The Nepali Embassy in Brazil has confirmed that all 176 Nepalis stranded in transit are safe, and it stands ready to provide humanitarian assistance if needed.

Despite reports that approximately 700 foreign nationals, including Nepalis, are currently stranded in the transit area of São Paulo airport, Brazil, the embassy assured that all 176 Nepalis are safe and that it is prepared to respond if required.

The embassy expressed concern over the increasing number of young Nepalis being lured by organised human traffickers into travelling through this region in an attempt to reach the United States illegally. “Many of these individuals find themselves in dire circumstances, enduring unimaginable hardships and spending large sums of money,” the embassy said in a press statement on Tuesday.

The Nepali diplomatic mission also outlined new regulations for Nepali travellers transiting through Brazil to a third country, noting that visitors will only be allowed to fly directly to their destination. Those who do not comply with this requirement will be sent back on the same flight.

“Effective immediately, the Brazilian government has introduced a rule requiring passport holders from certain countries, including Nepal, to obtain a visa in advance to enter Brazil,” the statement explained. “Nepali visitors must now travel directly to their destination country via Brazil, or they will be sent back on the same flight. Refugee status will not be granted at the airport.”

The embassy reiterated its advice to Nepalis to avoid illegal, risky, and uncertain journeys facilitated by human traffickers. It urged anyone with legitimate reasons for travelling to or through Brazil to ensure they have the necessary documentation and visas before embarking on their journey.