Frequently asked Questions?

Welcome to the comprehensive information page of the Non-Resident Nepali Association, National Coordination Council Hong Kong (NRNA HK).

1. About NRNA Hong Kong

Q: What is NRNA Hong Kong?

A: NRNA Hong Kong is the National Coordination Council (NCC) of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in Hong Kong. It is a non-profit, voluntary, and non-political organization established to unite Nepalis living in Hong Kong, promote their welfare, and facilitate their contribution to Nepal's development.

Q: When was NRNA Hong Kong established?

A: NRNA Hong Kong was established on November 26, 2004. It is officially registered under the Societies Ordinance of Hong Kong (Ref. CP/LIC/SO/19/30991).

Q: What are the main objectives of NRNA Hong Kong?

A: Our key objectives include:

• Uniting all Nepalese residing in Hong Kong.

• Representing the Nepali community in local civic bodies.

• Promoting Nepal, its tourism, products, and investment opportunities.

• Organizing Nepali festivals and cultural programs to preserve our heritage.

• Mobilizing resources for relief and charity works in Nepal and Hong Kong.

• Lobbying for the welfare and safety of Nepalis with the Consulate General and Hong Kong authorities.

Q: Is NRNA Hong Kong a political organization?

A: No. NRNA is a purely social and non-political organization. We focus on community welfare and economic development.

2. Membership & NRNA Identity

Q: Who is eligible to become a member of NRNA HK?

A: Any Nepali citizen or Person of Nepali Origin (PNO) aged 18 or above, who has been residing in Hong Kong for at least 183 days (6 months) in a year, and holds a valid Hong Kong ID card, is eligible for membership.

Q: What is the difference between an 'NRN Card' and an 'NRNA Member ID'?

A: This is a common confusion.

• NRN Card: An official identity card issued by the Government of Nepal (via the Consulate) to foreign nationals of Nepali origin. It grants legal rights like visas and property ownership.

• NRNA Member ID: A membership card issued by NRNA (the organization). It proves you are part of the association and allows you to vote in NRNA elections.

Q: Do I need an NRN Card to become an NRNA Member?

A: No. You do not need the government NRN Card to become a member of the association. You only need to meet the residency and origin criteria.

Q: How can I become a member?

A: You can apply during our open membership drives (usually before the General Assembly) following Smart NRNA (Watch our announcements)

3. NRN Citizenship, Rights & Property in Nepal

Q: What is the "Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship"?

A: Following the amendment to the Nepal Citizenship Act in 2023, "Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship" is now available to foreign nationals of Nepali origin (and their children) residing in countries outside the SAARC region. It grants economic, social, and cultural rights but does not grant political rights (such as voting, contesting elections, or holding government office).

Q: Who is eligible for NRN Citizenship?

A: Anyone who:

• Acquired the citizenship of a foreign country (outside SAARC).

• Previously held Nepali citizenship OR whose father/mother/grandfather/grandmother was a Nepali citizen.

• Has not been convicted of serious criminal offenses.

Q: How do I apply for NRN Citizenship?

A: The application process typically involves:

1. Submitting an application to the Chief District Officer (CDO) in the district of your origin in Nepal, or through the Nepali Embassy/Consulate (which forwards it to the CDO).

2. Providing proof of previous Nepali citizenship (or that of parents/grandparents).

3. Providing proof of current foreign citizenship.

4. Taking an oath to respect the sovereignty and laws of Nepal.

Q: Can I keep my property in Nepal after taking NRN Citizenship?

A: Yes. NRN Citizenship allows you to own, buy, sell, and inherit property in Nepal, enjoying the same economic rights as regular citizens (with some specific procedural guidelines for foreign investment). You do not need to liquidate your assets upon taking foreign citizenship if you obtain NRN Citizenship.

Q: Can I re-acquire full Nepali Citizenship if I return?

A: Yes. If you renounce your foreign citizenship and return to reside in Nepal, you can reinstate your full Nepali citizenship by submitting evidence of renunciation to the designated authority in Nepal.

4. Investment & Banking

Q: Can I open a bank account in Nepal?

A: Yes. Any NRN with a valid NRN Card or NRN Citizenship can open and maintain a bank account in Nepal in foreign currency (FCY) or Nepali Rupees.

Q: Can I take my money back (repatriate) from Nepal?

A: Yes. If you invest in Nepal as a foreign investor (using foreign currency), you can repatriate the principal investment and profits back to Hong Kong, provided you have fulfilled tax obligations and followed the Department of Industry's procedures.

5. NRNA Hong Kong Leadership History

Q: Who are the Past Presidents of NRNA Hong Kong?

A: We honor the leadership of our past presidents who have guided the organization:

• Mr. Krishna Prasad Pandey (2004-2006)

• Mr. Yem Kumar Gurung (Trilok) (2006-2011)

• Mr. Durga Bahadur Gurung (2011-2015)

• Mr. Lalit Subba (2015-2017)

• Ms. Radhika Gurung (Tika) (2017-2021)

• Mr. Gokarna Prasad Dhakal (2021-2025)

Q: Who is the current President of NRNA Hong Kong?

A: The current President for the 2025-2027 tenure is Mr. Anu Rai.

6. Structure & Contact

Q: What is the International Coordination Council (ICC)?

A: The ICC is the global executive body of NRNA that leads the movement worldwide. NRNA Hong Kong is a National Coordination Council (NCC) under the ICC umbrella.

Q: Where is your office?

A: Room 302, 3/F, Bowring Commercial Centre, 150-164 Woosung Street, Jordan, Kowloon.

Q: How do I contact NRNA HK?

A: Email: nrnahk@gmail.com

Phone: +852 64627255, 52235424