Nepal, with its breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for travellers from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, it’s essential to understand the visa process to ensure a smooth entry into the country. Here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal:
Types of Tourist Visas
Nepal offers different types of tourist visas based on the duration of your stay:
- 15 Days Visa: Costs $30 USD.
- 30 Days Visa: Costs $50 USD.
- 90 Days Visa: Costs $125 USD.
Visa on Arrival
Nepal provides a convenient “Visa on Arrival” service at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and other entry points. Here’s how to obtain it:
- Fill in the Arrival Card: This can be done online through the official website of the Department of Immigration or at kiosk machines at the airport.
- Complete the Online Visa Form: You can fill out the form prior to your arrival or upon arrival. Make sure to print the submission receipt with the barcode.
- Make Payment: Pay the visa fee at the bank counter. It’s advisable to carry some cash as a backup.
- Proceed to the Immigration Desk: Present your online form, payment receipt, and passport to the immigration officer.
- Receive Your Visa: The officer will process your application and issue the visa.
Link to Online Application (Select Visa-on Arrival and appropriate office.)
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
For eligible travellers, Nepal offers an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which can expedite the visa issuance process upon arrival. Here’s how to obtain an ETA:
- Apply Online: Visit the official website of the Department of Immigration and fill out the ETA application form.
- Submit Required Information: Provide personal details, passport information, travel itinerary, and other relevant details.
- Make Payment: Pay the ETA fee through Nepalese payment channels such as mobile banking apps or payment gateways.
- Receive ETA: Upon approval, the ETA will be electronically linked to your passport. You can print the ETA certificate or keep an electronic copy on your device.
- Present ETA on Arrival: Show the ETA at the immigration desk upon arrival, and it will be converted into a visa.
Visa from the Embassy
If you prefer to obtain your visa before traveling, you can apply for a visa at the Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Here’s the process:
- Fill the Online Visa Application Form: Visit the official website of the Department of Immigration and complete the online visa application.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide a printed copy of the visa submission confirmation, your passport (with at least six months’ validity), and any additional documents required for your specific visa type.
- Make Payment: Pay the visa fee as instructed by the embassy.
- Submit Your Application: Send your application and documents to the embassy for processing.
- Receive Your Visa: Once approved, you will receive your visa, which you can use to enter Nepal.
Visa Extension
If you decide to extend your stay, you can do so at the Department of Immigration. The extension fee is $45 USD for an additional 15 days, with $3 USD per day for extra days.
Gratis Visa
Certain categories of travellers are eligible for a free visa:
- Children below 10 years (except US citizens)
- 30 days SAARC citizens (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given year (for a maximum of 30 days if taken at the point of entry)
Important Notes
- Nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Palestine, Somalia, Syria, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe must obtain a visa prior to their arrival.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Entry Points and Immigration Offices
Nepal has several entry points with corresponding immigration offices. Here are the main ones:
| Office | Location | Border Nation | Counterpart Immigration | Border Crossing |
| Department of Immigration | Kathmandu | N/A | N/A | |
| Immigration Office Pokhara | Pokhara | N/A | N/A | |
| Tribhuvan International Airport (IATA:KTM) | Kathmandu | By Air | N/A | |
| Gautam Buddha International Airport (IATA:BWA) | Bhairahawa | By Air | N/A | |
| Pokhara International Airport (IATA:PHH) | Pokhara | By Air | N/A | |
| Immigration Office Hilsa | Humla | China | Burang, Tibet | No |
| Immigration Office Kodari | Sindupalchowk | China | Zhangmu, Tibet | Only China to Nepal |
| Immigration Office Rasuwagadi | Rasuwa | China | Kyirong, Tibet | Yes |
| Immigration Office Korala | Mustang | China | Lektse, Tibet | No |
| Immigration Office Mohana | Kailali | India | Gaurifanta Check Post | Only India to Nepal |
| Immigration Office Jamunah | Banke | India | Immigration check post Rupaidiha Bahraich | Only India to Nepal |
| Immigration Office Birgunj | Parsa | India | Indian Immigration, Raxaul | Yes |
| Immigration Office Kakarbhitta | Jhapa | India | Raniganj Immigration Check Post, Panitanki | Yes |
| Immigration Office Gaddachauki | Kanchanpur | India | Immigration Check Post, Banbasa | Yes |
| Immigration Office Belahiya | Bhairahawa | India | Indian Immigration, Sonauli | Yes |
| Immigration Office Biratnagar | Morang | India | Bureau of Immigration, Jogbani | Only India to Nepal |
Nepal’s visa process is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey. If you need any assistance with your visa or travel plans, please don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized support and guidance. We’re here to help you make the most of your trip to Nepal!
