Before immersing yourself in Nepal's snow-capped peaks, ancient temples, luxury lodges, and timeless Himalayan landscapes, it is essential to understand the country's visa requirements. Fortunately, Nepal offers one of the most straightforward visitor entry processes in Asia, allowing most international travelers to obtain a Tourist Visa upon arrival. Whether you are arriving for a private Everest Base Camp trek, a luxury cultural journey through Kathmandu Valley, or an exclusive Himalayan adventure with Sherpa Adventure Travel, the following guide outlines everything you need to know before entering Nepal.
Nepal provides Visa on Arrival facilities for tourists from most countries, making entry remarkably convenient. While the process is generally simple, travelers arriving during peak trekking and holiday seasons should expect occasional queues at immigration counters. Visitors also have the option of obtaining a visa through a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate before departure. If you choose to secure your visa in advance, you must enter Nepal within six months of the visa issuance date. Your permitted stay begins from the day of arrival in Nepal. Tourist visas issued by Nepal include multiple re-entry privileges, offering flexibility for travelers combining Nepal with other South Asian destinations during their journey.
All foreign visitors entering Nepal are required to obtain a Tourist Visa. If your purpose of travel later changes, the visa category may be modified through the Department of Immigration, subject to applicable requirements.
Under current Nepal Government regulations, nationals of the following countries must obtain a visa before arriving in Nepal through a Nepalese diplomatic mission:
Nigeria
Ghana
Zimbabwe
Swaziland
Cameroon
Somalia
Liberia
Ethiopia
Iraq
Palestine
Afghanistan
Syria
Iran
Refugees traveling with travel documents
Travelers from these countries are advised to complete visa arrangements well in advance of their intended departure date.
For eligible travelers arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Pokhara International Airport, Gautam Buddha International Airport in Lumbini, or designated land entry points, obtaining a visa is a straightforward procedure.
Upon arrival, travelers should:
Fill in the Arrival Card.
Complete the online Tourist Visa application form.
The visa form can be completed before travel through Nepal's online immigration portal or upon arrival using the electronic kiosks available at the airport.
Travelers who complete the application online will receive a submission receipt containing a barcode. Printing and carrying this receipt is recommended, as it helps streamline the arrival process.
Please note that the barcode receipt remains valid for fifteen days. If unused within that period, a new application must be submitted.
After completing the application, proceed to the visa fee collection counter and make payment according to your intended length of stay.
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| 15 Days | USD 30 |
| 30 Days | USD 50 |
| 90 Days | USD 125 |
Once payment is completed, retain your receipt for immigration processing.
While multiple payment methods may be available, travelers are encouraged to carry sufficient cash in a convertible currency to ensure a smooth experience.
Proceed to the Immigration Desk with the following documents:
Completed online visa application form
Payment receipt
Valid passport
Submit the required documents to the immigration officer for verification and visa issuance.
Upon approval, your Tourist Visa will be endorsed in your passport, allowing you to begin your journey through Nepal.
Many travelers discover that Nepal deserves more time than originally planned. Whether extending a Himalayan trek, enjoying a longer wellness retreat, or exploring additional regions of the country, tourist visas can be extended within Nepal.
Visa extensions are available through the Department of Immigration.
Minimum 15-day extension: USD 45
Additional days: USD 3 per day
For delays in extension processing of less than 150 days, an additional late fee of USD 5 per day applies.
Tourist visa extensions may also be processed through the Immigration Office in Pokhara.
Nepal offers complimentary visas for specific categories of visitors.
Gratis Visa is available for:
Children below 10 years of age (except U.S. citizens)
SAARC citizens (excluding Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time during a visa year, valid for up to 30 days
Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Card holders issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad
Chinese nationals for stays up to 150 days
Afghan citizens may be eligible for a Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon recommendation from the Department of Immigration. Travelers are advised to coordinate with the inviting institution in Nepal for the necessary arrangements.
Officials from the following countries may be eligible for visa exemption arrangements under reciprocal agreements:
Thailand – Up to 90 Days
Russian Federation – Up to 90 Days
People's Republic of China – Up to 30 Days
Federal Republic of Brazil – Up to 90 Days
Myanmar – Up to 90 Days
Vietnam – Up to 90 Days
Cambodia – Up to 30 Days
Mongolia – Up to 90 Days
Jordan – Up to 90 Days
State of Israel – Up to 90 Days
Georgia – Up to 90 Days
State of Qatar – Up to 90 Days
These exemptions apply according to the specific terms of Nepal's reciprocal visa waiver agreements.
Travelers holding Indian nationality do not require a visa to enter Nepal.
Accepted travel documents include:
Valid Indian Passport
Election Card issued by the Election Commission of India
PAN Card, Driving License, or Ration Card with photograph and age confirmation for senior citizens above 65 years
School-issued identity card for children below 18 years
Aadhaar (UID) Card is not accepted as a travel document for entry into Nepal.
Certificate of Registration issued by the Embassy of India in Kathmandu is not accepted as a travel document.
Emergency Certificates and Identity Certificates issued by the Embassy of India in Kathmandu are valid for a single journey returning to India.
From the vibrant heritage streets of Kathmandu to the dramatic landscapes of Everest and Annapurna, Nepal welcomes travelers with remarkable ease. Understanding the visa process before departure ensures that your arrival is smooth, allowing you to focus on the experiences that matter most.
At Sherpa Adventure Travel, we encourage guests to complete their visa preparations in advance whenever possible, especially during busy trekking seasons. A seamless arrival means more time to enjoy Nepal's extraordinary mountains, rich culture, and world-renowned hospitality.
Your Himalayan adventure begins the moment you arrive.