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Business Licence Finder: Which Licence Do You Need?

Pick your sector to see the regulator and licences typically needed after registration — IT, tourism, hotels, manpower, health, construction and more.

How it works

Every business needs registration, a PAN (and VAT where required) and ward/municipality registration. Many sectors then need a licence from their regulator — for example the Department of Tourism for travel agencies, the Department of Foreign Employment for manpower agencies or the Department of Drug Administration for pharmacies. Pick your sector to see the usual list.

Every business also needs

  • Registration — company or firm
  • PAN, and VAT if over the threshold or required by customers
  • Ward/municipality business registration and yearly renewal
  • SSF enlistment once you hire staff

Main regulator

No sector licence in most cases

  • Company registration (OCR) and PAN/VAT
  • Industry registration with the Department of Industry if you want industry facilities or bring foreign investment
  • Ward/municipality business registration
  • Export of services: foreign currency earnings are handled through banks under NRB rules
FDI rules for IT

A starting map, not legal advice: requirements depend on your exact objectives, location and size, and some sector rules moved to provincial or local governments after federalism. We confirm the licence list as the first step of every engagement.

The usual order: register, then license

  1. 1

    Register the business

    A company with the OCR or a firm with the Department of Commerce or local body — write objectives that match the licence you need.

  2. 2

    Get PAN/VAT

    From the IRD; VAT is compulsory above NPR 50 lakh (goods) or NPR 30 lakh (services) and for some sectors regardless of turnover.

  3. 3

    Apply for the sector licence

    Most regulators ask for the registration certificate, PAN, office proof, qualified staff and sometimes a deposit.

  4. 4

    Register locally and renew

    Ward/municipality registration and yearly renewals keep the business in good standing.

See how this works end to end on our business licensing service page.

Questions about this tool

Does an IT company need a licence in Nepal?

Usually not a sector licence. It needs company registration, PAN/VAT and local registration; industry registration helps if you want industry facilities or foreign investment.

Can I apply for a licence before registering the company?

Generally no. Regulators ask for the registration certificate and PAN, so register first with matching objectives.

Do licences need renewal?

Most do, usually every year by Ashadh end or on the anniversary date. Missing it can lead to fines or suspension.

Related guides and services

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