The Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) has announced that foreign tourists whose visas expired on or after September 8 will be able to renew them free of cost at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). This special provision has been introduced to ease the departure process for tourists currently in Nepal amid the ongoing unusual circumstances.
According to the NTB, travelers departing through TIA can directly apply for visa renewal at the airport before leaving the country. This arrangement ensures that visitors who overstayed their visas due to unavoidable situations will not face penalties or legal complications.
Departure Made Easier for Tourists
Officials at the NTB explained that many foreign nationals were unable to extend their visas on time as several government offices were functioning irregularly in recent days. The decision to allow on-the-spot visa renewal at the airport comes as a relief for both tourists and travel agencies managing outbound passengers.
A spokesperson from the board said: “We want to assure all foreign visitors that Nepal values their presence. This decision was made to prevent unnecessary hassles and to support smooth departures.” The NTB also encouraged travelers to carry their passports and flight tickets when approaching the visa desk at TIA for quick processing.
Tribhuvan International Airport Resumes Normal Operations
Meanwhile, Tribhuvan International Airport officially resumed operations from Wednesday evening. Both domestic and international flights are now functioning regularly, according to TIA officials.
Hansraj Pandey, the General Manager of TIA, confirmed that air traffic has normalized and airlines are following their scheduled flight plans. He assured passengers that essential facilities at the airport are fully operational and safety measures are being observed. “From today, regular air services have resumed. Both incoming and outgoing flights are being handled smoothly,” Pandey stated. The resumption of flights marks an important step in restoring mobility for citizens and tourists who were stranded during the temporary disruption of services.
Support from the Nepali Army for Passenger Movement
To further facilitate travelers, the Nepali Army has stepped in to provide transportation arrangements for passengers holding valid flight tickets. In coordination with airlines and airport authorities, the army has been assisting in moving passengers to and from TIA despite ongoing restrictions in certain parts of the Kathmandu Valley.
According to the army’s information directorate, soldiers are deployed at key checkpoints to verify tickets and help passengers reach the airport safely and on time. This arrangement has prevented large crowds from forming at airport gates while maintaining law and order during the sensitive period.
Relief for Tourism Sector
The decision to grant free visa renewals and the reopening of TIA have been welcomed by tourism stakeholders. The tourism sector, already hit hard by recent unrest and restrictions, had been facing growing concerns over foreign visitors being stranded in Nepal.
Travel agencies and hotels expressed relief that their clients can now depart without facing immigration-related obstacles. A representative from the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) commented that the NTB’s announcement was “timely and much needed” to restore confidence among tourists and safeguard Nepal’s image as a hospitable destination.
Tourists Encouraged to Stay Informed
Authorities have urged foreign nationals in Nepal to stay updated through official NTB announcements, airlines, and their respective embassies. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport well ahead of their flights, carry valid identification, and coordinate with travel operators for smoother transit.
Embassies of several countries have also issued notices to their citizens, welcoming the NTB’s decision and advising travelers to make use of the airport visa renewal facility.
Looking Ahead
With TIA operational again and provisions made for tourists with expired visas, Nepal is signaling a gradual return to stability. While the situation remains sensitive, the proactive measures taken by NTB, airport authorities, and the Nepali Army reflect a coordinated effort to prioritize the safety and convenience of both citizens and international visitors.
The tourism board reiterated that Nepal remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for travelers. As flights normalize and stranded tourists begin their departures, the country’s tourism stakeholders are hopeful that confidence in Nepal as a travel destination will soon be restored.
