Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Indian citizens are exempt and can enter using a passport or Voter ID. Tourist visas are straightforward and can be obtained either on arrival or pre-arrival from a Nepalese embassy or consulate.
Visa on Arrival
Tourists can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu or at select land border points.
Requirements:
- Passport valid for at least six months
- At least one blank visa page
- Passport-sized photo (digital kiosks available)
- Cash for visa fee (USD preferred)
Visa Fees and Duration:
- 15 days, multiple-entry: $30
- 30 days, multiple-entry: $50
- 90 days, multiple-entry: $125
Tourist visas allow a maximum stay of 150 days per calendar year. Extensions are available at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Pre-Arrival Visa
If preferred, you can obtain a visa before traveling from a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country. Pre-arrival visas are recommended to save time at the airport, though the on-arrival process is usually efficient.
Exceptions
Certain nationals (e.g., Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ghana, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalia) must obtain a visa prior to arrival. Indian citizens do not require a visa.
Tourist and Business Visa
Tourist visas are issued at arrival points with multiple-entry facilities. Even if visiting for purposes like trekking, visiting friends, or mountaineering, a tourist visa is required initially, and you can change the visa type later if needed.
How to Get a Visa on Arrival
- Fill Arrival Form: Complete the online tourist visa form prior to arrival or at the kiosk. Print the receipt with barcode.
- Pay Visa Fee: Make payment for the desired duration (15/30/90 days). Cash is recommended.
- Immigration Desk: Submit your passport, online form, and payment receipt to receive the visa.
Visa Extension
- Minimum extension: 15 days for $45
- Additional days: $3 per day
- Late fines: $5 per day if exceeding 150 days
Gratis Visa
Certain travelers are eligible for free visas:
- Children under 10 (except US citizens)
- First-time SAARC visitors (up to 30 days, except Afghanistan)
- Non-Resident Nepalese (NRN) cardholders
- Chinese nationals (up to 150 days)
- Officials from select countries (Thailand, Russia, Brazil, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Mongolia, Jordan, Israel, Georgia, Qatar)
All visas, including Gratis, are initially tourist visas. Extensions or visa category changes can be done at the Department of Immigration (Kathmandu) or Pokhara office.