Nepal: Officials implementing revised entry rules as of April 7 /update 38

Event

Nepal is implementing revised entry rules for most international travelers as of April 7. Foreign tourists must apply for visas at Nepali diplomatic facilities abroad; air passengers without access to Nepali missions may obtain approval letters from the Nepali government to avail on-arrival visas at the Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM). Foreigners above five years of age must present negative results from a reverse transcription-polymerase chain (RT-PCR) COVID-19 test issued no more than 72 hours before departure; vaccinated entrants may carry certificates confirming completion of vaccination instead. Additionally, pre-approved entrants must hold a hotel booking for at least one week, a barcode generated upon completion of an online form on the COVID-19 Crisis Management Center (CCMC) portal, and travel insurance. International passengers no longer require medical insurance for COVID-19. Entrants only need to quarantine at a hotel until they receive results of on-arrival testing. Those who test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival must continue to quarantine at a hotel or medical facility; such passengers will typically complete a total of 7 days' quarantine before undergoing additional testing. Travelers will bear the costs of testing and quarantine.

Officials have banned large public gatherings nationwide, though enforcement and adherence are generally poor. Most schools, religious institutions, and nonessential businesses have been allowed to reopen. Residents are still required to wear protective face coverings and adhere to social distancing guidelines while in public.

Local authorities in areas with COVID-19 cases typically enact enhanced localized curbs such as restrictions on movement, transport services, entry and exit, as well as nonessential businesses for up to 14 days. Officials are planning to mandate rapid antigen testing at entry points of the Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, and Lalitpur districts comprising Kathmandu Valley as of April 6; the start date of the policy is unclear. Vehicle restrictions such as the odd-even system are no longer applicable in Kathmandu Valley.

Travel Restrictions
International flights from select destinations are operational. On-arrival and electronic visa issuance remains suspended, except for pre-approved travelers, foreigners of Nepali origin and their relatives, as well as those officially affiliated with international development organizations and diplomatic missions. Foreigners already in Nepal may obtain visa extensions. Officials continue to advise Nepali citizens against nonessential international travel. Health checks are mandatory at all entry points. Approved passengers and repatriates may enter Nepal via 29 land border crossings.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconfirm nonemergency health appointments, business appointments, deliveries, and travel arrangements in case of enhanced curbs.

Resources

Nepal Department of Immigration
Nepal COVID-19 Crisis Management Center
World Health Organization (WHO)