The Nepali embassy in Washington, DC, has issued a warning to Nepali nationals residing in the United States, cautioning that misuse of government-supported public benefits or violations of visa conditions could result in the revocation of visas or permanent resident status.

Any foreign national found to have illegally depended on or obtained government-funded benefits reserved for US citizens, such as subsidised healthcare, housing assistance, family support programmes or educational aid, may face serious immigration consequences, including the cancellation of visas or green cards.

The warning comes amid growing concern within US agencies over the use of subsidised public services by foreign nationals. Based on 2024 foreign arrivals data, Nepali citizens were among the highest recipients of certain subsidised government services, prompting closer scrutiny of visa compliance, according to an embassy statement.

In this context, the United States has also announced the temporary suspension of immigrant visas for Nepali nationals, citing concerns about compliance with immigration and public-benefit regulations.

Separately, the US government has introduced a new provision requiring applicants for B1/B2 (business and tourist) visas to post a visa bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The measure targets nationals from countries where authorities have observed higher instances of visa overstays or unauthorised employment. The provision will take effect from January 21, 2026.

As per the embassy, the decision follows repeated cases in which visitors entering the country on B1/B2 visas overstayed or engaged in work and other activities beyond the scope of their visa conditions.

Officials warned that continued violations by foreign nationals could lead to stricter visa policies, making it more difficult for citizens of the affected countries to obtain US visas in the future and potentially damaging their international standing.

“In light of these developments, Nepali citizens currently residing in the United States, for study, work, travel, business or family visits, have been urged to strictly comply with US immigration laws,” reads the statement.