Citizenship by Mother's Name: Fourth Amendment Rules (2082)

A major legal breakthrough for single mothers. Learn how to obtain Nepali citizenship through the mother's name when the father is unidentified, under the new 2082 regulations.

A Historic Shift for Single Mothers

For decades, “Citizenship in the name of the mother” was legally possible but administratively blocked. However, the Nepal Citizenship (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2082, implemented in January 2026, have finally cleared the bureaucratic hurdles.

This is a specific guide for mothers where the father is “unidentified” or refuses to acknowledge the child.

1. When the Father is “Unidentified”

This is the most critical update. If a child is born to a Nepali mother in Nepal and the father’s identity is not known, the child can get Descent-based Citizenship (Bansaj).

The “Self-Declaration” Process

Previously, CDOs demanded proof of the father. Now, the mother can submit a Self-Declaration (Swayam Ghoshana) stating that “the father is unidentified.”

No Husband Required: The mother does not need a husband’s signature or presence.
Privacy: The citizenship certificate can be issued using the mother’s surname only, without mentioning the father’s details if chosen.

2. Punishment for False Declaration

To prevent misuse, the law limits this right. If a mother or child makes a false declaration (i.e., the father is actually known and is a foreigner), they face severe punishment:

Imprisonment from 1 to 3 years.
Fine from NPR 100,000 to 300,000 (1 to 3 Lakhs).
Cancellation of the citizenship certificate.

3. Children of Single Mothers (Divorced/Widowed)

If the father is known but is absent (divorced, deceased, or abandoned):

You don’t need the “unidentified” declaration.
You submit the mother’s citizenship + marriage certificate (or divorce/death cert).
Even if the father refuses to sign, the CDO must process the application after verifying the relationship.

4. How to Apply?

Visit the Ward Office first for a recommendation (“Sifaris”), then the District Administration Office (DAO). Documents Checklist:

Mother’s Citizenship (Original & Copy).
Child’s Birth Certificate (Registered at Ward).
Self-Declaration form (Format provided in Regulation 2082) - only if father is unidentified.
Passport size photos.

Conclusion

This amendment is a victory for the identity rights of children raised by single mothers. It ensures that a child’s future is not blocked simply because their father is absent or unidentified.