In 2024, Nepal deported a total of 494 foreign nationals, with Chinese citizens comprising the largest group at 147. This marks a continued trend of Chinese nationals leading deportation statistics, reflecting a mix of overstaying violations and serious criminal activities.
Among the deported Chinese, six individuals faced charges of grave offenses, including rape, child sexual abuse, and banking crimes. Two were accused of crimes against public property, while the majority—141—were removed for overstaying their visas. The significant number of overstayers among Chinese citizens has been a recurring issue, with 209 Chinese nationals deported for similar reasons in 2023.
The deportation figures underline a broader pattern of increasing scrutiny by Nepalese authorities. While overstaying remains the primary reason for removal across all nationalities, the involvement of foreign nationals in crimes such as document forgery, drug offenses, and indecent behavior highlights challenges in law enforcement and immigration control.
The Ministry of Home Affairs oversees deportations based on recommendations from the Department of Immigration, ensuring adherence to the Immigration Act 2049 and related procedures. The legal framework allows for expulsion with or without a specified re-entry ban, depending on the nature and severity of the violations.
Chinese nationals have consistently dominated Nepal’s deportation statistics, with a total of 209 deported in 2023 and 191 in 2022. These figures reflect not only the growing presence of Chinese individuals in Nepal but also persistent challenges in regulating their activities.
Chinese citizens have frequently faced accusations beyond overstaying, with instances of financial fraud, drug-related offenses, and organized crime surfacing in previous years. In 2023, 209 Chinese nationals were deported, of which 19 were involved in significant criminal activities.
Beyond the Chinese, deportees in 2024 included citizens from a wide range of countries, such as Americans, Bangladeshis, Pakistanis, and Iranians. While overstaying was the most common violation, other offenses, including drug crimes, forgery, and sexual abuse, were also documented.
Nepal’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and addressing criminal activities underscores the government’s focus on maintaining public safety and ensuring the country remains a secure destination for international visitors. However, the persistent issue of Chinese nationals leading deportation figures points to a need for enhanced bilateral cooperation and stronger immigration monitoring mechanisms.
Nepal’s Immigration Law allows tourists a maximum stay of 150 days within a visa year. Violators face deportation under the Immigration Procedure Act, with potential bans on re-entry for up to ten years. The Ministry of Home Affairs emphasized its commitment to maintaining the rule of law and protecting public safety as it continues to address violations involving foreign nationals.
09th Jan 2025
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