Kathmandu, July 17: The Government of Nepal has introduced new criteria for the appointment of Honorary Consuls and Honorary Consul Generals representing Nepal in foreign countries.
As per the amended guidelines, any individual appointed as an honorary consul must have been a permanent resident of the concerned country for at least 10 years. Additionally, applicants must submit a self-declaration stating they will reside in the designated consular area throughout their term.
Previously, the eligibility required just six months of annual residency in the consular area. The revised criteria mandate not only long-term residency but also the compulsory establishment of an office by the honorary consul, which was previously optional.
To qualify, applicants must possess a good command of English and the local language of the consular region, and have at least a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. However, this academic qualification may be waived for individuals who have previously served a full term as honorary consul for another country.
Honorary consuls are expected to promote Nepal’s economic interests, including the export of goods and services. They must send a monthly financial report to the respective Nepali ambassador for any visa-related service revenue and expenditure.
The rules still prevent the appointment of nationals from third countries, except in special cases where they have previously served as honorary consuls. Foreign nationals of Nepali origin and Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) who have resided for at least 10 years in the consular region are also considered eligible.
The revised regulation adds four new disqualifications. Individuals who have filed a lawsuit against the Government of Nepal, acquired refugee status or permanent residence by renouncing Nepali citizenship, acted against unity, tolerance, or harmony among the Nepali community abroad, or been convicted of crimes like corruption or money laundering by a foreign court, are deemed ineligible for the position.
More than 50 honorary consuls and consul generals currently represent Nepal in various cities around the world. Under the revised guidelines, honorary consuls appointed by friendly nations to Nepal must have settled all due taxes for the previous fiscal year, not hold any remunerated government position or benefit-based post (such as pension or retirement benefits), and refrain from extending privileges or immunities to family members or office staff.
Where Nepal lacks a resident diplomatic mission, the appointment of honorary consuls will be done based on the recommendation of the respective ambassador overseeing the country.
Only while attending formal events related to the country they represent can honorary consuls use that nation’s flag on their vehicle.
The fifth amendment to the Honorary Consul Rules, 2039 B.S. (1982 A.D.) was made in 2018. The current (sixth) amendment was proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and has been published in the Nepal Gazette. #nepal #consular
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