KATHMANDU: Home Ministry has decided to suspend visa-on-arrival facilities for Iranian citizens, citing security concerns.

Under the new decision approved at the ministerial level, Iranian nationals wishing to travel to Nepal will now be required to obtain a visa in advance from Nepali embassies abroad. Previously, Iranian citizens were eligible for visas on arrival at Nepal’s entry points.

Home Ministry spokesperson Anand Kafle said the move was taken in coordination with the Foreign Ministry after a recent increase in the number of Iranian nationals arriving in Nepal. Authorities said the decision was made as a precautionary measure amid rising security concerns.

However, sources at the Foreign Ministry said the new restriction will not apply to Iranian citizens holding diplomatic or official passports.