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Nepal Visa Guide

Nepal Visa Guide: Everything You Need to Know

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the visa process for travelers to Nepal. Understanding these details will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country.

Who Needs a Visa to Enter Nepal?

All foreign nationals, with the exception of Indian citizens, are required to have a visa to enter Nepal. Visas can be obtained either upon arrival at major entry points or in advance from a Nepalese embassy or consulate.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Nepal

The VOA process is a convenient option for most travelers. While it can involve some queuing during peak season, it is generally straightforward.

Locations:

  • Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu)

  • Pokhara International Airport

  • Gautam Buddha International Airport (Lumbini/Bhairahawa)

  • Major land border crossings, including Belahiya (Sunauli), Kakarbhitta, and Raxaul (Birgunj).

Key Requirements:

  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.

  • Your passport must have at least one blank page for the visa.

Step-by-Step VOA Process:

  1. Online Application: To save time, you can fill out the online visa application form up to 14 days before your arrival. The form can be accessed at the official immigration website: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/.

  2. Kiosk Machine: If you have not completed the form in advance, you can use the kiosk machines at the airport to fill it out and print the receipt.

  3. Visa Fee Counter: Proceed to the visa fee collection counter with your completed form. It is highly recommended to have exact cash in USD or other major convertible currencies (GBP, EUR, AUD, CAD, NZD, SGD, MYR) as card machines may not always work, and change is not guaranteed.

  4. Immigration Desk: After paying the fee and getting your receipt, go to the immigration desk, where an officer will check your passport, receipt, and form before issuing your visa.

Visa Fee Structure (as of late 2024):

  • 15 days (multiple entry): US$ 30

  • 30 days (multiple entry): US$ 50

  • 90 days (multiple entry): US$ 125

Applying for a Visa at an Embassy or Consulate

If you prefer to have your visa before you travel, you can apply at a Nepalese embassy or consulate. This is a good option if you want to avoid potential queues at the airport, and it is mandatory for citizens of certain countries. The visa must be used to enter Nepal within six months of its issuance date.

Nepal Visa at the Border

Tourist visas are also available at land border crossings. We recommend confirming visa services at your intended border crossing before traveling, as availability can sometimes change.

Countries Not Eligible for Visa on Arrival

Citizens of the following countries must obtain a visa from a Nepalese diplomatic mission before traveling:

  • Nigeria

  • Ghana

  • Zimbabwe

  • Eswatini (Swaziland)

  • Cameroon

  • Somalia

  • Liberia

  • Ethiopia

  • Iraq

  • Palestine

  • Afghanistan

  • Syria

Important Visa Regulations

  • Fake Visa Websites: Be aware that Nepal does not issue tourist visas online through third-party platforms. Always use the official government website for visa applications.

  • Tourist Visa Extension: You can extend your visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The minimum extension is 15 days, and the fee is US$ 3 per day. There is a late fine of US$ 5 per day if you fail to extend your visa on time. The maximum stay for a tourist is 150 days per calendar year.

  • Gratis (Free) Visas: Certain categories of travelers are eligible for a free visa, including children under 10 (except US citizens), most SAARC citizens, and Chinese nationals (for up to 150 days in a given visa year).

Visa for Indian Nationals

Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal. They can travel freely with either a valid passport or an Election Commission card (Voter ID) issued by the Government of India. It is highly recommended to carry a valid passport for smoother checks.

Final Thoughts

The Nepal visa process is generally straightforward. By being prepared with the necessary documents and cash, and by using official channels for your application, you can ensure a smooth and efficient start to your adventure.