How to Pass the Nepal Immigration if you are Nepali!
Most of us don't have to worry about getting out of our own country when going on holiday. Unless you are Nepali!
Many Nepalis go overseas to work so there is the concern that they have been cheated by some agency, or that their visas are fake, or that they will not return to the country (thus contributing to the overall low opinion some other governments have of Nepal) or, if they are women, that they are being trafficked. These are genuine concerns. And these migrant workers get extra scrutiny at the exit immigration point.
However, sometimes we wonder if the immigration officials are jealous of those who are going oversea for holidays. And thus, make it difficult for genuine travellers, holiday makers and business people also.
So here are few tips on how to pass the Nepal Immigration if you are Nepali!!
• Make sure you have a genuine visa. Or that the place you are going does not require a visa (ie Singapore). This applies even if you are in transit.
• Have a return ticket. Even if you do not intent coming back to Nepal for a long time, have a ticket that you can cancel or change later.
• Have hotel reservations. Make bookings for the first few days. If you are not sure where you are going to be staying, make a booking through ie booking.com that can be cancelled at no charge, or where payment is make direct to the hotel on arrival and not online.
• Make sure you have at least US$1,000 stamped in your passport. The Nepal Immigration will then feel you have enough money for your stay and you are a serious traveller.
• If you are under 18 (or look it) the Nepal Immigration might call your parents. So make sure they know where you are going and are expecting a call.
• If you are a woman, take as much evidence of your trip (hotel bookings, letter of invitation etc). If you look young, even if you are not, we suggest taking your Citizenship as well as your passport. It has been known for the Nepal Immigration to disbelieve the age on the passport. It is harder from them to say your Citizenship age is incorrect.
Safe travels!