Kathmandu: The number of Nepali workers leaving for foreign employment declined by 5.6 percent in the fiscal year 2026/27, according to the latest data released by the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE).
Government records show that 792,187 Nepali workers obtained labour permits for overseas employment during the fiscal year, down by 47,079 workers compared to 839,266 in FY 2025/26.
Male Workers Continue to Dominate Foreign Employment
Of the total migrant workers, 697,091 were men, while 95,091 were women, reflecting the continued dominance of male workers in Nepal’s overseas labour market.
Despite the year-on-year decline, labour migration remains one of the country’s largest sources of employment and remittance income.
UAE Tops Destination List
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) retained its position as the most preferred destination for Nepali migrant workers during the review year.
According to the DoFE, 183,580 Nepalis travelled to the UAE for employment, making it the leading labour destination.
Malaysia ranked second, receiving 132,646 Nepali workers, closely followed by Qatar, where 132,051 Nepalis secured jobs.
Saudi Arabia remained the fourth-largest destination, employing 124,583 Nepali workers during the fiscal year.
Among European countries, Romania continued to attract Nepali workers, with 33,920 migrants leaving for employment there.
Jhapa Records Highest Outmigration
District-wise, Jhapa recorded the highest number of workers leaving for foreign employment, with 16,286 individuals obtaining labour permits during the fiscal year.
Among districts in Madhesh Province, Dhanusha registered the highest outflow, with 15,698 workers departing for overseas jobs.
Other districts with significant labour migration included Morang (15,336 workers), Sarlahi (12,183), Mahottari (11,899), Dang (11,011), and Saptari (10,264).
Migration Remains Key to Nepal’s Economy
Although the number of workers seeking foreign employment declined compared to the previous fiscal year, overseas labour migration continues to play a crucial role in Nepal’s economy by generating employment opportunities and sustaining remittance inflows.
Government officials are closely monitoring labour migration trends as changing demand in destination countries, domestic employment opportunities, and evolving labour market conditions continue to influence the movement of Nepali workers abroad.
