Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Online Store in Nepal (2025)

Starting an online business in Nepal has become easier than ever in 2025, but it’s important to follow the proper registration process to ensure your business is legal, trustworthy, and future-ready. Whether you are planning to launch an e-commerce store, offer online services, or sell products through social media, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about registering your online store in Nepal.

Why Register Your Online Business?

Registering your online store is more than just a legal requirement—it builds trust with your customers, allows you to access financial services, and protects you from potential legal issues. A registered business also helps you collaborate with bigger companies, apply for business loans, and expand internationally in the future.

Key benefits of registering include:

•  Legal recognition of your business
•  Access to banking and payment gateways
•  Increased trust among customers
•  Eligibility for government schemes and support
•  Ability to scale and expand smoothly

Step 1: Decide Your Business Structure

The first step is choosing the right legal structure for your online store. In Nepal, you can register as:

• Sole Proprietorship – For small, individual businesses
• Partnership Firm – For businesses run by two or more people
• Private Limited Company – Ideal for growing startups and e-commerce businesses

Choosing the right structure depends on your long-term goals, scale, and investment plans.

Step 2: Register Your Business Name

Pick a unique and memorable name for your store. Make sure it’s not already taken by another registered business. You can check availability at the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR).

Tips for choosing a name:

• Keep it short and easy to remember
• Reflect your brand identity
• Avoid names too similar to existing businesses

Step 3: Obtain PAN/VAT Registration

Every business in Nepal must register for a Permanent Account Number (PAN). If your annual transaction is expected to cross a certain threshold, you also need to register for VAT at the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).

• PAN is compulsory for all businesses.
• VAT is required for businesses with large annual transactions.

These registrations are crucial for taxation and compliance purposes.

Step 4: Register with Local Authorities

You must also register your online store with your local Ward Office or Municipality Office to obtain a Business License. This ensures your business is officially recognized in your local area.

Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account

Once your PAN is issued, you can open a business bank account. This account allows you to:

• Receive online payments securely
• Keep personal and business finances separate
• Build financial credibility

Step 6: Comply with E-Commerce Regulations

As an online store, you must comply with Nepal’s E-Commerce Guidelines (2025), which include:

• Transparent pricing
• Return/refund policies
• Clear terms and conditions
• Data protection and privacy compliance

This ensures smooth customer experiences and avoids legal disputes.

Step 7: Get Your Digital Presence Ready

Once the legal steps are complete, focus on:

• Building a professional website with ShriGo.com or similar platforms
• Setting up social media pages for marketing
• Integrating online payment gateways like eSewa, Khalti, or Fonepay

Final Thoughts

Registering your online store in Nepal may seem like a long process, but in 2025, the rules have been simplified to encourage digital entrepreneurship. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll not only stay compliant but also build a strong foundation for your online business.

 Start your journey today and turn your online business idea into a legal, successful venture in Nepal!