Nepal’s New FNMIS Online Registration for Foreign Travellers Explained

 

Kathmandu Nepal

Nepal Launches New Online Registration System for Foreign Travellers

Nepal has rolled out a new online registration and tracking system for foreign visitors, aiming to streamline travel oversight, improve safety, and support tourism growth. The Foreign Nationals Management Information System (FNMIS) — introduced by Nepal’s Department of Immigration — replaces older, fragmented processes with a centralized digital platform that records where visitors stay and what they do during their trip.

What Is FNMIS and Why It Matters

FNMIS is an online database managed by the Department of Immigration in Nepal. It collects basic information about foreign nationals — such as passport and visa details, accommodation information, and travel plans — when they visit the country. Travellers can register through the official Department of Immigration mobile app. In some cases, hotels or registered service providers can help complete the process during check-in.

The goal is simple: to give Nepal a clear and organized record of foreign visitors so authorities can respond quickly in emergencies, monitor overstays, support security operations, and promote better tourism experiences across the country.

How the Rollout Is Structured

Phase 1: Kathmandu Valley (Live Now)

From January 1, 2026, FNMIS became mandatory for foreign travellers staying at star-rated hotels in the Kathmandu Valley. This means both visitors and service providers in these hotels must input guest details into the system.

If travellers fail to register themselves, hosting hotels are required to complete the registration on their behalf at check-in.

Phase 2: Nationwide Expansion (March 1, 2026)

On March 1, 2026, the second phase begins. FNMIS will become compulsory for:

• All star-rated hotels in Nepal

• Airlines

• Tour and travel companies

• Money exchange services

• Other public and private entities serving foreign nationals

Eventually, the system will extend to all hotels, guesthouses, travel agencies, trekking operators, and service providers catering to foreign visitors.

What Travellers Need to Do

Foreign visitors traveling to Nepal in 2026 and beyond should be aware of the following requirements:

• Register via the Department of Immigration mobile app: Enter your passport and visa details to create a digital profile.

• Scan QR codes at hotels or service points: Your hotel or registered provider will scan a system-generated QR code to update your stay and record details.

• Keep records up to date: Make sure your travel plans and stays are logged accurately, as this data supports emergency response, visa management, and tourism planning.

Visitors must follow their visa conditions closely. Any activities outside the permitted scope (such as working without the right visa) could result in penalties or fines.

Why Nepal Introduced FNMIS

Officials say the system serves multiple purposes:

🔐 Enhancing Visitor Safety and Security

With more accurate real-time information, authorities can:

• Improve emergency responses

• Locate travellers quickly in remote areas

• Prevent potential crimes involving foreign nationals

📊 Better Tourism Management

The system gives tourism planners and businesses a reliable database of visitor movements and stay patterns, helping them tailor services and experiences.

📱 Streamlined Information Sharing

FNMIS connects immigration officials with hotels, airlines, travel agencies, and other stakeholders. This allows for faster data exchange among security agencies and tourism partners, making Nepal’s tourism ecosystem more organized. 

How FNMIS Helps in Emergencies

One of the standout features of the system is its ability to speed up search and rescue operations and provide critical information during accidents or natural disasters. By knowing exactly where a visitor is staying or travelling within the country, authorities can react more efficiently and save lives. Also Read:Fiscal Nepal