Company Registration Process in Pokhara, Nepal Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a business in Pokhara, the tourism capital of Nepal, requires understanding the company registration process in Pokhara, Nepal. Whether you're establishing a small coffee shop or trekking agency near Phewa Lake or launching a tech startup in Gandaki Province, this comprehensive guide walks you through every step of business registration in Pokhara.
Office of Company Registrar (OCR) & CAMIS Portal
The Office of Company Registrar (OCR) governs all company registrations through the CAMIS portal, making the process streamlined for entrepreneurs across Nepal. This guide covers everything from OCR Nepal login procedures to post-registration compliance requirements.
Why Start a Business in Pokhara?
Pokhara offers unique advantages for business registration in Nepal. As the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit and home to over 300,000 residents, the city provides access to both tourist markets and local consumer bases. The Pokhara company registration office serves entrepreneurs from across Gandaki Province, making it a strategic location for business setup.
Legal Framework for Company Registration in Pokhara
Understanding the legal foundation is crucial when you register a company in Pokhara. Key legislation includes the Companies Act, 2063 (2006), the Industrial Enterprises Act, 2076 (2019), the Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act (FITTA), 2075 (2019), the Income Tax Act, 2058 (2002), and the Labor Act, 2074 (2017). These acts together govern company formation, industrial licensing, foreign investment, taxation, and labor obligations.
Types of Companies in Nepal
Private Limited Company
The most popular choice for the company registration process in Pokhara, Nepal. Private limited companies allow 1 to 101 shareholders, cannot issue shares publicly, are ideal for SMEs and family businesses, have a typical minimum capital of NPR 100,000, and limit liability to shareholder investment.
Public Limited Company
Public limited companies are suitable for larger ventures that require public investment. They require a minimum of seven shareholders, can issue shares, bonds, and debentures publicly, and have higher minimum paid-up capital and compliance requirements.
Non-Profit Company
Non-profit companies are registered for social, cultural, religious, or charitable activities under Section 166. They are prohibited from distributing profits and may be eligible for tax exemptions.
Step-by-Step Company Registration Process in Pokhara
Step 1: Name Reservation Through CAMIS Portal
The company registration process in Pokhara begins with name approval via the CAMIS portal. Applicants visit the OCR CAMIS register page, create an OCR Nepal login, select the regional office, submit up to three proposed names, and complete OTP verification. Name reservation is valid for 90 days and must avoid similarity with existing companies or prohibited terms.
Step 2: Document Preparation and Online Submission
After name approval, prepare required documents such as the Application for Registration (Schedule 1), Memorandum of Association (MoA), Articles of Association (AoA), notarized citizenship copies of shareholders, PPAN numbers, director consent letters, and authorization letters if using consultants. Foreign investment requires additional approvals and documentation.
Step 3: Fee Payment Structure
Registration fees vary by company type and authorized capital. Payments are made through Connect IPS or bank vouchers via the CAMIS portal. Fee tables and exact amounts should be checked on the OCR portal when filing.
Step 4: Certificate of Incorporation
Upon successful review by the Office of the Company Registrar, the Certificate of Incorporation is issued, a Company Registration Number (CRN) is assigned, and certified copies of the MoA and AoA are provided. Typical processing time is around 7–10 working days, with digital delivery through the OCR portal.
Post-Registration Requirements
After completing the company registration process in Pokhara, businesses must register for PAN/VAT at the Inland Revenue Department, obtain a company stamp and seal, and open a company bank account by submitting incorporation documents and board resolutions for authorized signatories. Additional tasks include issuing share certificates and appointing an auditor within three months.
Annual Compliance for Registered Companies
Companies must meet ongoing obligations such as filing annual returns, submitting audited financial statements, maintaining meeting minutes, and tax returns. Public companies have additional requirements like AGMs, financial statement publication, director reports, and securities regulator compliance where applicable.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Common hurdles include name rejections, document formatting errors, CAMIS technical issues, and language barriers. Practical solutions include preparing multiple name options, using OCR-specified formats, keeping your browser updated, and seeking professional assistance when needed.
Digital Transformation: CAMIS OCR Portal Features
The OCR has modernized registration through an online application system, document upload facility, real-time status tracking, e-payment gateway, and digital certificate delivery, which has significantly reduced paperwork and sped up the registration process.
Private Limited Company Registration Fees
| Authorized Capital Range | Registration Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Up to Rs. 1,00,000 | 1,000 |
| Rs. 1,00,001 - 5,00,000 | 4,500 |
| Rs. 5,00,001 - 25,00,000 | 9,500 |
| Rs. 25,00,001 - 1,00,00,000 | 16,000 |
| Rs. 1,00,00,001 - 2,00,00,000 | 19,000 |
| Rs. 2,00,00,001 - 3,00,00,000 | 22,000 |
| Rs. 3,00,00,001 - 4,00,00,000 | 25,000 |
| Rs. 4,00,00,001 - 5,00,00,000 | 28,000 |
| Above Rs. 10,00,00,000 | 30 per lakh |
Public Limited Company Registration Fees
| Authorized Capital Range | Registration Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Rs. 1,00,00,000 | 15,000 |
| Rs. 1,00,00,001 - 10,00,00,000 | 40,000 |
| Rs. 10,00,00,001 - 20,00,00,000 | 70,000 |
| Rs. 20,00,00,001 - 30,00,00,000 | 100,000 |
| Above Rs. 50,00,00,000 | 3,000 per crore |
Conclusion
The company registration process in Pokhara, Nepal, has become significantly streamlined through digital initiatives. With proper documentation, compliance with legal requirements, and utilization of the CAMIS OCR portal, entrepreneurs can typically complete company registration within 7–10 working days. For complex registrations or foreign investment procedures, consult professional services familiar with OCR and regional requirements.
Ready to Start Your Company Registration in Pokhara?
Business Basket Pvt Ltd specializes in hassle-free business registration services across Gandaki Province. Our expert team handles everything from CAMIS portal navigation to post-registration compliance, ensuring your company setup is completed efficiently and accurately. Contact Business Basket for document preparation, fast-track registration, and post-registration support.