Nepal Launches Online Vehicle Entry System to Ease Travel for Foreign Tourists

May 2026 : In a significant step towards improving travel convenience, the government of Nepal has introduced a new digital system allowing foreign tourists entering via land routes to register their vehicles and pay necessary fees online. The initiative is expected to particularly benefit visitors travelling through India, who form a large share of Nepal’s inbound tourists.

The system was officially launched on Tuesday by Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle and has been implemented by the Department of Customs. With this new mechanism, tourists can now complete all formalities related to vehicle entry digitally, eliminating the need for time-consuming procedures at border checkpoints.

Earlier, travellers entering Nepal with private or rented vehicles had to obtain temporary permits manually at customs offices. This often involved long queues and repeated visits, especially for those needing permit renewals during their stay. Missing renewal deadlines could also result in penalties, adding to the inconvenience faced by tourists.

The newly introduced system streamlines this entire process. Visitors can now apply for permits, submit vehicle details, and pay applicable fees from their homes before starting their journey. According to officials, this digital shift is aimed at enhancing transparency, reducing paperwork, and ensuring a smoother travel experience.

Speaking at the launch, Wagle said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to good governance and efficient service delivery. He emphasised that tourists should not face unnecessary obstacles at border entry points and should instead experience fast and reliable services.

Director General of the Department of Customs, Shyam Prasad Mainali, highlighted that the system fully digitises the permit process for foreign tourist vehicles. Travellers can now self-declare their vehicle details online, making the system both user-friendly and efficient.

Once the online process is completed, tourists receive a QR code via email after making the payment digitally or through designated bank counters. This QR code serves as proof of registration and must be presented at customs checkpoints for entry into Nepal. Vehicles with valid QR codes can proceed to their destinations without delays.

The system also offers flexibility for travellers already in Nepal. If the permitted duration expires, tourists can extend their vehicle permits online without having to revisit customs offices physically.

To use the service, travellers need to access the Department of Customs website, navigate to the “Our Services” section, and select the Temporary Import of Vehicle (TIV) module. After submitting the required details and completing payment, the QR code is generated for entry.

Officials noted that the TIV module has been developed under Nepal’s National Single Window System, a broader initiative aimed at simplifying cross-border procedures and enhancing ease of travel for foreign nationals.