Tibetan Immigrant Detained in Nepal for Entry Without Passport, Investigations Underway

A Tibetan immigrant who arrived in Nepal without a passport has been apprehended by the Immigration Department at the airport. The individual, identified as Sonam Chiring, entered Nepal from the United States using a travel document and a visa issued by the Nepali Consulate General in New York. He intended to visit his family in Nepal but was taken into custody upon arrival due to his lack of a national identity card and passport.

Sonam Chiring arrived in Nepal on August 12th via Kuwait Airways flight number KU393. Upon inspection of his travel documents, officials discovered that he possessed a travel document issued by the American government along with a Nepali visa. However, there was no passport associated with his travel documents, raising concerns about his entry.

During the investigation, Sonam admitted that he did not possess a passport from any country. This revelation prompted the Immigration Department to detain him for further scrutiny into his entry status. The department’s policy does not permit the issuance of visas solely on travel documents, and it remains committed to maintaining this protocol.

The Immigration Department has been actively working to assist individuals who face difficulties during the entry process. In Sonam’s case, officials are currently conducting investigations to determine the appropriate course of action. Being of Tibetan origin, Sonam is expected to be allowed to remain in Nepal temporarily while arrangements are made for his return to the United States.

Officials from the Immigration Department emphasized that their policies are designed to ensure the security and proper documentation of individuals entering Nepal. While the department strives to facilitate the entry process for those who might not be familiar with the procedures, certain requirements must be met to maintain the integrity of the immigration system.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working closely with the relevant consular and diplomatic channels to address Sonam Chiring’s situation. The immigration officials have expressed their commitment to ensuring a smooth resolution while upholding the immigration regulations of Nepal.

For now, Sonam Chiring’s case highlights the importance of adhering to proper entry procedures and possessing the necessary documentation when visiting foreign countries. The Immigration Department continues to maintain a vigilant stance to safeguard the country’s borders and maintain the legality of entries.