How to Change a Company Name in Nepal

Changing your company name in Nepal might sound complicated, but it’s actually a straightforward legal process if you follow the right steps. Whether you’re rebranding, merging, or simply want a fresh start, this guide will walk you through how to change your company name in Nepal—legally and smoothly.

How to Change a Company Name in Nepal

5 Easy Steps to Change a Company Name in Nepal

Here’s a simple step-by-step process to change your company’s name in Nepal:

  1. Hold a Board Meeting
  2. Apply for Name Reservation at OCR
  3. Hold a Special General Meeting
  4. Submit Application to OCR
  5. Get Final Approval and Certificate

Step 1: Hold a Board Meeting

  • Call a Board of Directors meeting to pass a resolution proposing the name change.
  • Keep minutes of the meeting as proof.
  • Decide on at least three alternative names in case your first choice is not approved.

Step 2: Apply for Name Reservation at OCR

  • Visit the OCR Online Portal.
  • Use the “Name Reservation” section to submit your proposed names.
  • Make sure your new name:
    • Is unique and not already registered
    • Complies with OCR’s naming guidelines
    • Doesn’t resemble existing company names
  • Once approved, the name reservation is valid for 35 days (extendable up to 90 days in some cases).

💡 Pro Tip: Choose a unique and brandable name that complies with the Companies Act 2063 (2006).

Step 3: Hold a Special General Meeting

  • After name reservation, call a Special General Meeting with at least 75% shareholder attendance (Companies Act 2063, Section 14).
  • Pass a special resolution approving the new company name.
  • Record detailed minutes.
  • Approve amendments to the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) to reflect the new name.

This step is mandatory — OCR will reject your application without SGM approval.

Step 4: Submit Application to OCR

Now submit a formal application to OCR with the following documents:

Required Documents:

  • Application form for name change
  • Name reservation approval copy
  • Board meeting minutes
  • SGM minutes + special resolution
  • Updated MOA and AOA with new name
  • Copy of current company registration certificate
  • Tax clearance certificate from IRD

Step 5: Get Approval and New Certificate

  • Pay the prescribed OCR fee (see below)
  • Once documents are verified, OCR will issue a Certificate of Name Change.
  • This certificate is your official proof of the new company name.

How Much Does It Cost?

OCR charges a fixed fee for name change (updated 2025):

Company TypeName Change Fee
Private LimitedNPR 5,000
Public LimitedNPR 10,000

Note: No longer 25% of registration fee — now flat rate.

How Long Does It Take?

The full process takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on:

StageTime
Name reservation1–3 days
SGM & document prep1 week
OCR verification1–2 weeks
Newspaper notice + final approval1–3 weeks

Pro Tip: Start early — delays often occur due to incomplete documents.

What to Do After the Name Change

Once your company name is officially changed, here are a few essential follow-up steps:

1. Update MOA & AOA

Reflect the new name in all copies of Memorandum and Articles of Association.

2. Notify Relevant Authorities

Inform these government bodies:

AuthorityPurpose
Inland Revenue Department (IRD)Update PAN & VAT certificates
Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB)For foreign-invested companies
Banks & Financial InstitutionsUpdate company account name
Local Ward Office / MunicipalityUpdate business license
Department of Industry (DOI)If registered under FDI

3. Publish a Public Notice

Publish a notice in a national daily newspaper (e.g., Gorkhapatra, Kantipur) announcing:

  • Old name
  • New name
  • Effective date

Submit proof of publication to OCR within 30 days.

4. Update PAN & VAT Registration

Apply at IRD with the Certificate of Name Change.

👉 You can learn more in our guide on how to register a Business PAN in Nepal.

5. Update Business Materials

Revise all official materials:

  • Business cards
  • Letterheads & invoices
  • Website, email signatures
  • Social media profiles
  • Signboards & marketing collateral

6. File Annual Return

Ensure your next annual return at OCR reflects the new name.


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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a sole proprietorship change its name?

No. Only companies registered under OCR (Pvt Ltd, Public Ltd) can follow this process. Sole proprietors update via local ward office.

Can I change the name if the company is under litigation?

No. OCR rejects name changes during legal disputes.

Do I need to update the company stamp?

Yes. Order a new stamp with the updated name.

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