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Recently, after facing criticism and controversies, the Nepal government has made comprehensive changes in the Bhansar (custom) rules and implemented a new duty exemption system for travelers. According to the notification published in Nepal Gazette, these revised rules have come into effect with immediate effect, the purpose of which is to provide relief to citizens returning from abroad and to make the process more clear.

Many items of personal use duty free

Under the new system, many items of personal use have been completely duty free. Now Nepali citizens returning from abroad will be able to bring back their used clothes, general household items, essential medicines and accessories without any customs duty. Apart from this, items like limited quantity of gold and silver, a mobile phone, laptop, watch and camera have also been included in the scope of this exemption, which will provide great relief to the passengers.

The government has also decided to provide special concessions to Nepalese workers working abroad. Workers who have been employed abroad for more than six months can now bring one additional mobile phone without charge. At the same time, citizens who have worked abroad for more than a year and are registered with the Social Security Fund have also been allowed to bring a television set free of charge. This step is being seen as a way to honor the contribution of migrant workers.

Essential commodities included in the new policy

Food items and other essential commodities have also been included in the new policy. Passengers have been allowed to bring food items up to seven kilograms. Along with this, prams and tricycles for the use of children, equipment used by professionals and liquor up to one liter are also kept in the duty free category.

However, the government has made it clear that it will be mandatory to pay custom duty if goods are brought in excess of the prescribed limit. Citizens staying abroad for six months to one year can get exemption on excess luggage up to Rs 50,000, while those staying abroad for more than a year will be able to avail this facility on luggage worth up to Rs 1 lakh.

This relaxation has been limited to passengers entering Nepal by road. Normally they will not get the benefit of these concessions, but customs officials can give a discretionary discount on personal items up to Rs 100.

Special provisions for students and foreign nationals

Special provisions have also been made for students and foreign citizens. Nepalese students studying in India will not have to pay any fee for bringing and carrying a laptop or computer. At the same time, foreign travelers have been given exemption on limited quantity of liquor, cigarettes, medicines and food items.

The government has also warned of strict action against violation of rules. If a passenger brings more luggage than the prescribed limit or does not follow the rules, his luggage can be confiscated and legal action can also be taken against him. Along with this, all the old provisions have been abolished and the new system has been fully implemented.