Empowering NRNs: A path to strengthening Nepal’s global development

The Government of Nepal has taken a crucial step toward addressing the concerns of its diaspora by granting principled approval to draft a bill focused on the rights of Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs). On Wednesday, Prithvi Subba Gurung, Minister for Information and Communication Technology, shared that the Cabinet meeting on Falgun 26 had given the green light for this decision. This bill aims to amend the existing NRN Act, addressing key issues that have long remained unresolved. Even though the Constitution of Nepal (2072) recognizes NRNs as citizens, the reality has been far from seamless for NRNs to enjoy their citizenship rights due to bureaucratic obstacles. The new law promises to clear these roadblocks and make it easier for NRNs to fully utilize their citizenship privileges.

With over 7 million NRNs residing in 112 countries, this community has always been a cornerstone of Nepal’s development, contributing not only through remittances but also by promoting investment, tourism, and cultural exchange. The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), formed to unify NRNs worldwide, plays a key role in helping them stay connected to Nepal and invest in its future. Many NRNs hold prominent positions in business, healthcare, education, and diplomacy, making them powerful ambassadors for Nepal. Yet despite these contributions, NRNs still face many legal and bureaucratic barriers, which often discourage them from investing or returning home. The proposed NRN bill seeks to address these challenges and create a more welcoming environment for NRNs to contribute to Nepal’s development.

NRNs have consistently advocated for simplified legal procedures, equal treatment, and investment rights. While the Constitution of Nepal guarantees NRNs citizenship, its implementation has often been complex and difficult to navigate. The government must take decisive action to ensure that NRNs can easily exercise their citizenship rights. For example, the citizenship and visa application processes should be simplified, and NRNs should be able to apply for these rights through Nepal’s diplomatic missions across the globe, making it more accessible to them.

When it comes to investment, NRNs need clearer and more straightforward procedures to invest in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. The proposed bill should also include provisions for long-term land leases for NRNs interested in these sectors. NRNs should not be bound by the same regulations that apply to foreign investors under the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) agreements. We strongly recommend that the government simplify investment processes for NRNs who hold Nepali citizenship, allowing them to more easily contribute to Nepal’s economy.

Another issue that needs attention is the treatment of NRN citizenship holders within Nepal. Currently, NRNs are often treated like foreigners when flying domestically, which is not only frustrating but also discouraging. We urge the government to treat NRN citizenship holders as Nepali citizens, granting them the same rights, such as in domestic flights, taxation, and property ownership. This would go a long way in strengthening their bond with Nepal.

Moreover, we must focus on encouraging the second generation of NRNs to stay connected with their Nepali roots. By creating a simpler process for NRNs and their children to engage with Nepal, we can ensure that the next generation remains committed to supporting Nepal’s progress. NRNs are not just a source of remittances—they are eager to help Nepal develop socially, economically, and culturally.

We must acknowledge that Nepal has immense potential, but political instability, corruption, and bureaucratic inefficiency continue to prevent us from realizing it fully. The time for change is long overdue. Nepal must take bold steps to create a better environment for NRNs and other investors, one that fosters collaboration and development. We need to act urgently to remove the obstacles that have held us back for so long.

Through this new NRN bill, Nepal has an opportunity to build stronger connections between the homeland and the global Nepali community. By simplifying the legal framework and creating investment-friendly policies, the country can unlock its potential and move forward with its development goals. A stronger partnership between NRNs and the government will not only benefit the diaspora but also help build a more prosperous Nepal for all.

(Sapkota is the Deputy General Secretary of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), International Coordination Council.)