No More Border Queues: Nepal Launches Fast-Track Entry for Indian Vehicles

Road trips bring a unique sense of adventure and enjoyment, allowing travelers to see and experience a variety of sights, much more than what air travel offers. Although flying is often easier, road trips provide a feeling of excitement. And now, in a significant development aimed at making such journeys smoother for Indian travelers, Nepal has recently introduced a new initiative. Now, Indian tourists traveling to Nepal in their own cars will no longer bear long waits at the border for vehicle permits.

The Nepalese government has launched an online service designed to assist not only Indian travelers but also those from other countries entering through the land route with their vehicles. The Department of Customs, under the Ministry of Finance, created this system, which allows foreign vehicle owners to fill out forms and pay fees online.

This fast-track entry system was inaugurated by Finance Minister Dr Swarnim Wagle in a recent event. With this initiative, travelers from India and other countries can now complete their vehicle permit applications online from the comfort of their own homes.

How Is The Fast-Track Entry System Different From The Previous Rule

Previously, travelers needed to obtain a temporary permit card in person at customs checkpoints. They also needed to visit these checkpoints again to extend their travel duration or settle any fines. With the recent online service, however, visitors can manage their vehicle permits easily without any inconvenience while traveling in Nepal.

How Can You Use The Fast-Track Entry Service

Travelers can use this service by going to the customs department's website. To use it, travelers should select the Temporary Import Vehicle (TIV) option, fill out their vehicle and personal details, pay the necessary fee online, and download the QR code sent to their email. This QR code is required for presentation at the border and while traveling within Nepal. For now, this service is especially aimed at tourists from India and Bangladesh.

Entry Regulations For Indian Vehicles In Nepal

As per the Indian Embassy, when bringing Indian registered vehicles into Nepal, it's important to remember that they can only stay for a maximum of 30 days per calendar year.

Vehicle owners must obtain a 'Pass' for the correct duration upon entry and pay the associated fees. Passes must be adhered to, meaning vehicles must exit before the duration expires. If entering on a 'Day Pass,' the vehicle must return to India the same day, and the pass must be returned to Nepal Customs upon departure.