Immigration officials at Tribhuvan Airport face backlash for handwritten notes on passports

Kathmandu. Immigration officials at Tribhuvan International Airport have begun writing 'For tourism only, not for work' and 'UAE visit only, employment strictly prohibited' on the passports of individuals traveling to the UAE on tourist visas.

These handwritten notes are being added after immigration staff stamp the departure clearance. Details from two passports obtained by Ratopati also show a condition requiring the traveler to return by 2083 Jestha 27.

The practice has sparked criticism on social media, with observers arguing that such markings undermine the value of Nepali passports abroad. Nepalis residing in the UAE have also raised sharp questions regarding the policy, with experts noting that such disclaimers are unnecessary for valid visit visa holders.

However, Department of Immigration Director Tikaram Dhakal stated that the department has made no formal decision to include such remarks on passports. He said, 'We have received information that passports are being marked with these restrictions, and we are discussing how this occurred.'

It appears that airport immigration staff have been writing these notes without official authorization. Dhakal added that the department will soon issue an official statement regarding the matter.