NRN Citizenship in Nepal

Introduction

The Government of Nepal through the third amendment to the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2006 (2063) (“Nepal Citizenship Act”), has introduced a special provision allowing Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) to obtain Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Citizenship—a unique legal status that bridges the gap between foreign citizenship and Nepalese heritage.

The NRN citizenship enables NRNs to enjoy economic, social, and cultural rights in Nepal, while expressly excluding political rights such as voting or holding public office. As per the amendment, any person who has acquired foreign citizenship (excluding SAARC countries) after being a citizen of Nepal by descent or birth—either through their parents or grandparents—is entitled to enjoy economic, social, and cultural rights in Nepal through NRN citizenship.

Legal Framework and Eligibility Criteria

The NRN citizenship is governed by Section 7A of the Nepal Citizenship Act and corresponding regulations. The law outlines both the eligibility requirements and procedural obligations.

To qualify, an applicant must:

• Have a parent or grandparent who was a Nepalese citizen.
• Possess foreign citizenship (other than from a SAARC member country).
• Provide proof of renunciation of Nepalese citizenship, if previously held.
• Submit a declaration of commitment to adhere to Nepal’s Constitution and laws.
• Provide supporting documentation verifying current foreign citizenship and residence.

Where a person had previously obtained Nepalese citizenship and failed to submit their original certificate during renunciation, that document must be furnished at the time of applying for NRN citizenship.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining NRN Citizenship

Eligible individuals may apply for NRN citizenship through two channels:

A. Direct Application at District Administration Office (DAO):

• The applicant may also personally apply at the DAO in Nepal. This method is often quicker and more reliable in practice.

Once the application is received:

• The DAO may request proof of prior renunciation of Nepalese citizenship (if not already submitted).
• Two close relatives (or any Nepalese citizens familiar with the applicant) must appear for identity verification.
• The applicant must take an oath affirming allegiance to Nepal’s Constitution and legal system.
• Upon successful verification, the DAO grants the NRN Citizenship Certificate.

• Practical Consideration:
  • Several DAO offices require recommendation letters from the applicant’s local Ward Office as additional verification of ancestral origin.
  • The CDO may request police verification if there is any doubt about the legitimacy or accuracy of the documents submitted.

B. Through the Embassy or Consulate (Abroad)

• Submit an application at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in the foreign country of residence.
• The diplomatic mission forwards the application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which then transmits it to the concerned DAO in Nepal for verification and issuance.
• Practical Consideration:
  • Despite the legal provision to apply via diplomatic channels, most Nepali embassies and consulates currently advise applicants to apply directly in Nepal at the relevant DAO.

 Estimated Timeline

Applicants applying directly at the concerned DAO in Nepal can expect the full process—from submission to issuance of the certificate—to take approximately 10 to 12 working days, provided all documentation is in order.

Required Documentation

A. To Renounce Nepalese Citizenship (If not renounced)

• Original Nepalese citizenship certificate and passport.
• Copy of the foreign passport.
• Citizenship or identity proof of a parent or close relative or witness for verification.

B. To Obtain NRN Citizenship

• Recommendation letter from the concerned Ward Office verifying the ancestral connection.
• Commitment letter to abide by Nepalese law (format available at the DAO).
• Certificate showing renunciation of former Nepalese citizenship (if applicable).
• Copy of foreign citizenship certificate or passport.
• Proof of foreign residence (utility bill, tenancy contract, etc.).
• Two close relatives or known Nepali individuals to verify applicant identity.
• Evidence that father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother was a Nepalese citizen before acquiring foreign citizenship.

Additional Legal and Procedural Insights

a. Embassy Applications

Although legally viable, embassy-based applications are currently not preferred and recommended due to delays and procedural uncertainty. In most cases, applicants are redirected to Nepal.

b. Exclusion of SAARC Nationals

Persons who have acquired citizenship from any SAARC member country are explicitly excluded from eligibility.

c. No Dual Citizenship

NRN Citizenship is a special, non-political citizenship. It does not equate to dual citizenship and does not permit:

• Voting rights
• Holding public office
• Acquiring a Nepalese passport

d. Grounds for Cancellation

NRN citizenship can be revoked under specific circumstances, including:

• Submission of false informationduring the application process.
• Engagement in activities that threaten Nepal’s sovereignty, national interest, or territorial integrity.
• Violation of Nepalese laws that disqualify an individual from enjoying NRN status.

e. Reacquisition of Full Nepalese Citizenship

Former Nepalese citizens who wish to regain full citizenship can do so under Section 11 of the Nepal Citizenship Act, by formally renouncing their foreign citizenship and applying to the relevant DAO.

f. Validity and Use

Once issued, the NRN citizenship certificate remains valid indefinitely, provided there are no disqualifying changes in status. It is advisable to retain multiple certified copies and notify local authorities in Nepal when engaging in property or business transactions.