Acquiring Nepalese Citizenship by Descent

Eligibility Criteria (2025)

✅ A child born to a Nepalese citizen parent (mother or father) at the time of birth is eligible for citizenship by descent (Article 11(2)(b), Constitution of Nepal).
✅ If born abroad, the child must be registered as a Nepalese citizen at a Nepalese embassy/consulate or District Administration Office.
✅ Citizenship by descent applies to those born before or after the 2015 Constitution, but registration is mandatory to obtain a citizenship certificate.

Required Documentation (2025)

✅ Applicant’s birth certificate (legalized/apostilled and translated into Nepali if necessary).
✅ Nepalese parent’s citizenship certificate (Nagrikata Praman Patra).
✅ Valid identification of the Nepalese parent (e.g., citizenship certificate or passport).
✅ Applicant’s valid passport or identification document (if applicable).
✅ Proof of residence or permanent domicile in Nepal (if applying within the country).

Application Process (2025)

📍 For births in Nepal: Register the birth at the local Ward Office or District Administration Office within 35 days.
📍 For births abroad: Apply for citizenship registration at a Nepalese embassy/consulate or, if in Nepal, the District Administration Office.
📍 Submit required documents to the Ministry of Home Affairs via the District Administration Office or embassy.
📍 Processing typically takes 1-3 months, depending on verification and local office efficiency.
📍 Upon approval, receive a Nepalese citizenship certificate (Nagrikata Praman Patra).

Additional Considerations (2025)

📌 Nepal does **not fully permit dual citizenship**. Citizens by descent born abroad with foreign citizenship may face restrictions unless they renounce foreign nationality (Article 11(5)).
📌 Children of Nepalese mothers and foreign fathers born before 2015 may face additional scrutiny unless registered under the 2006 Act’s provisions.
📌 More details can be found via the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I hold dual citizenship with Nepal?

No, Nepal generally does not allow dual citizenship. If born abroad with foreign citizenship, you may need to renounce it to fully exercise Nepalese citizenship rights (Article 11(5), Constitution).

What if my Nepalese parent is my mother and I was born abroad?

You’re eligible for citizenship by descent if your mother was a Nepalese citizen at your birth. Registration at an embassy or District Administration Office is required.

What happens if I don’t register my birth within 35 days in Nepal?

Late registration is possible with a penalty fee and explanation at the District Administration Office, but it won’t affect your eligibility if your parent is a citizen.

How long does it take to get Nepalese citizenship by descent in 2025?

Processing typically takes 1-3 months, depending on document verification and the efficiency of the District Administration Office or embassy.

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