


Traveling to Nepal is an exciting experience filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. To make your journey smooth, understanding the Nepal Entry Visa process is essential. Whether you are coming for trekking, cultural exploration, or a spiritual retreat, Nepal offers a simple and traveler-friendly visa policy. The Nepal Entry Visa Guide by Asiana Treks and Tours provides comprehensive information to help you understand the visa process before your arrival.
The Nepal government has made obtaining a visa very convenient, allowing visitors to receive it either on arrival at the airport or in advance through Nepalese embassies and consulates abroad. Most international travelers are eligible for a visa upon arrival, which makes visiting Nepal more accessible than ever. However, knowing the required documents, visa types, and fees in advance will save time and prevent any inconvenience at immigration.
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Nepal’s Visa on Arrival system is designed to welcome travelers from around the world with minimal hassle. When you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) or cross one of Nepal’s designated land border entry points, you can easily apply for a tourist visa on the spot. This system is ideal for travelers who prefer flexible travel plans or who may not have access to a Nepali embassy in their home country.
The process is straightforward: fill out a short application form, present your passport and a passport-size photo, pay the visa fee, and receive your visa stamp. The visa on arrival can be obtained for different durations—15, 30, or 90 days—depending on your travel plans. Asiana Treks and Tours recommends keeping some USD or other major currency in cash for visa payments, as credit card facilities may not always be available at the airport counters.
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A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a type of travel authorization that allows visitors to obtain their visa upon entering a country, rather than applying beforehand. For Nepal, this system is especially beneficial because it eliminates the need for lengthy pre-travel paperwork. It ensures that travelers can enter the country as long as they meet basic entry requirements, making it a traveler-friendly option for short-term visits, trekking, and tours.
The Visa on Arrival system demonstrates Nepal’s welcoming approach toward international visitors. It reflects the country’s focus on promoting tourism as a key part of its economy. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that travelers are well-informed about the VoA process, providing assistance with documentation, airport procedures, and payment guidance to ensure a smooth arrival experience.
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Most travelers from around the world are eligible for Nepal’s Visa on Arrival. This includes citizens from the majority of countries, except a few that require prior approval from the Department of Immigration in Nepal. Eligible travelers should hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a recent passport-sized photo, and sufficient funds to cover their stay. Travelers must also ensure they are not entering Nepal from restricted countries or regions without prior permission.
While the visa on arrival is open to most tourists, certain categories—such as citizens from countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Somalia, and a few others—must apply in advance through the Nepalese embassy. Asiana Treks and Tours always advises checking the latest list of eligible nationalities before traveling. Our team assists clients with up-to-date information, ensuring compliance with immigration policies and a smooth arrival process.
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Before applying for a Visa on Arrival in Nepal, travelers must prepare certain essential documents to ensure a smooth and quick process at the immigration counter. The Nepalese immigration system is designed to be convenient, but having all necessary paperwork ready will save you from unnecessary delays. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) or designated land borders, you’ll need to present your documents at the visa desk before proceeding to the immigration clearance.
Asiana Treks and Tours recommends preparing these documents in advance and keeping both physical and digital copies. Doing so helps you navigate the visa process confidently and ensures you are not held up by missing information or misplaced paperwork.
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To obtain a visa upon arrival in Nepal, travelers must provide a few key documents that verify their identity, purpose of visit, and ability to stay in the country. These documents are standard for most foreign visitors and are used to ensure that travelers meet Nepal’s immigration requirements. The immigration officers will verify your documents before issuing the visa.
Having your documents ready and correctly filled out will make the process faster. Asiana Treks and Tours encourages travelers to double-check all information, such as passport details and travel dates, before submission. Errors in documentation could lead to rejection or delays in receiving your visa.
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Your passport is the most important document for obtaining a visa to enter Nepal. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. Immigration authorities require this to ensure that travelers have valid identification throughout their stay. Additionally, there must be at least one blank page available for the visa stamp.
Asiana Treks and Tours advises travelers to check their passport validity before departure. If your passport is close to expiration, it’s best to renew it before traveling to avoid complications during entry.
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Every traveler must fill out a Visa Application Form before receiving a visa. This form can be completed online in advance through the Department of Immigration’s official website, or manually at the airport or border entry point. The form asks for basic information such as your full name, nationality, travel purpose, and address in Nepal.
Filling out the form online before arriving can significantly reduce waiting time at the airport. Asiana Treks and Tours provides guidance and assistance for completing the online application to make your arrival process even smoother.
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Visa fees in Nepal depend on the duration of your stay. The standard fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. Payments can be made in major foreign currencies (preferably US Dollars), but it’s important to carry cash, as card facilities may not always be available at the airport.
Asiana Treks and Tours recommends having the exact visa fee amount ready in cash to expedite the process. Always collect and keep the payment receipt, as it may be required for visa extensions or verification during your stay.
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In some cases, travelers may be asked to provide supporting documents to validate their purpose of visit or confirm accommodation details. These can include a hotel booking confirmation, a trekking permit, or an invitation letter from a Nepali organization or host. Such documents assure immigration officials that the traveler has genuine intentions for entering the country.
For travelers joining trekking or tour packages, Asiana Treks and Tours provides all necessary supporting paperwork, including itinerary confirmations and travel vouchers. This makes it easier for visitors to comply with immigration requirements confidently.
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Besides the Tourist Visa on Arrival, Nepal offers various other visa types depending on the traveler’s purpose of visit. These include Business Visas, Student Visas, Working Visas, and Residential Visas. Each category has specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements that must be met before issuance.
Asiana Treks and Tours can guide clients in understanding the right visa category and assist with the application process for non-tourist visas through official channels. This ensures compliance with Nepal’s immigration laws while simplifying complex paperwork.
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While Nepal welcomes travelers from most nations with its Visa on Arrival policy, not all nationalities are eligible. A few countries require prior approval from Nepal’s Department of Immigration before traveling. This rule helps maintain Nepal’s immigration security and ensures appropriate verification for travelers from restricted regions.
Asiana Treks and Tours always recommends checking the most recent list of eligible countries before traveling. Our team stays updated with immigration regulations and assists travelers who require pre-approved visas with the correct documentation and guidance.
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The Nepal Government has officially categorized countries into two main groups: those eligible for Visa on Arrival and those requiring prior approval. Travelers from eligible countries can easily receive their visa at the airport or border checkpoint, while citizens of restricted countries must obtain clearance before arrival.
Asiana Treks and Tours keeps an up-to-date list of these countries and provides this information to clients before booking their trips. By consulting with our experts, travelers can ensure they comply with all immigration rules, avoiding unnecessary travel disruptions.
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The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising eight member countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. To promote stronger regional ties and facilitate easier travel among its members, the Government of Nepal offers special visa privileges to citizens of SAARC nations. These privileges are designed to encourage tourism, business, and cultural exchange between neighboring countries.
Citizens from SAARC countries can obtain a Gratis Visa (free visa) upon arrival for their first visit in a visa year—which is calculated from January to December. This means that SAARC nationals (except Afghani citizens) can enter Nepal without paying the regular tourist visa fee during their first entry in that period. However, for subsequent visits within the same year, standard tourist visa fees will apply.
Asiana Treks and Tours welcomes SAARC travelers and provides comprehensive assistance with visa information, travel documentation, and itinerary planning. We ensure that our regional guests enjoy a smooth visa process and a memorable experience exploring Nepal’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage.
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A Gratis Visa refers to a free visa issued by the Government of Nepal to certain categories of travelers. This visa is granted without charging the usual visa fee and is designed to strengthen diplomatic relations, encourage cultural exchange, and support specific humanitarian or bilateral agreements. The Gratis Visa is usually valid for the same period as a regular tourist visa but is limited to those who meet specific eligibility requirements set by Nepal’s immigration laws.
Travelers eligible for a Gratis Visa include children under the age of 10, citizens of SAARC countries (except Afghanistan) for their first visit in a given year, and holders of diplomatic or official passports. In some cases, representatives of recognized international organizations or guests invited by the Nepal Government may also qualify. Asiana Treks and Tours helps travelers determine whether they are eligible for a Gratis Visa and provides assistance in preparing the required documentation.
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Tourist Visa fees for Nepal are determined based on the duration of stay and are payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or any authorized land entry point. The visa fee structure is designed to accommodate all types of travelers—from short-term visitors to long-term explorers—allowing flexibility based on the length of their intended stay. Fees are typically collected in major foreign currencies such as US Dollars, Euros, or Pounds Sterling.
At the visa counter, travelers are required to make their payment in cash after submitting their application form and passport. Credit or debit card payments are not always accepted, so carrying cash is recommended. Asiana Treks and Tours advises travelers to keep the visa payment receipt for record purposes, as it may be needed during visa extensions or while exiting the country.
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The Tourist Visa Fee Structure in Nepal is simple, transparent, and traveler-friendly. The Department of Immigration offers three main visa durations: 15 days, 30 days, and 90 days, allowing visitors to select the option that best fits their travel plans. Each category is priced differently, and all are extendable from the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara if visitors wish to prolong their stay.
The fee structure is the same for most nationalities, ensuring fair treatment and convenience. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures travelers are aware of the exact fees before arrival and helps them select the right visa duration based on their trekking, cultural, or adventure itinerary.
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For travelers planning a short visit to Nepal, the 15-day tourist visa is ideal. It is perfect for brief cultural tours, short trekking adventures such as Poon Hill Trek or Kathmandu Valley exploration, or quick business trips. The visa costs USD 30 and offers multiple entries within the 15-day period if needed.
Many travelers prefer this option for budget-friendly visits or transit stops before continuing to another destination. Asiana Treks and Tours assists clients in managing short itineraries that fit perfectly within the 15-day visa validity period.
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The 30-day tourist visa is the most popular choice among international travelers visiting Nepal. It costs USD 50 and allows for a comfortable exploration of Nepal’s diverse attractions, including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Lumbini, and Chitwan National Park. This visa type provides a balance between flexibility and affordability, giving travelers enough time to experience both adventure and culture.
For most tourists, 30 days is ideal to enjoy Nepal’s beauty without rushing. Asiana Treks and Tours often recommends this visa option for standard trekking and sightseeing packages, as it fits most travel itineraries perfectly.
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The 90-day tourist visa is designed for long-term travelers and adventure seekers who want to explore Nepal at a relaxed pace. Priced at USD 125, it offers maximum flexibility and convenience for visitors engaging in extended treks, volunteering projects, or meditation retreats. This visa allows multiple entries, making it suitable for those who may need to travel in and out of Nepal during their stay.
This is also the preferred option for travelers on long trekking expeditions, such as the Great Himalayan Trail or combined tours across multiple regions. Asiana Treks and Tours assists travelers with itineraries that extend beyond a month, ensuring all visa-related needs are properly managed.
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If travelers wish to extend their stay beyond the validity of their original visa, Nepal’s immigration system allows for visa extensions through the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara. Extensions can be granted up to a maximum of 150 days per calendar year. The visa extension fee is USD 3 per day, with a minimum charge of USD 30 for 15 days.
Asiana Treks and Tours offers full support for clients wishing to extend their stay, handling documentation, application submissions, and fee payments. This service ensures a smooth process without the hassle of long queues or confusing paperwork at immigration offices.
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Extending your visa in Nepal is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to start early—preferably a few days before your current visa expires. Travelers must fill out an extension form, submit a passport photo, and pay the applicable fee. Overstaying your visa can lead to fines, so timely renewal is highly recommended.
Asiana Treks and Tours offers visa extension support services, guiding travelers through the entire process. Whether you wish to stay longer for additional trekking, volunteer work, or leisure, our expert team ensures your extension is handled efficiently and legally.
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While most foreign nationals must obtain a visa before entering Nepal, there are exceptions for citizens of specific countries. Officials and nationals from certain countries are granted visa-free entry as per bilateral or regional agreements with the Government of Nepal. These exemptions are designed to promote friendly diplomatic relations and encourage tourism and cultural exchange.
For instance, citizens of India do not require a visa to enter Nepal due to the long-standing open-border policy between the two countries. Similarly, official or diplomatic passport holders from nations such as China, Thailand, Russia, and Brazil are also eligible for visa-free entry based on reciprocal agreements. Asiana Treks and Tours always advises travelers to confirm their visa exemption status before traveling to ensure compliance with Nepal’s entry regulations.
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The Government of Nepal maintains a specific list of countries whose citizens may enter without a visa or receive a Gratis Visa (free visa). These privileges are generally extended to strengthen international relations, promote tourism, and facilitate easier mobility for citizens of friendly nations.
Currently, citizens of India are completely visa-exempt. Meanwhile, citizens from SAARC countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka can obtain a free visa for their first visit in a given visa year (except Afghanistan). Asiana Treks and Tours recommends checking the latest government updates, as visa exemption lists are subject to diplomatic changes.
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Nepal provides multiple entry points for foreign travelers, including one international airport and several land border crossings with India and China. These official immigration checkpoints are managed by Nepal’s Department of Immigration to facilitate the issuance of visas on arrival and verify travel documents.
Each entry point has facilities to process visa applications, making it convenient for travelers coming from neighboring countries. Asiana Treks and Tours assists visitors by recommending the most suitable entry points based on their travel routes, ensuring hassle-free arrival and departure experiences.
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Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is Nepal’s main international gateway and the primary visa-on-arrival point for international visitors. Located about 6 kilometers from the city center, TIA handles most of Nepal’s international air traffic and serves as the first point of entry for the majority of tourists.
At the airport, travelers can fill out their visa forms at designated kiosks, submit payment in cash, and have their visa processed within minutes. Asiana Treks and Tours provides arrival assistance services, ensuring a seamless visa process by helping clients with documentation, payment, and form submission right at the terminal.
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The Gyirong Port (Rasuwagadhi-Kerung) is the main overland entry point between Nepal and Tibet (China). It is increasingly popular among adventure travelers and overland tourists journeying between Kathmandu and Lhasa. The port is equipped with immigration facilities that allow eligible travelers to apply for a visa on arrival.
This entry point offers breathtaking Himalayan views and serves as a gateway for trans-Himalayan trade and tourism. Asiana Treks and Tours arranges guided overland trips between Nepal and Tibet, assisting travelers with both Nepali and Chinese visa procedures.
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Kakarbhitta, located in eastern Nepal near Siliguri (India), is one of the most frequently used land entry points for travelers arriving from India. This crossing connects to West Bengal and serves as an easy route for visitors entering Nepal from Darjeeling, Sikkim, or Kolkata.
The checkpoint has immigration facilities where travelers can obtain their visa on arrival. Asiana Treks and Tours assists visitors crossing through Kakarbhitta by arranging transport, documentation, and smooth immigration procedures.
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The Belhiya border point in Bhairahawa is one of the busiest land crossings between Nepal and India, connecting with Sunauli on the Indian side. It is frequently used by travelers coming from Varanasi or Gorakhpur. This entry point is also close to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, making it a convenient access route for pilgrims.
The immigration office at Belhiya provides on-arrival visa services during working hours. Asiana Treks and Tours recommends this route for travelers visiting Lumbini or entering Nepal by road from northern India.
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Birgunj, located in southern Nepal, is the principal commercial gateway between Nepal and India. It connects with Raxaul in Bihar, India, and is one of the most important land entry points for both goods and tourists.
The immigration office here also issues visas on arrival to eligible travelers. Due to its proximity to Kathmandu (about 6 hours by road), Asiana Treks and Tours often recommends this entry point for travelers driving from India to central Nepal.
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Jamunaha, located in Nepalgunj, serves as a western border entry point connecting Nepal with Uttar Pradesh, India. It is especially popular among trekkers heading toward Dolpa, Rara Lake, and Humla regions in western Nepal.
The immigration office here facilitates visa-on-arrival services for tourists. Asiana Treks and Tours arranges transportation and permits for adventure travelers entering via Jamunaha, ensuring a smooth transition from India to Nepal’s remote trekking destinations.
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The Mohana border in Dhangadhi, far-western Nepal, connects with Banbasa in India. This crossing is ideal for travelers exploring Nepal’s far-western regions, including Khaptad National Park and Api Nampa Conservation Area.
Though less crowded than other border points, it still offers visa-on-arrival facilities for eligible tourists. Asiana Treks and Tours supports travelers entering through Dhangadhi by coordinating transportation and border formalities.
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The visa application process at Tribhuvan International Airport is simple and efficient. Upon arrival, travelers can fill out the visa application form using the electronic kiosks or complete it manually at designated counters. Once the form is submitted, travelers must pay the applicable visa fee in cash at the payment counter. After payment, the receipt is presented at the immigration desk where the visa is issued and stamped in the passport.
To make the process smoother, Asiana Treks and Tours advises clients to prepare their passport-sized photo, cash in USD or major currency, and filled-out visa form in advance. Our representatives can also assist clients upon arrival, ensuring the entire visa process is completed quickly and without confusion.
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Before traveling to Nepal, it is essential to understand the visa requirements and processes to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry. Travelers should first verify whether they are eligible for a Visa on Arrival or if they need to obtain a visa in advance from a Nepali embassy or consulate. Reviewing your passport’s validity (minimum of six months) and carrying all necessary documents such as passport-size photos and travel itineraries is crucial for avoiding any last-minute issues.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of visa fees, accepted payment methods, and the types of visas available based on your travel purpose. Having accurate information beforehand helps you save time at immigration counters and prevents potential misunderstandings. Asiana Treks and Tours recommends all clients to prepare their documents in advance, carry enough cash for visa payment, and keep a printed copy of their flight and hotel bookings.
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Nepal’s visa-on-arrival system primarily accepts cash payments in major international currencies such as US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), Pound Sterling (GBP), Swiss Francs (CHF), Australian Dollars (AUD), and Canadian Dollars (CAD). Payment counters at Tribhuvan International Airport and land entry points are usually equipped to handle foreign currency transactions. However, credit and debit cards are not always accepted, so travelers should carry sufficient cash to cover visa fees.
For those applying for a visa at a Nepali Embassy or Consulate abroad, payment options may include bank transfers or card payments, depending on the respective office. Asiana Treks and Tours strongly advises clients to carry small denominations of major currencies for convenience and to avoid issues caused by currency exchange differences or unavailability of change.
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When visiting Nepal, travelers should remember a few important guidelines related to entry, stay, and visa regulations. Overstaying your visa can result in fines or penalties, so it’s crucial to monitor your visa validity and extend it before expiry if you plan to stay longer. Visa extensions can be arranged at immigration offices in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Always retain your visa payment receipt and keep a copy of your passport and visa page with you during your stay.
Additionally, travelers should respect Nepalese customs and immigration laws. Certain regions such as restricted trekking areas require special permits that differ from regular tourist visas. Asiana Treks and Tours ensures that clients traveling to such regions receive full assistance with permit applications and visa extensions. Having all your travel documents organized not only ensures legal compliance but also provides peace of mind during your journey.
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For visa extensions, renewals, or immigration-related queries, travelers can contact the official immigration offices located in Kathmandu and Pokhara. These offices operate under the Department of Immigration, which oversees all visa and entry-related matters in Nepal. The main office in Kathmandu handles most international visa extensions, business visa applications, and special cases. The Pokhara branch provides convenient services for travelers staying in western Nepal.
Asiana Treks and Tours works closely with these immigration offices to support clients in obtaining extensions or resolving visa issues. Having the correct contact information is vital for all travelers who plan extended stays or need assistance with document verification.
Department of Immigration (Kathmandu)
Immigration Office (Pokhara)
Asiana Treks and Tours assists with immigration office coordination for clients.
Obtaining a visa to enter Nepal is a straightforward and traveler-friendly process, thanks to the Visa on Arrival system and well-managed immigration facilities. By preparing your documents in advance, understanding visa requirements, and carrying the correct payment, you can ensure a smooth entry into the country. Whether you’re coming for a short cultural tour or a long trekking expedition, Nepal welcomes travelers with open arms.
At Asiana Treks and Tours, we strive to make your travel experience seamless by offering step-by-step visa guidance, airport assistance, and permit arrangements for your journey. Our dedicated team ensures that you can focus on exploring Nepal’s breathtaking mountains, rich culture, and warm hospitality—while we handle the formalities for you.
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