Nepal Stops Labor Permits For Russia And Ukraine

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – In a significant move, Nepal has temporarily halted the issuance of labor permits for citizens seeking employment in Russia and Ukraine. The Department of Foreign Employment announced the suspension through an official notice released on January 4.

The decision, effective immediately, comes in response to the tragic deaths of Nepali nationals involved in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Citing concerns over the safety of Nepali citizens, the department emphasized that the temporary suspension aims to prevent any untoward incidents during organizational or personal visits to Russia, particularly considering the current volatile situation.

Milan Raj Tuladhar, Nepali ambassador to Russia, estimated that approximately 150–200 Nepali nationals were serving in the Russian army. However, the government lacks precise data on the number of Nepali citizens currently enlisted in the Russian and Ukrainian armies.

In response to the situation, the Nepali government has urged the Russian authorities to expedite the repatriation of Nepali citizens currently serving in the Russian armed forces. Simultaneously, diplomatic efforts are underway to rescue and repatriate Bibek Khatri, a Nepali national fighting for Russia, who has been captured by the Ukrainian army, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.