Nepal to waive visa fees for foreign students

Kathmandu- The government of Nepal has announced that it will waive visa fees for international students.

Presenting budget estimates for the fiscal year 2025-26 in the federal parliament on 30 May, Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel also announced the provision of multiple-entry visas for parents of foreign students to visit Nepal The government’s announcement has come at a time when the government is planning to attract international students in areas such as medicine, engineering, and Buddhist studies.

Minister Paudel unveiled a Rs1.96 trillion annual financial plan, with a focus on completing long-delayed infrastructure projects.

The government also announced that Nepalis would now be allowed to invest abroad. Under the new rules, Nepali companies can establish overseas sales branches and processing units for semi-processed goods.

However, only 25 percent of the annual income from exports will be allowed for reinvestment abroad, and 50 percent of profits from such ventures must be repatriated to Nepal, subject to approval by the Investment Board Nepal.

The budget also provides for Nepali citizens to receive sweat equity from foreign firms in exchange for offering technological expertise, specialised knowledge, or unique services.

“Sweat equity will legally recognise the value of Nepali professionals and innovators working with foreign firms in non-monetary forms,” said Paudel. “This is a step towards harnessing global opportunities for Nepali talent.”

The Minister announced that Nepal will now allow Non Resident Nepalis (NRNs) to participate in the secondary market of government bonds, which will motivate them to invest in Nepal’s financial sector.

Minister Paudel said that the government will encourage remittance inflow through the banking system and investment in productive sectors. Remittance sent by NRNs is a significant part of Nepal's economy, and this policy will encourage bringing it through formal channels and investing it in productive sectors (such as agriculture, industry, and tourism). Moreover, amendments in laws related to credit transactions and mortgage will make financial transactions more transparent and organised, officials said.