Leaving Again: What Nepal's Foreign Employment Data Reveals
Summary
Nepal's foreign employment approvals reached historic highs with 661,874 permits in FY 2025/26, highlighting a growing trend of renewals and expanding destination countries such as the UAE, East Asia, and Europe.
Key Points
- Nepal's foreign employment approvals increased from 560,036 in FY 2016/17 to 661,874 in FY 2025/26, despite a sharp COVID-19 pandemic disruption.
- The Gulf region remains the dominant destination, with the UAE leading in labor permits issued to Nepali workers.
- Renewals have rapidly grown, showing labor migration is becoming a long-term livelihood strategy rather than temporary.
- Emerging destinations in East Asia and Europe indicate diversification away from traditional Gulf countries.
