This guide explains the process of obtaining a business visa with IT company in Nepal, including requirements, procedures, costs, and timelines in 2026.
The process of business visa with IT company in Nepal involves multiple government agencies and legal requirements. Foreign investors must obtain FDI approval from the Department of Industry before establishing their IT company. The Office of Company Registrar handles company registration procedures. The Department of Immigration issues business visas to foreign nationals.
The entire procedure typically takes 6-15 working days. Foreign investors need proper documentation and physical presence in Nepal. Business visa validity ranges from 3 months to one year. Renewal procedures require business site inspection and immigration review.
Step-By-Step Process for Business Visa
Step 1: Submit FDI approval application to Department of Industry with project proposal and investment details for IT company establishment.
Step 2: Draft Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association according to Companies Act requirements for private limited company formation.
Step 3: Register company at Office of Company Registrar with complete documentation including AOA, MOA, and shareholder details.
Step 4: Apply for business visa at Department of Immigration with company registration certificate and personal documents.
Step 5: Attend immigration interview and provide biometric data for business visa processing and verification.
Step 6: Receive business visa approval and collect visa stamp from Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu.
What Is Business Visa with IT Company in Nepal?
A business visa with IT company in Nepal is a legal authorization for foreign nationals to establish and operate information technology businesses. This visa category allows foreigners to invest in Nepal’s IT sector. The visa connects directly to company ownership and management responsibilities.
The Department of Immigration issues business visas under the Immigration Act. Foreign investors must register a private limited company first. The company must have valid FDI approval from government authorities. Business visa holders can legally reside and work in Nepal.
IT companies receive special consideration under Nepal’s foreign investment policies. Business visa validity depends on investment amount and business operations. Visa holders must maintain active business operations throughout their stay.
Foreign nationals cannot obtain business visas without registered companies. The visa status remains tied to company registration status. Proper compliance ensures continuous visa validity and business operations.
Where To Obtain Business Visa with IT Company in Nepal?
Foreign investors must visit three primary government offices for business visa processing. The Department of Industry located in Kathmandu handles FDI approval applications. This office operates under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies.
The Office of Company Registrar processes all company registration applications. This office maintains records of all registered companies in Nepal. Company registration must be completed before visa application. The OCR office is located in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu. Online services are available through the official OCR portal at https://www.ocr.gov.np.
The Department of Immigration issues business visas to approved foreign investors. Immigration offices operate in Kathmandu and major border entry points. The main immigration office is located in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. Applicants must appear personally for biometric data collection. The official immigration website is https://www.immigration.gov.np for information and updates.
What Are the Requirements for Business Visa with IT Company?
The applicant must be a foreign national with valid passport. The foreign investor must form a private limited company structure. Individual presence in Nepal is mandatory during application process.
- A registered IT company with FDI approval is essential. The company must have clear business objectives and operations plan.
- Personal documentation includes passport copies and photographs. Family details of the investor must be provided. A project proposal outlining IT business activities is required.
- Physical presence in Nepal during visa application is compulsory. The applicant cannot apply from outside Nepal for initial business visa.
How To Obtain Business Visa with IT Company in Nepal?
- Step 1: Obtaining FDI Approval from Department of Industry
- Step 2: Drafting Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association
- Step 3: Registration of Company at Office of Company Registrar
- Step 4: Applying for Business Visa at Department of Immigration
- Step 6: Approval and Obtaining Business Visa
Step 1: Obtaining FDI Approval from Department of Industry
Visit the Department of Industry with your project proposal and investment details. Submit the FDI application form with all required attachments. The application must include detailed business plan for IT company. Provide information about technology services and investment amount.
The DOI reviews applications within 2 working days typically. Pay the required government fees for FDI processing. Receive FDI approval certificate upon successful review. This certificate is mandatory for subsequent company registration. Keep multiple copies of FDI approval for future procedures.
The approval validates your foreign investment in Nepal’s IT sector. You can check application status through the DOI website at https://www.doi.gov.np.
Step 2: Drafting Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association
Hire a qualified legal professional to draft company documents. The AOA defines internal management rules and procedures. The MOA outlines company objectives and capital structure. Both documents must comply with Companies Act 2063. Include details about shareholders, directors, and share distribution. Specify the IT services your company will provide.
The documents must be printed on legal paper. All shareholders must sign the AOA and MOA. Notarize the documents at authorized notary offices. These documents form the legal foundation of your company. Proper drafting prevents future legal complications and disputes.
Step 3: Registration of Company at Office of Company Registrar
Submit company registration application to OCR with complete documentation. Provide the drafted AOA and MOA with signatures. Include FDI approval certificate and shareholder details. Pay the government registration fee of NPR 9,500. The OCR verifies all submitted documents for compliance.
Company name availability is checked in the registry. Registration typically completes within 1-3 working days. Receive the company registration certificate upon approval. The certificate proves legal existence of your IT company. Obtain certified copies for immigration and tax purposes.
Register for PAN and VAT at Inland Revenue Department. The company must maintain registered office address in Nepal.
Step 4: Applying for Business Visa at Department of Immigration
Visit the Department of Immigration with company registration certificate. Complete the business visa application form accurately. Submit your passport with minimum six months validity. Provide passport-size photographs as per specifications. Include company registration certificate and FDI approval.
Present your project proposal and investment documentation. Pay the business visa fee of USD 35 per month. The immigration officer may conduct preliminary interview. Provide details about your IT business operations. Submit proof of accommodation in Nepal.
The application undergoes security and background verification. Processing typically takes 3-5 working days for completion.
Step 6: Approval and Obtaining Business Visa
Receive notification of business visa approval from immigration. Pay any remaining fees or charges if applicable. Collect your passport with business visa stamp. Verify all details on the visa are correct. The visa specifies validity period and conditions.
Business visa allows multiple entries during validity period. Maintain copies of visa for your records. Register with local authorities if staying long-term. Keep your company operations active and compliant. The visa permits legal residence and business activities.
What Documents Are Required for Business Visa with IT Company?
The Documents Required for Business Visa with IT Company are:
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Passport-size photographs (recent color photographs)
- Company registration certificate from Office of Company Registrar
- FDI approval certificate from Department of Industry
- Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association
- Project proposal detailing IT business activities
- Personal investor profile and resume
- Family details of the investor
- Business plan with revenue projections
Business Visa Processing Timeline Comparison
The following table shows processing times at different government departments for business visa with IT company in Nepal:
| Department/Office | Process | Standard Timeline | Required Documents | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Department of Industry | FDI Approval | 2 Working Days | Project Proposal, Investment Details | Varies by Investment |
| Office of Company Registrar | Company Registration | 1–3 Working Days | AOA, MOA, FDI Certificate | NPR 9,500 |
| Department of Immigration | Business Visa Application | 3–5 Working Days | Company Certificate, Passport | USD 35/Month |
| Inland Revenue Department | Tax Registration | 1–2 Working Days | Company Documents, Application | Free |
| Local Municipality | Business License | 2–3 Working Days | Company Registration, Location Proof | Varies by Location |
| Total Processing Time | Complete Process | 6–15 Working Days | All Above Documents | Approximately USD 200 |
How Long Is Business Visa Valid in Nepal?
Business Visa in Nepal for IT Companies is usually valid for three to six months and it can be extended on basis of operation of the company.
- Initial business visa is typically issued for 3 months duration
- Visa can be extended to 6 months based on business progress
- One-year validity is available for established IT companies
- Renewal is mandatory before visa expiration date
- Maximum continuous stay depends on immigration regulations
- Multiple entry facility is included in business visa
- Extension applications must be submitted 15 days before expiry
- Long-term visas require proof of business operations
What Are the Costs for Business Visa with IT Company?
The total cost includes government fees, professional charges, and operational expenses. Below is the detailed cost breakdown:
| Cost Category | Description | Amount (NPR) | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| FDI Approval Fee | Department of Industry processing | N/A | N/A |
| Company Registration | OCR government fee | 9,500 | 80 |
| Business Visa Fee | Per month charge | 4,200 | 35 |
| Tax Registration | PAN/VAT registration | Free | Free |
| Total Estimated Cost | For 3-month visa | 22,100 | 150 |
What Are the Renewal Process Requirements?
The Process of Renewing Business Visa in Nepal are:
- Step 1: Inspection of Business Site
- Step 2: Review of Business by Immigration
- Step 3: Approval from DOI for Renewal
- Step 4: Approval from Immigration for Renewal
What Laws Govern Business Visa with IT Company?
Several legal frameworks regulate business visa and IT company operations in Nepal.
- Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act 2075 governs FDI
- Companies Act 2063 regulates company registration and operations
- Immigration Act 2049 and Immigration Regulations 2051 control visa issuance
- Company Regulations 2064 detail registration procedures
- All laws are available at http://www.lawcommission.gov.np
What Types of Business Visas Are Available?
Different business visa categories serve various investment purposes. The Department of Immigration issues specific visa types based on business nature.
| Visa Type | Duration | Purpose | Investment Required | Renewal Options | Special Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Business Visa | 3 Months | Initial business setup | Minimum as per FDI | Yes, multiple times | Must show business progress |
| Long-Term Business Visa | 6–12 Months | Established operations | Substantial investment | Annual renewal | Requires active business |
| Non-Operative Business Visa | 3–6 Months | Business exploration | Minimal | Limited renewals | Cannot conduct full operations |
| Multiple Entry Business Visa | As per validity | Frequent travel needs | Standard requirements | With main visa | Allows unlimited entries |
What Benefits Come with Business Visa for IT Company?
Business visa holders enjoy several advantages under Nepal’s investment policies. The government provides incentives to attract foreign IT investment.
- Legal authorization to establish and operate an IT company in Nepal, including hiring local and foreign employees, accessing banking services, and participating in government IT projects.
- Flexible mobility and residence benefits, including multiple entry/exit privileges, eligibility for long-term residence based on investment, and dependent visas for family members.
- Business and financial advantages such as tax incentives for the technology sector, permission to repatriate profits after tax compliance, and comparatively lower operational costs.
- Market access and strategic positioning through entry into Nepal’s growing IT industry, networking with local stakeholders, and leveraging Nepal as a gateway to South Asian markets.
- Government facilitation and regulatory support, including simplified procedures for technology transfer, collaboration opportunities, and assistance through Department of Industry programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum investment for business visa in Nepal?
The minimum investment varies by business type and sector. IT companies typically require USD 50,000 minimum foreign investment. The Department of Industry specifies exact amounts based on project proposal. Higher investment amounts may qualify for longer visa validity periods.
How long does business visa processing take?
Step 1: FDI approval takes 2 working days. Step 2: Company registration requires 1-3 working days. Step 3: Business visa processing needs 3-5 working days. Step 4: Total process completes in 6-15 working days approximately.
Can I apply for business visa from outside Nepal?
No, physical presence in Nepal is mandatory for business visa application. You must enter Nepal on tourist visa first. Complete company registration while in Nepal. Then apply for business visa conversion at Department of Immigration.
What happens if my business visa expires?
Step 1: Submit renewal application before expiration date. Step 2: Pay applicable overstay fines if expired. Step 3: Provide explanation for delay to immigration. Step 4: Complete renewal process with updated documents.
How much does business visa cost monthly?
The business visa fee is USD 35 per month. Three-month visa costs USD 105 total. Six-month visa requires USD 210 payment. One-year visa costs USD 420 in visa fees alone.
What documents prove business operations for renewal?
- Company tax clearance certificate
- Employee salary payment records
- Bank transaction statements
- Office lease agreement
- Business activity photographs
- Client contracts or agreements
- Financial audit reports
- Updated project progress report
Can family members accompany on business visa?
Yes, dependent visas are available for family members. Spouse and children can obtain dependent visa status. Submit marriage certificate and birth certificates as proof. Dependent visa validity matches primary business visa duration.
Is business visa renewable indefinitely?
Renewals depend on active business operations and compliance. Immigration reviews each renewal application thoroughly. Continuous compliance allows multiple renewals. However, immigration may impose maximum duration limits.
What if my IT company closes?
Step 1: Inform Department of Immigration immediately. Step 2: Complete company closure procedures at OCR. Step 3: Settle all tax obligations and dues. Step 4: Exit Nepal or convert to different visa category.
Where can I check my visa application status?
Visit the Department of Immigration website at https://www.immigration.gov.np regularly. Contact immigration office directly by phone. Visit the office in person for status updates. Application reference number helps track processing status efficiently.
