KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Home Affairs has prohibited Nepalis from going to Gulf countries on visit visas.

The restriction would come into force from January 24, said a statement issued by Home Ministry.

Home Ministry Spokesperson Fanindra Mani Pokharel said the decision was taken as an increasing number of Nepalis were reported to be stranded in Gulf countries and Malaysia amid the COVID19 crisis that has hit both home and abroad.