Fake Stamp Crisis Puts Nepalese in Portugal at Risk

Over 2,000 Nepalese in Portugal are currently facing legal trouble due to fake stamps on their immigration documents. The issue came to light after the Portuguese immigration authority AIMA found irregularities in temporary residency applications and instructed hundreds of Nepalese to leave the country. Some were even warned of jail time or deportation.

Many Nepalese go abroad for work out of economic necessity, while others are drawn by better opportunities and career growth. The lack of proper legal guidance and information about foreign laws makes them vulnerable to scams, including fake documents sold by brokers or online groups. In this case, some Nepalese reportedly paid between 150–200 euros for counterfeit stamps from fraudulent sources.

The Nepalese embassy in Portugal has started receiving complaints from affected workers. So far, 850 written complaints and 400 email reports have been recorded, with the total potentially reaching 2,000. Without diplomatic intervention, hundreds could face jail, deportation, or financial loss.

Experts say the Nepal government must strengthen diplomatic efforts and ensure safe processes for citizens seeking foreign employment. Clear guidance, legal awareness, and proper support systems are essential from the planning stage to the workers’ stay abroad. This will help prevent similar crises in Portugal or other destination countries in the future.

Nepal’s economy relies heavily on remittances, making foreign employment critical for millions of households. Protecting workers and ensuring legal compliance abroad is not only a matter of individual safety but also of national reputation and diplomatic credibility. The government must act promptly to prevent further harm.