This Article provides an updated guide for obtaining Business Visa in Nepal along with its renewal for investors. It covers the procedure, time, & documents.
What is a Business Visa?
A business visa is a type of non-tourist visa issued to foreign investors and business persons who wish to engage in business activities in Nepal. According to Rule 9 of the Immigration Regulation 1994, a business visa allows foreigners to make investments in industrial or commercial sectors within Nepal or serve as authorized representatives of such enterprises. It also permits foreigners to make investments for export trade from Nepal.
Is a Business Visa compulsory in Nepal?
A business visa is compulsory for foreign nationals who intend to carry out business activities or make investments in Nepal. As per Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1992, no foreigner is allowed to enter and stay in Nepal without holding a valid visa. Engaging in business activities on a tourist or other category of visa is prohibited under Nepalese law.
Requirements to obtain a Business Visa in Nepal
To obtain a business visa for Nepal, applicants must fulfill the following key requirements:
- Make an approved investment in an industrial or commercial enterprise in Nepal
- Obtain recommendation from the relevant government agency (e.g. Department of Industry)
- Register a company in Nepal (if applicable)
- Obtain necessary business licenses and permits
- Submit required documentation to the Department of Immigration
The specific requirements may vary depending on the nature and scale of the proposed business activity or investment. Consulting with the Department of Immigration and relevant government agencies is advisable to understand the precise requirements in individual cases.
Is investment necessary to obtain a Business Visa?
Yes, making an investment in Nepal is necessary to qualify for a business visa in most cases. As per Rule 9 of the Immigration Regulation, business visas are granted to:
- Foreigners permitted to make investments in industrial or commercial sectors within Nepal
- Authorized representatives of such industrial or commercial enterprises
- Foreigners permitted to make investments for export trade from Nepal
The investment amount and nature may vary based on the specific business category. Consulting the Department of Industry and Department of Immigration can provide clarity on the minimum investment requirements for different business activities.
Who provides the Business Visa in Nepal?
The Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Home Affairs is the authority responsible for issuing business visas in Nepal. As per Rule 12 of the Immigration Regulation, the Director General of the Department of Immigration has the authority to issue and renew business visas.
How to obtain a Business Visa for Nepal?
The Steps to obtain Business Visa in Nepal are:
- Register company and obtain necessary business licenses/permits
- Make approved investment
- Obtain recommendation from relevant government agency
- Apply for business visa at Department of Immigration
- Pay applicable visa fees
- Receive business visa approval
Business Visa Process in Nepal
Step 1: Submit an Application to the Department of Immigration
Step 2: Obtain Letter of Recommendation from Department of Industry
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Step 4: Inspection of the Industry
Step 5: Issuance of Business Visa by the Immigration Department
Step 1: Submit an Application to the Department of Immigration
The first step in the business visa process is to submit an initial application to the Department of Immigration. This application serves as a formal request to begin the business visa process and alerts the department of your intention to invest and conduct business activities in Nepal.
To complete this step:
- Fill out the prescribed business visa application form, available from the Department of Immigration or their official website.
- Include basic details about yourself, your proposed business activities, and intended investment.
- Submit the completed form to the Non-Tourist Visa section of the Department of Immigration.
The department will review your initial application and provide guidance on next steps, including which additional documents and approvals will be required for your specific case.
Step 2: Obtain Letter of Recommendation from Department of Industry
After submitting your initial application, you’ll need to obtain a recommendation letter from the Department of Industry. This letter is a critical component of your business visa application, as it validates your proposed business activities and investment plans.
To obtain this recommendation:
- Prepare a detailed business plan outlining your proposed activities, investment amount, and potential economic impact.
- Gather supporting documents such as company registration certificates, financial statements, and any existing business licenses.
- Submit these documents along with a formal request for recommendation to the Department of Industry.
- The department will review your proposal and may request additional information or clarifications.
- If approved, they will issue an official letter of recommendation for your business visa application.
This step may take several weeks, depending on the complexity of your business proposal and the department’s current workload. It’s advisable to follow up regularly on the status of your request.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Once you have obtained the recommendation letter, you’ll need to compile and submit a comprehensive set of documents to the Department of Immigration. This documentation serves to verify your identity, investment, and business plans.
The required documents typically include:
- Completed business visa application form
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Letter of recommendation from the Department of Industry
- Company registration certificate from the Office of the Company Registrar
- Tax registration certificate (PAN/VAT)
- Evidence of investment (e.g. share certificates, bank statements showing fund transfers)
- Business plan and project proposal
- Appointment letter or board resolution (for company representatives)
- Any additional sector-specific licenses or permits
Ensure all documents are complete and properly certified where required. The Department of Immigration may request additional documentation based on your specific circumstances.
Step 4: Inspection of the Industry
After submitting your documents, the Department of Immigration, often in coordination with other relevant government agencies, may conduct an inspection of your business premises or proposed industrial site. This step is to verify the authenticity of your business operations and ensure compliance with Nepalese laws and regulations.
During this inspection:
- Officials may visit your office, factory, or project site.
- They will check if the physical setup matches the details provided in your application and business plan.
- You may be asked to provide additional documentation or clarifications about your business operations.
- The inspection team will prepare a report on their findings, which will be considered in the final visa decision.
Be prepared to facilitate this inspection and provide any requested information promptly to avoid delays in the visa process.
Step 5: Issuance of Business Visa by the Immigration Department
Following the successful completion of all previous steps and a favorable inspection report, the Department of Immigration will make a final decision on your business visa application.
Documents required to obtain a Business Visa in Nepal
The key documents required for a business visa application include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Company registration certificate
- Business license/permit
- Recommendation letter from relevant government agency
- Evidence of investment (e.g. share certificates)
- Tax registration certificate (PAN/VAT)
- Appointment letter (for company representatives)
- Bank statements/financial documents
Additional documents may be required based on the specific business category and investment nature. Verifying exact requirements with the Department of Immigration is advisable.
Also Read: Work Visa Process in Nepal
Government fees for obtaining a Business Visa
As per Schedule 9 of the Immigration Regulation, the fees for business visas are:
- NPR equivalent of USD 100 for visa valid up to 1 year
- NPR equivalent of USD 300 for 5-year multiple entry visa
Additional fees apply for single/multiple re-entry facilities. The exact fee may vary based on the visa duration. Fees are subject to change, so verifying current rates with the Department of Immigration is recommended.
Approximate time taken to obtain a Business Visa
The processing time for business visas can vary depending on the completeness of documentation and workload of authorities. Generally, it takes about 2-4 weeks from submission of a complete application to receive the business visa approval. Complex cases may take longer. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee in some cases.
Time validity of a Business Visa
As per Rule 9 of the Immigration Regulation, business visas can be issued for a maximum period of 5 years at a time. The actual validity granted depends on factors like the nature of business, scale of investment, recommendation of the concerned agency etc. Typically, initial visas are issued for 1-2 years, which can be renewed/extended further.
Can a Business Visa be renewed?
Yes, business visas can be renewed or extended as per Rule 9 of the Immigration Regulation. Renewals are granted based on the continuation of the approved business activities and fulfillment of visa conditions. There is no limit specified on the number of renewals, as long as the business remains operational and visa requirements are met.
Business Visa Process from Nepal
Procedure for renewing a Business Visa in Nepal
The key steps for business visa renewal are:
- Submit renewal application to Department of Immigration before visa expiry
- Provide updated recommendation from relevant agency
- Submit company documents, tax clearance certificates etc.
- Pay applicable renewal fees
- Biometric verification (if applicable)
- Receive renewed visa
Documents required for Business Visa renewal
Key documents typically required include:
- Completed renewal application form
- Valid passport
- Existing business visa
- Updated recommendation letter
- Tax clearance certificate
- Company renewal documents
- Bank statements/financial documents
- Progress report of business activities
Government fees for Business Visa renewal
The renewal fees as per Schedule 9 of the Immigration Regulation are:
- NPR equivalent of USD 100 for renewal up to 1 year
- NPR equivalent of USD 300 for 5-year renewal
Additional fees apply for re-entry facilities. Verifying current applicable fees with the Department of Immigration is advisable.
Time taken for Business Visa renewal
Renewal processing typically takes 1-2 weeks if all required documents are in order. Complex cases or those requiring additional verification may take longer. Applying well before the existing visa expiry is recommended to avoid any issues.
Laws governing Business Visas in Nepal
The key laws and regulations governing business visas in Nepal are:
- Immigration Act, 1992
- Immigration Regulation, 1994
- Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2019
- Industrial Enterprises Act, 2020
These laws provide the legal framework for entry, stay and business activities of foreign nationals in Nepal. Understanding the relevant provisions is essential for compliance.
Authorities governing issuance of Business Visa
The key authorities involved in business visa issuance and regulation are:
- Department of Immigration (visa issuing authority)
- Ministry of Home Affairs (oversees immigration)
- Department of Industry (for industrial investments)
- Department of Commerce (for commercial/trading activities)
- Nepal Rastra Bank (for monitoring foreign investments)
Coordination between these agencies is involved in the business visa process.
Conclusion
Obtaining a business visa is an essential requirement for foreign nationals looking to invest and conduct business activities in Nepal. While the process involves multiple steps and documentation, it provides a legal pathway for foreign investment in the country. Careful adherence to visa regulations and timely renewals are important for maintaining legal status. As procedures may be subject to change, consulting the Department of Immigration and seeking professional assistance when needed is advisable for a smooth visa application process.
FAQs
How to get a Business Visa in Nepal?
To get a business visa for Nepal, register your company, make the required investment, obtain recommendation from the relevant government agency, and apply at the Department of Immigration with necessary documents. The process involves coordinating with multiple agencies and can take 2-4 weeks typically for approval.
How much does Business Visa cost in Nepal?
The business visa fee is NPR equivalent of USD 100 for up to 1 year and USD 300 for a 5-year visa. Additional charges apply for re-entry facilities. Fees are subject to change, so verifying current rates with the Department of Immigration is recommended before applying.
How long does a Nepal Visa take?
The Processing Time for Visas in Nepal generally takes 3-15 Days from the submission of the application. Generally, the timeframe covers most cases but it is recommended to apply in advance and consult a Lawyer for regular Follow-ups.
Is Business Visa compulsory to enter Nepal?
A business visa is compulsory for foreign nationals intending to conduct business activities or make investments in Nepal. Engaging in business on a tourist or other visa category is not permitted. Proper business visa must be obtained before commencing any commercial activities in the country.
How can investors visit Nepal?
Investors can visit Nepal on a tourist visa initially for preliminary market research and meetings. For active business engagement, a proper business visa must be obtained by registering a company, making approved investments, and applying through the Department of Immigration with necessary documentation and agency recommendations.
Can a foreigner own a business in Nepal?
Yes, foreigners can own businesses in Nepal, subject to certain restrictions in some sectors. Foreign investment is allowed in most industries, either fully or partially. Proper business registration, investment approvals, and business visas are required. Consulting relevant authorities on specific business ownership regulations is advisable.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and shall not be construed as legal advice, advertisement, personal communication, solicitation or inducement of any sort from the firm or any of its members. The law office shall not be liable for consequences arising out of any action undertaken by any person relying on the information provided herein.