Introduction

Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Citizenship—officially called Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship (गैरआवासीय नेपाली नागरिकता)—is a special constitutional provision that allows eligible persons of Nepali origin who have acquired foreign citizenship to reconnect legally with Nepal. This citizenship category grants economic, social, and cultural rights, but generally does not provide political rights such as voting or holding constitutional office. The process is administered through the District Administration Office (DAO) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Because the procedure is document-intensive and verification-based, understanding eligibility, required documents, and administrative steps is essential for a smooth and timely approval.

Legal Framework Governing NRN Citizenship in Nepal

NRN Citizenship is governed by the following legal instruments:

Constitutional Provision

• Article 14 of the Constitution of Nepal (2015) provides for Non-Resident Nepali citizenship to individuals who:
  • Have acquired foreign citizenship,
  • Reside outside SAARC countries, and
  • Have a parent or grandparent who was previously a citizen of Nepal by descent or birth.

This constitutional article ensures access to economic, social, and cultural rights through federal law.

Statutory Laws

• Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006) – Governs citizenship acquisition, renunciation, and administrative procedures.
• Nepal Citizenship Regulations, 2063 (2006) – Provides procedural rules and document formats.
• Citizenship Regulations (Third Amendment) 2080 (2023) – Operationalized the NRN citizenship process and clarified documentation, oath, and verification requirements.

Key Legal Provisions

Rights Granted

NRN Citizenship allows:

• Economic rights (investment, business participation, property as allowed by law)
• Social rights
• Cultural rights

Rights Not Granted

• Voting rights
• Right to contest elections
• Holding constitutional or political office

Mandatory Legal Requirements

• Proof of Nepali origin
• Proof of foreign citizenship
• Residence outside SAARC countries
• Commitment to abide by the Constitution and laws of Nepal
• Identity verification

Administrative Authorities Involved

Primary Authority

• District Administration Office (DAO) under the Chief District Officer (CDO)

Supervisory Authority

• Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA)

Supporting Institutions

• Nepali Embassies and Consulates (for applications from abroad)
• Local verification authorities (including police verification where required)

Note: NRN Card (issued through NRN-related mechanisms) is different from NRN Citizenship and is not a substitute.

NRN Citizenship in Nepal

What is NRN Citizenship?

A special constitutional citizenship category for foreign citizens of Nepali origin granting economic, social, and cultural rights in Nepal.

Who Can Apply?

Foreign citizens of Nepali origin whose parent or grandparent was previously a Nepali citizen by descent or birth and who reside outside SAARC countries.

Where to Apply?

At the District Administration Office (DAO) in Nepal or through a Nepali embassy/consulate abroad.

When to Apply?

Any time after fulfilling eligibility criteria and preparing complete documentation.

Why Was It Introduced?

To strengthen Nepal’s relationship with its global diaspora while preserving constitutional political structure.

How to Obtain It?

By submitting required documents, completing verification, and fulfilling oath/commitment requirements through the DAO.

Eligibility Criteria for NRN Citizenship

To qualify, an applicant must:

1. Have acquired foreign citizenship.
2. Reside outside SAARC member countries.
3. Be of Nepali origin (self, father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother was previously a Nepali citizen).
4. Provide valid proof of renunciation if previously holding Nepali citizenship.
5. Submit a written commitment to abide by Nepal’s Constitution.

Common Reasons for Rejection

• Incomplete lineage documents
• Lack of proof of foreign citizenship
• Insufficient residence proof
• Missing renunciation documentation
• Failure in identity verification

Documents Required for NRN Citizenship

Mandatory Documents

• Proof of Nepali origin (citizenship certificate of parent/grandparent)
• Proof of foreign citizenship
• Copy of valid foreign passport
• Proof of residence outside SAARC
• Renunciation certificate (if previously Nepali citizen)
• Commitment letter to abide by Constitution
• Passport-sized photographs
• Verification from a Nepali citizen identifier

Supporting Documents (If Applicable)

• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate
• Family relationship certificate
• NRN ID Card copy (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step NRN Citizenship Process in Nepal

Step 1: Prepare Document Chain

Create a clear documentary linkage:
Ancestor's Nepali citizenship → Parent linkage → Applicant identity → Foreign citizenship → Residence proof.

Step 2: Submit Application

File application at:

• District Administration Office (DAO), or
• Nepali Embassy/Consulate abroad.

Step 3: Submit Commitment and Declaration

Provide written commitment affirming adherence to Nepal’s Constitution and laws.

Step 4: Verification Process

• Identity verification through a Nepali citizen.
• Background verification if required.

Step 5: Approval and Issuance

Upon verification and approval, NRN Citizenship certificate is issued.

Step 6: Record Maintenance

Keep certified copies for property, banking, and investment compliance purposes.

Cost of NRN Citizenship

Government Fee

Citizenship certificate issuance is generally provided without government service fee.

Practical Expenses

• Document translation
• Notarization and legalization
• Travel expenses
• Courier costs
• Legal consultation (if needed)

Timeline for NRN Citizenship

The timeline depends on documentation quality and administrative workload.

Average Processing Time

Approximately 2 to 8 weeks, depending on:

• Completeness of documents
• Verification speed
• District workload
• Availability of identifier

Complex cases may take longer.

Other Legal Compliances

• NRN Citizenship does not provide political rights.
• False information may lead to cancellation and legal consequences.
• Electronic submission may be available depending on administrative arrangements.
• Compliance with prevailing property and investment laws remains mandatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NRN Citizenship in Nepal?

NRN Citizenship is a special constitutional citizenship category for foreign citizens of Nepali origin granting economic, social, and cultural rights in Nepal.

Is NRN Citizenship the same as dual citizenship?

No. Nepal does not generally recognize dual citizenship. NRN Citizenship is a limited constitutional category.

Who is eligible for NRN Citizenship?

Foreign citizens of Nepali origin living outside SAARC countries whose parent or grandparent was a Nepali citizen.

Can NRNs living in India apply?

No. The Constitution requires residence outside SAARC countries, and India is a SAARC member.

Where do I apply for NRN Citizenship?

At the District Administration Office in Nepal or through a Nepali embassy abroad.

Is NRN Card mandatory for NRN Citizenship?

No. NRN Card is separate and not mandatory but may support documentation.

What rights do NRN citizens get?

Economic, social, and cultural rights — but not political rights.

How long does NRN Citizenship take?

Usually 2–8 weeks depending on verification and documentation.

Is there a government fee for NRN Citizenship?

Generally, there is no government service charge, but related documentation costs may apply.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Citizenship approval depends on individual documentation, district administrative practices, and prevailing laws at the time of application. For case-specific guidance, consult a qualified legal professional before submitting your application.