NGO Registration in Nepal - (2025 Update)

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Nepal play a vital role in the country’s socio-economic development. They are independent, non-profit, and voluntary organizations established to address various issues such as poverty, education, health, human rights, environment, and community development. The growth of NGOs in Nepal accelerated after the restoration of democracy in 1990, which created a more conducive environment for civil society participation.

NGOs complement the efforts of the government by reaching remote and marginalized communities, often acting as a bridge between the government and the people. They are registered with the District Administration Office and must be affiliated with the Social Welfare Council (SWC), which regulates and coordinates NGO activities across the country.

Over the years, NGOs in Nepal have made significant contributions to disaster relief, women's empowerment, education, healthcare, and advocacy for human rights and good governance. Despite facing challenges such as limited funding, accountability issues, and political influence, NGOs remain essential actors in Nepal’s development landscape.

The DAO serves as the main authority for initial registration. However, it's essential to understand that following registration with the DAO, NGOs are also required to affiliate with the Social Welfare Council to ensure further oversight and coordination, thereby completing the NGO registration process in Nepal.

Laws Governing NGO Registration in Nepal.

• Association Registration Act, 2034 (1977)
• Social Welfare Act, 2049 (1992)
• Local Government Operation Act, 2074 (2017)
• National Directive Act, 2018
• Income Tax Act, 2058 (2002)

Process of NGO Registration in Nepal

Step 1: Formation of Founding Committee

The first step is to form a founding or executive committee consisting of at least seven Nepali citizens. These individuals will be responsible for establishing and running the organization.

Step 2: Choosing the Name and Structure

Select a unique name for the organization and define its structure, goals, working areas, and nature (non-profit, non-political, voluntary). The name should not duplicate any existing registered organization.

Step 3: Drafting of Constitution and Required Documents

Prepare the NGO constitution as per the provisions of the Association Registration Act, 1977. The constitution must include objectives, membership provisions, meeting procedures, financial management rules, and the duties of members. Along with this, prepare:

• Minutes of the founding meeting
• Citizenship copies of members
• Passport-sized photos
• Office address and evidence (rental or ownership documents)

Step 4: Submission of Application to the District Administration Office (DAO)

Submit the constitution and required documents to the District Administration Office (DAO) of the respective district. If all requirements are met, the DAO will register the organization under the Association Registration Act and issue a Certificate of Registration.

Step 5: Registration with the Social Welfare Council (SWC)

After registration at the DAO, the NGO must affiliate with the Social Welfare Council (SWC). This step ensures that the NGO is recognized at the national level and can coordinate with donors and government agencies. Additional documents may be required, such as organizational profiles and work plans.

Step 6: Obtaining the Certificate of Registration

Once both the DAO registration and SWC affiliation are complete, the organization receives its official registration and affiliation certificates, allowing it to legally operate as a non-governmental organization in Nepal

Documents required for the registration of an NGO

• Application Form: Obtained from the District Administration Office, filled out completely and accurately.
• NGO Constitution: A detailed document outlining the organization’s objectives, structure, and operational procedures.
• Citizenship Certificates: Copies of citizenship certificates for all founding members (minimum 7 people).
• Passport-sized Photos: Recent photographs of all founding members.
• Police Clearance: Certificates for all founding members, proving no criminal record.
• Property Ownership or Rent Agreement: Proof of the NGO’s official address.
• Recommendation Letters: From local government bodies or relevant authorities supporting the NGO’s establishment.
• Meeting Minutes: Documentation of the founding members’ decision to establish the NGO.
• Commitment Letters: From founding members agreeing to abide by NGO regulations.
• Initial Work Plan: A brief outline of the NGO’s planned activities for the first year.

Time Frame For NGO Registration in Nepal

As per government guidelines, the NGO registration process usually takes around 1 to 2 weeks after all necessary documents have been submitted to the District Administration Office.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have become indispensable to Nepal’s development landscape, particularly in addressing the needs of underprivileged and marginalized communities. Their contributions span diverse sectors such as education, health, disaster response, women’s empowerment, and human rights advocacy. Following the restoration of democracy in 1990, the environment became more favorable for civil society participation, leading to a significant rise in NGO activity. The legal framework guiding NGO operations in Nepal is comprehensive, with several acts regulating their formation, registration, and conduct. The registration process begins with the District Administration Office (DAO) and is completed through affiliation with the Social Welfare Council (SWC), ensuring proper oversight and coordination. Despite facing challenges like limited resources, political interference, and accountability concerns, NGOs continue to complement government efforts and play a vital role in sustainable development. By adhering to legal procedures and maintaining transparency, NGOs can further enhance their impact and credibility in Nepal’s evolving socio-political context.