NRNA hails budget measures for NRNs

By A Staff Reporter, Kathmandu, May 31: The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) has welcomed the provisions introduced by the government in the budget for the fiscal year 2026/27, expressing appreciation for policies aimed at addressing the contributions of non-resident Nepalis, migrant workers and the global Nepali diaspora.

In a statement issued following the budget announcement, the NRNA hailed the government’s commitment to revising provisions related to “Non-Resident Nepali Citizenship” guaranteed by the Constitution. 

The association particularly praised the move to materialise the slogan “Once a Nepali, Always a Nepali” by granting NRNs broader economic, social, and cultural rights and integrating them into the nation-building process.

The association described as “positive and historic” the government’s announcements to allow NRNs to participate in Nepal’s secondary stock market, issue diaspora bonds, encourage co-investment by NRNs in startups and innovation sectors, and prepare legal and technological infrastructure to ensure voting rights for Nepalis living abroad through democratic participation.Similarly, the NRNA welcomed measures aimed at recognising the skills of migrant workers, including returnee migrants, while strengthening worker protection, insurance, social security, and labour exploitation control mechanisms. 

The budget includes reforms to foreign investment procedures, such as simplifying profit repatriation, easing approval requirements, and streamlining royalty and technology payment transfers abroad. 

To encourage productive use of remittances, the government will introduce a “Remittance-Investment Matching Fund” and launch a lottery programme linked to remittance receipts sent through formal channels. 

Returnee migrant workers will also benefit from a “Returnee Migrant Programme” aimed at utilising their knowledge, skills, and experience.

The announcement to establish a legal framework allowing Nepalis to work remotely for foreign employers while residing in Nepal is expected to create new opportunities for young Nepalis, the association said.

The NRNA also appreciated the government for addressing long-standing concerns related to diaspora investment, knowledge transfer, skills, and global networks through the budget. 

At the same time, the NRNA urged the government to swiftly formulate laws and move toward effective implementation of the announced provisions, reaffirming its commitment to provide necessary cooperation, recommendations, and coordination.