Starting a business is an exciting journey, but before you launch your idea, it's important to give your business a legal identity. In Nepal, this begins with company registration at the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) under the Companies Act, 2063 (2006).
If you're wondering how to register a company in Nepal, don't worry — the process is straightforward once you know the steps. In this article, we'll walk you through everything from choosing a company name to getting your registration certificate, all in very simple language.
1. Understanding Company Registration in Nepal
Company registration means officially recording your business as a legal entity. Once registered, your company gets a unique registration number and can operate, sign contracts, open a bank account, and pay taxes.
Why Register Your Company?
- To give your business a legal identity
- To build trust with clients, banks, and investors
- PAN/VAT registration and tax compliance
- To expand and grow legally
2. Types of Companies You Can Register
Before you start the registration process, decide which type of company best fits your business:
Private Limited Company
Most common for startups and small businesses. Requires at least 1 and up to 101 shareholders. Cannot sell shares to the public.
Public Limited Company
For large businesses. Can raise funds from the public and must have at least 7 shareholders.
Non-Profit Company
Registered for social, charitable, or non-commercial purposes. Cannot distribute profits to members.
Most small businesses in Nepal register as Private Limited Companies.
3. Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company in Nepal
Choose and Reserve Your Company Name
Go to the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) website and search for your desired company name to check if it's available. Once approved, the name is reserved for 90 days (after which you must reapply if not registered).
Prepare the Required Documents
After name approval, prepare your company documents. You can draft them yourself or get help from a legal professional (recommended).
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Memorandum of Association (MOA) | Defines your company's objectives, name, registered office, capital, and shareholders. |
| Articles of Association (AOA) | Outlines internal management rules, roles, and responsibilities of directors and shareholders. |
| Citizenship copies | Copies of all shareholders' and directors' citizenship certificates. |
| Address proof | Office lease agreement or property ownership certificate. |
| Application form | Filled form generated from the OCR portal. |
Submit Your Application Online (CAMIS)
Nepal now uses the Company Administration Management Information System (CAMIS) for online registration.
- Create an account on the OCR portal.
- Log in and select "New Company Registration."
- Upload the scanned documents (MOA, AOA, citizenship copies, etc.).
- Fill in details like share structure, objectives, and address.
- Submit your application for review.
OCR officials will review your submission and may ask for corrections if needed.
Pay the Registration Fee
Once your documents are approved, you'll receive a payment notice. The registration fee depends on your authorized capital.
Receive Your Company Registration Certificate
After payment and final verification, OCR issues your Company Registration Certificate. This document officially recognizes your business as a registered company in Nepal. You'll also receive your company's registration number and PAN application instructions.
Complete Post-Registration Tasks
After registration is done, a few quick steps remain before you can start operations:
- Register for PAN/VAT in the Inland Revenue Department.
- Open a corporate bank account in your company's name.
- Register at your local ward office for local record and business operation approval.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting a name that's already taken.
Mismatch between data in documents and online forms.
Forgetting to sign all pages of MOA and AOA.
Not uploading clear scans of documents.
Ignoring follow-up messages from OCR (which can delay approval).
A quick legal review can help you avoid these simple but costly mistakes.
5. Why Work with a Legal Expert?
While it's possible to handle registration yourself, drafting your MOA, AOA, and objectives correctly is crucial. Small errors can cause delays or legal issues later.
At Pentagon Law Associates, we:
- Draft and review your documents professionally
- Ensure compliance with the Companies Act and OCR standards
- Handle online filing and communication with OCR
- Guide you through post-registration compliance (PAN, VAT, etc.)
We make the process smooth, quick, and worry-free so you can focus on your business.
Note for Foreign Investors
Foreign investors can register companies in Nepal with prior approval from the Department of Industry (DOI) and the OCR. This adds additional steps and specialized documentation to the process.
Conclusion
Registering a company in Nepal might sound complex at first, but with the right guidance, it's a smooth and rewarding process. Whether you're an entrepreneur, startup founder, or social change maker — your journey begins with legal registration.
At Pentagon Law Associates, we help you register your company quickly, correctly, and confidently.
Get Expert Legal Assistance