‘Strictly Prohibited’ passport notes trigger probe as immigration launches internal investigation

KATHMANDU: Nepal’s Department of Immigration has launched an internal investigation after reports surfaced that officials were writing unauthorized remarks such as “employment is strictly prohibited till 10/6/2026” on the passports of Nepali citizens traveling to the United Arab Emirates.

The development has raised serious concerns within the Ministry of Home Affairs, prompting scrutiny over possible abuse of authority and procedural violations at immigration checkpoints.

In an official statement, the department acknowledged that it had taken serious note of media reports and social media posts highlighting the practice. The remarks, reportedly written on passports of outbound travelers, imposed additional conditions restricting employment abroad—conditions that immigration authorities say have no legal basis.

Department spokesperson Tikaram Dhakal confirmed that an internal probe has been initiated to identify those responsible for the “illegal practice” and to take disciplinary action.

“The Government of Nepal has not adopted any policy or decision that allows imposing extra conditions beyond the law while granting departure clearance,” the statement said, making it clear that such annotations are unauthorized and outside the jurisdiction of immigration officers.

Governance Concerns and Systemic Questions

The incident has exposed deeper governance concerns within Nepal’s migration management system, particularly regarding discretionary practices at frontline immigration desks. Analysts say the act of writing restrictive notes directly on passports could potentially violate international travel norms and undermine the credibility of Nepal’s official documents.

Officials also warned that such practices may create confusion for foreign authorities, especially in major labor destinations like the UAE, where Nepali migrant workers form a significant part of the workforce.

Reform Push and Policy Context

The department reiterated that it has been working to modernize immigration systems and streamline passenger movement, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and eliminate arbitrary decision-making.

It also referenced a government decision dated November 2025 (13 Kartik 2082 BS), which introduced simplified departure procedures for Nepalis traveling abroad on visit visas. Under this provision, citizens are allowed to travel with a valid passport (minimum six months validity), confirmed air ticket, and destination visa, along with a self-declaration—without additional documentation requirements.

Authorities stressed that any deviation from these guidelines, including unnecessary document demands or discretionary restrictions, is subject to investigation and action.

Migration Pressure and Risk of Exploitation

The department acknowledged that foreign employment is not merely a choice but an economic necessity for many Nepalis. In such a context, officials warned that misuse of authority or arbitrary restrictions could open avenues for exploitation, fraud, and harassment of migrant workers.

It emphasized that immigration administration is actively working to curb such risks while ensuring lawful and smooth international travel for citizens.

Accountability in Focus

The ongoing investigation is expected to determine whether the controversial passport annotations were isolated incidents or indicative of a broader systemic issue. The outcome could have implications for administrative accountability and reforms within Nepal’s immigration framework.

The case has already triggered public debate over transparency, rule of law, and the treatment of migrant workers—an economically critical segment for Nepal, given the country’s heavy reliance on remittance inflows.