Social Media Banned in Nepal | Registration Rules, Blocked Platforms, and 2025 Updates

Social Media Platforms Banned in Nepal Over Registration Non-Compliance

In this guide, we provide detailed information about the recent social media banned in Nepal which platforms are blocked, the reasons behind the ban, and how the registration process works for platforms that want to operate legally in the country.

In September 2025, the Government of Nepal announced a nationwide ban on social media platforms that failed to comply with mandatory registration requirements. The decision followed the Directive on Regulating the Use of Social Media, 2023, which requires all platforms to:

• 1. Register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology.

  2. Appoint a local grievance officer and compliance officer.

  3. Maintain a point of contact inside Nepal.

  4. Obtain a license valid for three years with renewal provisions.

Since most global platforms ignored the August 28 registration deadline, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) instructed Internet Service Providers to block unregistered platforms immediately.

List of Social Media Platforms Banned in Nepal

A total of 26 major social media platforms banned in Nepal, including:

• Meta-owned services: Facebook, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Threads.

• Video and messaging platforms: YouTube, Snapchat, Discord, Signal, IMO, Line, Zalo.

• Professional & community sites: LinkedIn, Reddit, Quora, Pinterest, Tumblr, Clubhouse, Mastodon.

• Other apps: WeChat, VK, Rumble, Soul, Hamro Patro.

These bans came into effect from September 4, 2025, creating immediate disruption for millions of Nepali users.

Social Media Registration in Nepal: Complete Process

Under the 2023 Directive, any platform wishing to operate legally in Nepal must complete the online registration process with the ministry. This includes:

1. Submitting an official application through the ministry’s digital portal.

2. Appointing a Nepal-based grievance officer to handle user complaints.

3. Setting up a compliance team responsible for content moderation.

4. Paying registration and license fees valid for three years.

5. Agreeing to cooperate with government requests for content takedown and user data as per Nepali law.

Failure to comply results in the platform being banned until registration is complete.

Is Instagram Banned in Nepal?

Yes. Instagram is banned in Nepal as part of the crackdown on unregistered platforms. Since Meta did not apply for registration, Instagram, along with Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp, remains inaccessible.

Is Facebook Banned in Nepal?

Yes. Facebook is officially banned in Nepal as of September 2025. The government clarified that the block will remain in place until Meta complies with the registration directive.

Which Platforms Are Still Available in Nepal?

Not every social media platform is banned. A few companies either registered on time or submitted applications for review:

• TikTok – Registered successfully, still available.

• Viber – Registered, remains accessible.

• Telegram – Application under review but temporarily allowed.

• Global Diary, Witk, Nimbuzz, Popo Live – Niche platforms that completed registration.

These platforms are now attracting massive new user sign-ups as Nepalis search for alternatives.

Impact on Businesses and Everyday Users

1. Small Businesses and Digital Marketing

Entrepreneurs in Nepal who relied heavily on Facebook and Instagram ads face sudden challenges. The ban has cut off access to millions of potential customers, disrupting online shops, restaurants, and service providers.

2. Communication Breakdown

For many Nepalis, WhatsApp and Messenger were primary communication tools. Families, students, and professionals now struggle to stay connected.

3. Rise of Alternatives

Users are quickly migrating to TikTok, Viber, and Telegram, boosting their popularity. Local developers are also exploring opportunities to build Nepali-based social platforms.

4. Concerns About Free Speech

Civil society groups and opposition leaders argue that the blanket ban threatens freedom of expression and could limit public debate online.

Timeline of Nepal’s Social Media Ban

• August 28, 2025 – Deadline for registration applications.

• September 4, 2025 – Government directs NTA to block unregistered platforms.

• September 5, 2025 – Ban on 26 platforms enforced; widespread confusion follows.

Alternatives to Banned Social Media in Nepal

While global giants are offline, users can still explore alternatives:

• For messaging: Viber, Telegram, Nimbuzz.

• For video: TikTok, Popo Live.

• For networking: Local apps and community-driven platforms gaining traction.

VPN usage has also surged as Nepalis attempt to bypass restrictions and access blocked platforms.

Conclusion: Nepal’s Digital Landscape in Transition

The decision to ban unregistered social media platforms marks a historic turning point in Nepal’s digital landscape. By enforcing strict registration rules, the government aims to create accountability and curb misuse of social networks. However, the sudden ban on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube has left millions of users disconnected and businesses scrambling for alternatives.

As the situation evolves, the future of social networking in Nepal will depend on whether global tech giants like Meta and Google decide to comply with Nepal’s registration laws. Until then, TikTok, Viber, and Telegram remain the primary platforms for communication and digital engagement.

We hope this article has helped you clearly understand the social media platform ban in Nepal and the registration process for operating social networks in the country. The digital landscape is changing rapidly, and staying updated is more important than ever.

If you would like more detailed guidance on digital platforms, compliance, and online strategies in Nepal, feel free to reach out to IT GURKHA. Our team is here to assist you with the right information, tools, and solutions to keep your digital presence secure and effective.