Starting a hotel or resort business in Nepal is a great idea, especially with the country’s growing tourism industry. Whether you’re planning to open a small boutique hotel or a luxury resort, the first and most important step is to legally register your business.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of registering a hotel or resort in Nepal, including the required documents, government approvals, and legal formalities. Let’s get started!
Why Register Your Hotel or Resort?
Registering your hotel or resort is not just a legal requirement — it also helps you:
- Operate legally and avoid penalties
- Open a business bank account
- Obtain tax clearance and PAN/VAT registration
- Apply for loans and attract investors
- List your business on travel websites and booking platforms
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Hotel or Resort in Nepal
- Choose a Suitable Business Structure
- Company Name Reservation
- Prepare Required Documents
- Submit Application to OCR
- Register for PAN and VAT
1. Choose a Suitable Business Structure
You can register your hotel under one of the following:
- Private Limited Company (Most recommended)
- Sole Proprietorship (Less common for hotels/resorts)
For most hotel businesses, registering as a Private Limited Company offers better credibility and limited liability.
2. Company Name Reservation
Go to the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR) website and:
- Search for name availability
- Reserve a unique business name (related to your hotel/resort)
📝 Tip: Include words like “Hotel”, “Resort”, “Inn”, or “Hospitality” in the name.
3. Prepare Required Documents
To register your company, prepare the following documents:
- Application form (available at OCR)
- Proposed company name approval
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA)
- Citizenship copies of shareholders
- Passport-size photos
- Lease agreement or proof of business address
- Shareholder agreement (if applicable)
4. Submit Application to OCR
Visit the Office of the Company Registrar (physically or online via ocr.gov.np) and submit your application.
Once approved, you will receive:
- Company Registration Certificate
- PAN/VAT Registration (via IRD)
- Company stamp/chop (if required)
5. Register for PAN and VAT
Once your company is registered, apply for a Business PAN with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD). If your company’s annual turnover exceeds NPR 20 Lakh, you must also register for VAT.
Additional Licenses Required to Operate a Hotel or Resort
After your company is registered, you must obtain the following approvals:
1. Hotel License from the Department of Tourism
Submit an application to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) with:
- Business registration certificate
- Blueprints of the hotel/resort
- Environmental clearance (if applicable)
- Details of rooms, facilities, safety measures
- Tax and PAN documents
The department will inspect your property before issuing a hotel/resort license.
2. Local Municipality or Ward Office Approval
You must also get approval from your local municipal office for:
- Construction permits (if building new structure)
- Operating permission
- Sanitation and waste management clearance
3. Other Required Permits
Depending on your services, you may also need:
- Food and hygiene license (from Department of Food Technology and Quality Control)
- Liquor license (if serving alcohol)
- Fire safety and building compliance certificate
Timeline and Cost
| Activity | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost (NPR) |
|---|---|---|
| Company Registration | 5–7 working days | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Hotel License (Tourism Dept.) | 2–3 weeks | Varies |
| Local Government Approvals | 1–2 weeks | 3,000 – 10,000 |
Note: Costs may vary depending on services and location.
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