Business Visa Process in Nepal

Introduction to Business Visa Process in Nepal

A business visa in Nepal is a crucial requirement for foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and business representatives looking to invest, establish, or operate businesses in the country. Unlike other types of visas, a business visa provides long-term residency and multiple re-entry facilities, making it a preferred option for investors who wish to actively engage in Nepal’s economy. Understanding the Business Visa Process in Nepal is essential for a smooth application.

Business visas are granted based on the level of investment, industry registration, and compliance with Nepalese laws. They can be issued for at least one month and up to five years at a time, depending on the applicant’s eligibility and investment amount. The Business Visa Process in Nepal is streamlined for qualifying applicants.

Legal Framework Governing Business Visa in Nepal

The Immigration Act, 1992 sets out the basic rules for foreigners entering, staying, and getting visas. The Immigration Rules, 1994 explain the different types of visas and the detailed process to apply for them. The Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2019 focuses on how foreign investors can invest in Nepal, transfer technology, and operate businesses, which is also relevant in the Business Visa Process in Nepal.

Immigration Act, 1992	Defines entry, stay, and visa requirements for foreigners.
Immigration Rules, 1994	Provides visa classifications and detailed rules
Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2019	Governs foreign investments and related procedures.

Who Needs a Business Visa in Nepal?

Business visas are designed for:

• Foreigners approved to invest in any trade or industry in Nepal.
• Authorized representatives of businesses established in Nepal.
• Foreigners engaged in export-oriented trade.
• Buyers and exporters purchasing goods manufactured in Nepal.

Note: Indian nationals do not require a business visa to work or invest in Nepal, thanks to the special bilateral treaty between Nepal and India.

Benefits of Business Visa in Nepal

A business visa in Nepal offers several advantages for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. It provides multiple re-entry, meaning holders can freely travel in and out of Nepal during the visa period. The visa also supports long-term stays, with options of up to five years, which saves time and effort compared to frequent renewals. Most importantly, the business visa system is designed to encourage foreign direct investment (FDI) by making it easier for investors to establish and grow their businesses in Nepal.

Multiple Re-entry Facility	Unlike tourist visas, a business visa allows unlimited entry and exit during its validity.
Long-Term Stay	Investors can apply for up to five years, reducing the hassle of frequent renewals.
Encourages FDI	The business visa framework is designed to attract foreign direct and indirect investments.

Authorities Responsible for Business Visa

Two main government bodies handle business visas in Nepal. The Department of Industry (DOI) is responsible for inspecting the business or industry and issuing a recommendation letter. Based on this recommendation, the Department of Immigration issues, regulates, and renews the business visa.

Department of Industry (DOI)	Issues recommendation letters after inspection of the industry.
Department of Immigration	Issues, regulates, and renews the business visa based on DOI recommendations.

Procedure to Obtain a Business Visa in Nepal

The process for obtaining a business visa in Nepal generally starts with the incorporation of a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) companyand moves through several legal and administrative steps. Here’s the detailed breakdown:

Step 1. Incorporation of FDI Company
The applicant must first establish a company in Nepal under the Company Act, 2006 and obtain approval for foreign direct investment from the Department of Industry (DOI) or the Investment Board Nepal (IBN), depending on the scale of the investment.

Step 2. Prepare Necessary Documents
After incorporation, gather all required documents such as the company registration certificate, industry registration, PAN/VAT certificate, tax clearance certificate, foreign investment approval, shareholder details, and supporting financial documents.

Step 3. Submit Application Online
Complete the online visa application form and upload the necessary details. Submit the application to the Department of Industry (DOI) or the concerned government agency handling your type of business or industry.

Step 4. Receive Recommendation from DOI
The DOI carefully reviews the submitted application and documents. If all requirements are met, it issues a recommendation letter confirming the applicant’s eligibility for a business visa.

Step 5. Inspection of Business or Industry
Before finalizing the recommendation, the DOI may conduct a field inspection of the company or industry to confirm that the business is operational and complies with investment regulations.

Step 6. Submit Application to Immigration Department
With the DOI recommendation letter in hand, the applicant must apply to the Department of Immigration, submitting the complete set of documents for visa processing.

Step 7. Visa Issuance and Collection
The Department of Immigration verifies the documents and recommendation. Once approved, the business visa is issued. The visa can be collected by the applicant and is valid for a minimum of one month and up to five years, with multiple re-entry facilities.

 Required Documents for Business Visa Application

To obtain a business visa, applicants must submit several documents:

• Recommendation letter from DOI
• Bio-data (for first-time applicants)
• Certificate of Industry Registration
• Approval letter for foreign investment
• Copy of Company Registration Certificate
• PAN/VAT certificate
• Tax clearance certificate
• Share certificates and shareholder register
• Passport copy with valid visa
• Industry Monitoring and Supervision Report
• Progress report and audit report

Business Visa Fee Structure in Nepal

Investment Amount	1 Month	1 Year	5 years
Less than NPR 10 Million	$35	$400	$1000
More than NPR 10 Million	$20	$200	$500
More than NPR 100 Million	No Charges	No Charges	No Charges

Timeline for Obtaining a Business Visa

Process	EstimatedTime
Preparation of required documents (company registration, PAN/VAT, tax clearance, shareholder details, etc.)	1–2 weeks
Submission of online application to DOI or relevant line agency	1–3 days
Initial review of documents by DOI	1 week
Industry/business inspection by DOI (if required)	1–2 weeks
Issuance of recommendation letter by DOI	3–4 weeks (tentative)
Submission of documents to Immigration Department	1–2 days
Processing by Immigration Department	3–5 working days
Final issuance of business visa

Validity of Business Visa in Nepal

Minimum Validity	1 Month	Short-term option, often used for trial investments or initial visits.
Maximum Validity	5 Years	Long-term visa with multiple re-entry facilities, ideal for major investors.
General Practice	3 Months – 1 Year	Most business visas are issued for one year and renewed annually.

Important Notes for Investors

• If investment exceeds NPR 10 million, shareholding details are mandatory.
• All businesses must be up to date with tax clearance certificates.
• Renewal requires submission of progress reports and audit statements.

Tips for Smooth Visa Processing

• Keep company registration and tax compliance up to date.
• Maintain accurate shareholder and financial records.
• Hire a professional legal or immigration consultant to avoid delays.

Conclusion

Business visa allows foreign investors to stay in Nepal for an extended period, travel in and out as needed, and focus on developing their business. By complying with legal requirements, keeping company records and tax filings current, and working with the Department of Industry and the Immigration Office, applicants can obtain a visa valid for up to five years. For serious investors, this visa provides access to business opportunities in Nepal’s growing market.

At Axion Partners Pvt. Ltd., we support you throughout the entire business visa process in Nepal. Our services include preparing the required documents, obtaining approvals from the Department of Industry, managing inspections, and coordinating with the Immigration Department for the final visa issuance. With our knowledge in investment and legal compliance, you can concentrate on achieving your business goals while we handle the complex procedures on your behalf.