Nepal takes a leap into the digital era: Department of Immigration launches e-visa system

KATHMANDU: In a groundbreaking move towards digital transformation, the Department of Immigration (DoI) in Nepal has officially introduced the issuance of e-Visas and enabled online payments for various visa services. The Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, Narayan Kaji Shrestha, inaugurated the e-visa system and online payment facility during a ceremony on Friday.

This initiative marks a significant shift for the DoI, transitioning to fully automated services for immigration administration. The introduction of e-Visas and online payments is expected to simplify and expedite the visa application process for both service recipients and providers.

The DoI has announced that, starting from the Nepali month of Magh, digital signatures will replace handwritten signatures, further enhancing the efficiency of the process.

During the launch event, Nilhari Bastola, President of the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN), was recognized as the first customer to use the newly-launched online payment service. An e-Visa was successfully issued to a foreign citizen, symbolizing the practical implementation of the new system.

With the introduction of these digital services, the need for customers to physically visit the immigration office for various visa-related processes has been eliminated.

This includes applying for new visas, extending existing visas, and obtaining travel permits. However, it’s important to note that for non-tourist visas based on relationships and marriages, a visit to the customer service department of the DoI is still required.

To streamline the user experience, the DoI has facilitated the payment of service fees, visa fees, and fines through various online platforms. Users can make payments using QR codes from mobile banking apps of all Nepali banks, as well as popular wallet service providers such as Connect IPS, eSewa, and Khalti.

This digital transformation is poised to enhance the overall efficiency of immigration services in Nepal, making the entire process more accessible, convenient, and in line with global technological standards.