The information technology (IT) industry in Nepal has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by strong economic expansion, government support, and a growing pool of skilled talent. This article explores careers in IT in Nepal, looking at the top jobs, salary ranges, major companies, job market outlook, challenges, and opportunities.
Information technology (IT) is one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the world. In Nepal, Careers in IT is thriving. It holds the most knowledge and sole power to function in contemporary technology. As humans have entered the era of digitalization, the search for IT students has skyrocketed.
The three major industries of IT (software and services, technology hardware and equipment, and semiconductors and semiconductor equipment) have equal importance and need each other to function. As people need contrasting inventive technology to make their lives easier and more efficient, to fulfill such demands, everyday careers in IT in Nepal are rising as new IT-related jobs are created and businesses are looking for professionals with the necessary skills to fill these positions. This provides a great help in the era of digitalization to foster more significantly. There are many careers in IT in Nepal.
Table of Contents
Top Careers in IT in Nepal
Some of the most in-demand and highest-paying IT careers in Nepal currently include:
Software Developer
Software developers create, maintain, and update computer applications and programs. With Nepal’s thriving IT sector, software developer roles are increasingly sought after. Starting salaries generally range from NRs 20,000 to 80,000 per month, with experienced developers earning over NRs 200,000.
Major skills required include programming languages like Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, and PHP, as well as knowledge of software frameworks and databases.
Web Developer
Web developers design, build, and manage websites and web applications. The average starting salary for web developers in Nepal is around NRs 50,000 per month, rising to over NRs 100,000 with several years of experience. Skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Content Management Systems like WordPress are highly desirable.
Mobile App Developer
With smartphone usage growing rapidly in Nepal, mobile app developers are in high demand. Salaries start around NRs 30,000 per month for junior developers, while senior app developers can earn NRs 150,000 or more. Programming languages include Java, Swift, and React Native.
IT Technician
IT technicians install computer hardware and software, perform upgrades and repairs, troubleshoot issues, and provide end-user support. The average salary is NRs 25,000 monthly for entry-level roles, rising to NRs 60,000 or more for experienced technicians. A relevant IT diploma or degree is generally required.
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers create visual concepts and digital assets for print and online media. Starting salaries average NRs 20,000 per month, with top designers earning over NRs 100,000. Skills in tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, CorelDraw, and Canva are essential.
The Future of IT in Nepal
One popular career option in Nepal is information technology (IT). As it is crystal clear, Nepal has not been able to take a successful run in the IT world. As a result, IT professionals are in high demand in Nepal as they want to set a different record in this unsuccessful field. There are many opportunities for IT professionals in Nepal. IT professionals can work for private companies or the government. There are many IT companies in Nepal. These companies create products or provide services for the public. In addition to private companies, the government of Nepal also provides IT services and products.
As of today, the Government of Nepal is planning for e-governance also known as paperless government where every citizen can complete their governmental works more efficiently. The struggle to wait in line for hours and fear of losing a government employee going for lunchtime despite waiting for hours is almost over. Therefore, to accomplish the above-mentioned task, the Government needs manpower to operate it. As a result, The future of IT in Nepal is bright.
Job Market Outlook
The job market outlook for IT careers in Nepal is very positive. Nepal’s IT industry has grown at an average of 22% annually over the past decade. IT exports from Nepal exceeded $167 million in 2020. Significant growth drivers include rising demand for software development services and IT-enabled business process outsourcing from international clients.
Domestically, increased mobile and internet connectivity is fueling technology adoption among businesses and consumers. Government initiatives like creating IT Parks, subsidizing training programs, and promoting foreign investment have further boosted the growth of Nepal’s IT industry.
As a result, Nepal faces a shortage of skilled IT professionals. Over 15,000 IT sector jobs remain unfilled, presenting excellent opportunities for qualified candidates. Competition is still relatively low compared to India, the Philippines, and other major outsourcing hubs, giving Nepal a strategic advantage.
Challenges and Opportunities
However, some key challenges face job seekers and companies in Nepal’s IT sector:
Inadequate Technical Infrastructure
Frequent power cuts, lack of redundancy in network/power infrastructure and poor internet connectivity, especially in rural areas, impacts productivity and service delivery. Significant investment is needed to develop high-speed fiber networks and robust energy infrastructure across Nepal.
Shortage of Qualified Workers
While over 25,000 students graduate annually from computer science or IT-related programs, many lack the technical and soft skills needed to thrive in the industry. More focus on practical training and industry partnerships in technical education is required.
Access to Funding
Early-stage Nepali IT startups often struggle to raise investment, and access to bank lending remains challenging. Creating more venture capital funding opportunities and incentives for investors to fund Nepali tech ventures could help drive innovation and growth.
Policy and Regulation
Outdated cybersecurity regulations and limited data protection policies constrain growth opportunities. Updating cyber laws and improving legal frameworks would strengthen user privacy and security, boosting Nepal’s attractiveness as an IT services hub.
At the same time, major opportunities exist to develop Nepal as a competitive IT services destination:
Outsourcing Potential
Global demand for offshore software development and IT services continues to rise rapidly. With low-cost skilled labor, Nepal can compete effectively for outsourcing contracts, boosted further by cultural affinity with major Western clients.
Expanding Domestic Market
As internet and mobile usage increases locally, a growing consumer and business market for software products and IT services is emerging within Nepal itself. Local startups can tap this potential by developing solutions tailored for the Nepali context.
Youth Demographic
Over 63% of Nepal’s population is below 35 years old, representing a vast pool of young talent to power future IT sector growth. By focusing education and training on aligning youth skills with industry needs, Nepal’s “demographic dividend” can drive digital transformation.
Overall, Nepal’s IT industry holds exciting potential, despite existing infrastructure and policy challenges. With the right investments and partnerships, Nepal can develop into a leading IT services hub powered by homegrown startups and skilled young professionals. The opportunities for rewarding careers and business success make the IT sector a highly promising path for Nepal’s new generation.
Major IT Companies in Nepal
Some of the major IT companies in Nepal hiring for careers listed above include:
- Deerwalk Services: Outsourcing and software development company founded and headquartered in Nepal, with over 1000 employees.
- CloudFactory: Provides AI training data, content moderation, and other tech-enabled services, with offices in Nepal and the US.
- Fusemachines: Machine learning and AI solutions provider with 250+ employees in Nepal.
- LIS Nepal: IT solutions company specializing in system integration and infrastructure management services.
- Logpoint: Danish cybersecurity firm with a software development center in Nepal focusing on threat detection/response.
In addition, major multinational tech companies have software development and delivery centers located in Nepal, along with many small-medium Nepali IT firms.
How to Get Into IT in Nepal?
Nepali students interested in pursuing IT careers can get started through education and skills development focused on in-demand areas, gaining experience, and actively applying and preparing for relevant entry-level job positions.
Get IT training and education
There are many IT training institutes and computer courses available in Nepal, like IT Training Nepal, Broadway Infosys, Laba Nepal, etc. that provide courses in programming, web development, networking, design, and more. Getting certified training helps develop in-demand technical skills.
Pursue an IT degree
Getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering etc. from colleges in Nepal lays the foundation for a career in IT. Many top colleges provide quality IT education.
Build a portfolio and get internships
Creating real projects to showcase skills and getting hands-on experience through internships at Nepali IT companies helps prepare for jobs. Sites like Hamro Dev Jobs and LinkedIn list IT intern openings.
Develop relevant skills in demand
Some of the most in-demand skills include programming languages like Java, Python, web development using PHP, JavaScript, mobile app development and data analytics. Getting trained in these areas improves employability.
Apply for entry-level IT jobs
With the right skills and experience from projects, training, and internships, apply for jobs like software developer, web developer, IT support technician which commonly hire freshers in Nepal.
Things to Consider Before Planning to choose a career in IT in Nepal
Are you planning to choose a career in IT in Nepal? If the answer to the above question is yes, then this is a perfect article for you. Choosing any career is a headache for many students. There are two types of students. The first type of students are those who set their goals and careers while in their childhood phase or learning in school and analyze what is best for them. The second type of students are those who do not think about the future and are like “JO HOGA DEKHA JAYEGA” which technically means DELIVERING HEADACHE AND STRESS IN THE FUTURE. If you are reading this article then you are probably a type two student.
Here is a simple question to ask yourself. ” Am I choosing a career in IT due to salary or passion?”. If your answer is salary then I request you to sit back and think about your passion. Only being based on the high salary, you might not achieve the most important satisfaction.
If your answer is Passion then, here are some tips on how to get started.
First, it’s important to understand what IT is and what kinds of jobs are available. IT is a field that involves the use of computers and other electronic devices to store, process, and transmit information. There are many different types of IT jobs, including software development, network administration, web development, Artificial Intelligence and Professionals, Machine Learning Professionals, and information security.
If you want to pursue a career in IT, you need to have strong math and science skills. You should also be able to solve problems quickly and think critically. There are numerous job opportunities but is a competitive field, So you must be a step ahead of others.
Conclusion
Nepal’s information technology and services industry has entered an exciting growth phase, driven by rising global demand, government support, and a young skilled workforce. While infrastructure and policy challenges remain, the future prospects for rewarding IT careers are bright.
With skills development focused on in-demand programming languages, software frameworks, and technologies like mobile and web development, data analytics, AI/ML, young Nepali professionals can tap into lucrative opportunities both within fast-growing domestic and global IT service markets.
By promoting academia-industry linkages, encouraging startups and new ventures, and continuing infrastructure upgrades, Nepal can leverage its strategic advantages to become a leading Asian IT talent hub. The time is ripe for aspirational Nepali youths to unleash their potential in the dynamic IT industry and lead the nation’s digital transformation.
