Work Permit Rules Tightened: Late Applications To Be Rejected From April 13

In a written statement, the ministry said the new regulation aims to ensure that work permit processes are carried out more effectively, systematically, and in full compliance with existing legislation governing the employment of foreign nationals.

Under the current framework, work permit procedures are conducted in line with the Law on Work Permits for Foreigners and relevant regulations. Article 36 of the existing by-law had previously allowed employers, under certain conditions and with valid justification, to apply to a committee if they were unable to complete procedures within the prescribed timeframe.

However, the ministry noted that recent evaluations revealed this mechanism—intended as an exceptional measure—had increasingly been used in ways that disregarded legal deadlines, with some applications being deliberately delayed and finalized through the committee process instead.

Authorities also pointed to inspections carried out by the police, which found that foreign employees whose work permits had expired and whose procedures had not been completed were falling into irregular residency status. This, the ministry said, was causing legal and practical difficulties for both employees and employers.

As part of the new measures introduced to address these issues, the ministry confirmed that the “committee application within a reasonable time” option on the online portal will be abolished as of April 13, 2026.

From that date onward, all applications—including initial work permits, business permits, student work permits, renewals, and status transfers—must be submitted strictly within the legally निर्धारित time limits.

Applications filed outside these deadlines will be rejected outright and processed in accordance with existing legal provisions.

The ministry urged both employers and employees to show maximum diligence in adhering to the specified timelines to avoid any potential grievances or legal complications.