NRB Issues Public Notice Regulating Import And Usage Of Foreign Currency And Indian Banknotes
24th July 2026, Kathmandu
Nepal Rastra Bank, the central monetary authority of Nepal, has published a public notice through its Foreign Exchange Management Department to clarify regulations surrounding foreign currency limits and the legal status of Indian currency within the country.
Foreign Currency Import, Usage Regulation
The central bank reiterated that old Indian 500 rupee and 1,000 rupee banknotes demonetized by the Indian government prior to November 9, 2016, remain completely invalid. Bringing these old notes into Nepal, attempting to exchange them, or using them for any commercial or personal transactions is strictly prohibited under domestic law.
Foreign Currency Cash Carrying Limits
Under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 2019 and the Asset Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2008, individuals traveling into Nepal are permitted to carry up to 5,000 US dollars or its equivalent in convertible foreign cash without custom declarations. Any cash amount exceeding 5,000 US dollars must be formally declared at the customs point with supporting documentation.
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Rules Regarding Valid Indian Currency Notes
Nepal Rastra Bank specified that only 200 rupee and 500 rupee denomination Indian currency notes issued after November 9, 2016, are legal for cross border movement. Both Nepali and Indian citizens traveling across the border are allowed to carry up to a maximum limit of 25,000 Indian rupees in these permitted denominations.
Superseding Previous Public Directives
The central bank confirmed that this public announcement officializes the ongoing currency framework and supersedes the previous directive published on May 10, 2025. Compliance with these rules is mandatory to prevent currency seizures or legal actions under anti money laundering statutes.
