Visitors traveling to Nepal are required to obtain a visa, and for most nationalities, the process is simple and convenient. Nepal offers a Visa on Arrival service at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at several land border entry points. Whether you are coming for trekking, tours, or adventure activities, acquiring a Nepal visa is straightforward and traveler-friendly.
Visa on Arrival
Most international travelers can obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival. After entering the arrival hall, you will complete a short application process and receive your visa stamp.
You will need:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- A completed visa application form
- Passport-size photo (only if the kiosk is unavailable)
- Visa fee in cash or card (varies by duration)
After submission at the immigration counter, your passport will be stamped, and you can proceed into Nepal.
Visa Process at the Airport
The immigration process at Tribhuvan International Airport is efficient and simple.
Steps include:
- Fill out the Arrival Form using the electronic kiosk or online before arrival.
- Pay the visa fee according to your selected stay duration.
- Submit your documents—passport, form, and receipt—to the immigration officer.
- Receive your visa stamp and enter Nepal.
This entire process generally takes a short time depending on the number of arriving passengers.
Online Visa Application (Pre-Arrival)
To reduce waiting time at the airport, travelers can fill out the Online Visa Application Form before arriving in Nepal.
Important notes:
- The form must be submitted within 15 days before your arrival date.
- Bring the submission receipt and your passport.
- A digital passport-size photo may be required during online submission.
Completing this in advance helps streamline the process at immigration.
Visa Extension in Nepal
If you wish to extend your stay, tourist visas can be extended at:
- Department of Immigration, Kathmandu
- Immigration Office, Pokhara
Extensions are allowed for additional days based on your travel needs. The immigration office will guide you through the required steps.
Visa Exemptions & Special Cases
Some nationalities may not be eligible for Visa on Arrival and need to obtain a visa in advance from a Nepali embassy or consulate.
Visa on Arrival is not available for citizens of certain countries, and they must apply beforehand. Always verify the latest requirements from official sources before traveling.
Additionally, travelers from SAARC countries, children below a certain age, and other special categories may receive special visa privileges under Nepal’s visa regulations.
Required Documents for Visa Application
Please ensure that you carry:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- Visa fee (cash or card)
- A passport-size photo (occasionally needed)
- A travel itinerary or return ticket (sometimes requested)
Important Notes
- A tourist visa is required for all foreign nationals entering Nepal (except holders of special exemptions).
- Overstaying a visa may result in penalties at immigration.
- Your passport must contain at least one blank page for visa stamps.
- Visa rules and procedures may change, so checking the latest updates before travel is recommended.
