VISA PROCEDURE / FEES FOR NEPAL

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is Nepal’s primary gateway for international travelers, offering Visa on Arrival (VoA) services. Several land border crossings also provide this facility for tourists entering by road.

The VoA process is generally fast and efficient, though lines can form during peak tourist seasons. To save time, travelers may also obtain a visa from a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate abroad. If issued outside Nepal, the visa must be used within six months, and your permitted stay begins from your date of entry.

Tourist Visa Guidelines

1: Visa Type: All On Arrival visas are issued as Tourist Visas, allowing multiple entries.

2: Purpose-Specific Visa: If you plan to visit for trekking, mountaineering, work, study, or family reasons, your visa category must be changed at the Department of Immigration in Nepal.

3: Pre-Arrival Requirement: Citizens of certain countries are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival.

Step-by-Step Visa on Arrival Process

Step 1 – Forms & Documentation

Complete the Arrival Card and Tourist Visa application. You can fill the form online via the Department of Immigration website or at airport kiosks.

If submitted online, print the receipt with the barcode, valid for 15 days.

Step 2 – Visa Fee Payment

Pay the visa fee according to the duration of stay (15, 30, or 90 days).

Payments can be made via cash, card, or bank transfer, but carrying cash is highly recommended.

Step 3 – Submission & Processing

Present your passport, completed forms, and payment receipt at the Immigration Desk.

The officer will process your visa, after which you are ready to explore Nepal.

Visa Fees

Countries Requiring Pre-Approved Visa

Certain nationals must secure a visa prior to arrival from a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate. Without official approval from Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs, these travelers cannot obtain a Visa on Arrival.

Countries requiring pre-approved visas

1: Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe
2: Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia
3: Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq
4: Palestine, Afghanistan, Syria
5: Refugees traveling with valid travel documents

Free Visa Eligibility

Some visitors are eligible for a gratis visa, issued free of charge, including:

1: Children under 10 years of age
2: Citizens of SAARC countries (except Afghanistan) – valid up to 30 days per visa year
3: Afghan citizens (Visa on Arrival only with prior approval)
4: Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) cardholders
5: Chinese nationals
6: Government officials from China, Brazil, Russia, and Thailand (based on reciprocal agreements)

Note: All visas granted at the airport, including free visas, are issued as Tourist Visas. Any visa extensions or category changes must be processed through the Department of Immigration. Tourist visas can also be extended at the Pokhara Immigration Office.

For detailed information, visit: Nepal Department of Immigration

SIM Cards

Right outside the Tribhuvan International Airport, travellers can purchase a SIM card from local telecom providers like Ncell. Requirements typically include:

1: Passport

2: Passport-size photo

Tip: Ensure your visa fees are paid in the accepted currency when applying for a visa. Tourist visas can be extended for a maximum of 150 days per calendar year.

Transportation in Nepal

Kathmandu’s public transport can be uneven, with rough roads in certain areas. While taxis are available, they are generally costly and best avoided. Options include:

1: Paid airport taxis with fixed rates
2: Rental vehicles such as cars, scooters, motorcycles, or bicycles, particularly in Thamel

Long-distance or mountainous travel

Transportation methods vary based on terrain and destination. Options may include:

1: Domestic flights
2: Jeeps, buses, or private vehicles
3: Mules or yaks for remote high-altitude regions

Travel Protection

Before departure, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, especially if trekking or engaging in high-altitude activities. Insurance coverage is essential for emergencies, including helicopter rescue services in remote areas.