Foreign Company Branch Registration in Nepal | Complete Guide (2025)
Opening a foreign branch office in Nepal would be a strategic step when international firms would like to increase their business activities in Nepali market. A branch office is an appendix of the parent firm and functions with its name, goals, and financial accountability. It is not regarded as a separate legal entity.The legal framework of the Government of Nepal has to be considered by foreign companies that want to start their work in the country; they have to be authorized by the corresponding authorities and make sure the registration of the branches is carried out.
This is a full-fledged manual developed by Reliable Bizz Solutions that outlines laws, procedures, documents, fees, and compliance requirements to register a branch of a Foreign company in Nepal.
What is a Branch Office in Nepal?
A branch office is an extension of a foreign company that carries out the same business activities as its parent entity. It is suitable for foreign firms planning to conduct specific business activities in Nepal. Key points are:
- It is not a separate legal entity.
- All liabilities are borne by the parent company.
- Must operate strictly within the objectives listed by the parent company.
- Requires approval from the Department of Industry (DOI) and in some cases Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB).
- Nepal allows foreign investment in several industrial and commercial sectors, making branch offices a viable entry point into the Nepali market.
Registering branch office in Nepal
The following procedures are taken in registering branch office:
Time taken to register branch office
It would take a branch office 30 to 45 days to be registered in Nepal. It can sometimes take extra days to get the approval of the concerned government authority.
Required Documents for Foreign Branch Registration in Nepal
The following documents must be submitted:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) & Articles of Association (AOA) of the foreign company + Nepali translation (Notarized).
- Branch Office Registration Application.
- Board Resolution authorizing establishment of the branch office.
- Company Profile (signed).
- Passport copies of all directors (Notarized).
- Nepalese representative’s citizenship certificate (Notarized by a Nepali Notary Public).
- Letter of Appointment for the authorized representative.
- Details on the nature, objectives, and activities of the branch office.
- Power of Attorney authorizing a local representative.
- Declaration confirming the accuracy of all submitted information.
- Approval letter from concerned Nepal Government authority (if applicable).
- Contract or agreement with a Nepali governmental body (if applicable).
- Address of proposed principal place of business in Nepal.
- Proposed commencement date of business operations.
Government Fees:
Government Fee of branch office is based on capital that foreign company wishes to invest in Nepal:
Proposed Investment (NPR) | Registration Fee (NPR) |
Up to 10,000,000 | 15,000 |
From 10,000,001 to 100,000,000 | 40,000 |
From 100,000,001 to 200,000,000 | 70,000 |
From 200,000,001 to 300,000,000 | 100,000 |
From 300,000,001 to 400,000,000 | 130,000 |
From 400,000,001 to 500,000,000 | 160,000 |
Above 500,000,000 | Additional Rs. 3,000 per crore |
If the investment is not disclosed | A lump sum of Rs. 1,00,000.- will be charged. |
Why Choose Reliable Bizz Solutions?
Reliable Bizz Solutions provides a seamless end-to-end service for foreign company branch registration in Nepal—including document preparation, compliance guidance, DOI/NRB approvals, and post-registration support.
We help you:
- Navigate complex legal procedures
- Reduce processing time
- Avoid document errors
- Ensure full compliance with Nepali regulations
Our experts make your branch registration simple, transparent, and hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can a foreign company fully own a branch office in Nepal?
Yes. A branch office is 100% owned by the foreign parent company.
2. Is a branch office a separate legal entity?
No. It is an extension of the foreign company and operates under the same legal responsibility.
3. Can a branch office hire employees in Nepal?
Yes. It can hire both Nepali and foreign employees according to labor laws.
4. Do branch offices need to pay taxes in Nepal?
Yes. Branch offices must pay applicable taxes (corporate tax, VAT, etc.) based on their operations in Nepal.
5. Can a foreign company open multiple branch offices in Nepal?
Yes, but each location may require separate approval depending on the type of business.
6. How long does the registration process take?
Typically 30–45 days, depending on document verification and approvals.
7. What types of businesses are allowed to open branch offices in Nepal?
Industries related to technology, construction, engineering, manufacturing, consulting, aviation, international trading, and other government-approved sectors.
8. Does Reliable Bizz Solutions handle the registration process?
Absolutely! Reliable Bizz Solutions offers full consultancy and processing services for foreign branch registration in Nepal.
DISCLAIMER:
“The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the content accurate and up to date, procedures, requirements, and government regulations may change over time.”