What is the One Stop Service Center DOI FDI Nepal?

The one stop service center doi fdi nepal represents a revolutionary approach to foreign investment facilitation. The Government of Nepal has set up a One Stop Service Center (OSSC) as envisioned by Industrial Enterprise Act and Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act to provide all investment related services from a single point for the convenience of the investors. This centralized system eliminates bureaucratic hurdles, reducing processing time significantly for international investors.

The Centre is located at the Department of Industry (DoI) in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, serving as Nepal’s primary gateway for foreign investment approvals below NPR 6 billion.


Understanding OSSC’s Role in FDI Processing

The DOI’s One Stop Service Center (OSSC) provides integrated services for FDI approvals, company registration, and other regulatory clearances. This comprehensive facility transforms the traditional multi-agency approach into a streamlined single-window system.

Core Functions of OSSC:

  • FDI Approval Processing: Direct handling of foreign investment applications
  • Company Registration: Simultaneous business entity formation
  • Regulatory Clearances: Coordination with multiple government agencies
  • Document Processing: Centralized submission and verification
  • Status Tracking: Real-time application monitoring

The one stop service center doi fdi nepal operates through advanced digital platforms, ensuring transparency throughout the approval process.


Services Offered by OSSC

The one-stop service center will provide services ranging from registration to operation to exit of an industry from a single window, ending hassles for investors to run from pillar to post for starting their business operations.

Service CategorySpecific ServicesProcessing Time
FDI ApprovalsPreliminary approval, technology transfer7-15 days
Company RegistrationEntity formation, share allocation10-20 days
Regulatory ClearancesEnvironmental, sectoral permits15-30 days
Tax RegistrationVAT, PAN registration3-7 days
Bank Account OpeningCoordination with financial institutions5-10 days

OSSC Location and Infrastructure

The OSSC is located within the premises of the DoI, Tripureswor, Kathmandu, providing convenient access to investors. The facility includes:

Physical Infrastructure:

  • Modern Service Counters: Dedicated windows for different services
  • Digital Kiosks: Self-service application tracking
  • Conference Rooms: Investor consultation facilities
  • Document Processing Centers: Secure verification areas

Digital Infrastructure:

  • Online Portal: imis.doind.gov.np for application submissions
  • Electronic Document Management: Paperless processing systems
  • Real-time Tracking: Status monitoring capabilities
  • Digital Payment Integration: Online fee collection

FDI Processing Through OSSC

The one stop service center doi fdi nepal follows a structured approach for investment approvals:

Phase 1: Application Submission

Investors submit comprehensive applications through the online portal or physical counters. Submit complete documentation through the online portal (imis.doind.gov.np) with all required documents.

Phase 2: Document Verification

OSSC staff conduct thorough verification of submitted documents, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Phase 3: Inter-agency Coordination

The center coordinates with relevant government agencies for necessary clearances and approvals.

Phase 4: Approval Issuance

Upon satisfactory review, OSSC issues preliminary approval certificates for foreign investment projects.


Investment Thresholds and Authority Distribution

Investment RangeProcessing AuthorityTimelineSpecial Features
Up to NPR 500 millionOSSC (Automatic Route)7-15 daysSimplified documentation
NPR 500M – NPR 6 billionOSSC (Regular Process)30-45 daysComprehensive review
Above NPR 6 billionInvestment Board Nepal90-120 daysStrategic assessment

The official timeline for FDI approval as per FITTA 2019 is: 7 days for DOI to approve investments up to NPR 6 billion, demonstrating the efficiency of the one stop service center doi fdi nepal.


Key Benefits of OSSC for Foreign Investors

Streamlined Processing

The centre is designed to cut hassles for investors by providing a range of services at one place and save them the trouble of visiting various government offices

Time Efficiency

Traditional multi-agency processes previously took 6-8 months. The one stop service center doi fdi nepal reduces this to 1-3 months for most applications.

Cost Reduction

There is no fee for FDI approval by the Department of Industry. However, NPR. 20,000 has to be deposited by a new foreign investor as a refundable fund.

Transparency Enhancement

Digital tracking systems provide real-time updates on application status, eliminating uncertainty for investors.


Success Stories and Performance Metrics

After the establishment of one-stop service center at the Department of Industry, foreign direct investment (FDI) of Rs 7.92 billion has been approved for 41 industries from the information technology (IT), manufacturing, services and tourism sectors.

Performance Indicators (2025):

  • Applications Processed: 150+ FDI approvals annually
  • Average Processing Time: 35 days (reduced from 120 days)
  • Investor Satisfaction Rate: 85% positive feedback
  • Digital Adoption: 90% online submissions

Documents Required at OSSC

For Individual Foreign Investors:

  • Notarized passport copy with apostille authentication
  • Bank statement demonstrating financial capability
  • Clean criminal record certificate from origin country
  • Comprehensive project feasibility study
  • Technology transfer agreement (if applicable)

For Corporate Foreign Investors:

  • Certificate of Incorporation with apostille
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association
  • Board resolution authorizing investment
  • Audited financial statements (last 3 years)
  • Power of attorney for local representatives

Recent Developments and Future Plans

The one stop service center doi fdi nepal continues evolving with technological advancement:

2025 Enhancements:

  • AI-powered Document Verification: Automated processing systems
  • Mobile Application: Smartphone-based application tracking
  • Video Conferencing: Remote investor consultations
  • Blockchain Integration: Secure document management

Planned Improvements:

  • 24/7 Digital Services: Round-the-clock online processing
  • Multi-language Support: Services in major international languages
  • Express Processing: Fast-track approval for priority sectors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where is the One Stop Service Center located?

The OSSC operates from the Department of Industry premises in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, providing convenient access to foreign investors.

Q2: What is the processing time at OSSC?

Processing time varies from 7-45 days depending on investment amount and sector complexity, significantly faster than traditional multi-agency processes.

Q3: Can investors track their application status?

Yes, the online portal (imis.doind.gov.np) provides real-time tracking capabilities for all submitted applications.

Q4: What services are available at OSSC?

The center provides FDI approvals, company registration, regulatory clearances, tax registration, and coordination with other government agencies.

Q5: Are there any fees for OSSC services?

FDI approval through OSSC is free, though investors must deposit NPR 20,000 as a refundable fund during the application process.

Q6: What documents are required for FDI approval?

Required documents include passport copies, financial statements, project proposals, company incorporation documents, and sector-specific clearances.

Q7: How has OSSC improved the investment climate?

The center has reduced processing time by 70%, eliminated multiple agency visits, and increased transparency through digital tracking systems.

Q8: Can investors visit OSSC for consultations?

Yes, the center provides consultation services, conference rooms, and dedicated staff to assist investors throughout the application process.


Expert Legal Guidance

Navigating the one stop service center doi fdi nepal requires understanding of local regulations and procedures. Professional legal counsel ensures optimal utilization of OSSC services, minimizing delays and maximizing approval success rates.


Conclusion

The one stop service center doi fdi nepal represents Nepal’s commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment. By consolidating multiple services under one roof, the OSSC has transformed foreign investment processing from a complex, time-consuming ordeal into a streamlined, efficient experience.

Success at OSSC depends on proper documentation, understanding regulatory requirements, and leveraging the center’s digital infrastructure. As Nepal continues modernizing its investment facilitation mechanisms, the one stop service center doi fdi nepal stands as a model for efficient public service delivery.

The center’s integrated approach, combining physical infrastructure with digital innovation, positions Nepal as an attractive destination for foreign investment. Investors can confidently approach OSSC knowing they will receive comprehensive support throughout their investment journey.