How to Register an NGO in Nepal (Complete 2025 Guide)

Starting a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Nepal is a powerful way to bring about positive change. Whether your goal is to improve education, healthcare, infrastructure, or advocate for women’s or children’s rights, registering your NGO properly ensures you’re operating legally and transparently.

This guide will walk you through how to register an NGO in Nepal, step-by-step, including legal requirements, costs, and where to register.

Why NGOs Matter in Nepal

NGOs play a vital role in Nepal’s development. They contribute significantly to:

• Health services
• Education
• Child and women’s rights
• Infrastructure like roads, schools, and water supply systems

As of 2019, the Social Welfare Council (SWC) reported 50,358 NGOs registered in Nepal. Out of these, 25,992 are in Bagmati Province, and over 15,000 are actively working across various sectors.

Legal Requirements to Register an NGO in Nepal

Before you begin, make sure you meet these basic legal conditions:

Minimum Requirements:

• At least 7 founding members
• A clearly defined mission and objectives
• A registered office address in Nepal

Eligibility Criteria:

• All members must be 18 years or older
• Members must have no criminal record
• The NGO name must be unique and not similar to any existing organization

Where to Register Your NGO in Nepal

You have two options:

1. Office of the Company Registrar (OCR)

• Easier and faster process
• Higher registration cost: NPR 15,000

2. District Administration Office (DAO)

• Lower cost: Only NPR 1,000
• But more complex and time-consuming

Recommended: Use the Office of the Company Registrar for a smoother experience.

Step-by-Step: How to Register an NGO in Nepal (OCR Method)

Here are 8 simple steps to register your NGO through the Office of the Company Registrar:

• Choose and Register a Name
• Prepare the Required Documents
• Fill and Submit the Application Form
• Pay the Registration Fee
• Receive the Registration Certificate
• Apply for PAN (Permanent Account Number)
• Register with the Social Welfare Council (SWC)
• Open a Bank Account

1. Choose and Register a Name

• Pick a unique and meaningful name for your NGO.
• Check availability at: https://ocr.gov.np
• Reserve the name online through the OCR portal.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

You’ll need the following:

• NGO registration application form
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
• Citizenship copies of all founding members
• Passport-sized photos
• Office address proof (rental agreement or land ownership document)

3. Fill and Submit the Application Form

• Complete the form carefully.
• Submit all documents to the Office of the Company Registrar.

4. Pay the Registration Fee

• NGO registration fee: NPR 15,000
• Payment is made at the OCR office or through their online system.

5. Receive the Registration Certificate

Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Registration, confirming your NGO is legally recognized in Nepal.

6. Apply for PAN (Permanent Account Number)

• Visit the Inland Revenue Department to register for tax.
• Get a PAN for your NGO — required for financial and tax purposes.

7. Register with the Social Welfare Council (SWC)

Within 3 months of registration, you must register with the SWC.

• Submit an application along with the required documents
• Processing time may take a few weeks to a few months
• Once approved, you’ll receive your SWC certificate

More info: www.swc.org.np

8. Open a Bank Account

After SWC registration:

• Open a bank account in the name of your NGO
• This account will be used for managing donations, grants, and official expenses

If you want to know more about common challenges during NGO registration and tips to overcome them, you can find useful insights here: Common Challenges Faced During NGO Registration in Nepal and How to Overcome Them.

Alternative: Registering with the District Administration Office (DAO)

This method is more complex but lower in cost. Here’s how:

1. Request a recommendation letter from your local Ward Office
2. Submit an application to the District Coordination Committee
3. Submit required documents (including constitution) to the DAO
4. Once approved, receive your NGO registration certificate
5. Register with the SWC within 3 months
6. Get a PAN from the Inland Revenue Department
7. Open a bank account for your NGO

NGO Registration Checklist

Step	Action
✅	Reserve NGO name at OCR website
✅	Prepare MOA, AOA, ID documents, and office address proof
✅	Submit form and pay registration fee (NPR 15,000)
✅	Obtain registration certificate from OCR
✅	Apply for PAN at the Inland Revenue Department
✅	Register with the Social Welfare Council (within 3 months)
✅	Open a bank account

Final Thoughts

Registering an NGO in Nepal is a detailed but manageable process. Whether you choose to register through the Company Registrar or District Administration Office, make sure all your documents are in order and submitted on time.

This legal foundation not only ensures compliance but also opens doors to grants, partnerships, and long-term impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to register an NGO in Nepal?

The registration process with the Office of the Company Registrar typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how quickly you submit complete documents.

Registration through the District Administration Office can take longer, sometimes several months, due to more complex procedures.

What is the minimum number of members required to start an NGO in Nepal?

You need at least 7 founding members who meet the eligibility criteria (above 18 years old, no criminal record) to register an NGO legally in Nepal.

Do NGOs in Nepal need to register with the Social Welfare Council (SWC)?

Yes, every NGO in Nepal must register with the Social Welfare Council (SWC) within 3 months of their initial registration. This registration is mandatory to legally operate and to be eligible for government support, funding, and other benefits.

For a detailed understanding of the legal framework governing NGOs, including key provisions of the Social Welfare Act, 2049 (1992), this is a must-read.

Is there an annual renewal or reporting requirement for NGOs in Nepal?

Yes, NGOs registered with the Social Welfare Council are generally required to submit annual reports, including financial statements and activity reports, to maintain their registration status and transparency.

Can foreigners start an NGO in Nepal?

Foreign nationals cannot directly register an NGO in Nepal. However, they can collaborate with Nepali citizens or organizations, or set up branches of international NGOs following specific regulations.

What are the common reasons for NGO registration rejection?

Common reasons include incomplete documents, duplicate NGO names, unclear objectives, or members not meeting eligibility criteria (e.g., criminal records).

What is the difference between registering with the Company Registrar and the District Administration Office?

The Company Registrar offers a faster, more streamlined process but at a higher cost (NPR 15,000), while the District Administration Office is cheaper (NPR 1,000) but involves more paperwork and longer processing times.

Can one NGO register multiple branches in Nepal?

Yes, an NGO can open multiple branches, but each branch must be registered according to local regulations, and the NGO must report all activities to the Social Welfare Council.

Are there tax exemptions for NGOs in Nepal?

Registered NGOs working for social welfare are often eligible for certain tax exemptions, but they must comply with tax regulations and file appropriate documents.

Can NGOs receive government grants?

Yes, registered NGOs can apply for government grants, but eligibility depends on the NGO’s sector, registration status, and compliance with reporting requirements.

What is the role of the Social Welfare Council in NGO management?

The Social Welfare Council oversees NGO activities, ensures compliance with laws, approves projects, monitors fund usage, and facilitates coordination between NGOs and the government.

To learn more about the role of the Social Welfare Council (SWC) in NGO registration and operations, which is key to legal compliance and smooth operation, check out this comprehensive guide.