KATHMANDU: In a significant relief for Nepali travelers, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has lifted the mandatory transit visa requirement for Nepali passport holders, effective November 15, 2025.

According to the Consulate General of Nepal in Hong Kong, the decision follows the Consulate’s continuous diplomatic efforts and formal requests to the Hong Kong authorities. The new provision allows Nepali travelers transiting through Hong Kong International Airport, either while flying from Nepal to third countries or from other nations to Nepal, to do so without needing a transit visa, provided they remain within the airport’s transit area.

Hong Kong had enforced the transit visa rule for Nepali citizens since June 2005. Despite being one of the world’s busiest airports, the mandatory visa requirement had long posed difficulties for Nepalis transiting through Hong Kong on international routes.

“With the removal of the transit visa obligation, Nepali passport holders transiting through Hong Kong will experience much smoother travel,” the Consulate stated, adding that the change is expected to encourage more Nepali travelers to choose Hong Kong as a transit hub.

The Consulate General also noted that this decision carries broader diplomatic significance. The step is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations between Nepal and Hong Kong, reflecting growing goodwill and cooperation between the two sides.

On behalf of the Government of Nepal, the Consulate General expressed its appreciation to the Hong Kong Government for the positive and facilitative decision.