How to Get a Visa for Nepal
Nepal — home to the Himalayas and famous trekking routes — has a straightforward visa policy. Most travellers can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) or at major land border points. You can also apply in advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate or online for a pre-approval (eVisa).
This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and how to apply step by step.
1. Do You Need a Visa?
- Visa on arrival available:
Citizens of most countries, including Australia, USA, UK, EU nations, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, can get a visa on arrival in Nepal. - Visa required in advance:
Nationals of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Palestine, Syria must apply in advance at a Nepalese embassy/consulate (no visa on arrival). - Indian nationals:
Do not need a visa; entry is visa-free.
✅ Check official Nepal Immigration website: https://www.immigration.gov.np
2. Main Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourism, trekking, family visits | 15, 30, or 90 days (extendable up to 150 days/year) |
| Business Visa | Business or investment | 1 month – 5 years (multiple entry) |
| Study Visa | Long-term study or research | Duration of course |
| Work Visa | Employment in Nepal | Duration of contract |
| Transit Visa | Passing through Nepal | Up to 3 days |
3. Getting a Tourist Visa on Arrival (Most Common)
Step 1 — Fill Out Arrival Card & Online Form
- Complete the arrival card at the airport or fill out the online application form before travelling: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np
- Print or save the confirmation barcode.
Step 2 — Pay the Visa Fee
Pay at the airport visa counter (cash in USD or other major currencies; some accept card):
- 15 days — USD $30
- 30 days — USD $50
- 90 days — USD $125
Step 3 — Submit Documents & Biometrics
- Provide your passport (valid at least 6 months, with 1 blank page).
- Provide 1 passport photo (sometimes taken at the airport if you don’t have one).
- Collect your visa sticker once processed (usually 15–30 minutes).
4. Applying for a Visa Before You Travel
If you prefer to have your visa approved before arrival (or you’re from a non-visa-on-arrival country):
- Apply at a Nepalese Embassy/Consulate
- Complete visa application form and bring:
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Recent passport photos
- Flight itinerary
- Visa fee (similar to on-arrival fees)
- Complete visa application form and bring:
- Processing time: Usually 3–5 working days.
- Some nationalities can also use the online pre-visa application to save time.
5. Visa Extensions
- Tourist visas can be extended up to 150 days per calendar year at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Extension fees:
- USD $30 for 15 days
- USD $2/day for additional days
- USD $50 for extension beyond 30 days at once
6. Special Long-Term Visas
Business Visa
- Requires proof of investment or business registration in Nepal.
- Multiple-entry, up to 5 years.
Study Visa
- Requires an acceptance/enrollment letter from a Nepalese educational institution.
Work Visa
- Requires employment approval from the Department of Labor and recommendation from relevant ministries.
7. Tips for a Smooth Visa Process
- Bring cash: USD is easiest for visa fees at the airport; credit card machines can be unreliable.
- Have a passport photo: Saves time at arrival counters.
- Apply online in advance: Filling the form before arrival speeds up immigration.
- Track your stay: Don’t overstay — fines are ~USD $5 per day.
- Extensions are easy: Kathmandu and Pokhara offices process extensions quickly.
- Non-visa-on-arrival nationalities: Must apply at the nearest Nepalese embassy before travel.
Quick Pre-Travel Checklist
- Passport valid 6+ months with at least 1 blank page
- Printed/saved online visa application barcode
- Passport-size photo for visa
- USD cash for visa fee ($30/$50/$125)
- Return/onward ticket (sometimes asked)
- Travel insurance (recommended for trekking)