Nepal visa requirements

Nepal remains one of South Asia’s most rewarding destinations, drawing travellers for trekking, cultural heritage and Himalayan landscapes. For most visitors, Nepal visa requirements are straightforward, but the exact rules depend on nationality, length of stay and purpose of travel. Understanding your visa options in advance helps avoid delays at the airport or land border and ensures a smooth entry into the country.

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General guidelines on visa requirements for Nepal

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are issued primarily for tourism, business and official travel. Short-term visitors typically apply for a tourist visa, while longer stays or non-tourism purposes may require additional approval.

Tourist Visas for Nepal

A Nepal tourist visa is available to travellers visiting for holidays, sightseeing or trekking. Tourist visas are usually issued for 15, 30 or 90 days, with single or multiple entry options.

Extensions are possible once inside Nepal, subject to approval by the Department of Immigration. Overstaying your visa can result in fines or delays when departing, so it is important to monitor your permitted length of stay.

Visa on Arrival for Nepal

Nepal offers a Visa on Arrival facility to citizens of many countries. This allows eligible travellers to obtain a visa at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu as well as several land border crossings.

The visa on arrival is commonly used for tourism but may also be issued for business or official travel. Payment is typically required in major foreign currencies, and travellers should carry passport-sized photographs to avoid delays.

Nepal eVisa and Embassy Applications

Some travellers choose to apply online before departure using Nepal’s electronic visa system. This pre-arrival process can speed up entry but does not replace final approval at the border.

Nationals who are not eligible for visa on arrival must apply in advance through a Nepalese embassy or consulate. Processing times and documentation requirements can vary, so early application is recommended.

Passport and entry conditions

• Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
• A minimum of one blank page is usually required for visa stamps.
• Travellers may be asked to show onward or return travel plans.

Traveller tips for visiting Nepal

• Land border crossings: Visa on arrival is available at major borders, but facilities can be basic. Carry exact payment and printed documents.
• Visa extensions: Tourist visas can be extended in Kathmandu or Pokhara, subject to maximum stay limits per visa year.
• Overstays: Even short overstays incur daily fines and must be settled before departure.
• Multiple entries: If you plan side trips to neighbouring countries, ensure your visa allows re-entry.
• Altitude plans: Entry permission does not cover trekking permits, which must be arranged separately.

Staying informed before you travel

Visa rules and entry conditions can change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check the official guidance issued by the Department of Immigration, Government of Nepal, or consult the nearest Nepalese embassy before departure.

FAQs: Nepal visa requirements