Planning your trip to Nepal? Mountmandu is here to guide you through the essentials of obtaining your Nepal Tourist Visa.
Types of Nepal Tourist Visa
Nepal offers several types of tourist visas depending on the duration of stay and your travel plans:
| Nepal Visa Types | Fee | Purpose |
| 1. 15-Day Tourist Visa | USD 30 | Ideal for short visits, such as a quick trip to explore the main attractions or embark on a brief trekking adventure. |
| 2. 30-Day Tourist Visa: | USD 50 | Best suited for those who want to dive deeper into Nepal’s rich culture, trek for several weeks, or explore remote areas. |
| 3. 90-Day Tourist Visa | USD 125 | Perfect for long-term travelers, digital nomads, or those who wish to experience Nepal at a slower pace. |
Applying for a Nepal Tourist Visa
You can obtain a Nepal tourist visa in one of two ways: either On Arrival or by applying In Advance at a Nepalese embassy.
1. Visa On Arrival (Recommended)
Nepal’s visa-on-arrival system is user-friendly and available to most nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and various land border crossings.
Steps to Apply On Arrival:
- Arrival Card: Fill out the arrival form, available at kiosks in the airport.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the visa form either at the airport or online before your arrival via Nepal’s Immigration Portal.
- Visa Fee: Pay the required visa fee at designated counters (cash payments in USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, or other major currencies are accepted).
- Documents Required:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months.
- Passport-sized photo (some airports may have photo booths).
Once you submit the documents and pay the visa fee, the immigration officer will issue your visa on the spot.
2. Visa from Nepalese Embassy/Consulate
Alternatively, you can obtain your visa from a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country. This option is convenient for those who prefer to have their visa in hand before departure. The application process is straightforward, requiring:
- A filled application form.
- A valid passport.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Payment of the visa fee (which may differ based on the consulate)
Visa Extension
If you fall in love with Nepal (which many do!) and want to extend your stay, you can apply for a Visa Extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Cost: USD 45 for a 15-day extension, and USD 3 per day beyond that.
- Maximum extension is up to 150 days in a calendar year for tourist visas.
Multiple Entries and Re-Entry
Nepal’s tourist visa is multiple-entry, meaning you can exit and re-enter the country within the validity period without having to apply for a new visa. If you plan to visit neighboring countries like India, Tibet (China), or Bhutan during your trip, this feature will come in handy.
Special Cases: Visa Exemptions
Nationals of India do not require a visa to enter Nepal and can travel freely between the two countries. Additionally, citizens from SAARC countries (except Afghanistan) can obtain a 30-day visa free of charge for their first visit in a given visa year.
Important Information for Travelers
- Visa Overstay: Overstaying a visa in Nepal will result in fines and potential legal action. The fine is USD 5 per day for the duration of the overstay, and there may be additional penalties for longer overstay periods.
- Currency for Visa Fees: It’s advisable to carry the exact amount of cash in USD or other major currencies, as ATMs or card payment options may not always be available at all land borders.
- Travel Insurance: Although not a requirement for a visa, having travel insurance that covers trekking and altitude sickness is highly recommended if you plan to trek or engage in adventurous activities.
Final Tips
- Be sure to regularly check for visa policy updates, as they may change from time to time.
- Keep a couple of spare passport-sized photos, as you might need them for permits or additional travel services within Nepal.
- If you plan to stay longer than 150 days or for purposes other than tourism (such as business or volunteering), consider applying for the relevant visa category before arrival.
With your Nepal Tourist Visa in hand, you’re all set to explore one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Whether you’re wandering through ancient temples, trekking the Himalayas, or immersing yourself in local culture, Nepal welcomes you with open arms. Safe travels!