Nepal: Officials ban entry for travelers with recent travel history to several international locations as of Dec. 3 /update 65

Event

Officials have banned entry for passengers with travel history within the past three weeks to several international locations as of Dec. 3 due to concerns over a new COVID-19 variant. The areas include Botswana, Eswatini, Hong Kong, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. It is unclear if the government provides exemptions for returning citizens and other groups of travelers. Any permitted arrivals who have recently been to the affected international locations must quarantine at designated facilities for seven days. Previous reports indicated the government would ban foreign travelers from all African nations.

Domestic Restrictions
Domestic measures are still in effect nationwide. Large social and public gatherings remain banned. Transport services are operational with capacity restrictions. People must wear facemasks and adhere to social distancing rules in public, though enforcement and adherence are generally poor. Violators of COVID-19 curbs may face arrest and/or fines up to NPR 500,000.

International Travel Restrictions
Authorities require all foreigners entering through either Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) or a land border crossing to prove that they received their second vaccination dose at least 14 days before arrival. These individuals must also provide a negative RT-PCR test taken within 72 hours before entry, proof that they have already booked hotel arrangements, and a printed copy of the International Traveler Online Arrival Form, which people may access after registering by clicking here. Foreigners who satisfy these requirements do not need to undergo quarantine. Nepali nationals and arrivals with a diplomatic visa do not need to be fully vaccinated in the last 14 days to enter the country. Arrivals who are not fully vaccinated must undergo quarantine at a designated hotel at their own cost and must test negative on the 11th day before leaving quarantine.

Officials permit international passenger flights to and from several destinations, such as China, India, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE. Reports indicate that land checkpoints are operational, though it is unclear whether officials allow entry for all passengers regardless of nationality. Authorities continue to advise Nepali citizens against nonessential international travel.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Consider delaying travel 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)