Nepal Introduces Electronic Tracking System for Tourists to Enhance Security and Tourism
3rd September 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant move to modernize its tourism infrastructure and enhance national security, Nepal is set to introduce an electronic tracking system for foreign visitors.
Nepal Tourist Tracking System
The Department of Immigration announced that all foreign tourists arriving on visit visas will now be registered and monitored through this new digital system, a step that marks a major shift from traditional paper-based processes.
The initiative, officially known as the “Foreign Nationals Registration and Tracking System” (FNRTS), is designed to serve multiple critical objectives: bolstering the security of foreign nationals, streamlining information management, curbing potential crimes, and ultimately, supporting the sustainable promotion of Nepal’s vibrant tourism industry.
The implementation of this system comes after years of discussion and planning within the tourism and government sectors. According to Director General Ram Chandra Tiwari, the system is expected to provide a more systematic and efficient way to maintain records of the stay and activities of foreign visitors.
This will not only aid in better data analysis for tourism planning but also facilitate search and rescue operations during emergencies. The Department of Immigration has already published a comprehensive user manual and registration process on its official website, making the transition as smooth as possible for all stakeholders.
The rollout will be executed in two distinct phases to ensure a seamless integration. The first phase, set to begin on October 17, 2025, will make the system mandatory for all star-rated hotels located within the Kathmandu Valley.
This initial phase will act as a pilot, allowing the department to fine-tune the system and address any challenges that may arise. Following this, the second phase will commence on November 17, 2025, expanding the requirement to a much broader range of service providers, including all star hotels across the country, airlines, travel and tour companies, and money exchange firms.
The department has also indicated that the system will eventually be expanded to include all types of hotels, guesthouses, and other public and private institutions that cater to foreign nationals.
This digital transformation is a response to the evolving needs of the modern tourism landscape. By leveraging technology, Nepal aims to provide a safer and more secure environment for its visitors.
The system will allow authorities to have a real-time overview of tourist movements, which can be invaluable in case of natural disasters or other emergencies. Furthermore, it will help in the prevention of visa overstays and other immigration-related offenses, ensuring that visitors abide by the country’s laws.
The Hotel Association Nepal has acknowledged the long-standing discussions about such a system and is currently formulating its official position on the rollout.
The successful implementation will require close cooperation between government bodies and private sector partners. The Department of Immigration has already sent letters to monitoring committees in all 77 districts, urging both public and private institutions to join the system.
This nationwide coordination is crucial for the system’s effectiveness and its ability to create a unified and secure framework for tourist management.
The move to a digital platform aligns with global trends where many countries are adopting electronic systems to manage visitor data more effectively.
While some may raise concerns about privacy, the government’s stated goal is to use the data for security and service enhancement, not for intrusive surveillance. The system is a tool to protect tourists and Nepal’s national integrity, ensuring that tourism, a cornerstone of the country’s economy, can flourish in a secure and well-managed environment.
Ultimately, the introduction of this electronic tracking system is a forward-thinking step for Nepal. It represents a commitment to harnessing technology for the betterment of its citizens and its visitors.
By enhancing security, improving data management, and streamlining services, the FNRTS is set to play a pivotal role in shaping a safer, more efficient, and more welcoming future for tourism in the Himalayan nation.
For more: Nepal Tourist Tracking System
