Nepal Tourist Visa: Simple Guide for Travelers

Stepping into Nepal means entering a land of snow-capped peaks, ancient temples, and vibrant traditions. 

Every year, more than 1.2 million international visitors arrive to trek legendary trails, explore rich cultures, or simply find peace in the Himalayan foothills.

Before you can stand in the shadow of Everest or wander the serene streets of Bhaktapur, there is one essential first step: securing your Nepali Tourist Visa.

Travellers often feel a sense of uncertainty when faced with visa rules and paperwork. This confusion can add stress to your planning, taking focus away from the excitement of the adventure ahead. 

But the process of entering Nepal is one of the most traveller-friendly in Asia. Whether you land at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport or cross an overland border, the steps are straightforward. 

Why Do You Need a Tourist Visa for Nepal?

A tourist visa is your official permission to enter and travel within Nepal. It is a legal requirement for all foreign nationals, except for citizens of India. This system allows the Government of Nepal to manage tourism, ensure visitor safety, and maintain immigration records.

A Nepal tourist visa is necessary whether you come for a short holiday or a long-haul trek. It is the stamp in your passport that allows you to pass through immigration and legally stay in the country. 

A tourist visa is strictly for tourism purposes. This includes activities like trekking, sightseeing, mountaineering, visiting friends and family, and participating in meditation or yoga retreats. It does not permit you to work for a Nepali employer, run a business, or engage in journalism. 

If your purpose of visit is anything other than tourism, you must apply for the appropriate visa category through the Department of Immigration.

Different Types of Tourist Visa You Can Apply For

Nepal offers three main tourist visa categories based on your intended length of stay. This flexible system caters to all types of travellers, from those on a quick tour to those embarking on extended expeditions. 

All these visas are multiple-entry by default, meaning you can exit and re-enter Nepal within the visa’s validity period.

15-Day Tourist Visa

This is the perfect option for travellers on a tight schedule. It’s ideal for short treks like the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, exploring the cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, or a quick trip to Pokhara.

30-Day Tourist Visa

The most popular choice, the 30-day visa, is designed for classic adventures. It provides ample time for treks like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit, which require proper acclimatisation, while still leaving time to explore other parts of the country.

90-Day Tourist Visa

For those who want to immerse themselves deeply, the 90-day visa offers the ultimate flexibility. It’s perfect for long expeditions like the Three Passes Trek, combining multiple treks, or for travellers who want to explore remote regions at a relaxed pace.

Tourist Visa Fees and How Long Each One Lasts

The Nepal visa cost is determined by the length of your stay. You must pay this fee in a major international currency.

It is highly recommended to carry US dollars for payment, as it is the most widely accepted currency at immigration points. Make sure you have the exact amount in cash, as card payment facilities are often unreliable or unavailable. The fee structure is designed to accommodate different types of travellers, from those on a short holiday to those embarking on a three-month journey.

Here is a simple breakdown of the visa fees and durations.

Visa Duration	Fee (in USD)	Best For
15 Days	$30	Short treks, city tours, or quick cultural trips.
30 Days	$50	Classic treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.
90 Days	$125	Long expeditions, multiple treks, or immersive cultural experiences.

15-Day Tourist Visa Cost

The 15-day tourist visa costs $30 USD. This is a great choice for short trips.

If you are planning a quick getaway to explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites or a short trek in the lower Himalayas, this visa is perfect. It gives you just enough time to get a taste of Nepal’s incredible culture and scenery without committing to a longer stay. It’s an ideal and affordable option for travellers on a tight schedule.

30-Day Tourist Visa Cost

The 30-day tourist visa costs $50 USD. It is the most popular option for adventure travellers.

This duration comfortably covers most of Nepal’s classic trekking routes. This includes the journey to Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Base Camp trek. A 30-day visa gives you enough time for acclimatisation and exploration without feeling rushed. It strikes the perfect balance between cost and time for the majority of trekkers and tourists.

90-Day Tourist Visa Cost

The 90-day tourist visa costs $125 USD. This option is designed for long-term explorers.

If you want to undertake multiple treks, explore remote regions, or volunteer, this visa provides maximum flexibility. It allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and landscapes fully. Travellers planning to cross high passes or combine several treks often choose the 90-day Nepal tourist visa for a complete Himalayan experience.

Where Can You Get a Nepali Tourist Visa?

You have two primary options for obtaining your visa: on arrival or in advance from a Nepali embassy or consulate. Each method has its own advantages.

Visa on Arrival (Most Popular)

Most travellers choose to get their visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu or at one of the designated land border crossings.

• Pros: It’s convenient and requires no planning. You can simply show up with your documents and payment.
• Cons: During peak season (October-November), the queues at the airport can be long. If you forget a document, it can cause significant stress upon arrival.

Visa from a Nepali Embassy/Consulate

You can also apply for a visa from a Nepali diplomatic mission in your home country before you travel.

• Pros: You arrive in Nepal with your visa already in your passport, allowing you to head straight to the immigration counter and bypass the application and payment queues. This offers great peace of mind.
• Cons: It requires more effort, as you may need to mail your passport or visit the embassy in person.

The Nepal visa on arrival service is available at:

• Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu
• Land Border Entry Points (including Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, Belhia/Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachauki, and Rasuwagadhi).

Documents and Requirements for Tourist Visa in Nepal

You need a few key documents to get your visa smoothly. Having these ready will make the process quick and easy.

Being prepared is the best way to ensure a hassle-free entry into Nepal. Double-check that you have everything on the list before you travel. Keep these documents in your carry-on luggage for easy access when you land at Tribhuvan International Airport or your chosen entry point.

Here are the essential Nepal visa requirements:

• A Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. It also needs at least one blank page for the visa sticker.
• A Completed Application Form: You can fill this out online before your trip or at a kiosk upon arrival. The online form is valid for 15 days after submission.
• One Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: The photo should have a light background. It’s wise to carry a few extra copies, as you may need them for trekking permits.
• Visa Fee in Cash: As mentioned, bring the exact visa fee in a major currency, preferably US dollars.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a Visa on Arrival

The process for getting a visa on arrival is organised and simple. Just follow the signs and the steps in order.

Kathmandu’s airport is designed to guide you through this process logically. From filling out the form to paying the fee and getting the final stamp, each step is clearly marked. If you complete the online form in advance, you can skip the kiosk and go straight to the payment counter.

Here is how to get a Nepal visa at the airport:

Step 1: Fill Out the Application Form: First, you need to complete the tourist visa application form. You can do this at one of the automated kiosks in the arrivals hall. Alternatively, save time by completing the official online visa application for Nepal from home within 15 days of your arrival.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee: Next, take your completed form and passport to the payment counter. Pay the required Nepal visa cost in cash. The bank will give you a printed receipt once you have paid.

Step 3: Proceed to the Immigration Desk: With your passport, application form, and payment receipt, get in the queue for the immigration desk. Hand all your documents to the immigration officer.

Step 4: Get Your Visa: The officer will review your documents and stamp your passport with the visa. They will then affix the visa sticker. Congratulations, you are now officially and legally in Nepal!

How to Extend Your Tourist Visa in Nepal

You can extend your tourist visa if you decide to stay longer. The process is managed by the Department of Immigration.

You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires to avoid fines. The extension can be done in either Kathmandu or Pokhara. The total stay on a tourist visa cannot exceed 150 days within a single calendar year (January 1 to December 31).

To extend your Nepal visa, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Department of Immigration: The main office is in Kathmandu, with a branch in Pokhara. Go during office hours.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the extension application form. You can often do this online beforehand via the official Department of Immigration website.
3. Submit Your Documents: Provide your passport, a copy of your passport photo page, a copy of your current visa, and one passport-sized photo.
4. Pay the Extension Fee: The fee is $3 USD per day. There is a minimum extension period of 15 days, which costs $45 USD. Payment must be made in Nepali Rupees.
5. Receive Your Extension: The immigration officer will process your request and add the extension to your passport.

Important Rules and Things to Keep in Mind

Following Nepal’s visa rules is crucial for a smooth trip. Following travel guidelines for Nepal trips help you stay compliant and avoid problems.

These rules are in place to ensure your safety and respect local laws. Simple things, like not overstaying and knowing your visa’s limitations, will make your adventure much more enjoyable. Keep these points in mind throughout your stay in Nepal.

• Do Not Overstay Your Visa: Overstaying results in fines and can create legal issues. The penalty is $5 USD per day, plus an administration fee.
• A Tourist Visa is for Tourism Only: You cannot work, whether paid or unpaid (volunteering), on a tourist visa. You need a different type of visa for such activities.
• Carry Copies of Your Documents: Always keep photocopies or digital copies of your passport and visa. This is helpful if your original documents are lost or stolen.
• Check for Updated Regulations: Immigration rules can change. Always check the official website of the Nepal Department of Immigration for the latest information before you travel.
• Trekking Permits are Separate: A tourist visa allows you to be in Nepal, but you will need separate permits like TIMS and national park permits for most treks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nepali Tourist Visa

Can I get a visa on arrival in Nepal?

Yes, absolutely. Citizens of most countries can get a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at major land border crossings.

What money should I carry to pay the visa fee?

You should carry cash in a major international currency. US dollars are the most preferred and widely accepted for paying the Nepal visa cost.

How long can I stay in Nepal with a tourist visa?

You can stay for the duration granted on your visa (15, 30, or 90 days). You can extend your Nepal visa up to a maximum total stay of 150 days in a calendar year.

Can I change my tourist visa to another type?

Yes, it is sometimes possible, but it is a complex legal process. For example, changing to a student or business visa requires extensive documentation and approval from the relevant government departments. It is not a simple switch and should be done with professional guidance.