Step-by-Step Guide to Tour & Travel Company Licensing in Nepal
Why Start a Travel Agency in Nepal?
One of the biggest economic activities in Nepal is tourism that has provided opportunities in the areas of trekking, mountaineering, rafting, paragliding and cultural tours. A licensed tour company will also allows you to legally give services such as ticketing, visa processing, trekking packages and international travel bookings.
A tour and travel business in Nepal can be registered either as a Private Limited Company by the Office of Company Registrar (OCR) or by the Department of Cottage and Small Industries (Gharelu Office) office and then obtain a travel license by the Valley Tourism Office. In any case, it is important to note that before proceeding with any journey to Nepal, you must have a valid travel/tourism license. Operating an unlicensed travel agency may lead to stiff fines amounting to up to 25 percent of the annual turnover which is paramount to business sustainability and reputation over time.
Types of Tour & Travel Agencies in Nepal
- Travel Agency – Air ticketing, visa assistance, travel booking.
- Trekking Agency – Hiking and trekking services.
- Tour Operator – Heritage, cultural, and package tours.
- Expedition Agency – High-altitude mountaineering expeditions.
- Adventure/Rafting Agency – Rafting, bungee, paragliding, and more.
Licensing Process for Tour & Travel Agencies in Nepal
Step 1: Choose a Business Structure
Step 2: Reserve a Company Name
Step 3: Register the Company
Step 4: Tax Registration
Step 5: Register with Department of Industry (DOI)
Step 6: Apply for Tourism License
Step 7: Obtain Special Permits (If Required)
Step 8: Local Government Registration
Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account
Step 10: Post-Registration Compliance
Estimated Taxes for Travel Agency Registration in Nepal
- Company Registration (OCR) – NPR 1,000–43,000 (Depends on capital)
- Industry Registration (DOI) – NPR 20,000 (Depends on Capital)
- Tourism License – NPR 25,000 (DoT)
- Bank Guarantee – NPR 500,000 (refundable, 5 years)
Required Documents for Tour & Travel License in Nepal
- Application forms
- Memorandum & Articles of Association (MoA/AoA)
- Citizenship copies of shareholders & directors
- Company registration certificate
- PAN/VAT certificate
- Bank guarantee of NPR 500,000
- Industry registration certificate
- Tax clearance certificate [if applicable]
- Audited financial statements [if applicable]
- Proof of office space
- Staff qualification documents
- Local Government Registration
- Photographs of office & directors
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the content accurate and up to date, rules, fees, and government regulations may change over time. Readers are advised to verify the latest requirements with the relevant government authorities or consult a professional before making business decisions.