov.np |
Firm/Company Registration Certificate | From Company Registrar or Department of Cottage and Small Industries or Department of commerce and supply Management. |
 Local Level Registration | Wada office or relevant municipality. |
Rental Agreement or Ownership Proof | Of the pharmacy premises |
Citizenship Certificate | Of the pharmacy owner and land owner (if on Lease) |
Academic Certificate & License of Pharmacist | From Nepal Pharmacy Council and other Academic certificates. |
Photographs | Passport-sized photos of owner and pharmacist (2 copies each) |
Map/Layout of Premises | Showing layout of store and storage areas |
- Taxes to be paid in DDA.
Capital | 0-100000 | 100000-500000 | 500000 Above |
Registration | 1000/- | 2000/- | 5000/- |
Renewal | 500/- | 1000/- | 2500/- |
(Note: changes may apply according Financial Year)
- Submit Application to DDA
- Submit your completed application with all aforementioned documents to the Department of Drug Administration (DDA) office at Babarmahal, Kathmandu, or to Provincial DDA offices if outside the valley. The Required Documents need to be submitted online https://www.dda.gov.np and submitted Documents will be checked and verified by the Officials of DDA for Registration.
- License Issuance
If all documents are valid:
- You will be issued a Pharmacy Operation License.
- This license must be renewed as per Requirement of DDA(as maintained in certificate).
- Follow Post-License Requirements
- Maintain record of all sales.
- Ensure a pharmacist is present during operational hours.
- Display the license and pharmacist’s NPC certificate visibly.
- Comply with storage and record-keeping regulations.
FAQs
Who can open a pharmacy in Nepal?
Any Nepali citizen can open a pharmacy, provided they employ a registered pharmacist to supervise the operations. The owner doesn’t need to be a pharmacist themselves, but must comply with all regulatory requirements.
Which authority registers pharmacies?
The Department of Drug Administration (DDA) is the primary authority responsible for registering pharmacies in Nepal.
What qualifications are needed for pharmacists?
Pharmacists must have a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from a recognized institution and be registered with the Nepal Pharmacy Council after passing the licensing examination.
How long does pharmacy registration take?
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months, depending on the completeness of the application and the efficiency of the regulatory bodies.
What documents are needed for registration?
Key documents include the pharmacy license application form, proof of pharmacist registration, educational certificates, citizenship certificate, premises documents, and various other certificates as detailed in Section IV of this guide.
Is there a fee for pharmacy registration?
Yes, there are several fees involved, including application fees, inspection fees, and annual renewal fees. The total cost can range from NPR 25,000 to 40,000, excluding additional setup costs.
