NRN Citizenship Process in Nepal

Who is eligible for NRN citizenship in Nepal?

Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) citizenship is available to individuals of Nepali origin who have acquired foreign citizenship. The Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006) and its subsequent amendments outline the eligibility criteria for NRN citizenship. Individuals who were previously Nepali citizens or whose parents or grandparents held Nepali citizenship are eligible to apply. This includes persons of Nepali origin residing abroad, those born to Nepali parents outside Nepal, and foreign citizens of Nepali descent. The applicant must have ties to Nepal through ancestry, culture, or business investments.

Additionally, the individual must not hold current Nepali citizenship, as Nepal does not recognize dual citizenship. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to apply for NRN citizenship. The government of Nepal reserves the right to verify the applicant’s Nepali origin and connection to the country during the application process.

What documents are required for the NRN citizenship process?

The NRN citizenship application process requires several documents to establish the applicant’s identity, Nepali origin, and current citizenship status. The following documents are typically required:

• Valid passport of the current country of citizenship
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of previous Nepali citizenship (if the applicant was a former Nepali citizen)
• Documents proving Nepali ancestry (parents’ or grandparents’ Nepali citizenship certificates)
• Proof of residence in the current country of citizenship
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Character certificate from local authorities
• Notarized affidavit declaring the intention to acquire NRN citizenship
• Renunciation certificate of previous Nepali citizenship (if applicable)
• Proof of investment in Nepal (for business-based applications)
• Any additional documents required by the Nepali embassy or consulate

All documents must be original or certified copies, translated into Nepali or English if in another language, and authenticated by the relevant authorities. The specific requirements may vary, so applicants should consult the nearest Nepali diplomatic mission for the most up-to-date information.

How to apply for NRN citizenship in Nepal?

The application process for NRN citizenship involves several steps:

1. Gather all required documents as specified by the Nepali embassy or consulate.
2. Complete the NRN citizenship application form, available at Nepali diplomatic missions or on their websites.
3. Submit the application form along with all required documents to the nearest Nepali embassy or consulate.
4. Pay the prescribed application fee.
5. Attend an interview with embassy officials, if required.
6. Provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs.
7. Wait for the application to be processed and verified by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Nepal.
8. If approved, receive notification from the embassy or consulate.
9. Collect the NRN citizenship certificate in person from the embassy or consulate.

Applicants should note that the process may vary slightly depending on the country of residence and the specific Nepali diplomatic mission handling the application. It is advisable to contact the nearest Nepali embassy or consulate for detailed instructions and any country-specific requirements.

Can NRN citizenship be applied for online?

Currently, the NRN citizenship application process in Nepal is not fully available online. While some initial steps, such as downloading application forms or accessing information, may be possible through official websites, the actual submission of documents and completion of the application typically requires in-person visits to Nepali embassies or consulates. The government of Nepal has expressed intentions to modernize and digitize various administrative processes, including citizenship applications.

However, as of now, the NRN citizenship application remains a predominantly offline process. Applicants must submit physical documents and may need to appear in person for interviews or biometric data collection. It is advisable to check with the nearest Nepali diplomatic mission for the most current information, as procedures may evolve over time.

Are fees required for NRN citizenship applications?

Yes, fees are required for NRN citizenship applications. The fee structure for NRN citizenship applications is set by the Government of Nepal and may be subject to change. The exact amount can vary depending on factors such as the applicant’s country of residence and the specific Nepali diplomatic mission handling the application. Typically, the fees cover administrative costs, document processing, and the issuance of the NRN citizenship certificate.

Applicants should be prepared to pay these fees at the time of submitting their application. The fees are usually non-refundable, even if the application is rejected. It is advisable to check with the nearest Nepali embassy or consulate for the current fee structure and accepted payment methods. Some missions may accept only specific forms of payment, such as bank drafts or money orders, while others may allow credit card payments or bank transfers.

Is dual citizenship allowed for NRNs in Nepal?

Nepal does not recognize dual citizenship, including for Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs). The Constitution of Nepal and the Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006) explicitly prohibit dual citizenship. When an individual acquires NRN citizenship, they are effectively choosing to maintain a legal connection to Nepal while holding citizenship of another country.

However, NRN citizenship is not equivalent to full Nepali citizenship and comes with certain restrictions. NRN citizenship holders are not considered dual citizens in the traditional sense. They retain their foreign citizenship while gaining some rights and privileges in Nepal through their NRN status. This arrangement allows individuals of Nepali origin to maintain ties with Nepal without conflicting with the country’s stance on dual citizenship. It is essential for NRN citizenship applicants to understand that they cannot simultaneously hold both NRN status and regular Nepali citizenship.

How long does the NRN citizenship process take?

The duration of the NRN citizenship process can vary significantly depending on various factors. Typically, the process can take anywhere from several months to a year or more. Factors affecting the timeline include:

• Completeness and accuracy of the submitted application and documents
• Volume of applications being processed by the Nepali diplomatic mission
• Verification process conducted by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Nepal
• Any additional security checks or background verifications required
• Applicant’s responsiveness to requests for additional information or documents
• Administrative efficiency of the specific embassy or consulate handling the application

The initial review of documents and preliminary processing at the embassy or consulate may take a few weeks to a couple of months. The subsequent verification process in Nepal can extend the timeline further. Applicants should be prepared for potential delays and should follow up periodically with the embassy or consulate for updates on their application status. It is advisable to apply well in advance of any planned travel or business activities in Nepal that may require NRN citizenship.

Can family members apply under the same process?

Family members of NRN citizenship applicants can apply for NRN citizenship, but each individual must submit a separate application. The process for family members is generally the same as for the primary applicant. However, there are some considerations:

• Spouses of NRN citizenship holders may be eligible to apply if they meet the criteria for NRN status.
• Minor children (under 18 years) of NRN citizenship holders may be eligible for NRN citizenship through their parents.
• Adult children must apply independently and meet the eligibility criteria on their own merits.
• Parents or siblings of NRN citizenship holders are not automatically eligible and must qualify independently.

Each family member’s application will be assessed individually based on their own eligibility and documentation. While family members can apply concurrently, their applications will be processed separately. It’s advisable for families to consult with the Nepali embassy or consulate to understand any specific provisions or requirements for family applications. Some diplomatic missions may offer guidance on submitting related family applications together for more efficient processing.

Are there legal benefits of NRN citizenship?

NRN citizenship offers several legal benefits to holders, although these are distinct from the rights of full Nepali citizens. Some key benefits include:

• Right to own and sell property in Nepal, subject to certain restrictions
• Ability to conduct business and invest in Nepal with fewer limitations than foreign nationals
• Easier access to banking and financial services in Nepal
• Simplified visa processes for extended stays in Nepal
• Eligibility for certain government services and social benefits in Nepal
• Potential tax advantages for investments and business activities in Nepal
• Easier inheritance and property transfer processes in Nepal
• Access to Nepali educational institutions and healthcare services
• Ability to participate in certain cultural and social activities reserved for Nepali nationals

However, NRN citizenship holders do not have the right to vote in Nepali elections or hold public office. They also cannot join the Nepali military or certain government positions. The specific rights and limitations of NRN citizenship are outlined in the Non-Resident Nepali Act and related regulations. It’s essential for NRN citizenship holders to stay informed about any changes in laws affecting their status and rights in Nepal.

Can NRN citizenship be revoked?

Yes, NRN citizenship can be revoked under certain circumstances. The Government of Nepal reserves the right to cancel or revoke NRN citizenship if the holder violates the terms and conditions associated with this status. Reasons for revocation may include:

• Providing false information or fraudulent documents during the application process
• Engaging in activities deemed harmful to Nepal’s national interests or security
• Violating Nepali laws or regulations repeatedly or severely
• Acquiring citizenship of a country not recognized by Nepal
• Failing to maintain the required connection with Nepal as stipulated in NRN regulations
• Using NRN status for purposes contrary to its intended use
• Any other grounds specified by Nepali law or regulations governing NRN status

The process of revocation typically involves an investigation by relevant Nepali authorities. The individual may be given an opportunity to present their case before a final decision is made. If NRN citizenship is revoked, the individual loses all associated rights and privileges in Nepal. It’s crucial for NRN citizenship holders to adhere to Nepali laws and regulations to maintain their status. Any significant changes in personal circumstances that might affect NRN eligibility should be reported to the relevant Nepali authorities.

Are renewal processes different for NRNs?

The renewal process for NRN citizenship differs from that of regular Nepali citizenship. NRN citizenship certificates are typically issued for a specific period, often 10 years, and require renewal to maintain validity. The renewal process involves:

1. Submitting a renewal application to the nearest Nepali embassy or consulate
2. Providing updated documentation, including proof of continued foreign citizenship
3. Demonstrating ongoing ties to Nepal, such as investments or cultural connections
4. Paying the prescribed renewal fee
5. Undergoing any necessary verification processes

NRN citizenship holders should initiate the renewal process well before the expiration of their current certificate. The specific requirements and timeline for renewal may vary, so it’s advisable to check with the Nepali diplomatic mission for the most current information. Unlike regular Nepali citizenship, which is typically lifelong, NRN status requires periodic renewal to ensure continued eligibility and compliance with NRN regulations. This process allows the Nepali government to verify that NRN citizenship holders maintain their connection to Nepal and continue to meet the criteria for this special status.

Can NRN citizenship holders vote in Nepal?

NRN citizenship holders do not have the right to vote in Nepali elections. The Constitution of Nepal and the Election Commission Act restrict voting rights to full Nepali citizens residing within the country. NRN citizenship, while providing various benefits and privileges, does not confer full political rights equivalent to those of resident Nepali citizens. This limitation on voting rights is consistent with Nepal’s policy of not recognizing dual citizenship. The rationale behind this restriction includes:

• Ensuring that only those directly affected by Nepal’s governance participate in elections
• Maintaining the integrity of the electoral process
• Preventing potential conflicts of interest for individuals with allegiances to multiple countries

While NRN citizenship holders cannot vote, they can participate in Nepal’s development through other means, such as investment, cultural exchange, and advocacy. Some NRN organizations have lobbied for expanded political rights, including voting privileges, but as of now, the law remains unchanged. NRN citizenship holders should be aware of this limitation when considering their involvement in Nepali political processes.

FAQs

1. Is dual nationality valid?

No, Nepal does not recognize dual nationality. NRN citizenship is a special status for foreign citizens of Nepali origin, but it is not equivalent to dual citizenship. Individuals must choose between full Nepali citizenship and foreign citizenship with NRN status.

2. Are fees refundable?

Generally, fees paid for NRN citizenship applications are not refundable. This applies even if the application is rejected or withdrawn. Applicants should carefully consider their eligibility before submitting an application and paying the associated fees.

3. Can children apply?

Minor children (under 18) of NRN citizenship holders may be eligible for NRN status through their parents. However, they must apply separately. Adult children must meet the eligibility criteria independently and apply on their own merits.

4. Is online application possible?

Currently, the NRN citizenship application process is not fully available online. While some information and forms may be accessible online, the submission of documents and completion of the application typically requires in-person visits to Nepali embassies or consulates.

5. Are delays common?

Delays in the NRN citizenship application process can occur due to various factors, including document verification, administrative procedures, and the volume of applications. Applicants should be prepared for potential delays and follow up regularly with the relevant Nepali diplomatic mission for updates on their application status.