Second Passport Options for Citizens of Nepal

1. What countries offer citizenship for Nepal passport holders by investment programs?


Some countries that offer citizenship for Nepal passport holders through investment programs include:

1. Saint Kitts and Nevis
2. Dominica
3. Grenada
4. Vanuatu
5. Antigua and Barbuda
6. Cyprus
7. Malta
8. Bulgaria
9. Turkey
10. Montenegro

Note: Each country has different requirements, investment options, and benefits for obtaining citizenship by investment. It is recommended to research thoroughly before making a decision.

2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in Nepal?

According to Section 9 of the Nepal Citizenship Act, an individual can only hold one citizenship at a time. This means that dual citizenship is not recognized in Nepal and individuals are required to renounce any other citizenship they may hold before obtaining Nepali citizenship.

Exceptions to this rule include:

1. If an individual acquires Nepali citizenship by birth, and their country of origin does not allow renunciation of citizenship, then they are allowed to hold both Nepali and foreign citizenship.
2. If an individual is married to a Nepali citizen, they can obtain naturalized citizenship without renouncing their original citizenship.

However, even in these exceptions, the government of Nepal can revoke the Nepali citizenship if the person is found to have engaged in activities that pose a threat to national security, or if they have obtained Nepali citizenship through fraudulent means.

3. What are the requirements for obtaining Nepali citizenship?

To be eligible for Nepali citizenship, applicants must meet certain criteria outlined in the Nepal Citizenship Act. These requirements include:

1. Being born in Nepal with parents who are both Nepali citizens.
2. Being born outside of Nepal but having at least one parent who is a Nepali citizen.
3. Acquiring residency through marriage with a Nepali citizen for at least 15 years (this requirement may vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin).
4. Having made significant contributions in the fields of art, science, technology or social service and contributing significantly to promoting Nepal’s identity and prestige.
5. Meeting certain educational qualifications specified by the Government (for example being proficient in speaking and writing in English or able to read and write Sanskrit/Nepal Bhasa).
6. Being a refugee certified by the Government of Nepal.
7.Receiving special consideration from the government for economic reasons or employment opportunities.

Additionally, applicants must provide necessary documents such as proof of identity, proof of residence, and other relevant documents to support their application. The exact requirements may vary based on the applicant’s specific circumstances and situation.

3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Nepal?


The process of obtaining a second passport in Nepal can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, depending on the efficiency of the application process and any additional documentation or requirements that may be needed. It is recommended to start the application process well in advance to allow for any unexpected delays.

4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Nepal?


There are no specific language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Nepal. However, applicants may be required to provide proof of their legal residence status in Nepal and must be able to communicate with the government officials during the application process. Additionally, knowledge of the local language (Nepali) may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in Nepal?


The cost of obtaining a second passport in Nepal varies depending on the type of passport, processing time, and additional fees. The following are approximate costs for different types of passports:

1. Ordinary Passport: USD 85 (Regular), USD 170 (Urgent)
2. Official Passport: USD 150 (Regular), USD 300 (Urgent)
3. Diplomatic Passport: USD 250 (Regular), USD 500 (Urgent)

Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or if the applicant is applying from abroad.

It is recommended to contact the Department of Immigration in Nepal for updated and accurate information on the cost of obtaining a second passport.

6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Nepal?

No, citizenship by investment in Nepal is only available to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements and invest a minimum sum of money in the country. Spouses and children may be able to obtain citizenship through naturalization after living in Nepal for a certain period of time.

7. Does Nepal allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?


No, Nepal does not allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport. All travelers must have a valid visa to enter Nepal, regardless of their nationality or the passport they hold.

8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in Nepal?


In Nepal, citizens with two passports are required to follow the same taxation laws and regulations as citizens with only one passport. This means that they are subject to income tax, goods and services tax, and other applicable taxes based on their income and assets.

However, individuals with dual citizenship may have to pay taxes in both countries depending on the tax laws of each country. In order to avoid double taxation, Nepal has agreements for avoidance of double taxation with several countries.

Additionally, Nepal allows for certain deductions for foreign income earned by dual citizens, provided that adequate proof is provided to the tax authorities. These deductions may include taxes paid in the foreign country or a proportionate exclusion of foreign income from taxable income.

It should be noted that even if a person has two passports, they are still considered a Nepalese citizen and must abide by all applicable tax laws in Nepal. Failure to do so can result in penalties, fines, or legal consequences. It is important for individuals with dual citizenship to consult with a tax advisor or the appropriate authorities in both countries to understand their specific tax obligations.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Nepal?

There are no specific restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Nepal. However, the investment must be made in a sector that is not prohibited by law and is considered beneficial for the country’s economy. Additionally, the Nepali government may also reserve the right to scrutinize investments on a case-by-case basis before granting citizenship.

10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Nepal?


No, according to Nepali law, it is not possible for individuals to hold multiple citizenships. Therefore, in order to obtain a second passport from another country, an individual would have to renounce their Nepali citizenship.

11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in Nepal?


There are no publicly known restrictions for citizens of any particular country from applying for a second passport in Nepal. However, the applicant must meet all the eligibility criteria set by the Government of Nepal and provide all necessary documents to support their application. Additionally, all applicants must have a valid visa or residency status in Nepal before they can apply for a second passport.

12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from Nepal, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?


There may be some additional benefits to holding a second passport from Nepal, including access to business opportunities and education and healthcare systems. Some potential benefits include:

1. Business Opportunities: Holding a second passport from Nepal can make it easier for individuals to do business in the country. They may have access to special investment opportunities, tax incentives, or other business-related benefits that are only available to Nepali citizens.

2. Education: Nepali citizens typically receive preferential treatment when applying for government-sponsored scholarships and financial aid for higher education programs in Nepal. Additionally, having a Nepali passport may also make it easier for individuals to study at universities or institutions abroad that have partnership agreements with Nepal.

3. Healthcare: As a Nepali citizen, individuals may be eligible for subsidized healthcare services and access to public hospitals and medical facilities in Nepal. This can be particularly beneficial for those who plan on living or traveling frequently in the country.

4. Voting Rights: Holding a second passport from Nepal allows individuals the right to vote in elections held within the country, which can give them a voice in shaping the political and social landscape of their home country.

5. Ease of Travel: Having a Nepali passport can make it easier to travel within certain countries due to visa exemptions or waived visa fees. This can save time and money when planning trips or conducting business abroad.

Ultimately, the most significant benefit of holding a second passport from Nepal is the sense of identity and belonging that comes with being a dual citizen of two nations. It allows individuals to maintain strong ties with their home country while also enjoying the advantages that come with holding citizenship elsewhere.

13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Nepal?


Yes, the age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Nepal is 21 years old. Applicants must be at least 21 years old to apply for Nepalese citizenship by investment.

14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from Nepal?

To obtain a second passport from Nepal, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Determine your eligibility: According to Nepali law, only those with genuine reasons and the approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs are eligible for a second passport. Some possible reasons include having business interests in multiple countries, frequent travel due to work or family obligations, or holding dual citizenship.

2. Prepare your documents: You will need to gather necessary documents such as your current Nepali passport, proof of reason for needing a second passport, and any other required supporting documents.

3. Fill out an application form: You can get the application form from the Department of Passports or download it from their website. Fill out the form accurately and provide all necessary information.

4. Submit your application: Once you have completed the form and gathered all required documents, you can submit your application to the Department of Passports in Kathmandu.

5. Pay the fee: You will need to pay a fee for processing your application. The fee varies depending on individual circumstances.

6. Wait for approval: It typically takes around 30 days for an application to be processed and approved. If there are any issues with your application, you may be asked to provide additional information or documents.

7. Collect your new passport: Once your application is approved, you will need to pick up your new passport from the Department of Passports in Kathmandu.

It’s important to note that obtaining a second passport from Nepal is not guaranteed and is subject to approval by the Ministry of Home Affairs. It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional or immigration expert for guidance on this process.

15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in Nepal?

Yes, naturalized citizens can apply for a second passport in Nepal. The process and requirements for obtaining a second passport are the same for both citizens by birth and naturalized citizens. However, the individual must provide proof of their naturalization, such as a citizenship certificate or naturalization certificate, along with other necessary documents such as their existing Nepali passport and two recent passport-sized photographs.

16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Nepal?


Yes, proof of financial stability is often required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Nepal. This can include demonstrating a certain minimum investment amount, providing bank statements and other financial documents, and showing the ability to support oneself and any dependents during the residency period. The specific requirements may vary depending on the specific program being applied for.

17. Are there any special regulations or requirements for individuals who have had previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Nepal?


There are no specific regulations or requirements for individuals with previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Nepal. However, the immigration department may conduct background checks and may refuse to issue a second passport if there are concerns about an individual’s criminal history or intentions. It is recommended to disclose any previous legal issues during the passport application process to avoid any potential complications.

18. Does possessing dual citizenship of Nepal pose any complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries?


Yes, there may be some complications when traveling between countries with dual citizenship. Some countries have restrictions on dual citizenship and may require you to enter and exit the country using a specific passport (usually their own). It is important to research the laws and regulations of both countries before traveling to ensure a smooth travel experience. Additionally, you may also need to obtain visas for certain countries using one passport over the other.

19.Is it possible to transfer my current residency status to my new country if I obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in Nepal?


It is not possible to provide a definitive answer as residency and citizenship laws vary by country. It may be possible to transfer your residency status, but it will depend on the specific immigration policies of the new country. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer in both countries for more information on your individual circumstances.

20.Can citizens of other countries living and working in Nepal also apply for a second passport?

Citizens of other countries living and working in Nepal may be able to apply for a second passport, but it ultimately depends on the specific laws and regulations of their home country. Some countries allow dual citizenship, where individuals can hold passports from both their home country and another country. In these cases, citizens may be able to apply for a second passport from Nepal without having to give up their original citizenship. However, other countries do not allow dual citizenship and may require individuals to renounce their citizenship before being able to obtain a second passport from Nepal. It is advisable for individuals in this situation to research the laws and requirements of both countries before proceeding with an application for a second passport.