Blog Detail

This article outlines the complete procedure for acquiring NRN Citizenship in Nepal. We are a globally recognized law firm offering professional assistance to Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) in obtaining their citizenship.

1. Definition of NRNs?

As per the Non-Resident Nepali Act, 2008, a Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) falls into one of the following categories:

• Foreign Citizen of Nepali Origin:
  This refers to individuals who have acquired foreign citizenship (excluding citizens of SAARC member countries) and who themselves—or whose parents or grandparents (either father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother)—were citizens of Nepal at any point in time.

• Nepali Citizens Living Abroad:
  This includes Nepali citizens who have been residing abroad for a minimum of two years, engaged in a profession, business, occupation, or employment, except:

• Nepali citizens residing in SAARC countries;

• Those working in diplomatic missions or consulates assigned by the Government of Nepal;

• Students pursuing academic education abroad.

2. NRN Citizenship?

NRN Citizenship is a category of citizenship granted to Non-Resident Nepalis that allows them to enjoy economic, social, and cultural rights within Nepal.
However, it excludes political and administrative rights.

2.1. Legal Framework Governing NRN Citizenship:

The following laws regulate NRN Citizenship in Nepal:

• The Constitution of Nepal

• The Nepal Citizenship Act, 2006

• The Nepal Citizenship Rules, 2006

3. Who is Eligible to Obtain NRN Citizenship?

The following individuals are qualified to apply for NRN Citizenship:

• Individuals who have acquired foreign citizenship but were previously Nepali citizens.

• Foreign nationals whose father, mother, grandfather, or grandmother was previously a Nepali citizen—either by birth or descent—and who later acquired foreign citizenship.

Note: Individuals holding foreign citizenship and residing in SAARC countries are not eligible to apply for NRN citizenship.

4. Where to Apply for NRN Citizenship?

Applications for NRN Citizenship must be submitted to the District Administration Office (DAO) of the district where:

• The applicant, or

• The applicant’s parents or grandparents

were previously issued their Nepali citizenship.

5. Required Documents for NRN Citizenship Application

The following documents are necessary when applying for NRN Citizenship:

• Completed Application Form (available at the DAO);

• Copy of Citizenship Renunciation Letter (issued after renouncing Nepali citizenship through the DAO);

• Copy of the father’s and mother’s Nepali citizenship;

• Copy of the applicant’s foreign citizenship and foreign passport;

• Copy of Nepali citizenship and passport of the applicant;

• Copy of the applicant’s NRN Card (if available);

• Passport-size photo.

6. Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply for NRN Citizenship

Step 1: Submit the completed application form at the District Administration Office (DAO).
Step 2: The DAO sends a formal request to the local police office to obtain the applicant’s background check and records.
Step 3: The police office completes its investigation and forwards its findings to the DAO.
Step 4: Receive the Citizenship Renunciation Letter from the DAO.
Step 5: Submit an application to the relevant Ward Office to obtain a Recommendation Letter for NRN Citizenship.
Step 6: Receive the Ward Office's Recommendation Letter confirming NRN eligibility.
Step 7: Present yourself at the DAO with a Nepali relative for identity verification.
Step 8: Upon successful verification, the DAO issues the NRN Citizenship certificate.

7. Original Documents to Present at the DAO and Ward Office

When visiting the District Administration Office (DAO) and the relevant Ward Office, the applicant must carry the following original documents:

• Original Citizenship Certificate

• Original Passport

• Citizenship Renunciation Letter

• NRN Card (if available)

• Original Citizenship Certificate of a Nepali relative who will be present at the DAO for verification and signing during the identity confirmation process.

8. Grounds for Cancellation of NRN Citizenship

An NRN Citizenship may be revoked under the following circumstances:

• If the citizenship was obtained by providing false or misleading information.

If the holder of NRN Citizenship is convicted of acts that threaten Nepal’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, or national interests.