Kathmandu: The People's Republic of China has announced the exemption of visa fees for Nepali citizens traveling to China.

As per the Embassy of China in Kathmandu, effective from May 1, 2024, Nepali nationals will no longer be required to pay visa fees when visiting China. This move reciprocates Nepal's similar provision for Chinese citizens since 2016.

The decision follows an agreement reached during the visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Narayankaji Shrestha to China last March.

In a notice issued today, the Embassy of China stated that the visa fee waiver for Nepali citizens aims to foster friendship between the two countries and facilitate reciprocal visits. However, express charges and service fees will remain unchanged.

The Nepali tourism sector has long advocated for visa-free access to China for Nepali nationals. With this new provision, it is anticipated that bilateral travel will increase, benefiting both countries' tourism industries, noted Maniraj Lamichhane, Director of the Nepal Tourism Board.

Data from the NTB reveals a rising trend in Chinese tourist arrivals in 2024. In March alone, 12,093 Chinese tourists visited Nepal, compared to 9,180 in February and 1,436 in January. In 2023, a total of 60,878 Chinese tourists visited Nepal, with the highest number recorded in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic.