Business Visa in Nepal: Eligibility, Procedure, and Required Documents

Nepal offers a range of visa categories to accommodate various purposes of travel, one of which is the Business Visa, specifically designed to facilitate foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals engaged in business-related activities. The business visa plays a vital role in promoting foreign investment, trade, and economic collaboration in Nepal. Administered by the Department of Immigration under the Ministry of Home Affairs, this visa allows eligible foreign nationals to conduct feasibility studies, explore business opportunities, establish industries, or expand existing business ventures.

According to Nepal’s immigration laws, a business visa can be granted to individuals who have obtained permission from the concerned government agency to invest or operate businesses in Nepal. This visa may be issued for a short-term or long-term basis depending on the nature and scope of the business. It is typically granted to company executives, investors, and authorized representatives of foreign firms. The visa also covers their family members under specific provisions.

The business visa policy in Nepal aligns with the government’s goal of creating a favorable environment for investment and economic growth. By simplifying entry procedures and offering incentives for investors, Nepal seeks to attract foreign capital, enhance industrial development, and integrate its economy more actively into the global market.

Legal Instrument mentioning Business Visa in Nepal

• 1. Immigration Act, 1992 ,and
• 2. Immigration Rules, 1994
• 3. Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2019

Indian citizens are exempt; no visa is required. They can enter and reside in Nepal under the Indo-Nepal Treaty of 1950, carrying either an Indian passport or a Voter ID card. All non-Indian foreign visitors must have a visa. Most can obtain a Tourist Visa either before arrival via embassies or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or land border points.

Types of Visa available in Nepal

1. Tourist Visa

2. Non-Tourist Visa

For individuals not classified under tourists, such as volunteers, workers, or those with government or non-governmental missions.

People affiliated with INGOs, NGOs, diplomatic missions, and family members of non-tourist visa holders are issued a non tourist visa.

3. Business Visa

It is issued for foreign investors, businesspersons, and authorized representatives.

Requires an eligibility such as investment approval or company registration in Nepal.It can be issued for up to 5 years.

4. Student Visa

Student visa is issued for studying in recognized academic or religious institutions.

Proof of admission and recommendation from concerned institutions is needed for issuing student visa.

5. Work Visa

Work visa is issued for foreigners legally employed in Nepal.

Work permit issued by the Department of Labor and recommendation from the relevant ministry to issue a work visa.

6. Residential Visa

Residential visa is offered to people who wish to live in Nepal permanently.

Foreign nationals making a fixed deposit, retirees, or those contributing significantly to Nepal's economy or culture are offered residential visa.

7. Transit Visa

Transit visa is offered to those transiting through Nepal to another destination.

Duration of Maximum 3 days.

8. Diplomatic and Official Visas

It is issued to Holders of diplomatic/official passports, members of diplomatic missions, and international agencies.

Eligibility to receive a business visa

• Must have approval from the Department of Industry (DOI) or other concerned authority.
• Must have registered a company in Nepal or be in the process of investment.
• Should submit a minimum investment amount (usually at least NPR 50 million or as specified by government policy).
• Must present a PAN (Permanent Account Number) and tax clearance certificate if the business is operational.

Procedure to obtain Business Visa in Nepal

1. Obtaining a Recommendation Letter from the DOI or Relevant Government Agency

To begin the process, the applicant must apply to the Department of Industry (DOI) or the appropriate line ministry depending on the nature of the business. This step involves submitting required documents, such as the company registration certificate, investment details, and a business proposal. The purpose of this step is to verify the legitimacy and purpose of the applicant’s business activities in Nepal. The recommendation letter is a formal endorsement needed to apply for a business visa.

2. Inspection Conducted by the DOI

Before issuing the recommendation letter, the DOI will conduct a site inspection or evaluation of the business. This may include verifying investment records and operational status, checking compliance with laws and regulations

This inspection ensures that the business is real, functional (or in the process of being established), and aligned with Nepal’s foreign investment policies.

3. Issuance of Business Visa by the Department of Immigration

Once the DOI or concerned agency issues the recommendation, the applicant must submit it to the Department of Immigration along with other necessary documents (passport, visa form, etc.). Based on the recommendation and document verification, the Department of Immigration will issue the business visa, allowing the applicant to legally reside and conduct business activities in Nepal for the approved period.

Documents required for issuing business visa in Nepal

• A recommendation letter issued by the Department of Industry (DOI) or another relevant government authority.
• A certificate confirming the company’s industry registration.
• A personal bio-data or resume, especially if applying for the first time.
• An official approval letter for foreign investment from the appropriate authority.
• Documentary proof of the foreign investment made in the company.
• A copy of the passport of the individual applying for the business visa.
• A copy of the company’s tax registration certificate (PAN/VAT).
• A copy of the latest tax clearance certificate of the company.
• Company registration documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association.
• A certified document showing an active bank account in the company’s name.
• Proof that the industry is operational, such as the company’s audit report, balance sheet, and any extension approvals.
• A shareholder register certified by the Office of the Company Registrar.
• A monitoring and supervision report from the DOI or relevant government agency.
• A recent progress report detailing the current status and activities of the company.

Visa fee

• 20 USD/Month, 200 USD/Year, 500 USD for 5 Years - Foreigner and their dependants having an investment more than NRs 100 million
• 35 USD/Month, 400 USD/Year, 1000 USD for five years – Foreigner and their dependents having an investment equal to or less than NRs 100 million
• Free of Cost for NRS 1000 Million Investment

The Business Visa in Nepal plays a pivotal role in encouraging foreign investment and promoting economic development. By offering a structured process through legal instruments such as the Immigration Act, 1992, and the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2019, Nepal ensures transparency and accountability. Eligible individuals must secure approvals, undergo inspections, and submit relevant documents to obtain the visa. The policy not only simplifies entry for investors but also fosters long-term industrial collaboration. Through this visa, Nepal aligns itself with global economic integration, providing a legal foundation for foreign entrepreneurs to establish, operate, and expand businesses within the country.