INGOs and NGOs are organisations formed for social, utilitarian, or other charitable reasons. However, they are subject to national laws and regulations that must be followed. In Nepal, INGO and NGO compliance refers to a collection of laws, regulations, and standards that must be followed in order to operate legally.

The Associations Registration Act 2034 establishes and registers associations. This Act generally applies to associations for social, religious, educational, economic, and philanthropic objectives. Section 4 of the Act allows for the registration of associations consisting of seven or more individuals who seek for registration through the Local Authority.