New Travel Rule for Indian Residents

Warning to Travelers: New Rule for Indian Residents Returning from Nepal to UAE

Several Indian residents living in the United Arab Emirates were met with an unpleasant surprise when the enforcement of official documentation necessary for their return from Nepal began. This new measure particularly affects those returning to the UAE after a vacation in Nepal. From now on, they are required to present a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Indian embassy; otherwise, they will not be allowed to board their flight.

What is an NOC and why is it needed?

An NOC is an official declaration from the Indian authorities stating that the individual is permitted to return to the United Arab Emirates. While the rule existed before, authorities have become much stricter in recent months to prevent potential abuses such as human trafficking or tax evasion. Many were caught off guard, as most travel agencies did not forewarn this requirement.

Days of Chaos, Hundreds of Dirhams Lost

Several travelers reported being unable to board flights back, learning of the NOC requirement at the airport. The document can only be obtained in Kathmandu, requiring those staying in places like Pokhara to travel as much as 200 km to acquire the certificate.

The process took both time and money: a family of four might spend over 300 dirhams to pay the necessary fees. Those who couldn't secure the documents in time had to purchase new plane tickets, often incurring significant financial loss—over 1,400 dirhams in some cases.

What documents are required for the NOC?

To obtain the certificate from the Indian embassy, the following documents must be submitted:

Passport and its copy

Copy of UAE residence visa

Copy of Emirates ID

Air ticket

Immigration stamp

One passport-sized photo

Completed application form

Payment (3,100 Nepali rupees per person)

According to experiences, the consulate, which operates on weekends, received clients in time, but on Thursdays and Fridays, clients had to endure hours of waiting due to increased traffic.

What do experts advise?

Travel experts advise all Indian citizens planning to visit Nepal to inquire about the rules in advance and, if possible, obtain the NOC before departure. This is especially important for those returning to the UAE via Nepal, while those returning to India are currently not affected by the rule.

Summary

To avoid unpleasant surprises and financial losses, staying informed and handling procedures in advance is crucial. While trips to Nepal remain popular among Indian residents, the newly enforced regulation clearly shows the importance of monitoring current entry requirements.

(Source of the article: Introduction of No Objection Certificate (NOC).)