Who Needs a Work Permit?
All foreign nationals working in Nepal require:
✔ Employment visa (before arrival)
✔ Work permit (after arrival)
✔ Special approval for restricted sectors
Exceptions:
- UN/diplomatic staff
- Volunteer workers (<6 months)
- Investors with specific visas
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Pre-Arrival Requirements
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Offer Letter | From Nepali company |
| Company Registration | Employer’s business proof |
| Visa Recommendation | From Department of Immigration |
2. Entry Visa Process
- Apply for “Employment Visa” at Nepalese embassy
- Valid for 15-90 days (convertible after arrival)
3. Work Permit Application (Within 7 Days of Arrival)
Required Documents:
- Passport copy (valid 6+ months)
- Employer’s PAN registration
- Company board resolution
- Educational certificates (attested)
- Health checkup report
- 4 passport photos
4. Approval Timeline
| Process | Duration | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Initial review | 7-10 days | 500 |
| Labor approval | 15 days | – |
| Final permit | 5 days | 300 |
Work Permit Types & Validity
| Category | Duration | Renewable |
|---|---|---|
| General Employment | 1 year | Yes |
| IT Specialist | 2 years | Yes |
| Investor | 5 years | Yes |
| NGO Worker | Project period | Yes |
Restricted Sectors for Foreign Workers
✖ Manual labor jobs
✖ Retail shop work
✖ Basic agriculture
✖ Local transport
Key Regulations
✔ Salary Threshold: Minimum $1,500/month
✔ Nepali Staff Ratio: 5 locals per foreign employee
✔ Tax Obligations: 15-25% income tax
✔ Change Employer: Requires new permit
Renewal Process
- Apply 30 days before expiry
- Submit:
- Performance report from employer
- Updated contract
- Tax clearance certificate
FAQs About Work Permits
1. Can I convert tourist visa to work visa?
→ No, must apply from home country
2. Is medical test mandatory?
→ Yes, from approved hospitals
3. Can spouse work on dependent visa?
→ No, requires separate permit
4. What if my permit expires?
→ NPR 1,000/day fine + possible deportation
5. Are digital nomads allowed?
→ No specific visa, use tourist visa (max 150 days/year)
Pro Tips for Smooth Processing
✔ Verify employer’s foreign worker quota
✔ Keep color copies of all documents
✔ Check Nepali embassy website for latest forms
✔ Use registered agents for complex cases
Need Assistance? Contact:
- Department of Labor: ☎ 01-4215525
- Immigration Office: https://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np
💡 Secure your legal right to work in Nepal with proper documentation! 🇳🇵
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