Govt mulling over NRN status to students and labourers in foreign land

The Ministry of Foreigner Affairs has prepared regulations to allow NRN status to Nepali students, labourers and others who have stayed for more than two years in a foreign nation other than SAARC countries, Annapurna Post reported.

The ministry has forwarded the 'Non-Residential Nepali Regulations - 2065' to the cabinet for its approval. According to the proposed regulations, Nepalis studying and working in various countries of gulf, Europe, Malayasia, the USA, and Korea, among others will get an ID card and enjoy the facilities enjoyed by an NRN. There are about 2.5 million Nepalis who fall in this category.

The validity of such ID cards will be 10 years for foreign nationals of Nepali origin and two years for Nepalis staying abroad. It can be renewed after the expiry date.

Counters will be installed at the foreign ministry in Kathmandu and Nepali embassies in other countries for the registration of NRNs.

NRN Act 2064 categorises NRNs as foreign nationals of Nepali origin and Nepalis living abroad.

NRNs are entitled to buy, own and sell properties in Nepal and also take their property abroad. However, there is a ceiling in the amount of land that NRNs can purchase in various parts of the country.

The proposed regulation does not mention anything about dual citizenship to NRNs as expected by many Nepalis living abroad. nepalnews.com Mar ta 23 09