Telecom companies to help record foreign nationals’ data

KATHMANDU: The Department of Immigration is preparing to collaborate with telecom companies to integrate foreign nationals’ information into its system, aiming for more effective data management.

The move comes as part of the “Foreign Citizen Management Information System”, which the department implemented on Jan 1, 2026.

The system, designed to systematically collect, record, and analyze data on foreigners entering Nepal, will now involve major telecom providers Nepal Telecom and private-sector Ncell.

According to Ramchandra Tiwari, Director General of the Department of Immigration, discussions are underway to link the system with these telecom companies. “Once connected, details of any foreign national who acquires a SIM card will automatically be available in the immigration database,” he said. Talks are also ongoing with airline operators to integrate the system with air travel data, with results expected in the coming week.

The department plans to expand the system nationwide by March, although early implementation may occur in some areas beforehand. The system is intended to enhance tourist security, information flow, tourism promotion, and crime prevention, and private-sector partners are reportedly ready to cooperate.

Currently, around 1,350 trekking agencies and roughly 100 hotels in Kathmandu are already connected to the system, with more expected to join daily.

How the System Monitors Foreigners

According to Tiwari, the system collects details of every foreign visitor through travel agencies, hotels, money exchange services, and the Department of Tourism. All these entities will be required to submit visitor information into the system.

Security and Reliability

The Director General emphasized that the system, effective from January 1, is secure and reliable. To ensure its safety, the Department of Immigration has conducted audits in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Center and the Department of Information Technology. The system will be regularly upgraded to remain effective and secure.

Expanding the System Nationwide

Implementing the system at the local level presents challenges, primarily due to limited manpower in some regions. Additionally, misinformation and rumors about the system among foreign visitors have created obstacles.

To address this, a committee led by the Chief District Officer has been formed to coordinate with local authorities and organizations, ensuring the system is effectively implemented across all districts.

Tiwari noted that similar systems are in operation in many countries, providing enhanced security for tourists. In emergencies, the system could play a critical role in facilitating government assistance for visitors in distress.