Navigating visa requirements can often feel like a complicated first step in any international trip. Fortunately, Nepal has one of the most traveller-friendly visa policies in the world, with a straightforward "Visa on Arrival" process that makes entry a breeze.
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Nepal?
Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. However, the process is very simple and can be completed upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at several land border crossings.
There are a few key exceptions:
Indian Nationals: Citizens of India do not need a visa to enter Nepal and can travel with either a valid passport or a Voter ID card.
SAARC Countries: Nationals from SAARC countries (except Afghanistan) are eligible for a free 30-day visa upon arrival for their first visit in a calendar year.
Visa on Arrival: The Easiest Way to Enter Nepal
The "Visa on Arrival" system is the most common and convenient way for tourists to get their visa for Nepal.
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu.
Land Border Crossings: Kakarvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi, and Mahendranagar.
How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival (Step-by-Step)
The process is simple and can be completed in just a few steps:
Fill Out the Arrival Card: Upon arrival, you'll find an "Arrival Card" at the immigration hall.
You'll also need to fill out an electronic visa application form at one of the self-service kiosks. It's helpful to have a digital copy of a passport-sized photo on your phone or a hard copy with you. Make Your Payment: Proceed to the payment counter to pay the visa fee.
It's best to have cash in USD, though other major currencies and credit cards are sometimes accepted. Submit Your Documents: Take your payment receipt, a completed visa form, and your valid passport to the immigration desk.
The officer will process your visa and affix it to your passport.
Nepal Visa Fees (Effective 2025)
The visa fee is based on the duration of your stay. The payment is typically made in US Dollars.
| Visa Duration | Fee (USD) |
| 15 Days | $30 |
| 30 Days | $50 |
| 90 Days | $125 |
Documents to Prepare Before You Arrive
To make the process even faster, have these documents and items ready:
Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of your entry into Nepal.
Passport Photos: While the kiosks can take your photo, it's a good idea to have a few recent passport-sized photos in case the machine is not working.
Cash: Have enough US Dollars in cash to pay the visa fee.
Hotel Address: Know the address of your first hotel or guesthouse for the visa application form.
Extending Your Nepal Visa
If you fall in love with Nepal and decide to stay longer, you can extend your visa.
Where to Go: Visa extensions can only be processed at the main Department of Immigration offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Maximum Duration: A tourist visa can be extended for a maximum of 150 days in a single calendar year.
Visa Extension Fees: The cost is generally $3 per day, with a minimum charge for a 15-day extension. There are also late fines for overstaying your visa.
Final Tips from a Local Guide
Be Patient: While the visa process is generally smooth, be prepared for queues, especially during peak travel season.
Fill Out the Form Accurately: Take your time at the kiosk to ensure all your information is correct. An error can cause delays.
Keep Your Receipt: Hold onto your visa fee receipt and all travel documents until you exit the country.
With a little preparation, obtaining your Nepal visa is a straightforward process that will quickly usher you into a country of breathtaking beauty and incredible adventure. Welcome to Nepal!
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