The Non Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) was established to unite the Nepali Diaspora; utilise their knowledge, skills, resources in the interest of Nepal and involve them in the socio-economic development of Nepal and the Nepali people.

The idea of establishing a global Nepali organization (NRNA) was conceptualized by Nepalese living in Russia in 2002, later to globalize and materialize the idea, a few Nepali community leaders residing in various countries of the world met in London, in 2003 and decided to form a Coordination Committee to unite the Nepali diaspora. They also discussed the possibility of organising an international conference of NRNs in Nepal. The idea quickly got the support of the Government of Nepal and the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI). This led to the joint organisation of First Non-Resident Nepali Conference on 11-14 October 2003. The assembled NRN delegates of that conference decided to join their hands together to organise NRNA as a common forum of NRNs.

The date of inauguration of the First NRN Global Conference, i e., 11th October 2003 is considered to be the establishment date of NRNA. 11th October is also declared as NRN day by Nepal Government. The formal registration of NRNA by the Government of Nepal was on 20 October 2013.

NRN Card is an identity card issued to a Non-Resident Nepali by the Government of Nepal. NRNcard entitles card holder various benefits as listed in the NRN Act and bylaws. It is issued to those who approach the concerned government body.