Nepal Announces Customs Duty Exemption for Returning Migrant Workers, Including 65-Inch TVs
The Government of Nepal has introduced new provisions offering customs duty exemptions for Nepali citizens returning from foreign employment and long-term stay abroad. The decision aims to ease the financial burden on migrant workers and support their reintegration into the country.
Under the new arrangement, Nepali citizens who have worked abroad for at least six months and are returning home will be allowed to bring one mobile phone along with personal-use electronic items such as tablets, laptops, desktop computers, wristwatches, and cameras without paying customs duties.
In an additional provision, individuals returning after completing at least 12 months of foreign employment will also be eligible for full customs duty exemption on one television set of up to 65 inches when brought as part of their personal baggage.
The government has also extended duty-free facilities to specific humanitarian cases. Returning patients are permitted to bring essential medicines without customs charges. Similarly, persons with disabilities can import assistive devices required for daily use free of duty. Travelers are also allowed to bring up to 7 kilograms of food items for personal consumption without taxation.
Authorities further stated that in cases where passengers exceed the prescribed limits, customs office chiefs will have discretionary authority to grant additional exemptions. Such decisions will be based on individual circumstances including duration of stay abroad, family size, and overall condition of the traveler.
Officials said the policy is expected to benefit thousands of Nepali migrant workers returning from countries such as the Gulf nations, Malaysia, South Korea, and others, where many Nepalis have been employed for years. The move is also seen as a step toward making the return process more supportive and less financially burdensome.
The new rules will apply as per existing customs regulations and will be enforced through all major entry points of Nepal.