The Department of Immigration has reiterated that foreign nationals intending to trek in designated restricted areas across 13 districts of Nepal must obtain mandatory trekking permits through officially recognized trekking agencies. The department stated that the permit system has been fully digitized to make the process more efficient, faster, transparent, and service-friendly, reducing unnecessary administrative delays and physical visits.
According to the department, all trekking permit-related services are now being processed through an online system, allowing trekking agencies to apply and manage permits electronically. This shift is aimed at strengthening service delivery while ensuring better regulatory oversight in restricted trekking regions.
Revised Visa Requirement System Introduced for Greater Flexibility
In a significant procedural update, the department has revised its earlier requirement that only applicants with an approved visa number could apply for trekking permits. Under the new arrangement, foreign trekkers can now apply using their visa application number, expanding accessibility and simplifying the application process.
Officials also confirmed that even individual trekkers are now eligible to obtain trekking permits, in addition to group applications processed through trekking agencies. This change is expected to support independent travelers while maintaining regulatory control over sensitive trekking zones.
Limited Public Service Hours During Government Holidays
Following a government decision published in the Nepal Gazette on Chaitra 22, 2082 BS, the public sector has adopted a two-day weekend system, observing holidays on both Saturdays and Sundays. However, the Department of Immigration noted that trekking permit applications continued to be received even during public holidays.
To streamline operations and ensure predictable service delivery, the department has decided to operate trekking permit services on public holidays (excluding Saturdays) for a limited two-hour window from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, effective from Baishakh 23, 2083 BS. This decision aims to balance service continuity with institutional efficiency and administrative workload management.
Fully Digital Process Reduces Need for Physical Visits
The department of immigration emphasized that since the entire trekking permit system is now fully online, applicants and trekking agencies are not required to visit the office physically for submission or processing.
For technical assistance, document-related issues, or procedural support, stakeholders have been advised to contact a dedicated helpline number 977 9761423636 during office hours. The department stated that this support system has been introduced to ensure smoother service delivery and reduce processing delays.
Action Against Unauthorized Trekking Practices
The Immigration Department also raised concerns over certain trekking agencies engaging in unauthorized practices. It was observed that some agencies have been taking foreign trekkers into restricted areas without obtaining prior permits, later applying for permits only after being identified by local authorities.
Officials further noted instances where agencies allegedly pressured staff through emergency rescue claims or attempted to bypass proper procedures by initiating trekking activities without formal authorization.
Such practices, according to the department, not only violate immigration regulations but also pose risks to tourists, who may become subject to legal complications due to non-compliance with permit requirements.
Warning Issued to Protect Tourism Integrity
The department warned that unauthorized trekking activities could negatively impact Nepal’s international tourism reputation and regulatory credibility. It stressed that compliance with permit regulations is essential to ensure the safety of foreign visitors and maintain sustainable tourism management in restricted regions.
Authorities have urged all trekking agencies and the companies to strictly adhere to the established legal framework and ensure that foreign nationals are taken into trekking routes only after obtaining valid permits. The department further stated that any violation of immigration laws in this regard will result in strict legal action under existing regulations, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining institutional governance and responsible tourism practices.
