Kathmandu: The Government of Nepal has officially approved 111 countries for institutional foreign employment for Nepali workers, as per data up to Falgun (mid-February) of the fiscal year 2024/25.
Despite this formal approval, a significant number of Nepali workers continue to reach unapproved destinations through informal or illegal channels. Authorities have raised concerns that unauthorized agents are actively luring job seekers to these risky locations, suggesting the actual number of destination countries may be higher than reported.
According to the latest Economic Survey released by the Ministry of Finance, 1,670 manpower agencies have been licensed to facilitate foreign employment. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains the most popular destination for Nepali migrant workers.
By Falgun, 317,063 individuals had received new labor approvals—of which 93.3% were men and 6.7% were women. When including renewals, the total number of labor approvals rose to 534,471. During the same period, South Korea received 7,509 workers under the EPS (Employment Permit System).
However, foreign employment continues to come with severe risks. Between Shrawan and Falgun (mid-July to mid-March), 974 Nepali workers—922 men and 52 women—died while working abroad. The government provided over Rs 656.7 million in compensation to the families of the deceased. Additionally, 336 workers (317 men and 19 women) were reported injured or seriously ill, with Rs 147.4 million provided in support.
To improve safety and awareness, the government is implementing a Safe Migration Program, now in its fourth phase, across 267 local units in 68 districts. As of mid-March 2025, more than 454,000 people have received services through the program.