Nepal: Officials ban entry for nationals from African countries as of Nov. 29 due to COVID-19 variant concerns /update 64

Event

Nepal will indefinitely ban the entry of nationals from African countries as of Nov. 29 due to concerns over a new COVID-19 variant; exemptions are in place for individuals traveling for official or diplomatic reasons. Officials are also barring entry for fully vaccinated foreign tourists arriving from African countries. Authorities have yet to announce measures on returning Nepali citizens and nationals of non-African countries arriving in Nepal from Africa. Officials may amend restrictions on short notice in the coming weeks as new cases of the COVID-19 variant emerge in other locations.

International Travel Restrictions
Authorities require all foreigners entering through either Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) or through a land border crossing to provide evidence that they received their second vaccination dose at least 14 days before arrival. They 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.

Domestic Restrictions

The government continues to enforce nationwide measures as of Nov. 29 to curb the spread of COVID-19. Large social and public gatherings remain banned. Transport services are operational with capacity restrictions. Inter-district and provincial travel is allowed. People must wear facemasks and adhere to social distancing rules while 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.

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)