U.S. Immigration on March 5, 2025, nine Nepali nationals were deported from the United States, with eight of them arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu on a chartered flight operated by Gryphon Air. The flight, which originated from Portsmouth International Airport in New Hampshire, made a technical stop en route to Nepal and landed at 10:15 AM. Upon arrival, the deportees were processed by the immigration office before being handed over to the Nepal Police for further investigation.
This deportation is part of the U.S.’s intensified efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, a stance that has been emphasized under the policies initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump and continued in the current administration. Most of the deported individuals had entered the U.S. illegally or violated immigration laws, often aided by human traffickers or through visa overstays.
The Nepali Embassy in Washington facilitated the deportation process by issuing necessary travel documents for those who did not possess valid passports. This measure ensured that the deportees could return to Nepal even if they lacked the required identification.
Rise in Deportations from the U.S.
In addition to the eight deportees on the chartered Gryphon Air flight, one more Nepali was deported on the same day via a regular Qatar Airways flight. This brought the total number of deportees on March 5, 2025, to nine. The increase in deportations of Nepali nationals from the U.S. has been notable in recent months. Since January 2025, a total of 36 Nepali citizens have been deported, signaling a rise in deportation numbers compared to previous years.
These deportations are part of the U.S. government’s larger strategy to address illegal immigration, focusing on individuals who have violated U.S. immigration laws. Many of the deportees had sought to enter the U.S. in search of better economic opportunities, often using illegal or irregular methods to cross the border. However, with the U.S. tightening its immigration policies and enforcement, these individuals were apprehended and deported back to their home country.
For further context on U.S. immigration policy and deportations, visit this article.
Human Trafficking and Immigration Violations
The issue of human trafficking plays a significant role in the deportation of Nepali nationals from countries like the United States. Many of the deportees were victims of human traffickers, who promised them illegal entry into the U.S. or facilitated their movement through dangerous routes. Human trafficking syndicates often prey on vulnerable individuals looking for better lives abroad, charging exorbitant fees for what they claim to be “safe” passage.
These individuals, once caught by U.S. immigration authorities, face legal consequences, including deportation. In response to the growing problem, the Nepali government has been working to raise awareness about human trafficking and the dangers of illegal immigration. Efforts have been made to warn citizens about the risks associated with unregulated travel and the exploitation of human traffickers.
For more details about how human trafficking impacts Nepali nationals, read this article.
Nepal’s Response and Future Measures
Following their arrival in Nepal, the deported individuals were transferred to the custody of the Nepal Police, who are conducting further investigations. The deportees will likely be questioned to determine whether they were involved in any criminal activities related to human trafficking or other illegal practices while abroad.
Nepal has seen an increase in its citizens seeking opportunities overseas, primarily for better employment and economic prospects. However, the government is taking steps to address the challenges of illegal migration. This includes collaborating with international organizations, as well as governments such as the U.S., to ensure proper migration procedures and reduce the number of Nepali nationals falling victim to human traffickers.
In addition, the government is focusing on creating more domestic employment opportunities to curb the outflow of citizens seeking jobs abroad. Encouraging young entrepreneurs and providing job training programs are among the initiatives aimed at reducing the need for migration.
To explore related insights on Nepal’s response to migration challenges, read more here.
Conclusion
The deportation of nine Nepali nationals from the U.S. underscores the ongoing challenges of illegal immigration and human trafficking faced by many developing nations like Nepal. As stricter immigration policies are enforced globally, it is crucial for countries like Nepal to continue raising awareness about the risks of illegal migration and improving domestic opportunities to dissuade citizens from seeking risky and often dangerous routes to foreign lands.
With continued efforts on both ends—stronger migration management in Nepal and cooperative action with international partners—there is hope that illegal immigration numbers will decline, and those seeking opportunities abroad can do so safely and legally.
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