China Tops List of Deportees from Nepal Over Visa Violations: Report

In a recent report presented to Nepal’s Parliament, concerning data from the Department of Immigration, it has been revealed that a significant number of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens, have been deported from the country due to visa violations.

The report indicates that in 2023, a total of 459 foreign nationals were deported from Nepal, marking a decrease from the previous year’s figure of 570 deportations. Over the past seven years, a staggering 3,577 foreign nationals have been expelled from Nepal, shedding light on a persistent issue within the country’s immigration system.

Prem Prasad Dahal, the information officer and director at the Department of Immigration, clarified that the majority of deportees are tourists who have overstayed their visas. Tourists entering Nepal are typically granted 15, 30, or 90-day tourist visas, with the option to extend their stay up to a maximum of 150 days. Failure to adhere to these regulations results in deportation.

Remarkably, despite the absence of visa fees for Chinese nationals staying within the 150-day limit, a significant portion of deportees comprises individuals from China. Information Officer Dahal disclosed that approximately 47 percent of deportees are of Chinese nationality, indicating a concerning trend.

“Although there is no visa fee for Chinese nationals staying in Nepal for up to 150 days, some individuals have been deported for overstaying their tourist visas and neglecting to transition to another visa category,” Dahal stated.

It is essential to note that while Chinese nationals constitute a significant portion of deportees, individuals from the United States also make up a notable percentage, accounting for eight percent of the total deportations.