Planning your trip to Nepal and need to understand the Nepal Visa process for foreigners? Look no further. Whether you’re coming for tourism, trekking, or any other purpose, Nepal’s visa procedures are relatively straightforward. This guide will walk you through the process, from obtaining your visa to entry requirements, visa extensions, and more.

Visa on Arrival in Nepal

For most tourists flying into Nepal, obtaining a visa is as simple as arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). The “On Arrival” visa procedure is quick and efficient. While queues may form during peak tourist seasons, the process is generally hassle-free.

Nepal Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions

For those who prefer to skip the queues, there’s an alternative. Consider getting your visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions abroad before your arrival in Nepal. This option allows you to start your journey without the need to stand in line at the airport.

Nepal Visa Validity and Entry Period

Once you’ve obtained a visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issuance date. Your total stay in Nepal begins on the day of your entry.

Tourist Visas and Reentry Facility

Visas obtained on arrival at entry and exit points are typically categorized as “Tourist Visas.” These visas come with the advantage of multiple reentry facilities, making it easy to explore neighboring countries and return to Nepal.

Purpose-Specific Visas

If you plan to visit Nepal for purposes other than tourism, such as sightseeing, trekking, or visiting friends and family, you should initially obtain a “Tourist Visa.” After your arrival, you can change the visa category based on your specific purpose and length of stay by providing the required documents to the Department of Immigration.

Visa Requirements for Specific Nationals

Certain nationals, including those from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and more, are required to obtain visas from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions (Embassies/Consulates) before arriving in Nepal. This applies to refugees with travel documents as well.

Step-by-Step Visa on Arrival Process

For travelers arriving without a prior visa, here’s a step-by-step guide for obtaining a “Tourist Visa on Arrival” at TIA:

1. Fill in ‘Arrival Card’: Complete the Arrival Card and an online ‘Tourist Visa’ form either on the official Department of Immigration website before your arrival or at a kiosk machine upon landing at the airport.
2. Make Payment: Pay the visa fee at the bank according to your visa requirement (15/30/90 days). Collect the receipt as proof of payment.
3. Proceed to the Immigration Desk: Submit your online form, payment receipts, and passport to the immigration officer for visa processing. The officer will issue your visa upon satisfaction.

Visa Extension and Gratis Visa Tourist visa extensions are available for a minimum of 15 days, with a fee of USD 45 and an additional USD 3 per day for further days. For delays of less than 150 days, an extra USD 5 per day is charged as a late fine.

Gratis visas are issued free of charge in specific cases, such as for children below 10 years (excluding US citizens) and SAARC citizens visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa year. Non-residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholders, Chinese nationals, and citizens of several other countries also enjoy gratis visas for varying durations.

Navigating the Nepal visa process as a foreigner is remarkably hassle-free, thanks to the “Visa on Arrival” service and the availability of visas at Nepalese Diplomatic Missions. Whether you’re a tourist or have a specific purpose, Nepal welcomes you with open arms. Explore the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality this beautiful nation has to offer. Your Nepal adventure begins with a simple visa process.