Can I apply for citizenship if my father or mother is Nepali?

Yes, but the law prioritizes descent through the father. While maternal claims are technically allowed, they may require additional verification or approval.

Can foreign spouses become Nepali citizens?

Only foreign women married to Nepali men are granted a defined path. Foreign men married to Nepali women currently do not have equal rights under the law and face significant legal hurdles.

What if I was born abroad to Nepali parents?

You may be eligible for citizenship by descent but must register with authorities and formally choose Nepali citizenship by adulthood, renouncing any other nationality.

Do I have to pay taxes in Nepal if I become a citizen?

Nepal taxes residents on worldwide income. If you live in Nepal for more than 183 days per year, you will be subject to local income tax.

Get Your Nepal Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply

Q: Does Nepal allow dual citizenship?

No. Nepal does not recognize or permit dual citizenship. You must renounce your other nationality to become a Nepali citizen.

Let us make the application process easier. With our network of experts, easy-to-use tools and helpful progress trackers, we're your complete resource for acquiring dual citizenship.

Eligibility Overview

By Birth: Individuals born in Nepal before 13 April 1990 and residing permanently may apply under transitional provisions.
By Descent: Those born to a Nepali father or mother are generally eligible, but must register and meet documentation requirements. Father’s citizenship is prioritized under current law.
By Marriage: Foreign women married to Nepali men may acquire citizenship, but must reside in Nepal and renounce other nationalities. The reverse (foreign men married to Nepali women) is not fully guaranteed.
By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply after 15 years of residence (7 years for those married to Nepali citizens), subject to language and cultural knowledge.
Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Allowed: Nepal strictly prohibits dual citizenship. Applicants must renounce all other nationalities before acquiring Nepali citizenship.

Note: Children born abroad to Nepali parents may be eligible but must choose one citizenship upon reaching adulthood.

Step-by-Step Process

Determine eligibility through birth, descent, or marriage.
Submit your application through the District Administration Office or a Nepali embassy.
Provide required documents including proof of ancestry or marital status.
Renounce foreign citizenship and complete background verification.

Benefits of Nepali Citizenship

Right to live, vote, and work in Nepal
Access to land ownership and public services
Ability to pass citizenship to children (under certain conditions)
Full participation in civic and political life

Frequently asked questions.

Does Nepal allow dual citizenship?

No. Nepal does not recognize dual citizenship. All applicants must renounce their foreign nationality before being granted citizenship.

Can I get Nepali citizenship if my father or mother is Nepali?

Yes, but laws still prioritize descent through the father. Applications based on maternal descent may face delays or extra review.

Can foreign spouses apply for Nepali citizenship?

Yes, but only foreign women married to Nepali men are guaranteed a path. Foreign men married to Nepali women face legal and bureaucratic barriers.

What happens if I was born abroad to Nepali parents?

You may qualify for citizenship by descent, but must declare intent and renounce any other nationality by adulthood.

Do I have to pay taxes in Nepal as a citizen?

Nepal taxes residents on worldwide income. If you live in Nepal, you are subject to income tax based on local rates and residency rules.