This article will guide you through all the information regarding the rights of NRN in Nepal.
Who are NRNs?
Many Nepalis live in different parts of the world, and there’s a specific name for them: Non-Resident Nepali, or NRN. This name comes from Nepal’s own set of laws. There are mainly two groups of people called NRNs.
The first group is Nepalese who now have citizenship in countries not part of a team called SAARC. The second group is Nepalese who just live outside of SAARC countries but haven’t changed their citizenship.
This article talks about what NRN means, the special group called NRNA made for them, the cool benefits of having an NRN Card, and more.
Foreign Citizen with Nepali Roots
This means someone who was once a citizen of Nepal or has family connections like grandparents from Nepal, but now is a citizen of a country outside of the SAARC group.
Nepali Citizen Residing Abroad
Any Nepali citizen who has lived in a country outside the SAARC for at least two years, maybe for a job, business, or other work reasons. But, it doesn’t include Nepali students or those working at embassies for the Nepal government in other countries.
How to Get an NRN Card in Nepal?
Application Form
Start by filling out the application form, which is laid out in the NRN Bylaws of 2009 (2066).
Naturalization Certificate
A copy of the Naturalization Certificate from your current country is essential. Ensure you keep an original for verification and a photocopy for submission.
Passport & Previous Citizenship:
You will need a copy of the passport issued by your current country. If you are a former citizen of Nepal, you have to present your old Nepali Citizenship Certificate as proof.
Family Ties
A link to your Nepali roots is important. You can provide a copy of the citizenship certificates of your Father, Mother, Grandfather, or Grandmother. Along with these, any document that establishes their Nepali nationality and your relationship with them is required.
Profession or Business
Proof of your occupation or business in your current country is necessary.
Employment Proof
If employed, submit a document verifying your employment status in the country of your current nationality.
Photographs
Attach a recent passport-size photo for the application form. Additionally, have two auto-sized photos ready for the identity card.
Fees
For getting an NRN Card, the only fee you will be liable for is the application and card fee.
Rights of NRN in Nepal
Marrying in Nepal as Rights of NRN in Nepal
As per the National Civil Code, NRNs can get married in Nepal.
Open Bank Accounts
With their NRN ID Card, they can open and operate accounts in Nepali commercial banks and financial institutions.
Re-acquire Nepalese Citizenship
Those who wish to return permanently have the option to reapply for Nepalese citizenship after giving up their foreign one.
Investing as rights of NRN in Nepal
If you’re an NRN and thinking of investing in Nepal, the FITTA views NRNs just like other foreign investors. In the following fields, NRN can invest:
- shares in companies.
- stocks from companies listed for sale.
- can invest in venture capital funds
- can also buy parts (shares) or even the whole of some Nepali companies.
There are some rules regarding the investment:
- First, you need to invest a huge amount of money, at least NPR 50 million.
- There’s a list called the FITTA’s Negative List. If a business type is on this list, you can’t invest in it.
- The business you choose to invest in should be on the “Industry” list from the Industrial Enterprises Act of 2020.
Benefits of having an NRN Card
- Travel Freedom: NRNs from non-SAARC countries can enter and stay in Nepal without a visa.
- Money Benefits: Open special bank accounts, invest, and enjoy tax breaks on certain money transfers.
- Land and Home: Buy and sell some types of land and keep family properties in Nepal.
- Start Businesses: With the NRN Card, starting businesses in Nepal becomes simpler.
- Helping Home: Get tax breaks when funding local community or charity projects.
NRNA (Non-Resident Nepali Association) in Nepal
Back in 2002, some Nepalis in Russia thought of creating a group, called NRNA, for all Nepalis around the world. Then, in 2003, Nepali leaders from different places met in London to talk about this idea. The Nepalese government and a group called FNCCI liked this idea and helped organize a big meeting in Nepal in October 2003. This meeting was the start of NRNA.
Validity Period of NRN Card
The NRN ID Card acts as an important piece of identification for Nepalis living abroad. For those who are foreign citizens with roots in Nepal, the card remains valid for a duration of up to 10 years. On the other hand, Nepali citizens who live in another country can use this card for up to 2 years before needing a renewal.
Conclusion
The NRN status and card show how much Nepal values its people, even if they live far away. It’s not just about the cool benefits, like making money or easy travel; it’s about the strong connection between Nepalis and their home country. Rights of NRN in Nepal is secured and can enjoy by the NRNs.
