Online Registration System for Foreign Travellers. Nepal has officially launched a new online registration system for foreign nationals, aiming to strengthen monitoring and management of international visitors entering the country. The system, known as the Foreign Nationals Management Information System (FNMIS), has gone live and is being implemented in phases across Nepal.
This new digital initiative introduces changes in how foreign travellers register their stay, where they can stay, and how visa rules are enforced. Authorities say the move will help improve transparency, security, and compliance with immigration laws.
What Is the Foreign Nationals Management Information System (FNMIS)
The Foreign Nationals Management Information System (FNMIS) is an online database developed and managed by Nepal’s Department of Immigration. The system records essential information about foreign nationals visiting Nepal, including:
- Passport details
- Visa information
- Duration and location of stay
- Travel and accommodation records
The primary objective of FNMIS is to allow authorities to track the movement and stay of foreign travellers more efficiently while ensuring they comply with visa conditions.
How Foreign Travellers Can Register Under FNMIS
Foreign nationals can complete their registration through the official mobile application of Nepal’s Department of Immigration. The app is available on both major platforms:
- Android (Google Play Store): Department of Immigration – Nepal
- iOS (Apple App Store): Department of Immigration – Nepal
In many cases, travellers may not need to complete the registration themselves. Hotels, airlines, or service providers can assist or complete the process during check-in or service use.
For visitors, this adds one more compliance step, while for Nepal, it ensures better data collection and oversight.
Phase-Wise Implementation of the New System
The Nepal government has chosen a phased rollout strategy to ensure smooth implementation without disrupting tourism operations.
Phase 1: Already in Effect
Phase 1 of the FNMIS system is currently active and applies to:
- Foreign nationals staying in star-rated hotels
- Hotels located within the Kathmandu Valley
Under this phase, travellers are expected to be registered upon arrival in Nepal. If a traveller fails to register, the hotel is responsible for ensuring registration at the time of check-in.
What Changes From March 1, 2026
The most significant expansion of the system begins on March 1, 2026, marking the start of Phase 2.
From this date, FNMIS registration will be required nationwide for foreign nationals using the following services:
- All star-rated hotels across Nepal
- Airlines
- Travel and tour companies
- Money exchange services
This expansion means that foreign travellers interacting with these services must be registered in the system, making digital tracking far more comprehensive.
Future Expansion Plans of FNMIS
Nepal has confirmed that FNMIS will be expanded further in upcoming phases. In the long term, the system is expected to include:
- All hotels and guest houses, regardless of rating
- Public and private institutions
- Other service providers frequently used by foreign nationals
Once fully implemented, registration under FNMIS will become a routine requirement for nearly all foreign travellers, no matter where they stay or which services they use.
Stricter Enforcement of Visa Rules
Along with the introduction of FNMIS, Nepal is also tightening enforcement of visa regulations.
Authorities have warned that foreign nationals must strictly follow the activities permitted under their visa type. Engaging in activities such as:
- Working without a work visa
- Volunteering on a tourist visa
- Running or participating in business activities without proper authorization
can result in penalties, fines, or legal action.
The message from immigration officials is clear: accurate registration and visa compliance are mandatory.
Important Advice for Foreign Travellers Visiting Nepal
Foreign nationals planning to visit Nepal in 2026 or later are advised to:
- Ensure their stay details are properly registered
- Carry accurate and valid passport and visa documents
- Confirm that their activities align strictly with their visa conditions
- Cooperate with hotels and service providers during registration
Staying informed and compliant can help travellers avoid unnecessary complications during their visit.
What This Means for Your Trip to Nepal
For most tourists, the FNMIS system will operate in the background, handled mainly by hotels, airlines, or travel agencies. However, travellers should remain aware of the new requirements.
With increased digital monitoring, visitors can expect more formal checks and structured record-keeping. While this may seem like an added step, it is designed to improve safety and efficiency within Nepal’s tourism sector.
Conclusion
The launch of the Foreign Nationals Management Information System (FNMIS) marks a major shift in how Nepal manages foreign travellers. Through phased implementation, nationwide expansion, and stricter visa enforcement, the government aims to create a more transparent and secure travel environment.
