Before Going Abroad: A Checklist for Nepali Workers
Updated 2026-10-30
Going abroad for work is a big decision, and often a big loan. Use this checklist before you pay any manpower agency or sign a contract.
1. Check the real salary
Agents sometimes promise more than workers actually get. Compare the offer with real salaries from Nepalis in the same job and country on SalaryKati, in local currency and NPR.
2. Verify the agency and the job
- Check that the manpower agency is licensed by the Department of Foreign Employment (dofe.gov.np).
- Ask for the demand letter and the employer's name, and search for reviews of the company.
- Get a receipt for every payment. Never pay cash without a receipt.
3. Read the contract
- Salary (basic and total), working hours, overtime pay, days off.
- Food, accommodation and transport: free or deducted?
- Contract length and who pays the return ticket.
4. Go through the legal process
Go with a labour permit and attend the pre-departure orientation. Workers with a labour permit are covered by insurance and can get help from the Foreign Employment Board if something goes wrong.
5. Keep important contacts
Save the phone number of the Embassy of Nepal in your destination country, keep copies of your passport and contract at home, and tell your family your employer's name and address.