Nepal Visa Information

Nepal Tourist Visa Procedure and Information

Nepal, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming culture, is a prime destination for travelers from around the globe. To make the process of entering Nepal as smooth as possible, the country has implemented a relatively straightforward tourist visa system. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal.

Visa Requirements for Nepal

For most nationalities, a tourist visa is required to enter Nepal. The visa process is designed to be tourist-friendly, with several options available based on the traveler’s length of stay and point of entry.

Visa Types and Durations

Tourists can choose between different visa durations depending on the length of their stay:

  • 15 days visa: $30 USD
  • 30 days visa: $50 USD
  • 90 days visa: $125 USD

These visas allow for multiple entries, meaning that visitors can leave and re-enter Nepal within the validity period of the visa.

How to Obtain a Tourist Visa

1. On Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)

One of the most convenient ways to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal is upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. This option is available to most travelers, and the process is relatively fast, provided you have all the necessary documentation ready.

  • Steps to Follow:
    1. Fill out the Arrival Card: Upon arrival at the airport, fill out the arrival form, which includes basic personal information and travel details.
    2. Submit the Visa Application Form: You can either fill this out upon arrival or, to save time, complete the application form online prior to your trip via the Department of Immigration's official website.
    3. Pay the Visa Fee: The visa fee varies depending on the length of your stay. The payment can be made in major currencies, including USD, Euro, or in Nepalese Rupees.
    4. Provide Passport and Photos: You will need to submit a valid passport with at least six months of validity from your entry date and provide a passport-sized photo. A self-service photo booth is available at the airport if you need one.

2. At Land Borders

Nepal shares land borders with India and China, and tourists can obtain a visa on arrival at specific border crossings such as:

  • Kakarbhitta (Eastern Nepal, bordering India)
  • Birgunj (Southern Nepal, bordering India)
  • Rasuwagadhi (Northern Nepal, bordering China/Tibet)

The visa application process at these points is similar to the airport process. Make sure to carry the necessary visa fee in cash, along with passport photos.

Applying for a Visa at Nepalese Embassies/Consulates

Travelers can also apply for a tourist visa before arriving in Nepal. This is especially useful for those who prefer to have everything arranged before they land. The application can be made at any Nepalese embassy or consulate.

  • Required Documents:
    • A completed visa application form (available online or at the embassy)
    • A valid passport (with at least six months of validity)
    • Passport-sized photographs
    • Visa fee (as per the visa duration requested)

The visa processing time usually takes 1–2 business days but may vary depending on the embassy.

Extension of Tourist Visa

If you find yourself enchanted by Nepal’s beauty and wish to extend your stay, the tourist visa can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

  • Extension Options:
    • 15 days extension: $45 USD
    • For each additional day beyond the original visa period: $3 USD per day
    • Note: A tourist visa can be extended up to a maximum of 150 days within a calendar year.

Important Points to Consider

  1. Visa Fees: Ensure that you carry cash (preferably USD or Euros) to pay for the visa on arrival. Credit cards are accepted at the airport, but it’s always better to have cash as a backup.
  2. SAARC Nationals: Citizens from SAARC countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) are eligible for free visas for the first 30 days of their stay in Nepal.
  3. Indian Nationals: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. They can enter the country with either a valid passport or a government-issued identity card.
  4. Transit Visa: If you are in transit and need to stay in Nepal for less than 24 hours, a transit visa can be obtained for $5 USD, provided you present proof of an onward flight.
  5. Visa Denial and Blacklisting: Travelers who have been involved in visa fraud or any illegal activity may be denied entry or blacklisted from entering Nepal.
  6. Travel Insurance: While not a visa requirement, travel insurance is highly recommended for all travelers visiting Nepal. This will cover any medical emergencies or accidents that may occur, particularly if you plan on trekking in the Himalayas.

 

Visa-Free Access

Nationals from the following countries are exempt from the visa requirement:

  • India: Indian citizens enjoy open borders with Nepal and only need valid ID proof.
  • Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders from countries with which Nepal has bilateral agreements may also enjoy visa-free entry.

Contact Information for Queries

For additional assistance regarding tourist visas, you can contact:

  • Department of Immigration, Nepal:

 

Testimonials

What our Clients say !

"Adventurous Yet Comfortable"
"The Annapurna Circuit Is A Physically Demanding Trek, But The Support From Himalayan Sherpa Trail Made It Feel Manageable And Enjoyable. From Delicious Meals To Well-timed Breaks, They Took Care Of Everything. Our Guide’s Encouragement Helped Me Conquer The Thorong La Pass With Confidence. Their Attention To Detail And Passion For The Mountains Truly Set Them Apart. I Can’t Wait For My Next Trek With Them!"

David M., USA

"Best Trekking Experience Of My Life!"
"Himalayan Sherpa Trail Transformed The Annapurna Circuit Into A Once-in-a-lifetime Experience. Their Guides Were Not Only Knowledgeable But Also Incredibly Friendly, Sharing Stories About The Mountains And Local Traditions. The Logistics Were Flawless, And They Even Helped Me Pick The Perfect Souvenir From A Small Village Market. Every Moment On The Trail Was Memorable, Thanks To Their Thoughtful Service."

Deepak Amagi

India

Personalized And Professional

“Himalayan Sherpa Trail Made Our Dream Of Reaching Everest Base Camp Come True. From The Moment We Arrived In Nepal, Everything Was Taken Care Of. The Itinerary Was Well-planned, With Enough Rest Days For Acclimatization. Our Guide Was Patient And Adjusted The Pace To Fit The Group’s Fitness Levels, Ensuring Everyone Had An Enjoyable Experience. Outstanding Service!”

Caroline Ogle

France

Safe, Reliable, And Memorable

“As A First-time Trekker In Nepal, I Was A Bit Nervous About The Challenges Of Everest Base Camp. Himalayan Sherpa Trail Put All My Worries To Rest With Their Expert Planning And Guidance. They Provided Clean Teahouse Accommodations, Great Meals, And Constant Encouragement. Their Knowledge Of The Region And Focus On Safety Made The Trek A Smooth And Memorable Experience.”

Jenny Grace

Canada

"I Was Initially Apprehensive About Crossing The High-altitude Larkya Pass, But The Himalayan Sherpa Trail Team Made Me Feel Safe And Supported Every Step Of The Way. Our Guide Checked On Us Constantly And Adjusted The Pace To Our Needs. The Warm Smiles And Encouragement From The Sherpas Made Even The Toughest Days Enjoyable. I Wouldn’t Hesitate To Book Another Trek With Them!"

Nicholas McBride, Canada

"An Unforgettable Adventure!"
“Crossing The Larkya Pass Was One Of The Most Challenging And Rewarding Experiences Of My Life. The Himalayan Sherpa Trail Team Made It Seamless – From Organizing Permits To Ensuring We Were Well-acclimatized. Our Guide’s Knowledge Of The Terrain And Local Culture Made The Trek Truly Special. The Breathtaking Views Of Mt. Manaslu And The Surrounding Peaks Left Me Speechless. A Big Thanks To The Sherpa Trail For Their Professionalism And Warmth !!!"

Rose Robinson, USA

I Just Wanted To Take Moment To Offer Comments On My Experience Trekking To Everest Base Camp.  First, Your Team Of Geshi And Tashi Where First Class.  They Were Attentive And Knew Exactly How To Pace Us In The More Difficult Treks. What I Liked Most Was Their Knowledge Of The The Entire Khumbu Valley And Its Community!  You Can Tell They Are Respected By The People!  Many Times Along The Trail,they Were Stopped By People To Say Hello And Walk A Bit With Them!  The Lodges Provided Us With Comfort And Delicious Food To Warm Our Bodies. All The Treks Going To EBC Are Well Designed To Help Us Acclimate To The Higher Elevations.  However, I Must Admit That The Final Trek Between Namche To Lukla Was Quite Challenging.  It Took 9 Hours Of Trekking 12.67 Miles Descending 4375 Ft And Ascending 2477 Ft.  It Maybe Helpful To Break That Into Two Stages.  These Are My Thoughts!  Again, Thank You For Putting Such A Wonderful Adventure Together.  I Will Have No Problem Recommending “Himalayan Sherpa Trail, Treks And Tours / Himalayansherpatravels.com”to Anyone Asking For My Recommendations!!! Thanks-Joe Garcia

Joe Gracia

Our Team

Member Photo

GC Sherpa

Founder