Starting or investing in a public limited company in Nepal is a big decision. Many people also want to know which companies are listed on NEPSE right now. Whatever your reason for being here, you are in the right place.
This guide covers everything you need to know about a public limited company in Nepal. We will talk about what it is, how it works, and what the law says. We will also show you how to register one, step by step, in simple words. Even a grade 2 student can read and understand this guide easily.
We will go through registration, legal rules, NEPSE listed companies, and the top public companies in Nepal. Every section is written simply — no hard words, no confusing terms. By the end, you will know exactly what a public limited company in Nepal is and how it works. Let us break it all down together, one step at a time.
What is a Public Limited Company in Nepal?
A public limited company in Nepal is a business that sells shares to the public. Anyone can buy a small part of that company you, your neighbor, or anyone else. It has the word “Limited” at the end of its name and is registered under the Companies Act, 2063. It must follow strict rules because it uses public money. For example, when you buy shares of Nabil Bank, you are buying a small piece of a public limited company in Nepal.
Features of a Public Company
Here are the key features of a public limited company in Nepal:
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Shares are tradable; Anyone can buy or sell shares on NEPSE (Nepal Stock Exchange).
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Minimum 7 shareholders are required to form a public limited company.
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Minimum 3 directors must be on the board at all times.
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No upper limit on shareholders; The company can have thousands or even millions of shareholders.
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Mandatory audit; Financial statements must be audited every year.
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Public disclosure; Financial records must be published for the public.
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Perpetual existence; The company continues even if a shareholder dies or leaves.
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Limited liability; Shareholders are only responsible for the amount they invested.
These features make the public limited company in Nepal a preferred structure for large businesses and banks.
Public Company vs Private Company in Nepal
Many people get confused between a public company and a private company. Let’s clear that up quickly.
Key Differences
A public limited company in Nepal can sell shares to anyone in the public. A private limited company can only share ownership with a few selected people. A public company needs at least 7 shareholders and 3 directors to start. A private company only needs 1 shareholder and 1 director.
A public limited company in Nepal can list on NEPSE and raise money through an IPO. It must also share its financial information with the public every year. A private limited company cannot list on NEPSE or issue an IPO. That is the biggest and most important difference between the two.
Benefits and Limitations
Every business structure has good sides and bad sides. A public limited company in Nepal is no different. Let’s look at both so you can understand it better.
Benefits of a Public Limited Company in Nepal:
There are many good reasons why businesses choose a public limited company in Nepal. Here are the biggest ones:
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Easy to raise large amounts of money from the public
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People trust public companies more, which helps the brand grow
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Shareholders only lose what they invested — nothing more
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Shares can be bought and sold easily on NEPSE
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Big investors and foreign companies like to invest in public companies
Limitations:
But a public limited company in Nepal also has some challenges. Here is what you need to know:
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More rules and paperwork to follow every year
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Financial information must be shared with the public
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Big decisions need approval from shareholders
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It costs more money and time to set up and run
Despite the limitations, many businesses in Nepal still choose the public limited company structure. The reason is simple — it helps them raise a lot of money from the public, which helps them grow faster.
Legal Framework of Public Companies in Nepal
Before registering a public limited company in Nepal, you must understand the laws that govern it.
Companies Act 2063
The Companies Act, 2063 (2006) is the main law for all companies in Nepal, including public limited companies. It was updated and amended over the years to reflect modern business needs.
Under this act:
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A public limited company in Nepal must have at least 7 shareholders and 3 directors.
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The company must hold annual general meetings (AGMs).
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Audited financial statements must be submitted to the Office of Company Registrar (OCR).
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The company must maintain statutory registers such as the member register and share register.
The Act also defines the rights and duties of shareholders, directors, and the management team.
Office of Company Registrar (OCR)
The Office of Company Registrar (OCR) is the government body responsible for registering and regulating all companies in Nepal, including every public limited company in Nepal.
The OCR operates under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies. It handles company registration, annual filings, amendments, and dissolution.
All documents for a public limited company must be submitted to the OCR. You can also check the public limited company in Nepal list on the OCR’s official website.
Requirements for Public Company Registration in Nepal
Registering a public limited company in Nepal requires meeting several important conditions. Here is what you need before you begin.
Minimum Capital Requirement
A public limited company in Nepal must have a minimum paid-up capital as specified under the Companies Act and relevant sector regulations.
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General public companies: Minimum paid-up capital of NPR 1 crore (10 million) is typically required.
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Banking and financial institutions have higher requirements set by the Nepal Rastra Bank.
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Insurance companies follow BEFI (Insurance Board) requirements.
Always confirm the current capital requirement with the OCR, as these figures may be updated.
Shareholders and Directors Requirement
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Minimum 7 shareholders are required.
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Minimum 3 directors must be appointed.
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At least one director must be a Nepali citizen (for most sectors).
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The board must have an odd number of directors (5, 7, etc.) for voting purposes.
Registered Office Requirement
Every public limited company in Nepal must have a registered office address within Nepal. This is the official address for all legal correspondence and government notices.
Required Documents
To register a public limited company in Nepal, you will need:
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Memorandum of Association (MOA) — Defines the company’s objectives and powers.
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Articles of Association (AOA) — Sets the internal rules and regulations.
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Name reservation letter from OCR.
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Citizenship certificates of all promoters/shareholders.
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Passport-sized photographs of directors.
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Proof of registered office address (rent agreement or ownership deed).
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Tax clearance certificates of promoters (if applicable).
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Board resolution (for institutional promoters).
Having all documents ready before applying saves a lot of time.
Step-by-Step Public Company Registration Process
Here is the complete step-by-step process to register a public limited company in Nepal through the OCR.
Step 1: Company Name Reservation
The first step is to check if your desired company name is available. You apply to the OCR for name reservation. If approved, the name is reserved for you for a limited time.
Make sure the name ends with “Limited” and is not similar to an already registered public limited company in Nepal.
Step 2: Preparation of Documents
Once the name is reserved, prepare all required documents including the MOA, AOA, and identity documents of all shareholders and directors. It is advisable to hire a legal consultant or chartered accountant at this stage.
Step 3: Application Submission to OCR
Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents to the OCR office. You can submit physically at the OCR office in Kathmandu or through the OCR’s online portal (where available).
Step 4: Registration Fee Payment
Pay the required registration fee based on the authorized capital of your public limited company in Nepal. The fee structure is published on the OCR website. Keep the payment receipt safely.
Step 5: OCR Examination and Approval
The OCR will examine all submitted documents. If everything is in order, they will approve the registration. If there are missing or incorrect documents, they will notify you for correction.
This process typically takes 7 to 15 working days for a public limited company in Nepal.
Step 6: Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved, the OCR issues the Certificate of Incorporation. This certificate officially recognizes your company as a public limited company in Nepal. Congratulations — your company now legally exists!
Post-Registration Compliance for Public Companies
Getting the certificate is just the beginning. A public limited company in Nepal has ongoing legal obligations that must be followed.
Corporate Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account in the company’s name within 30 days of incorporation. All financial transactions must go through this account.
Company Secretary Appointment
Every public limited company in Nepal is required to appoint a qualified Company Secretary. The secretary manages all statutory records, AGMs, and compliance filings.
First Board Meeting
Hold the first board meeting within 30 days of incorporation. In this meeting, directors take formal charge, approve the company seal, and assign responsibilities.
Statutory Registers and Annual Filing
Maintain the following statutory registers at the registered office:
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Register of Members
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Register of Directors
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Register of Shares
Every public limited company in Nepal must file annual returns with the OCR, including audited financial statements. Failure to file can result in fines and penalties.
Public Limited Company and NEPSE Listed Companies in Nepal
One of the biggest advantages of a public limited company in Nepal is that it can list on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE). This means it can raise money directly from the general public by selling shares.
Public Limited Company in Nepal List
The Office of Company Registrar (OCR) keeps an official public limited company in Nepal list. As of 2026, there are hundreds of registered public limited companies in Nepal across many different sectors. You can find the complete list of public limited company in Nepal on the OCR’s official government website.
List of NEPSE Listed Companies
Not every public limited company in Nepal is listed on NEPSE. Only companies that have gone through the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) approval and issued an IPO can trade on NEPSE. As of 2026, the list of NEPSE listed companies includes over 200 companies. They come from sectors like banking, hydropower, insurance, and manufacturing. The full total listed company in NEPSE details are available on the official NEPSE website.
Largest Public Companies in Nepal
The largest public companies in Nepal are measured by their market value. As of 2026, some of the biggest names include Nepal Telecom, Nabil Bank, Nepal Investment Mega Bank, NMB Bank, and Chilime Hydropower Company. These largest public companies in Nepal are trusted by millions of investors all over the country.
Top 10 Public Company in Nepal
Here is the list of top 10 public company in Nepal based on market cap, reputation, and performance in 2026:
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Nepal Telecom (NTC)
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Nabil Bank Limited
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Nepal Investment Mega Bank
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NMB Bank Limited
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Chilime Hydropower Company
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Global IME Bank
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Laxmi Sunrise Bank
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Nepal Life Insurance Company
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Sagarmatha Insurance Company
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Bottlers Nepal Limited
These top 10 public companies in Nepal are among the most traded on NEPSE and are well known across the country.
Top 10 Highest Share Price in Nepal
The top 10 highest share price in Nepal as of 2026 mostly comes from hydropower and microfinance sectors. Companies like Chilime Hydropower, Butwal Power Company, and Nepal Telecom are often seen at the top of this list. Share prices change every day, so always check the latest data from NEPSE or your broker for the most accurate numbers.
Sector-Wise Public Companies in Nepal
Nepal has public limited companies working in many different industries. Here is a simple look at each one.
Commercial Banks
Commercial banks are the most active public limited companies in Nepal on NEPSE. All 20 commercial banks in Nepal are registered as public limited companies. Some well known names are Nabil Bank, Nepal Investment Mega Bank, NMB Bank, Everest Bank, and Standard Chartered Bank Nepal.
Hydropower Companies
Hydropower is one of the fastest growing sectors for public limited companies in Nepal. Companies like Chilime Hydropower, Butwal Power Company, and Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower have brought in a lot of public investment. Nepal has very high hydropower potential, which makes this sector very exciting for future growth.
Manufacturing Companies
Some NEPSE listed manufacturing companies in Nepal are also public limited companies. These include Bottlers Nepal, Unilever Nepal, and Surya Nepal. Manufacturing companies are an important part of the list of public limited companies in Nepal.
Insurance Companies
All major insurance companies in Nepal are public limited companies in Nepal. Names like Nepal Life Insurance, Sagarmatha Insurance, and Shikhar Insurance are listed on NEPSE. They are regulated by the Insurance Board, also known as Beema Samiti.
Hotels and Tourism Companies
Some big hotel companies in Nepal are also public limited companies in Nepal listed on NEPSE. Soaltee Hotel and Yak and Yeti Hotels are good examples. As tourism in Nepal keeps growing, these companies are getting more and more attention from investors.
Why choose an expert law firm for Public Limited Company Registration in Nepal?
Registering a public limited company in Nepal can feel complicated. That is why having the right legal team makes all the difference. Here is why businesses in Nepal trust Eurasian Law Associates:
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Experienced legal team with deep knowledge of company registration in Nepal
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End-to-end support — from name reservation to Certificate of Incorporation
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Full assistance with MOA, AOA, and all required documents
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Regular updates throughout your registration process
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Affordable fees with no hidden charges
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Trusted by hundreds of clients across Nepal
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Located in the heart of Kathmandu for easy access
We make your public limited company in Nepal registration smooth, fast, and stress-free.
We also offer many other services like:
Foreign Direct Investment and Business Incorporation in Nepal
Trademark Filing, Registration and Opposition in Nepal
Hydropower Registration
Law Reform
Franchise Registration
Contract Drafting
Corporate Compliance Service
Public Company Registration
Branch Registration
Aircraft Registration
Intellectual Property (IP) Investigation Service in Nepal
FAQs
Q: What is a public limited company in Nepal?
A: It is a business that can sell shares to the general public. Anyone can buy a part of the company by purchasing its shares. It is registered under the Companies Act, 2063.
Q: What is the minimum number of shareholders required?
A: A public limited company in Nepal needs at least 7 shareholders. A private limited company only needs 1 shareholder. This is a legal requirement under the Companies Act, 2063.
Q: How many directors are required?
A: A public limited company in Nepal must have at least 3 directors. More directors can be added depending on the company size. The board is responsible for all major decisions.
Q: Can a public limited company list on NEPSE?
A: Yes, but it must get approval from SEBON first. The company must also complete an IPO before listing. Not all public limited companies are listed on NEPSE.
Q: What is the difference between a public and private company?
A: A public limited company in Nepal can sell shares to anyone. A private limited company can only share ownership with selected people. Only a public company can list on NEPSE.
Q: Where can I find the list of public limited companies in Nepal?
A: The official list is maintained by the OCR. You can find it on the OCR’s official government website. The list is updated regularly.
Q: How long does registration take?
A: Registration takes around 7 to 15 working days. This is after all documents are submitted to the OCR. Incomplete documents may cause delays.
Q: What is the minimum capital required?
A: A minimum paid-up capital of NPR 1 crore is generally required. Banking and insurance sectors need much higher capital. The amount varies depending on the sector.
Q: What documents are needed for registration?
A: You need the MOA, AOA, and a name reservation letter. Citizenship certificates of all shareholders are also required. All documents must be submitted to the OCR.
Q: Is it mandatory to appoint a company secretary?
A: Yes, every public limited company in Nepal must appoint a Company Secretary. The secretary manages legal records and annual filings. This is required by law under the Companies Act, 2063.
Q: What happens if annual returns are not filed?
A: The company can face heavy fines from the OCR. In serious cases, the company can be removed from the register. Always file returns on time to avoid penalties.
Q: What is the role of the OCR?
A: The OCR registers and regulates all public limited companies in Nepal. It reviews documents and approves registrations. All annual filings must also be submitted to the OCR.
Q: What is SEBON?
A: SEBON is the Securities Board of Nepal. It regulates the stock market and approves NEPSE listings. It also protects the rights of investors.
Q: Can a foreign investor invest in a public limited company in Nepal?
A: Yes, foreign investors can buy shares on NEPSE. Some sectors have restrictions on foreign investment. Always check the rules before investing.
Q: What are the annual compliance requirements?
A: The company must hold an Annual General Meeting every year. Audited financial statements must be submitted to the OCR. Statutory registers must also be maintained at all times.
Conclusion
A public limited company in Nepal is one of the best ways to grow a big business. It lets you raise money from the public and list on NEPSE for more investment. This guide has covered everything you need to know in simple words.
We talked about what a public limited company in Nepal means and how it works. We covered the registration steps, the laws, and the documents you need. We also shared the list of NEPSE-listed companies and the top public companies in Nepal.
Nepal’s economy is growing fast and public limited companies in Nepal are a big part of that growth. Banking, hydropower, insurance, and manufacturing are all leading the way. Now you have all the information you need to get started.
If you are ready to register your public limited company in Nepal, do not do it alone. Get the right legal help and make the process smooth and easy. Contact Eurasian Law Associates today and let them help you register your company the right way.
Eurasian Law Associates
Location: M8CX+6C5, Kathmandu 44600
Phone: 9713592500