A Brief Explanation of NRNs Information on Nepal’s Citizenship Amendment Bill

Overview:

The Nepal Citizenship Act, which has been a topic of discussion, for some time has finally received the light for implementation. Despite being approved by Parliament the bill faced suspension under former President Bidya Bhandari. However, the current President, Ramchandra Paudel has now confirmed its enactment. Although there is no provision in the law for acquiring citizenship through marriage, concerns and objections have emerged due to a lack of understanding of the legislation. The Nepal Supreme Court has paved the way for implementing the Citizenship Amendment Act. With the endorsement of Citizenship Regulations, Nepalis living abroad can now obtain citizenship. In this section, we will provide a brief explanation of NRNs information on Nepal’s Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Who Can Get NRN Citizenship:

Apart, from people living in South Asia or SAARC countries, the legislation allows Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) to have citizenship if one of their parents or grandparents was a Nepali citizen either by birth or, through ancestry.

Rules to Follow to Get Dual Citizenship:

• The applicant or his or her parents or grandparents must submit proof that they were or are Nepalese nationals.
• If an individual has previously obtained Nepali citizenship, they need to provide proof of renouncing it.
• They must have proof of citizenship in a foreign country.
• A provision in the Act and Regulations requires a pledge to follow Nepal's constitution and laws.
• It is also necessary to take an oath to uphold the Nepal Constitution, its rules and regulations.
• NRNs who have earned foreign citizenship but have not yet relinquished their Nepali citizenship must do so before applying for dual citizenship.
• NRNs who give false or suspicious information will be disqualified.

Benefits NRNs will get after getting dual citizenship:

NRNs can open bank accounts in Nepal, establish and manage their businesses participate in trade activities buy properties, inherit assets and make investments.

Benefits to Nepal, when people take dual citizenship:

• It will strengthen the connections, between Nepali individuals residing in countries and their home nation enabling them to contribute their resources, skills and prosperity for the betterment of Nepal.
• They have the opportunity to visit Nepal and contribute financially which can greatly support the growth of Nepal’s tourism industry through word-of-mouth recommendations.

Previous trends that NRNs do in Nepal:

• Many Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) have acquired citizenship while still retaining their citizenship. They generally avoid scrutiny or investigation unless they become involved, in political issues, similar to Rabi Lamichhane's case or in illegal issues. However, it is important to note that such practices should cease as they may have led to rumors or suspicions about individuals. 
• It is worth mentioning that some NRNs who had previously acquired citizenship may have also purchased land, in Nepal without renouncing their citizenship. However, labelling this information as false might be an approach in future.

If anybody Wants to be a Nepali Citizen again:

They have to give up their citizenship in the country where they currently live.