ICAN, ICAI extend mutual recognition agreement until Oct 20, 2030

NEW DELHI: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal (ICAN) and The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) have extended their mutual recognition agreement (MRA). The renewal was signed at ICAI Bhawan in New Delhi on Tuesday and will remain in force until October 20, 2030.

The agreement was signed by CA Anand Raj Sharma Wagle, President of ICAN, and CA Prasanna Kumar D, President of ICAI. The ceremony was attended by senior officials including CA Hem Kumar Kafle, Vice‑President of ICAN; CA Mangesh Kinare, Vice‑President of ICAI; CA Bimal Dangol, Executive Director of ICAN; members of the ICAI Council; and other representatives from both institutes.

Under the extended MRA, qualified chartered accountants from either institute may seek membership of the other institute with credit for their existing qualification, subject to passing specified examination papers set by the host institute. The arrangement covers members in good standing who qualified through their institute’s regular education and training route and includes recognition of articleship training. Any practising rights for members joining the other institute will be governed by the laws and regulations of the respective countries.

Ahead of the signing, ICAN officials took part in a two‑day exposure and training programme led by ICAI staff. Sessions covered developments in CA education, Continuing Professional Education (CPE), digital transformation and artificial intelligence, examination management, and regulatory matters, and allowed both institutes to share systems, processes and practices.

The extension of the MRA maintains professional mobility between Nepal and India and aims to strengthen international recognition of the Nepali chartered accountancy qualification.