The government plans to track foreign nationals visiting Nepal on tourist visas. The Immigration Department issued a notice on Tuesday, stating that digital tracking will begin on Sept 17. Under the new system, foreign nationals staying in star hotels will be required to submit their personal details through a mobile app. Tikaram Dhakal, Director of the Immigration Department, said the first phase of the foreign national registration and monitoring system will be implemented in star hotels in coordination with the Hotel Association Nepal.

A manual has been prepared to guide this process. The system aims to enhance security for foreign visitors, improve information management and facilitation, support crime prevention, and promote tourism. Visitors must submit their details before arriving at their hotel, and the system will gradually expand nationwide. It will initially be introduced in star hotels in Kathmandu before being extended to other areas.

The department believes the system will simplify record-keeping of foreigners’ activities and residences and ensure timely search, rescue, and safety measures during emergencies. Department Chief Ramchandra Tiwari added that hotel staff can also scan the details via the app. The information will remain secure within the hotel system, while the Immigration Department will monitor it centrally.

Foreign nationals must submit their details before reaching their booked hotel. If a visitor fails to do so, hotel staff are required to update the information online. The system will eventually cover star hotels, airlines, tour and travel companies, and money exchange services across the country. The department plans to expand it to all types of hotels, guest houses, and public and private institutions.

The Immigration Department has made it mandatory for all foreign visitors to use its mobile app. Upon downloading, each visitor receives a QR code, which the department will use to track them digitally.