KATHMANDU: The Department of Immigration has urged foreign nationals visiting Nepal for various purposes, as well as the general public, to strictly follow visa-related laws and remain cautious of illegal intermediaries and brokers.
Issuing a public notice, the department said that in recent years a significant number of foreigners entering Nepal on tourist visas have been found staying in the country for extended periods under business, study, and employment-related categories.
It stated that while legal residents are entitled to safety, investment protection, and services, some cases under investigation have revealed misuse of visa processes through unauthorized agents.
According to the department, individuals involved in such activities have been found preparing fake documents, illegally extending visa durations, charging excessive fees beyond government rates, and misleading foreign nationals into legal complications.
The department further noted that such irregularities tend to increase every year around June, particularly when tourists approach the maximum permitted stay of 150 days within a calendar year, creating opportunities for brokers to become active.
The Immigration Department said it has fully digitized its visa services, introducing an online and automated “digital time card” system, and clarified that no third-party agents are required for visa processing.
It has advised foreign nationals to obtain visa-related services, including renewals and category changes, directly from government authorities.
For long-term stays, the department said information and services should be accessed only through official channels such as the Immigration Department, relevant ministries, the Nepal Tourism Board, one-stop service centers, or tourist police.
The department has also warned that strict legal action will be taken against any foreign nationals or intermediaries found violating immigration laws or engaging in unauthorized visa processing activities under prevailing immigration laws and regulations.
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