U.S. Deports 75 Nepalis in One Day—Highest-Ever Single Operation

A total of 75 Nepali nationals have been deported from the United States in a single operation, according to Nepal’s Department of Immigration. The group consists of 69 men and six women.

The deportees arrived at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport on Thursday evening aboard an Omni Air International flight. Upon arrival, they were handed over to the Nepal Police Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau for further processing, airport immigration officials confirmed.

This surge in deportations follows the strict enforcement of U.S. immigration policies under President Donald Trump’s second term. The policy targets undocumented immigrants, putting an increasing number of Nepalis at risk. In November alone, 80 Nepalis—78 men and two women—were deported. Records show a steady increase throughout 2025: six in January, 18 in February, 32 in March, 26 in April, 58 in May, 42 in June, 17 in July, 16 in August, and 53 in September.

Earlier, on November 19, 2025, 35 Nepali citizens were deported in a single day. According to the Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau, many in this group had attempted to enter the U.S. illegally via Mexico, with some individuals reportedly paying traffickers up to $70,000. Data analysis of those deported on November 19 shows that the majority are young adults; approximately 71.4% are under the age of 36, with the largest demographic (42.8%) aged between 26 and 35.

While deportees are routinely handed over to the Human Trafficking Bureau, officials typically conduct only basic questioning before releasing them to their families. Detailed investigations are initiated only if a formal complaint is filed.

The policy shift gained momentum in August 2025, when U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed the immediate termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nepalis. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stated that TPS and associated work permits became invalid after August 20, 2025, following a Ninth Circuit Court ruling that allowed the termination to proceed.

Despite the rising numbers, former Nepali Ambassador Yuba Nath Lamsal noted that these deportations are unlikely to strain diplomatic ties. “Every country deports those residing illegally in accordance with its laws. This is not new, nor is the U.S. only deporting Nepalis,” Lamsal said. He added that the Nepali Embassy in Washington, D.C., continues to cooperate by promptly issuing necessary travel documents.

However, Lamsal cautioned that the U.S. Embassy in Nepal might adopt stricter visa procedures in response to the trend, potentially increasing scrutiny for legitimate travelers. He advised Nepali citizens to comply fully with international regulations to avoid personal hardship and protect the nation’s global reputation.