Nepal is one of the most welcoming travel destinations in the world, offering breathtaking landscapes, cultural diversity, and adventure experiences. Understanding Nepal visa requirements for tourists is essential before you explore the Himalayas, visit sacred temples, or discover the country’s top attractions (see our Best Places to Visit in Nepal: Top Destinations guide). In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know—from how to apply for a Nepal tourist visa, visa on arrival, visa fees, document requirements, visa extensions, and common immigration tips for travelers.
What Is a Nepal Tourist Visa?
A Nepal Tourist Visa allows foreign visitors to enter the country for tourism purposes such as sightseeing, trekking, cultural tours, adventure travel, and family visits. First-time travelers can also refer to our Nepal Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors 2026 for tips and planning. It is the most common visa category for visitors who aren’t Indian nationals.
Who Needs a Visa to Enter Nepal?
- Most foreign nationals (except Indian citizens) must obtain a visa to enter Nepal.
- Indian nationals do not need a visa and can enter Nepal using valid Indian identity documents (passport, voter ID, driving license with photo, etc.).
Fact: Citizens of India enjoy visa-free entry due to bilateral agreements. Other foreign visitors must apply for a tourist visa either on arrival or in advance.
How to Apply for Nepal Visa: Requirements for Tourists
Visa on Arrival
Most travelers choose the visa on arrival option upon landing at major entry points in Nepal:
- Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (see our Kathmandu Travel Guide for Beginners 2026 for tips on exploring the city).
- Gautam Buddha International Airport, Lumbini
- Land border crossings (e.g., Kakarvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj)
Steps
- Fill out the arrival card provided on your flight or at the airport.
- Complete the tourist visa application form online before travel (recommended).
- Pay the visa fee in USD or convertible foreign currency (cash or international card accepted at some points).
- Submit documents and receive your visa sticker.
Tip: Completing the online visa form before arrival speeds up processing and reduces queues at immigration counters.
Pre-Arrival Visa at Nepal Embassy
You may also obtain your tourist visa from a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate before your flight – useful for travelers who want certainty before departure.
Documents Typically Required
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form (printed)
- Passport photos
- Visa fee (cash or as required by mission)
Nepal Visa Fees and Duration (2026 Update)
| Visa Type | Duration | Visa Fee (USD) |
| Tourist Visa | 15 days | $30 |
| Tourist Visa | 30 days | $50 |
| Tourist Visa | 90 days | $125 |
The official immigration website may update fees periodically – always check before travel.
Tourist Visa Duration & Maximum Stay in Nepal for Tourists
Maximum Stay Limit
- A Nepal tourist visa allows a maximum stay of 150 days per calendar year
- The calendar year runs from January 1 to December 31
- All stays in the same year are cumulative, even if you exit and re-enter Nepal
Initial Visa Duration Options
- Tourist visas are issued for 15 days, 30 days, or 90 days
- All tourist visas are multiple-entry
- You may leave and re-enter Nepal within the visa validity period
Visa Extension Availability
- Tourist visas can be extended inside Nepal
- Extensions are available only at immigration offices in:
- Kathmandu
- Pokhara
Minimum Extension Rule
- Visa extensions are granted for a minimum of 15 days
- Multiple extensions are allowed until the 150-day annual limit is reached
Extension Fees
- Visa extension fee is USD 3 per day
- Minimum charge is USD 45 (for 15 days)
No Conversion Rule
- Tourist visas cannot be converted into work, student, or business visas
- Staying beyond tourism purposes requires a different visa category
Visa Extension in Nepal
If you plan to stay longer than your original visa allows, you can extend your tourist visa.
How to extend
- Visit the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Extensions are done in minimum increments
- Extension fees apply based on duration
Always apply for extension before your visa expires to avoid fines or overstays.
Special Visa Categories & Free Visas
Gratis Visa (Free Visa)
Certain categories of travelers may receive gratis (free) tourist visas:
- Children under 10 years (excludes U.S. children)
- SAARC citizens (e.g., Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka) for their first visit in a visa year
- Non-Residential Nepali (NRN) card holders
- Chinese nationals (special arrangement)
Required Documents for Nepal Visa
To obtain a Nepal tourist visa, you generally need:
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Passport-size photo with light background
- Visa application form (printed or filled online)
- Visa fee in accepted currency
- Optional but recommended: proof of accommodation/return ticket
Note: While not always required, proof of onward travel and hotel booking can help with immigration checks and avoid delays.
Nationals Requiring Pre-Arrival Visa
Some nationalities must obtain a visa in advance from a Nepalese Embassy/Consulate:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Zimbabwe
- Swaziland (Eswatini)
- Cameroon
- Somalia
- Liberia
- Ethiopia
- Iraq
- Palestine
- Afghanistan
- Syria
- Refugees with travel documents
India-Nepal Border Entry (Special Case)
Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal, and can enter with valid government-issued identity documents.
Recent updates also indicate that citizens of Nepal and Bhutan may enter India without visa/passport (effective 2025), reflecting strong regional travel cooperation
What Identification Is Accepted?
When crossing the India–Nepal border under this special arrangement, the following are typically accepted for entry:
- Valid passport
- Citizenship certificate
- Voter ID card
- Limited-validity photo ID issued by home country mission (when required)
- For travellers 10–18 years old, a school photo ID (if with parents)
- Children under 10 may not need formal ID when accompanied by parents with valid
Smart Tips for Travelers
- Apply online for your visa application before your trip to save time
- Always carry cash in USD (other convertible currencies accepted).
- Keep extra passport photos and copies of your passport.
- Allow extra time during peak tourism season at immigration counters.
- Double-check specific requirements with your nearest Nepal consulate before departure.
Whether you’re planning trekking in the Annapurna region, exploring Kathmandu’s heritage sites, or visiting Himalayan villages, understanding the Nepal visa requirements for tourists makes your journey hassle-free. With easy visa on arrival, flexible duration options, and clear documentation rules, Nepal remains one of the easiest countries in South Asia to visit – just follow the rules and enjoy your adventure.
