Nepal is one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia, famous for its majestic Himalayan mountains, rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and diverse adventure opportunities. From trekking to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna to exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal attracts travelers from all over the world for tourism, trekking, mountaineering, and cultural exploration.
As the gateway to the Himalayas and home to 10 of the world’s 14 highest peaks, Nepal offers a welcoming and traveler-friendly visa policy. Most foreign nationals require a Nepal Tourist Visa to enter the country, which can be conveniently obtained through Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or in advance from a Nepalese embassy or consulate.
The Nepal Tourist Visa allows visitors to travel for leisure purposes such as sightseeing, trekking, visiting friends or family, and short-term recreational activities. With multiple visa duration options, straightforward requirements, and quick processing times, Nepal makes international travel simple and accessible.
This complete Nepal Tourist Visa Guide covers visa validity, requirements, application procedures, fees, eligibility, and processing time, helping travelers plan their trip smoothly and avoid delays. Whether you are visiting Nepal for adventure, culture, or relaxation, understanding the visa process will ensure a hassle-free entry and a memorable journey in the Himalayas.
1. Nepal Tourist Visa Validity
The Nepal Tourist Visa is issued for leisure purposes, including:
- Sightseeing and city tours
- Trekking and mountaineering
- Visiting friends or family
Visa durations available:
- 15-day visa – single or multiple entries
- 30-day visa – single or multiple entries
- 90-day visa – single or multiple entries
Important: Tourists may not stay more than 150 days within a calendar year (January–December), including extensions.
2. Nepal Tourist Visa Requirements
Applicants must submit documents depending on their nationality and whether they apply for a visa on arrival or visa prior to arrival.
Common requirements include:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-size photographs (if required by the embassy)
- Payment for visa fees (in USD or local currency)
- Supporting documents for special cases (invitation letters, trekking permits, or proof of accommodation)
Exemptions from visa fees:
- Children under 10 (except US citizens)
- SAARC nationals (except Afghans) for stays up to 30 days once per visa year
- Non-Residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholders
- Chinese nationals
3. Nepal Tourist Visa Application
Visa on Arrival
- Complete the Arrival Card
- Required for all travelers entering Nepal.
- Complete the visa application form
- Can be done online or at Tribhuvan International Airport upon arrival.
- Ensure you have the confirmation receipt with a valid barcode.
- Pay the visa fee
- Payment accepted at visa counters at the airport.
- Keep the receipt for submission to the immigration officer.
- Present documents for processing
- Show your passport, visa form confirmation, and payment receipt to the immigration officer for visa issuance.
Visa Prior to Arrival
- Complete the visa application form online
- Print the completed form and confirmation receipt.
- Prepare required documents
- Follow the requirements of the relevant Nepalese embassy or consulate.
- Submit your application
- Submit in person or by post, depending on embassy/consulate procedures.
- Retrieve your passport with visa either in person or by mail.
- Nepal Tourist Visa Fees
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- USD 30 for 15 days Single/Multiple entry
- USD 50 for 30 days Single/Multiple entry
- USD 125 for 90 days Single/Multiple entry
4. Where to Apply
- Visa on Arrival: Available to most foreign nationals at Tribhuvan International Airport and land border checkpoints.
- Embassy/Consulate: Nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Zimbabwe, and Palestine must obtain a visa prior to arrival.
5. Nepal Tourist Visa Processing Time
- Visa on Arrival: Typically processed within 15–30 minutes at the airport, depending on the queue.
- Visa prior to arrival: Processing time varies by embassy or consulate but generally takes 3–10 business days.
Final Tips
- Ensure your passport has sufficient validity and blank pages.
- Carry multiple passport-size photos and copies of your documents.
- Pay fees in USD or local currency for convenience.
- For trekking or special activities, additional permits may be required.
