Attractions

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  • Protected Areas
  • Eight Thousanders
  • Pilgrimage Sites
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Motor Biking
  • Rafting & Kayaking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Paragliding
  • Cave Exploration
  • Bird Watching
  • Mountain Viewing
  • Jungle Discovery
  • Butterfly Watching
  • Nagarkot Sunrise and Sunset
  • Traditional Crafts
  • Meet the People
  • Village Tours
  • Food & Culinary
  • Cultural Tours
  • Heritage Walk
  • Museum Tours
  • Faith Healing
  • Panchakarma Treatment
  • Sound Meditation
  • Natural Hot Water Springs in Nepal
  • Pilgrimage Tours
  • Destination Wedding
  • Indra Jatra
  • Chhat Parva
  • Event Calendar
  • Festival Highlights
  • Travel with children
  • Ganesh Himal Trek
  • Chandragiri - Chitlang - Kulekhani
  • Pilgrimage to Doleshwar mahadev Temple

About Nepal

Travel details, tourist visa.

  • Local Transportation
  • Trekking Permit
  • Park Entry Fees
  • Heritage Site Entry Fees
  • Tourist Police
  • Safety in the Mountains

Book Your Trip

  • Book Experience
  • Travel Updates

Tribhuvan International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) are the international airport of Nepal. Immigration Office, TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) under Department of Immigration has been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad prior to your arrival. Choice is yours.

 If you have obtained visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, then you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issued date. Your total stay is counted starting from the day you enter into Nepal.

Visas obtained on Arrival at the Entry and Exit points are 'Tourist Visas'.  They bear multiple Re entry facility. Tourist Visa 'On Arrival' is the only entry visa to Nepal. If you are visiting Nepal for the purposes other than Tourism (sightseeing, tour, travel, mountaineering, trekking, visiting friends and families), you should still get ' Tourist Visa' to get into the country.  However, you must change the category of visa as per your purpose and length of stay in Nepal from Department of Immigration by producing required documents.

Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government.  

  • Afghanistan
  • Refugees with travel document

Please follow these simple procedures for Tourist Visa on Arrival at the airport (TIA)  if you have not acquired Visa prior to boarding the plane.

1st  Step

  • Fill in ' Arrival Card '
  • Fill in Online ‘Tourist Visa ‘form ( you can fill it up  prior to your arrival  visiting our official website  Department of Immigration / fill it up using Kiosk machines upon your arrival at the airport).  If you fill it from the website, you will get submission Receipt with barcode, please print it out and bring it along for acquiring visa. It works for fifteen days and becomes invalid then after.  If so, you will have to fill it up again.

2nd  Step   

  • Make payment  at the bank according to your visa requirement ( 15/30/90 Days)
  • Get the receipt

While you can use different modes of payments (at visa fees collection counter), we advise you to carry some cash to be on the safe side.

On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points

15 Days – 30 USD

30 Days – 50 USD

90 Days – 125 USD

3rd Step  

  • Proceed to the Immigration Desk with your online form,  payment receipts and your passport
  • Hand in your documents to immigration officer for visa processing. He/she issues visa to you upon his/her satisfaction.

Visa Extension Fee 

  • Tourist visa extension is done for minimum 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days.
  • In the case of delay less than 150 days additional USD 5 per day as late fine.

Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)

Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:

  • Children below 10 years except US citizens
  • Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year.  Afghan citizen are eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of Department of Immigration. If you are an Afghan citizen, you can request concerned institution inviting you to Nepal for necessary paperwork with Department of Immigration to get you Gratis Visa 'On Arrival'.
  • Non Residential Nepalese(NRN) card holder ( issued by MoFA /Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)
  • Chinese Nationals

Officials from China, Brazil, Russia and Thailand do not need Entry Visa based on reciprocal visa waiver Agreement

Visas of all kinds including ‘Gratis’ issued at the Airport are Tourist Visas. Contact Department of Immigration for extending your visa or changing the category of your visa. Tourist Visa extension can be done from Immigration Office, Pokhara too. Non tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of maximum one year (except business visa).

nepal visit visa application

Nepal Tourism Board is a national tourism organization of Nepal established in 1998 by an Act of Parliament in the form of partnership between the Government of Nepal and private sector tourism industry to develop and market Nepal as an attractive tourist destination. The Board provides platform for vision-drawn leadership for Nepal’s tourism sector by integrating Government commitment with the dynamism of private sector.

Nepal Tourism Board

Other sites.

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Feedback Form

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गृह मन्त्रालय

अध्यागमन विभाग

कालिकास्थान, काठमाडौँ

ट्रेकिंग एजेन्सीहरुलाई अनुरोध (6 दिन अगाडी)

Electronic travel authorization (e-visa) request user manual (2 महिना अगाडी), भिजिट तथा पर्यटक भिसामा विदेश यात्रा गर्नुहुने नेपाली... (2 महिना अगाडी), important notice regarding online application and payment for nepalese visa (2076-10-23), स्व-घोषणा फाराम (2 महिना अगाडी).

मा. उपप्रधान तथा गृह मन्त्रीज्यू र श्रीमान गृह सचिवज्यू अध्यागमन विभागको निरिक्षणको क्रममा

मा. उपप्रधान तथा गृह मन्त्रीज्यू र श्रीमान गृह सचिवज्यू अध्यागमन विभागको निरिक्षणको क्रममा

स्वागत तथा फेरि भेटौंला कार्यक्रम

स्वागत तथा फेरि भेटौंला कार्यक्रम

उपप्रधानमन्त्री एवम् गृहमन्त्री नारायणकाजी श्रेष्ठ इ-भिसा, स्वचालित प्रणाली र अनलाइन भुक्तानी प्रणाली उद्घाटन गर्दै। साथमा विभागका महानिर्देशक रुद्रसिंह तामाङ तथा कर्मचारी

उपप्रधानमन्त्री एवम् गृहमन्त्री नारायणकाजी श्रेष्ठ इ-भिसा, स्वचालित प्रणाली र अनलाइन भुक्तानी प्रणाली उद्घाटन गर्दै। साथमा विभागका महानिर्देशक रुद्रसिंह तामाङ तथा कर्मचारी

nepal visit visa application

अध्यागमन कार्यालय त्रि.अ.वि

  • बोलपत्र स्वीकृत गर्ने आशयको सूचना । 2 दिन अगाडी
  • ट्रेकिंग एजेन्सीहरुलाई अनुरोध 6 दिन अगाडी
  • सूचना । 1 महिना अगाडी
  • लेख रचना उपलब्ध गराउने सम्बन्धमा । 1 महिना अगाडी
  • Invitation for Bids 1 महिना अगाडी
  • अध्यागमन विभाग तथा कार्यालयहरुमा स्वचालित प्रणाली लागू गर्ने, अनलाईन सेवा तथा भावी सुधारका योजनाहरु । 2 महिना अगाडी
  • अध्यागमनको आधुनिकीकरण 2074-03-16

स्व-घोषणा फाराम

UAE, बहराइन, कुवेत, कतार, ओमान र साउदी अरब जाने NP पासपोर्ट धारकहरूको लागि

नागरिक बडापत्र

बिभागले प्रदान गर्ने सबै सेवाहरूको बारेमा जानकारी

धेरै सोधिने प्रश्नहरु

अधिकांश सेवाग्राहीहरुले जिज्ञासा राख्नुहुने प्रश्नहरुको उत्तर

प्रवेश / प्रस्थान विन्दु

A map showing all the entry and exit points to/from Nepal along with contact information about the offices in the points

अनलाइन भिसा निवेदन

Apply for VISA, Visa Extension/Conversion, Trekking Permit, Visa Transfer and other online operations

मातहतका कार्यालयहरु

Information about all subordinate offices, their location, contact information and website for all offices in entry and exit points

कर्मचारी विवरण

Information about all the employees along with their department/section

पदयात्रा मार्ग र अनुमति दस्तुर

Targeted Financial Sanction List

List published against AML/CFT regarding money laundering

कोशहरि निरौला

कोशहरि निरौला

महानिर्देशक

प्रेम प्रसाद दाहाल

प्रेम प्रसाद दाहाल

निर्देशक (सूचना अधिकारी)

(सूचना अधिकारी)

 2024-04-21 मा नेपालको अध्यागमन चेक पोइन्टबाट प्रवेश गरेका व्यक्तिको कुल सङ्ख्या

 2024-04-21 मा नेपालको अध्यागमन चेक पोइन्टबाट प्रस्थान गरेका व्यक्तिको कुल सङ्ख्या

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माननीय उपप्रधान तथा गृह मन्‍त्री तथा श्रीमान् गृह सचिवज्युबाट अध्यागमन...

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अध्यागमन विभाग,कन्सुलर सेवा विभाग तथा राहदानी विभागबिच सूचना आदान प्रद...

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Travel Advisory December 18, 2023

Nepal - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to risk indicators and "if you decide to travel" section.

Exercise increased caution in Nepal due to the potential for isolated political violence .  

Country Summary: Political demonstrations intended to be peaceful can sometimes escalate into violence and may be met with force by Nepali authorities.  

Read the  country information page   for additional information on travel to Nepal.  

If you decide to travel to Nepal:      

  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
  • Do not trek or climb alone. The Government of Nepal requires solo or foreign independent trekkers (FITs) to use a local guide or porter while trekking in Nepal's official national parks and protected areas.      
  • Review the Adventure Travel Page before your trip.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Nepal. 
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
  • U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must have six months remaining validity or more at time of entry.

At least one blank visa page (not endorsements page) required for entry visa.

COVID-19 vaccination/negative PCR test report is not required (Effective May 26, 2023)

US $5,000; Pure/raw/unworked gold and silver are strictly prohibited; Worked gold/jewelry up to 50 grams and worked silver/jewelry up to 100 grams are allowed. Indian currency in denominations greater than 100 rupees notes.

US $5,000; Pure/raw/unworked gold and silver are strictly prohibited; Worked gold/jewelry up to 50 grams and worked silver/jewelry up to 100 grams are allowed; Indian currency in denominations greater than 100 rupees notes. Nepalese currency no more than Rs. 5000.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy kathmandu.

Maharajgunj Kathmandu, Nepal Telephone: +(977)(1) 423-4000 or 423-4500 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(977)(1) 400-7266  Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

STRONGLY RECOMMEND: No Solo Trekking; Follow Medical Advice regarding High Altitude Mountain Sickness; Review customs policies prior to travel

The Department of Immigration rescinded all previously issued orders regarding country-specific travel limitations. All travelers regardless of vaccine status can receive on-arrival visas at the port of entry. Amendments to existing orders and new orders may be promulgated with little notice. Please continue to monitor this space and local media for additional information.

Effective May 26, 2023, travelers entering Nepal from abroad by air or land are no longer needed to submit certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19. A negative PCR test report for COVID-19 is not required.

Quarantine is currently not required for travelers regardless of their vaccine status, nationality, or recently visited locations.

Travelers departing Nepal by air are subject to health protocols of their destination country only. The airlines are responsible for ensuring passengers meet requirements of destination countries. Please consult with your airlines prior to your arrival and departure from Nepal. Please check with your airline regarding future flight availability and any necessary flight re-bookings. Operation of cargo flights, rescue flights, and evacuation flights will be carried out subject to special permission.

Requirements for Entry:

  • Passport must have six months or more validity remaining at the time of entry
  • One blank visa page available in passport for visa (not endorsements page)
  • Nepali authorities generally allow entrance on an emergency passport printed overseas
  • Visa appropriate for purpose of travel

Customs: International travelers arriving and departing Nepal via international airport(s) are permitted to no more than one of the following personal items:

  • Electronic tablet/laptop, video camera, and camera
  • Portable music system
  • Perambulator or tricycle
  • Cellular mobile phone
  • Pure/raw/unworked gold and silver are strictly prohibited to carry through ports of entry. Worked gold / jewelry up to 50 grams and worked silver/ jewelry up to 100 grams
  • Items for professional use, including drones (check in advance with the Nepal Department of Customs)

Regular Tourist Visas:

  • If you will arrive by air, either apply for a tourist visa at a Nepalese embassy or consulate before traveling  or purchase a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. NB: Pre-arrival visas are subject to availability.  Check with the nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate for current availability.
  • For an  online visa  application  form , see  https://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa . Note that obtaining a visa on arrival may take several hours.
  • If you will arrive by land , you are responsible both for obtaining a visa and going through the necessary immigration formalities. U.S. citizens may not be stopped by border officials in either direction to process immigration and visa documentation.  Consequences for non-compliance are severe and have included lengthy prison sentences and large fines.
  • When crossing by land into Nepal, U.S. citizens should carry U.S dollar bills to pay their Nepali visa fee. U.S. citizens travelling by land from India to Nepal should be aware that Nepali visa fees must be paid in cash in U.S. dollars. Credit cards or other currencies will not be accepted. All U.S. bills must be new (no older than 2003) and in good condition (no tears, excessive wear, creases, visible repairs, etc.) Individuals crossing the border by foot are provided 24 hours service.
  • If you do not have a visa and do not receive an entry stamp from an immigration officer, you will not be allowed to depart Nepal and may face additional consequences. 
  • U.S. citizens can purchase an on-arrival tourist visa at the following land border points of entry:
  • Pashupati Nagar, Jhapa District (Eastern Nepal, currently closed)
  • Kakarvitta, Jhapa District (Eastern Nepal, currently closed)
  • Biratnagar, Morang District (Southeastern Nepal,  only arrival; No Departure)
  • Birgunj, Parsa District (Central Nepal, arrival and departure)
  • Belahiya, Bhairahawa, Rupandehi District (Southern Nepal, arrival and departure)
  • Jamunaha, Nepalgunj, Banke District (Mid-West Nepal, currently closed)
  • Mohana, Dhangadi, Kailali District (Southwest Nepal, currently closed)
  • Gadda Chauki, Mahendranagar Kanchanpur District (Western Nepal, only arrival; No Departure )
  • Hilsa, Humla District (Far Western Nepal, for group tourists only; arrival and departure)
  • Korala, Mustang District (North-west Border, currently closed)
  • Timure, Rasuwa District (Northern Border; arrival and departure)
  • Kodari, Sindhupalchowk District (NortheastBorder– for group tourists only; arrival and departure)

Tourists obtaining visas provided on-arrival by the Nepali Department of Immigration may stay no more than  150  days in any given calendar year. Visas will only be given in 15, 30, or 90 day increments, but may be extended at the Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu.

Tourists may request the following visa at the time of arrival at TIA and checkpoints:

  • 15 days multiple-entry tourist visa (approx. $30 USD)
  • 30 days multiple-entry tourist visa (approx. $50 USD)
  • 90 days multiple-entry tourist visa (approx. $125 USD)

Visa fees are payable in U.S. dollars. While money-changing and ATM services are available at the airport, credit card payment is not a reliable option, and ATM machines occasionally malfunction.

Other Visa Categories:

As of January 2023, all foreign travelers must arrive in Nepal on a tourist visa and can only convert their visa to a different category after arrival.  Check with the  Department of Immigration  for visa details and the online application for various types of visas, including student and work visas. Your purpose of travel will dictate what category of visa you will need to obtain. If you intend to apply for a study or work visa from Nepal, it is strongly advised to start the visa conversion process with the institution/employer and the concerned government authorities at least two months prior to expiration of your tourist visa. Non-tourist visa issuance has been known to take months to process and stays beyond 150 days on a tourist visa will lead to deportation with overstay fines and penalties.

Extending Your Visa:

  • The Department of Immigration headquarters in the Kalikasthan neighborhood of Kathmandu is the only office that can extend all category visas.
  • The Immigration Offices in Pokhara, Kakarvitta, Birgunj and Belahiya can extend tourist, relationship (marriage) and Non-Residential Nepali (NRN) visas. 
  • Visitors should apply to extend their visas before the expiration date; failure to do so will result in penalty and late fees.
  • Long overstays beyond the expiration date can result in heavy fines, arrest, and detention pending formal deportation proceedings, followed by a ban on re-entry.
  • Payment at the Department of Immigration can be made only in cash via Nepali rupees or U.S. dollars.

Requirements for Exit:

  • You must have a valid visa in a valid passport before you will be allowed to depart Nepal. If your visa has expired, you must extend your visa before you will be allowed to depart.
  • The Immigration Office at Tribhuvan International Airport is not authorized to extend visas. Travelers who have tried to extend their visa at the airport will be sent to the Immigration Office in Kathmandu to pay the extension fee and, as a result, many travelers have missed their flights.
  • If you renew or replace your passport at the Embassy in Kathmandu, you must go to the Department of Immigration to transfer your Nepali visa by pasting a new visa into the new passport. Transferring a visa from one passport into another on one’s own is a serious crime in Nepal, with punishments of up to 9 years in prison and significant fines.
  • See the Government of Nepal’s  Department of Immigration website  for additional immigration information.

Travel across the Nepal-China Border:

You may encounter immigration difficulties with Chinese authorities when traveling across the Nepal-China border on land in either direction. Chinese authorities often require U.S. citizens and other foreign tourists to organize "group" tours through established travel agencies as a prerequisite for obtaining visas and entry permits into Tibet. Chinese authorities have occasionally closed the border, especially around the anniversary of significant events in Tibet. For current information on border crossing status, check with the  Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nepal . Please read the  Department of State’s travel information for China  and check for current regulations on entry into Tibet.

HIV Restrictions:

The Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of Nepal.

Surrogate Births:

Surrogacy was halted by the Nepal Supreme Court on August 25, 2015 and the practice was formally banned by a Cabinet decision on September 18, 2015, using the Supreme Court decision date as a cut-off. The Supreme Court’s final verdict was announced on December 12, 2016, and holds that surrogacy is legal for infertile Nepali married couples, but illegal for single men or women, transgender couples, and foreign nationals. Surrogacy services are not permitted in Nepal. This includes ancillary services such as birth documentation and the issuance of a visa/exit permission in cases where the child was born in Nepal, even where IVF/surrogacy services were provided outside of Nepal. Without a visa/exit permission a newborn child will not be able to leave Nepal.

U.S. Military Personnel and DOD Contractors:

DOD personnel must review the  Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG)   for travel to Nepal. All official travel and active duty personal travel must be submitted through an  APACS request . Contact information for the Defense Attaché Office can be found in the FCG if you have additional questions.

Dual Citizenship

Nepali law does not permit dual citizenship. Any citizen of Nepal who by naturalization or registration acquires the citizenship of another country shall cease to be a citizen of Nepal.

Find information here on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs . 

Safety and Security

All U.S. Citizen travelers are encouraged to enroll into  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  while traveling abroad. This is a free service that allows U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates from the U.S. Embassy. Enrolling in  STEP  will help the U.S. embassy contact them and provide assistance during an emergency overseas.

U.S. government employees on official travel to Nepal must seek approval before traveling outside of Kathmandu Valley.

Political-Related Violence:  The potential for isolated political-related violence remains a real risk in Nepal. There are occasionally small-scale improvised explosive device (IED) incidents in various parts of Nepal, particularly during periods of heightened political tension. Reported incidents have not been directed toward Westerners or Western interests but have caused injury and damage to nearby individuals and property. The Embassy is also aware of extortion attempts and threats of violence by a local group against private businesses and aid organizations, including local and international schools within the Kathmandu Valley. Historically, violent political activity has been more prevalent in the Terai – the southern plains region of Nepal bordering India – than elsewhere in Nepal. Demonstrations have on occasion turned violent, although these activities generally have not been directed at U.S. citizens.

Bandhs:  Bandhs (general strikes) were formerly a common form of political agitation in Nepal but have occurred only infrequently in recent years. Bandhs are unpredictable, may include violent incidents, and can occur with little notice. They can cause schools and businesses to close and can stop traffic. Individuals not complying with bandhs may be harassed, and in extreme cases assaulted, by supporters. If you plan air travel to or from Nepal during a scheduled bandh, please note that transportation may be affected. Usually, bandh organizers allow specially marked buses operated by the  Nepal Tourism Board  to travel between the airport and major tourist hotels. Do not attend or approach political demonstrations or checkpoints established during bandhs.

Avoid all unnecessary travel where bandhs are occurring.

Actions to Take:

  • Avoid all large gatherings, protests, and demonstrations.
  • Report any difficulties or security concerns to police.
  • Monitor local media for updates.
  • Do not engage in argumentative or combative behavior if challenged or told that you cannot go to access a certain area.
  • Keep a low profile.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.

Crime:  Although relatively low, crime in Kathmandu and throughout the country has risen in some categories, including:

Financial Crimes and Theft:

  • Pickpocketing and bag-snatching may occur at major tourist sites, including the Thamel area of Kathmandu. Store valuables, including passports and cash, in the hotel safety deposit box; do not carry them. The Nepal Tourist Police recommend that you carry a photocopy of your passport when going out.
  • Exchange money only at banks, hotels and government authorized money exchanger. Criminals use sophisticated scams, such as ATM skimming, particularly in Kathmandu.
  • Avoid walking alone after dark, carrying large sums of cash, and wearing expensive jewelry.
  • See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Violent Crimes:

  • Travel in groups, especially at night.
  • While not common, sexual assaults against foreigners have been reported, including in popular tourist areas of Kathmandu and Pokhara, and in remote mountainous areas.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Foreigners have occasionally had sedative drugs added to their food or drink by individuals who seek to rob or otherwise take advantage of them. Solo travelers should take extra precautions to ensure their personal safety.  We strongly recommend no solo trekking.  Local guide service is available in trekking regions.
  • Nepali police forces may have limited resources to deter and investigate crimes. Many criminal cases reported to the police remain unresolved.
  • U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for information on available resources and assistance.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing “100" as soon as incident occurs. This number is equivalent to “911” in the United States, and it is staffed 24/7 by the local police. When calling the emergency number, speak slowly and clearly so that your message gets across to the official without misunderstanding.  Tourist Police , who can be reached by dialing “1144, +977-01-4247041 or +977-9851289444” have good English language capabilities and also stand ready to assist in popular tourism areas. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. For additional information, visit the State Department’s webpage on   help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

U.S. citizen victims of crime in Nepal may always  contact the U.S. Embassy  in Kathmandu for assistance. Sexual assault victims might be more comfortable contacting the Embassy before reporting the crime to local authorities. In the event of a crime, the Embassy can:

  • Help you find appropriate medical care
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • Provide a list of local attorneys
  • Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport

Tourism:  No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance and be aware of potential insurance fraud. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local authorities are generally the best first responder in emergency situations. Many local resources are available by phone, although it may become necessary to flag down an officer or visit a local police or government office.

In the event of an emergency, dial  100  to contact the police in Nepal. This number is equivalent to “911” in the United States, and it is staffed 24/7 by the local police. Their toll free number is  16600141916 .

Tourist Police  have good English language skills and are often a better point of contact for foreigners than the regular police. They generally stand ready to assist in popular tourism areas. Dial  1144  for the tourist police hotline. They can be reached at +977-01-4247041 or +977-9851289444. The Tourist Police Office is located at Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu, Tourist Service Center Building.

Nepal Police  telephone directory  is available for quick reference.

Dial  101  for fire. Dial  102  for ambulance service. Dial  103  for traffic control. Dial  197  for telephone inquiry.

U.S. citizens requiring emergency assistance may contact the U.S. Embassy at any time. For an emergency involving death, arrest, serious illness or injury, or anything that threatens the life or safety of a U.S. citizen in Nepal during the weekends and holidays, call +977-01-423-7266. During normal business hours, call the operator at 01-423-4000 and tell that you have a U.S. citizen emergency and ask to be transferred to the American Citizen Services Unit. After normal business hours, describe your U.S. citizen emergency to the operator and ask to be connected with the Duty Officer, who is on-call at all times for emergency situations involving the life and safety of U.S. citizens, but cannot assist in any way with visa inquiries or routine services. If the primary number does not work, you can also call the analog back-up number, +977-01-423-4500.

The State Department’s Office of Overseas Citizens Services also stands ready to assist. From the United States and Canada, dial +1-888-407-4747 and from overseas dial +1-202-501-4444. General information on  the range of emergency services that the office of Overseas Citizen Service makes available to U.S. citizens overseas  is available at  http://travel.state.gov .

(The “+” sign indicates your international dialing prefix, which is 011 in the United States and 00 in most other countries. For example, if dialed from the United States, the normal business hours number is 011-977-1-423-4000.)

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Arrests and Consequences:  You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws in Nepal, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you are arrested in Nepal, the authorities may keep you in detention for weeks or even longer during the investigation stage. Punishment for violations of criminal laws in Nepal range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the crime. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to  notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Driving Under the Influence:  Driving in Nepal after consuming any amount of alcohol could result in arrest.

Illicit Drugs:  A variety of illegal drugs are available in Nepal. Purchasing, possessing or consuming illegal drugs, including marijuana and hashish, could result in both fines and jail time.

Firearms and Ammunition:  You may not bring any kind of firearm or ammunition into Nepal. Violators who bring in firearms or ammunition – even imitations or in jewelry form – may be prosecuted.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

TREKKING IN NEPAL

Solo Trekking: DO NOT TREK ALONE.  The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu  strongly   discourages  U.S. citizens from hiking alone or even separating from larger traveling parties while on a trail. In recent years, U.S. citizens and other foreigners have disappeared, been seriously injured, or been victims of violent crime while trekking alone. In some cases, even after extensive search efforts, missing solo trekkers have not been found. The safest option for trekkers is to join an organized group and/or use a reputable trekking company that provides an experienced guide and porters who communicate in both Nepali and English. Effective April 1, 2023, new requirements established by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and more than a dozen trekking organizations, with the support of Nepal’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, will require solo or foreign independent trekkers (FITs) to use a local guide from licensed trekking guide and obtain Trekking.

Information Management System (TIMS) card through authorized trekking agencies registered with the Government of Nepal while trekking in Nepal’s official national parks and protected areas. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in considerable fines. Please review travel related information on the official websites of the Nepal Tourism Board and the U.S. Embassy-Kathmandu prior to travel.

Natural Disaster Risks:  Trekking in Nepal comes with the risk of natural disaster.  DO NOT TREK ALONE.  Trekkers should be alert to the possibility of avalanches, landslides, and falling rocks, even when trails are clear. Although these risks existed prior to the April 2015 earthquake and its aftershocks, earthquakes have further destabilized some mountainous areas, causing severe landslides in some affected areas. Monsoon rains, which generally begin in June and largely end in September, may destabilize steep slopes and mountainsides. During the monsoon season, floods and landslides regularly damage travel infrastructure and telephone services, complicating efforts to locate U.S. citizens and arrange medical evacuations. Consult carefully with trekking agencies for current, location-specific information, and heed warnings of potential danger. Provide family or friends with a detailed itinerary prior to trekking and check in at all police checkpoints where trekking permits are logged.  Register your itinerary  through the STEP enrollment process. Before leaving Kathmandu, trekkers can check with the  Himalayan Rescue Association  (phone: +977-1-444-0292/444-0293) for reliable information about trail conditions and potential hazards of traveling in the Himalayas. We strongly recommend supplemental travel and evacuation insurance.

Altitude Risks:  Everyone, regardless of age, experience, or fitness level, should exercise caution when trekking at high altitudes. Many popular trekking routes in Nepal cross passes as high as 18,000 feet. Only experienced mountain climbers should tackle the Himalayas.  DO NOT TREK ALONE.  Acclimatization is best achieved by walking slowly, rather than hurrying, to cover the distance at high altitudes. Without acclimatization, trekkers of all ages, experience, and fitness levels can experience acute mountain sickness (AMS), which can be deadly. Speak with your doctor or medical professionals in Kathmandu for specific recommendations. We strongly recommend supplemental travel and evacuation insurance.

Evacuation by Helicopter:  Obtain emergency medical evacuation insurance before visiting Nepal. Many foreigners require or request evacuation by helicopter from Nepal’s rugged mountain terrain. Most hospitality employees along trekking routes can connect you with a helicopter evacuation service provider. Helicopter companies will generally require either specific evacuation insurance, pre-approval from your health insurance, or payment upfront by credit card in order to assist. Carry appropriate insurance and travel with credit card information. If you hope to have health insurance pay large bills without pre-approval, please note that the service provider may ask to hold onto your passport pending receipt of payment.

Lodging and Travel:  During peak trekking seasons, generally spring and autumn, hotel rooms may become scarce. Make advance booking for hotel rooms and plan for possible flight/airport delays. Domestic air flight cancellations and delays occur frequently because of bad weather, including to and from Lukla (gateway to the Everest Base Camp trek) and Jomsom (gateway to the Mustang region). Leave ample time to catch outbound international flights when connecting from domestic flights. Be aware that many hotels in Nepal do not meet international fire or earthquake safety standards.

TIMS Card and Trekking Permits:  The Government of Nepal has authorized the  Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN)  and the  Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)  to implement a system for foreign hikers called the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). Foreign visitors on hiking trips in Nepal, including those not with organized hiking groups, are required to have a valid TIMS card through authorized trekking agencies registered with the Government of Nepal. In case of an emergency, this system helps authorities find trekkers.

Special Permits for Restricted Areas:  Trekking in certain remote areas of Nepal and in national parks may require additional permits or fees. Travelers may consult with an experienced tour agency, or review  the website of the Nepali Department of Immigration  for more information. Please be aware that restricted areas have special requirements for helicopter rescue flights, which may delay assistance even in the event of a medical emergency.

Other Outdoor Activities:  Nepal offers many exciting outdoor activities that come with a variety of risks. Several tourists have drowned while swimming in Phewa Lake near Pokhara and other lakes in Nepal because of flash floods triggered by monsoon rains, or after becoming entangled in submerged tree branches or roots. Incidents of boats capsizing on choppy water have also occurred. Wear life jackets. Paragliding and ultralight aircraft tourism have become popular in Pokhara, and many new companies offer such services. Weigh the risks involved with paragliding and ultralight aircraft travel; safety standards may or may not follow international best practices. When engaging in adventure activities, Embassy personnel are strongly encouraged to use professional guide services and to carry a Personnel Tracker Locator device. There are also a number of deep and dangerous ravines not clearly visible to pedestrians in Pokhara city, mainly in the outlying areas. Some local residents and foreigners have fallen into these ravines and sustained serious injuries or died. Medical care is limited and often does not meet Western standards.

Volunteering:  Nepal’s Department of Immigration considers volunteering as work, and thus requires volunteers to obtain a work visa. Volunteering on a tourist visa is illegal, and can result in detention by immigration authorities, fines, expulsion from Nepal, and lengthy bans on returning to Nepal.

Some visitors to Nepal wish to volunteer at orphanages or other organizations in an effort to help disadvantaged persons – especially children. Others try to help by donating cash or goods. While we applaud this generous spirit, we are aware of reports that many such opportunities – especially those involving volunteering at orphanages or “children’s homes” – are not in fact charities. Instead, they are for-profit enterprises set up to attract donations from abroad and financial support from volunteers. Many of the children are reportedly not orphans, and volunteering at such an organization may indirectly contribute to child exploitation by creating a demand for children who may be trafficked to such locations. Prospective volunteers in Nepal should read a recent report prepared by a U.S.-based NGO in Nepal regarding  ethical volunteering , with a focus on issues relating to “voluntourism.” It can be difficult even for those with significant experience in Nepal to determine which organizations provide authentic and valuable opportunities for well-meaning volunteers, and which manipulate goodwill for profit. With respect to orphanages or children’s homes, the Nepali National Child Rights Council can help confirm an organization’s legitimacy. You can direct inquiries to Ms. Namuna Bhusal,  [email protected] , +977-9851139474. The NCRC also handles complaints against children’s homes. U.S. citizens should be aware that the Government of Nepal has limited resources to monitor and regulate non-profit organizations. If you are not certain about an organization, you may want to consider routing contributions through a reputable national or international charity to avoid the possibility that your time and money could unknowingly support the exploitation of children. Learn more about  best practices for volunteering abroad .

Currency and Money Issues:  The Government of Nepal requires travelers to declare either the import or export of currency that exceeds US$5,000 USD in value by filling out a customs declaration form. The Embassy is not aware of any banks or money exchange offices in Nepal that accept U.S.-issued travelers checks or cash U.S. checks. Accordingly, travelers should consider alternative methods of accessing local currency (e.g., exchanging cash U.S. dollars for Nepali rupees at a bank or money exchange office, or withdrawing rupees from an ATM). Travelers should ensure that they keep a copy of the declaration form after customs officials have put the official endorsement and appropriate stamps on the form to prevent any problems upon departure. Please note that this requirement is subject to change and travelers should contact  the Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C.  to obtain the latest information. Carrying Indian currency in denominations greater than 100 rupees notes is illegal/restricted in Nepal. Consequences for violating this requirement generally include seizure of all cash, gold, or jewelry carried, as well as fines and imprisonment. travelers coming to Nepal from India who hope to change Indian currency into Nepali Rupees are advised to bring 100 Indian Rupee notes or lower denominations only. Please note that Nepali Rupees cannot be exchanged outside of Nepal. See the section below on Customs regarding prohibitions on the importation of gold and silver.

Customs: Do not carry any amount of pure gold, more than 50 grams of gold jewelry, or more than 100 grams of silver into Nepal. You will be detained, the valuables will be seized, and you will need to pay a fine equivalent to the full value of the items seized in order to be released.

Nepal customs regulations  are complex. Customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning importation (even temporarily) and exportation of certain items. Do not carry other valuable metals, articles of archaeological or religious significance, wildlife or related items, drugs, or weapons and ammunition. Do extensive research before importing household pets (including cats and dogs), communications equipment, and other items that might be perceived as sensitive. Drones are strictly regulated throughout Nepal and require special permission from the Home Ministry and other government authorities.

Items purported to be for donation to schools, hospitals, and other social organizations have sometimes been confiscated or cleared only after payment of a significant fine for failure to obtain prior approval from the  Ministry of Finance . Those wishing to donate items to a charity or any organization in Nepal must obtain prior approval for waiver of the custom fees from the Ministry of Finance by sending a formal request letter (not via email) to the following address: 

 Spokesperson: Mr. Ananda Kafle  Ministry of Finance  Singha Durbar  Kathmandu, Nepal  Tel: +977-1-  4200537  Email:  [email protected] The request should include detailed information about the items to be imported, as well as the organizations receiving the donations. The Secretary will review the request and refer it to the Ministerial level for final decision and approval. Note that all requests are processed on a case-by-case basis. It is highly recommended that intended recipient(s) coordinate with the Ministry to get requests processed. Please see additional information about  Customs  and Import Restrictions.

Dual Nationality:  Nepal does not recognize dual nationality. Accordingly, when a Nepali citizen naturalizes as a U.S. citizen, he/she loses his/her Nepali citizenship. Some travelers who have tried to maintain both U.S. and Nepali passports have faced difficulties entering or exiting Nepal. U.S. citizens of Nepali descent may be eligible for a special visa called a “Non-Resident Nepali” or “NRN” Identity Card. The NRN Identity Card allows a holder to open a local bank account, invest, and own certain types of property, subject to certain restrictions. For more information, contact the  Nepali Ministry of Foreign Affairs  or the  Embassy of Nepal  in the United States.

Natural Disasters:  Nepal lies on an active fault zone and is considered at high-risk for major earthquakes, as demonstrated by the April and May 2015 earthquakes that caused extensive damage in the Kathmandu Valley and other districts. Lack of adequate emergency response vehicles, equipment, and medical facilities, combined with building codes that are not strictly enforced, may multiply the extent of possible catastrophic damage from a major earthquake, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. Nepal is also prone to flooding and landslides. The Government of Nepal’s ability to respond in the event of a natural disaster may be limited. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) .

In Case of Emergency or Natural Disaster:

  • Monitor us on  Twitter  and  Facebook  for updates.
  • Call us in Washington at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP )   to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 

Faith-Based Travelers:  As of August 2018, religious conversion and proselytization are illegal in Nepal.

See the following webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
  • Human Rights Report  – see country reports
  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Rights:  Same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons in Nepal actively and openly advocate for their rights. Nepal, however, remains a conservative and traditional society. Discrimination exists, and reports of non-violent harassment of LGBTI persons have been received. Accordingly, LGBTI travelers may wish to be discreet and avoid public displays of affection. See   our  LGBTI Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for additional details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation difficult throughout Nepal. Nepali law prohibits discrimination against persons who have physical and mental disabilities, including discrimination in employment, education, access to health care, and in the provision of other state services. The law mandates access to buildings, transportation, employment, education, and other state services, but these provisions generally are not enforced. Nepal’s poor infrastructure makes it impracticable in many cases for a mobility-impaired traveler to move around the country, including within the Kathmandu Valley. The government is largely ineffective in implementing or enforcing laws regarding persons with disabilities. Except for a few clinics and hospitals, Nepal mostly lacks accessible and appropriate accommodation for individuals with disabilities.

Students:  See the  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See the travel tips for  Women Travelers .

General:  Although availability of medical care has improved within the Kathmandu valley, outside the valley, it is limited and generally not up to Western standards. Medical facilities are often overwhelmed because of insufficient resources. Emergency medical services, especially in public hospitals, are of poor quality compared to that available in the United States. Routine medical issues and basic emergency surgeries can be performed by clinics and hospitals in Kathmandu. Serious illnesses, however, often require evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility in a neighboring country. There is minimal mental health care available in Nepal. U.S. citizens with mental health problems are generally stabilized and transported to the United States or to another regional center for care. The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu maintains a list of local medical facilities and practitioners .

Intestinal tract diseases, including cholera, are present. Food hygiene and sanitary food handling practices are uncommon in Nepal, and precautions should be taken to prevent water and food-borne illnesses. Prudent travelers should avoid raw, green, leafy vegetables during the monsoon season. Malaria is present in the Terai region.

For emergency services in Nepal, dial 102.

Ambulance services are widely available in major cities, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards and is dependent on the quality of hospital from which the ambulance is dispatched.

COVID-19 Testing: Local medical facilities, including outpatient labs, offer PCR COVID-19 tests on a cash basis, paid by the test recipient. Some facilities may offer in-home testing when arranged in advance. Average PCR test costs are $10-15, with expedited results offered for an additional fee. Most results are available within 48 hours. Expedited results may be available in as little as 6 hours. Results are typically sent via email and/or text message with a link to a .pdf file with scannable barcode. Local pharmacies generally stock rapid COVID-19 antigen tests, which typically cost $5-8.

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is   available for U.S. citizens to receive in Nepal on an as-available basis through Nepal government. Those interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine should contact local ward authority. Medical providers in Nepal have been trained in English and most reception staff will be able to communicate in English. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States. 

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:  Assisted Reproductive Technology services are widely available in Nepal and are generally safe. Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners and LGBTQI+ citizens in Nepal, and is subject to complex local regulations. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Stray Animals:  Stray animals are common on the streets of Kathmandu and at popular tourist sites. Visitors should be aware that stray animals may be infected with rabies. The CDC’s Preventing Dog Bites webpage recommends that if you are bitten by an animal, get to a safe place, immediately wash wounds with soap and water, and seek medical attention.

The U.S. Embassy does not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Obtain emergency medical evacuation insurance before visiting Nepal. Serious medical issues and injuries suffered while hiking in remote areas may require evacuation by helicopter to Kathmandu. Those trekking in remote areas of Nepal should factor the high cost of a potential helicopter rescue into their financial considerations. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation, as medical evacuations can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Payment will be expected in cash before the medevac can take place, if there is no insurance coverage. Neither the U.S. Embassy nor the U.S. government pays private medical bills overseas.

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

BEWARE OF MEDEVAC SCAMS: Medevac scams are common in Nepal, particularly for those traveling in the popular trekking regions of Solukhumbu (Everest region) and Annapurna (Pokhara region). Unscrupulous trekking companies and medical providers may pressure trekkers experiencing mild altitude sickness effects to take medevac helicopter flights back to Kathmandu and be transported by ambulance to a hospital, then charged inflated costs to bill insurance companies, with the excess fees split between involved parties. Trekkers themselves are often knowingly involved in these scams. Such activities are illegal in Nepal, but rarely prosecuted and often difficult to discern in advance. Trekkers should use only TAAN-registered trekking agencies and seek information on costs for medical treatment in advance. Travelers should, however, be aware of the life-threatening risks involved with altitude sickness and err on the side of caution when receiving treatment.

Prescription Medication:  To avoid problems at port of entry, always carry prescribed medication in the original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Embassy of Nepal to ensure that the medication is legal in Nepal. Local authorities irregularly enforce restrictions on certain drugs regularly prescribed by doctors in the United States or other foreign countries. To avoid problems, always carry prescription medication in the original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations:  Stay up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information :

  • World Health Organization
  • WHO’s Nepal Profile
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • CDC’s Health Information for Travelers to Nepal

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: In Nepal, vehicles are driven on the left-hand side of the road. In general, roads in Nepal are in poor condition and lack basic safety features, resulting in significant numbers of accidents and fatalities. Traffic is poorly regulated and traffic jams are common on major streets. The volume of vehicles on the roads is increasing faster than improvements in infrastructure. Many drivers are neither properly licensed nor trained, vehicles are poorly maintained, and public vehicles are often overloaded.

Nepali law requires that any driver – including U.S. citizens – have a valid Nepali license in order to legally operate a motor vehicle in Nepal. If you drive without a valid local license, you will expose yourself to greater legal liability. The Nepal Department of Transportation does not  convert U.S. driver’s license into a Nepali license. Foreign nationals must either pass the driving test in Nepal or obtain an online International Driving Permit.

Nighttime Travel:  Avoid nighttime road travel outside the Kathmandu Valley and minimize nighttime travel within Kathmandu because of insufficient street lighting and hazardous road conditions. Embassy personnel are prohibited from traveling at night outside urban areas in Nepal.

Motorcycle Travel:  Deaths from motorcycle accidents have risen dramatically in recent years, including urban areas within Kathmandu. Avoid riding motorcycles in Nepal, particularly on highways; and always wear a helmet.

Buses:  Long-distance buses often drive recklessly, and bus accidents involving multiple fatalities are not uncommon. It is dangerous to travel on the roofs of buses as live electrical and other communications wires hang low in many places. Traffic police also impose fines and detain individuals for riding on the roofs of buses.

Taxis:  Taxis are a safer and more convenient alternative to buses. Almost all taxi drivers in Nepal insist on negotiating the price of the trip in advance, even if the taxi has a meter installed. Online apps for taxis, such as Pathao, are widely used. 

Pedestrian Travel:  Sidewalks are nonexistent in many areas, and drivers generally do not yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Pedestrians account for a considerable portion of traffic fatalities in Nepal.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety and Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Nepal, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Domestic air safety is a concern. In recent years, there have been a number of fatal plane crashes on domestic routes in Nepal, including some crashes in which U.S. citizens have been killed. Nepal’s mountain airports, including Lukla and Jomsom, are notoriously dangerous due to challenging weather and terrain. As a result of Nepal’s poor aviation safety record, since 2013 the European Union (EU) has banned all Nepali airlines from flying into or within EU countries. Although Nepali domestic flights are insured, payments to the families of victims of a plane crash are minimal. Domestic air travelers may want to consider flight insurance that will cover domestic flights in Nepal before leaving home. Check Nepal’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Nepal . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Nepal Visa for Tourists: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: September 6, 2023

Nepal Tourist Visa Requirements - Map

Nepal visa requirements are fairly simple and easy to understand. Nepal has an excellent visa ON ARRIVAL policy, offering visa ON ARRIVAL for passport holders of most countries in the world.

Visa ON ARRIVAL is issued free of cost for nationals of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

As part of the treaty of peace and friendship between India and Nepal, Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter and stay in Nepal.

Table of Contents

Nepal visa requirements.

Nepal Tourist Visa Image

Visa EXEMPT passport holders

Visa required passport holders.

  • Afghanistan

Note: Visa is also REQUIRED for passport holders with refugee status.

Visa ON ARRIVAL passport holders

Passport holders that are neither EXEMPT nor REQUIRED must apply for the visa ON ARRIVAL at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or any of the following road border crossings.

  • Bhairahawa/Sunauli
  • Gaddachauki

Application Process

Visa REQUIRED passport holders must apply for Nepal tourist visa at the consulate of Nepal in their country of residence. must enter Nepal within 6 months from the date of issue. For more details, check the Nepal Immigration website or contact your nearest consulate general of Nepal.

Documentation

Visa REQUIRED passport holders must apply for Nepal tourist visa at the consulate of Nepal in their country of residence. Check the Nepal Immigration website or contact your nearest consulate general of Nepal for more details.

For the Visa ON ARRIVAL, you need to fill out and submit the online tourist visa application prior to arrival. This application is valid for a maximum of 15 days. Therefore, submit this application only within 15 days of your arrival. Take a print of the submission receipt and bring it with you on the day of arrival.

If your application has expired or forgotten to fill prior to your arrival, you can still fill it out at one of the kiosks in Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Documentation required for visa ON ARRIVAL at Tribhuvan International Airport.

  • Filled in arrival card (your airline will give you one or you can grab one at the immigration and customs)
  • Submission receipt of the online tourist visa application. If you have not submitted your application online, you can fill it at the immigration kiosks
  • Passport size photo

Documentation required for visa ON ARRIVAL at road border checkpoints

  • Filled in application form (you can grab one at the checkpoint)

Since passport holders of India do not need a visa to enter Nepal, they have to go through the same line as the Nepalese at Tribhuvan International Airport. They must fill out the arrival card before heading to the immigration.

The visa ON ARRIVAL fee is based on the number of days of your stay.

  • 15 days visa – $25 USD
  • 30 days visa – $40 USD
  • 90 days visa – $100 USD (Includes multiple entry fees of $20)

Passport holders of SAARC (South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation) countries (except Afghanistan and India) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given year (Jan 01 to Dec 31), a 30-day visa ON ARRIVAL is issued free of cost. The same fee structure as everyone else applies to visas longer than 30 days.

As part of the treaty of peace and friendship between India and Nepal, passport holders of India do not need a visa. Therefore, passport holders of India must go through the same immigration line as Nepalese.

For multiple entry visas, there is an additional fee of $20 USD. 90-day visas are multiple entry and they include an additional $20 USD.

Visa fees can be paid in USD, GBP, Euro or NPR. Other currencies are also accepted but guaranteed. It is advised to have some USD handy to avoid any trouble.

Visa Extension

Tourist visas can be extended for a maximum period of 150 days in a given year (Jan 01 – Dec 31). The visa extension fee is $2 USD for each additional day.

Visa extensions can only be processed at the following immigration offices

  • Immigration office in Kathmandu
  • Immigration office in Pokhara

Filling an online tourist visa application is mandatory for all visa extensions. Fill out the online application and print the submission receipt before going to the immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The following documentation is required.

  • Online application submission receipt
  • Copy of your Passport ID page
  • Copy of your current Nepal visa
  • Visa extension fee

Apply in person

Below 12 countries and any passport holders with refugee status must apply for the visa in person at the consulate of Nepal in their country of residence prior to travel to Nepal.

Immigration and Customs

Most airlines do not let you check-in online if you need a visa to travel to the destination country. If you check-in online or at the airport, either way, make sure to arrive at the gate a bit early and see the airline staff. They sometimes have to go through the visa requirements again, verify the documents and put a “Docs OK” stamp on your boarding pass.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the day of travel.

If you are applying for the visa ON ARRIVAL, fill out the tourist visa application online prior to arrival in Nepal. Carry a copy of the submission receipt and a passport photo with you.

When you enter the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, follow the below steps

  • Grab and fill out the arrival card
  • If you haven’t submitted the tourist visa application online already, fill it out at one of the immigration kiosks
  • Pay the visa fee according to the number of days you are planning on staying in Nepal
  • Go through the immigration and customs
  • Claim your baggage

Prepaid taxis at the Tribhuvan International Airport are a bit expensive. If you prefer to catch a cheaper taxi, exit the airport and walk towards the front of the taxi line. You will see a few taxis at the front that are not prepaid and you can negotiate the fare. You can get a taxi to Thamel for 500 NPR.

You will have to go through passport control on exit. You will also need to fill out a departure card for foreigners. This card is the same for all including Indian nationals.

You might be asked how long were you in Nepal and what was your purpose. Exit formalities take about 10-15 minutes at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

You may have to go through immigration and customs on your return to your home country or the country you are flying back to. If you are flying back on an Airbus A330/A340/A380 or Boeing 747/777, expect long lines at the immigration and customs.

Nepal Tourist Visa Requirements - Mount Everest EBC Trek

Nepal visa requirements are fairly simple. Nepal has an excellent visa on arrival policy, offering visa on arrival for most nationalities in the world. Visa on arrival is issued free of cost for citizens of SAARC countries (except Afghanistan). Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter and stay in Nepal.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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How to Obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa: A Simple Guide

How to Obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa: A Simple Guide

Are you planning a trip to Nepal? It’s important to know that all foreign tourists need a visa to enter Nepal, except for Indian nationals. Fortunately, securing a Nepal visa is a straightforward process. This article provides you with up-to-date information on obtaining a Nepal tourist visa, including the visa duration, cost, and the application process.

Table of Contents

Nepal Visa Duration and Price

Nepal offers tourist visas with different durations:

  • 15 Days (single/multiple entries): 30.00 USD
  • 30 Days (single/multiple entries): 50.00 USD
  • 90 Days (single/multiple entries): 125.00 USD

Visa Extension

If you wish to extend your stay, the tourist visa can be extended for a minimum charge of 45 USD for 15 days or 3 USD per day. For delays less than 150 days, a late fine of 5 USD per day is applicable.

Obtaining Your Nepal Tourist Visa

There are three primary ways to secure a tourist visa for Nepal:

  • On Arrival at Kathmandu’s International Airport (KIA) : This is the most straightforward method for many travelers.
  • Land Border Crossings : You can obtain a visa at any land border crossing equipped with an Immigration Office.
  • From Abroad : Apply at one of Nepal’s foreign consulates before your trip.

Eligibility for a Nepal Visa

Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:

  • Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from your arrival date and at least one blank page for stamping.
  • Nationals from Nigeria, Ghana, Afghanistan, Palestine, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Somalia, Liberia, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Iraq are not eligible for visa on arrival. They must apply directly at a Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission in their country.

Required Documents

Ensure you have the following ready:

  • One passport-sized photo with a light background.
  • Cash for the visa fee (USD is preferred, though EUR, CHF, GBP, AUD, CAD, HKD, SGD, JPY are also accepted).

Online Visa Application (In Advance)

You have the option to apply for a tourist visa online within 15 days prior to your arrival date in Nepal. The online application requires your hotel address in Nepal and a recent digital passport-sized photo. After submitting the form, print the confirmation receipt to present to the Immigration Officer along with your passport and visa fee.

Gratis Visa

Gratis Visas are issued free of cost in specific cases:

  • Children under 10 years old (except for US nationals).
  • SAARC Citizens (except Afghanistan) for stays up to 30 days, provided it’s their first visit in a visa year.
  • Non-Residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholders.
  • Chinese Nationals, as well as nationals from Brazil, Russia, and Thailand, due to reciprocal visa waiver agreements.

Visas, including Gratis ones issued at the airport, are Tourist Visas. For visa extensions or changes in visa category, contact the Department of Immigration. Tourist visa extensions can also be processed at the Immigration Office in Pokhara.

Securing a tourist visa for Nepal is a relatively simple process, whether on arrival, online, or through a consulate. By ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents prepared, you can look forward to an unforgettable journey exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Nepal.

About The Author

Tusk travel team, related posts.

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Electronic Travel Authorization for Visa

All passengers travelling to Nepal by air or land route no longer require a proof of COVID Vaccinations (COVID pass) or a negative PCR test report of COVID-19.

Notice Regarding the Introduction of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Visa System

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Tourist Visa

  • Online Electronic Travel Authorization application form for Tourist Visa ( https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/onlinevisa-mission/application ).
  • ETA application submission time:- 9:15-13:00 hrs OR 14:00-15:30 hrs (on weekdays except  public holiday  including bank holiday).The appointment is not required.
  • The traveller should submit valid physical passport (with validity of a minimum period of six months) either in person or via post to the Embassy along with the print-out of the visa application.
  • After the Embassy verifies the ETA application, the traveller is required to pay for ETA.
  • Children under the age of 10  shall be issued gratis ETA free of cost.
  • ETA document can be collected on the same day if applied in person. If the application is made by post, the processing time is 3 working days.
  • Card Payment (Visa Debit/Credit, Master Card Debit/Credit, All Maestro cards) is accepted for the payment of visa fees. A virtual payment link will be sent to the applicant’s email if visa application is made by post. 
  • A self-addressed return envelope should also be sent to the Embassy if applied by post.
  • Please note Non-UK Passport holders should submit a UK residence permit in addition to other required documents

Electronic Travel Authorization for Travel Document Holders and the Nationals of

Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Swaziland, Somalia, Liberia, Iraq, Ethiopia, Palestine, Syria and Afghanistan

Documents Required For Travel Document Holders issued by the Government of UK, those who have been in the United Kingdom in a refugee status:

  • Original travel document with at least 6 months’ validity
  • A copy of citizenship certificate of the sponsor and signed sponsorship letter
  • A copy of UK resident permit card
  • Proof of Address
  • Details of Confirmed Hotel reservation
  • Valid Confirmed Air Ticket
  • Latest 1 month Bank Statement
  • Processing Time: One week 
  • Online Electronic Travel Authorization application form ( https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/onlinevisa-mission/application ).

Applicants can submit their documents for ETA and collect their passports in person or through their agents/representatives or by post as well.

For the application received by post, a Virtual Payment (Visa Debit/Credit, Master Card Debit/Credit, All Maestro cards) link will be sent to the applicant’s email once the application is received at the Embassy.

Please do not enclose a postal order or a bank draft for the payment of visa fees now onwards.

The applicants from the United Kingdom can enclose a Self Addressed Envelope with Special Delivery Stamp as per necessity with the application. (*Please do not use printed stamp and label)

Diplomatic and Official

Electronic travel authorization, eta for diplomatic visa.

ETA for diplomatic visa shall be issued to a person holding a diplomatic passport who needs to visit Nepal in connection with his/her official duty.

  • Original Diplomatic/Official passport with at least 6 months’ validity with at least two empty pages.
  • One recent passport-size photograph
  • A note verbale from the Foreign Ministry/diplomatic mission/ international organisation or equivalent offices with a request for an ETA for diplomatic visa, stating clearly the purpose and period of the visit.
  • Online Electronic Travel Authorization application form for Official/Diplomatic Visa ( https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/onlinevisa-mission/application ) 

ETA fees will be as follows:

** Once visa issued, it will be valid up-to six months only, so please enter the country within six months of visa issued date & DO NOT apply for a visa after or before 6 months you travel.

**Please note: Once the ETA is approved/issued, the fees will not be refunded.

** Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at entry points except for the nationals of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Swaziland, Somalia, Liberia, Iraq, Ethiopia, Palestine, Syria and Afghanistan.

**Refugees travelling with travel documents will require ETA before arrival.

Visitors may also obtain tourist visa at following arrival points in Nepa l: Click here for Arrival points

Visa Extension:

A tourist visa can be extended from the Department of Immigration and Pokhara Immigration Office for a total of 120 days.

An additional 30 days visa may be granted on reasonable grounds from the Department.

Over the course of a visa year, a tourist cannot stay in Nepal more than cumulative 150 days.

Non-Residential Nepalese Visa:

1.If any foreigner of Nepalese origin residing in foreign country wish to reside or conduct business, profession or Study, teach in any subject in Nepal, ETA for non-residential Nepalese visa may be issued to him and of his family.

2. The format of non-residential Nepalese visa shall be under Appendix 3b.

For Rules and Appendix Please see link below Immigration office, Nepal

For more information please contact us on 02072291594 or email: [email protected]

Nepal Tourist Visa

  • Table of contents

Traveling to Nepal

Who needs a nepal visa, nepal tourist visa validity, a complete arrival card, a complete visa application form, a valid passport, receipt of visa fees payment, visa prior to arrival, nepal tourist visa fees, where to apply, nepal tourist visa processing time, visa on arrival, nepal visa extension, nepal tourist visa faqs.

Each year, many tourists come to Nepal to go trekking or mountain climbing, visit historical sites, sample the local cuisine, and engage in other leisure activities. Nepal is home to ten of the fourteen tallest mountains in the world, as well as rich history and vibrant local culture, making it a unique destination for tourists of all kinds.

The following nationalities must apply for a tourist visa prior to traveling to Nepal:

Afghanistan, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Zimbabwe, and Palestine.

The Nepal Tourist visa is intended as a travel document for leisure purposes including, but not limited to, sightseeing, touring, trekking, and visiting friends/family.

Tourist visas are available for different periods of stay. Applicants can request a 15-day, 30-day, or 90-day visa when they apply. Tourists may not stay more than 150 days within a visa year (January to December) including extensions. The Tourist visa is available as a single-entry and multiple-entry visa.

Nepal Tourist Visa Requirements

To apply for a Nepal Tourist visa, all applicants will have to submit some basic documents depending on their nationality and the method of submission.

The following list contains the requirements for both the Tourist visa on arrival and the Tourist visa prior to arrival:

The Arrival Card must be filled out upon arrival in Nepal at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

Applicants can complete the Tourist visa application form through the official online portal before arriving or at one of the kiosks upon arrival. Applicants will receive a confirmation receipt with an official barcode. They must have the receipt with them when they approach the immigration officer for visa processing.

Passports (or travel documents) must be valid upon arrival in Nepal. Passport copies and handwritten passports are not accepted.

Payment can be made at the visa collections counter upon arrival to the airport. Applicants must present the receipt of payment to the immigration officer for visa processing.

The application form can be completed online . Applicants will receive a receipt of submission with an official barcode.

Passports (or travel documents) must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Nepal and have at least two blank pages for official use. Passport copies and handwritten passports will not be accepted.

The payment method will depend on the embassy or consulate where the applicant submits their tourist visa application.

Nepal Tourist Visa Application

Depending on whether the Tourist visa is a visa on arrival or a visa obtained prior to arrival, the visa application steps may include:

All travelers arriving in Nepal must complete an Arrival Card.

Application forms can be completed through the official online portal or at the Tribhuvan International Airport upon arrival. Either way, travelers must have a confirmation receipt with a valid barcode on it to present to the immigration officers at the Nepalese border.

There are several methods of payment available at the visa fees collection counter at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Applicants must keep the receipt of their payment to present to the immigration officer at the border.

Applicants can present their application form submission receipt, passport (or travel documents), and the receipt of payment for the visa fees to the immigration officer at the border for processing.

Application forms can be filled out through the official online portal . Applicants must print the completed form and their confirmation receipt with the valid barcode.

Applicants must prepare all the documents required by the relevant Nepalese embassy or consulate where they plan to submit their visa application.

Depending on the location of submission, the applicant must either retrieve their passport with the new tourist visa stuck inside from the embassy or consulate OR they will receive the passport by post.

The fees for the Nepal tourist visa will depend on the intended duration of stay and the number of entries. For a stay of 15 days, the cost is 30 USD; for a stay of 30 days, the cost is 50 USD; and for a stay of 90 days, the cost is 125 USD.

Some categories of applicants are exempt from the visa fees, including:

  • Children under 10 (except US citizens)
  • SAARC Citizens (except Afghanis) once a visa year (January to December) for stays of up to 30 days.
  • Non-Residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholders
  • Chinese Nationals

The Nepal Tourist visa can be obtained by most foreign nationals as a visa on arrival.

Nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Zimbabwe, and Palestine must apply for the Tourist visa via the relevant Nepalese Diplomatic Mission (embassy or consulate).

The processing time for the Nepal Tourist visa will vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and the method of submission.

Approved Visa Applications

After presenting the required documents to the immigration officer, travelers will receive a decision on the spot. If the Tourist visa is approved at the airport, the applicant will be permitted to enter the country immediately.

If approved, the applicant can retrieve their passport with the tourist visa stuck inside from the relevant embassy. Alternatively, they might receive the passport with the visa by post. It’s important to double-check that the visa information matches the identification information as written on the passport.

It is possible to extend the Nepal Tourist visa for up to 150 days in a single visa year (January to December). Extensions must be made for a minimum of 15 days. The cost is 3 USD per day. There is a 5 USD per day late fine if any delay occurs. An additional 25 USD will apply for tourists who request multiple entries.

The Tourist visa is a travel document that allows foreign nationals to enter Nepal for leisure purposes such as sightseeing or visiting friends/family.

The Nepal Tourist visa is available for periods of stay of 15 days, 30 days, and 90 days. It can be extended for up to 150 days in a single visa year (January to December). The period of stay will be determined based on the purpose of travel.

The fees for the Nepal tourist visa will depend on the intended duration of stay and the number of entries. For a stay of 15 days, the cost is 30 USD; for a stay of 30 days, the cost is 50 USD; and for a stay of 90 days, the cost is 125 USD. Some categories of applicants are exempt from the visa fees, including: • Children under 10 • SAARC Citizens (except Afghanis) once a visa year (January to December) for stays of up to 30 days. • Non-Residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholders • Chinese Nationals

The Nepal Tourist visa can be obtained by most foreign nationals either online through the official immigration portal or as a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Nationals from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Zimbabwe, and Palestine must apply for the Tourist visa via the relevant Nepalese Diplomatic Mission (embassy or consulate).

Check if you need a visa for your next destination

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भाषा परिवर्तन: Change to Nepali

Apply for a U.S. Visa

Select here to learn more about an important update on waivers of the interview requirement for certain nonimmigrant visa applicants.

(Updated: October 11, 2023)

All receipts for payment of Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees issued before October 1, 2022, expired September 30, 2023. There will be no extensions of fee validity. Applicants must have scheduled an appointment or submitted an interview waiver application before September 30, 2023 to avoid paying a new fee. If you paid the MRV fee on or after October 1, 2022, you must have scheduled the appointment within one year of your MRV payment date. Please note that the interview itself does not need to take place within one year, but an interview appointment needs to be made in the system, even if it is scheduled months into the future. Furthermore, applicants using MRV fees paid before October 1, 2022 to book an appointment are cautioned not to attempt to change their appointment dates on or after October 1, 2023. Doing so will result in forfeiture of both the original appointment slot and the MRV fee receipt. The applicant will be required to pay a new fee and submit a new application package.

Nonimmigrant visa holder travel: Passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. For more information, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/before-travel .

Immigrant visa applicants: U.S. immigration law requires immigrant visa applicants to obtain certain vaccinations prior to the issuance of an immigrant visa. For more information visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/vaccinations.html .

For the latest information from the U.S. Department of State regarding visa issues and travel to the United States, please visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news.html .

Effective May 1, 2023, the premium delivery charges have been revised to NPR. 600- per passport/document for all U.S. Visa applicants, payable in cash on the NIMB Cash counter of the Premium Delivery locations. Please refer to our website for additional details.

Your interview date can be scheduled within 365 days from the start of your program shown on the form I-20. However, if your visa is approved, you cannot enter the United States more than 30 days in advance of the date shown on the form I-20. Your initial entry to the United States must be to attend the same school annotated on your visa. The immigration inspector at the port of entry (POE) can refuse admission for a student seeking an initial entry with a Form I-20 from a school other than the one named on the visa or if the student indicates an intention to attend a different institution.

Applicants at Nepal can now pay the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee through electronic funds transfer (EFT) payment option using connectIPS e-Payment System. Although fees are listed in U.S. dollars, payment must be made using local currency (NPR). No debit/credit cards will be accepted in order to pay the MRV fee . For more information, please visit this link .

The Consular Exchange Rate is periodically revised based on the prevailing conversion rate. Before submitting your payment, please verify that the visa fee on your deposit slip matches the current consular exchange rate listed on the  visa fee page .

Mount Rushmore - South Dakota

Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Nepal. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal

This is the official visa information website of the U.S. Mission in Nepal.

Nonimmigrant Visa Information

  • Bank and Payment Options
  • Form DS-160 Information
  • Appointment Wait Times
  • Photos and Fingerprints
  • Visa Waiver Program
  • Security Regulations

Nonimmigrant Visa Application

  • Apply for a Visa
  • Pay My Visa Fee
  • Complete My DS-160
  • Schedule My Appointment
  • Track My Passport
  • Apply for an Expedited Appointment
  • Interview Waiver & Visa Renewal
  • Application Refused Under INA 221(g)
  • Immigrant Visa Information
  • K Visa Applicants
  • Expedited & Medical Hold Cases
  • Health Workers and Employment-Based Immigrant Visa
  • Reschedule My Immigrant / Diversity Visa Appointment
  • Check My Immigrant Visa Petition Status
  • Immigrant Visa Wait Times
  • Track & Retrieve My Passport

Local Visa Programs

  • Travel Coordinator
  • Group Appointments
  • Diplomatic and Government Officials
  • Applicants under 14 years of age or age 80 and over
  • U.S. Embassy
  • Passport/Visa Collection Locations and Drop-off Locations
  • Bank Locations

General Information

  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Holidays and Closures
  • Rights and Protections
  • Helpful Links

© CGI Federal Inc.

Department of State

  • usvisas.state.gov

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  • Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Nepal set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Nepal in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Nepal.

Passport validity requirements

To avoid problems at immigration, make sure your passport has an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after your date of entry into Nepal.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

At border control, you may need to show:

  • a travel insurance document which has cover for healthcare costs including repatriation and other emergencies while you are in Nepal
  • confirmation of where you will spend your first night, for example, a hotel booking

Visa requirements

You can get a Nepal visa online up to 15 days in advance of your arrival. You can also queue up to get a tourist visa on arrival, but payment must be made in cash, with US dollars being the preferred currency. Applying in advance can reduce the time it takes you to pass through immigration. Visas are available for several lengths of stay at various costs. Look on the immigration department website for the options and how to apply .

Overstaying your visa in Nepal is a serious crime, and can lead to significant fines or imprisonment.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Nepal guide .

If you are arriving in Nepal directly from certain countries in Africa and Latin America, you will need to show a yellow fever certificate to enter Nepal.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Nepal. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Bringing precious metals into Nepal is strictly regulated. You can carry gold ornaments up to 50 grams and silver ornaments up to 100 grams. If you bring in undeclared gold or silver, you may:

  • get a fine equivalent to the value of the goods
  • go to prison for between one month and 5 years depending upon the value of the goods
  • have the goods confiscated
  • be detained during the proceedings

Taking money into Nepal

When you arrive in Nepal, declare on your customs declaration any amount above the value of 5,000 US dollars in banknotes or 10,000 dollars in notes and travellers cheques combined. Customs will give a certified declaration which you must keep. You will need to convert all your Nepali currency before you leave Nepal, and the bank or exchange counter at the airport may ask you for the declaration.

ATMs are not reliable outside main tourist sites.

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Embassy of Nepal - Ottawa, Canada

Tourist Visa Application

Complete “Online Visa Application” HERE

A. Documents to be submitted for Tourist Visa:

  • The printed copy of the “Online Visa Application” confirmation page
  • Original Passport with at least 6 months of validity
  • Visa fee in the form of Money Order or Bank Draft in the name of the Embassy of Nepal, Ottawa. Applicants submitting visa application in person may pay the fee by debit card too.
  • A prepaid self-addressed express return envelope with tracking number

Additional Documents Required For a Travel Document Holder

  • Sponsorship Letter from a Nepali Citizen addressed to the Embassy of Nepal, Ottawa.
  • A copy of the citizenship certificate of the sponsor.

Documents must be sent by mail/post to the following address:

Embassy of Nepal 408 Queen Street Ottawa, Ontario K1R 5A7

B. Visa Fee:

  • 15 days Multiple Entry Tourist Visa – CAD 45.00
  • 30 days Multiple Entry Tourist Visa – CAD 70.00
  • 90 days Multiple Entry Tourist Visa – CAD 180.00

C. Application Processing Time:

Normally 1-4 business days

(However, incomplete application or other reasons may delay the processing time)

Note: 1. Children below 10 years of age are issued Free Visas (Gratis Visas) 2. Personal Cheques, Credit Cards or online bank transfers are NOT acceptable. 3. Visa once issued cannot be withdrawn nor the visa fee be refunded. Visa must be used within six months from the date of issue. 4. Application will be returned if the required documents are not complete. 5. For more Immigration and Tourism information please visit www.nepalimmigration.gov.np , www.tourism.gov.np and www.ntb.gov.np

Back to Visas

nepal visit visa application

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  1. Nepal Visa Application Form

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  2. How to Apply Nepal Visa Online at TouristVisaOnline.com |Track Your Nepal Visa Application Online

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  3. Nepal Visa Application Form PDF

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  4. How to apply Nepal tourist visa online?

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  6. Nepal Visa

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COMMENTS

  1. Advice for Online Visa Applicants

    detailed address in Nepal. You need to provide telephone numbers—land-line and mobile. You need to provide your email address too. The submitted application will remain in the system for 15 days. After 15 days, the application will be deleted automatically from the system. Once the application is successfully submitted, a receipt will be sent ...

  2. पर्यटक भिषा

    Immigration Offices, under Department of Immigration have been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting...

  3. How to get Tourist Visa in Nepal ?

    Non tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of maximum one year (except business visa). Nepal Tourism Board is a national tourism organization of Nepal established in 1998 by an Act of Parliament in the form of partnership between the Government of Nepal and private sector tourism industry ...

  4. PDF Embassy of Nepal Tourist Visa Application

    Embassy of Nepal 2730 34th Place, NW, Washington D.C. 20007 Self Sponsor Yes No Male Female Other-----Office Use Only-----Embassy of Nepal 2131 Leroy Place, NW Washington D.C. 20009 Entry Visa No: Date of Expiry: Issuing Officer ratis An at o ssu 4. Visa Sticker No.: The Ambassador I would like to request for the issuance of the Tourist Visa 1 ...

  5. Nepal Visa

    When you apply for a Nepal Tourist Visa, you need the following documents: The Nepal Tourist Visa Application Form ( completed online and printed) Your original passport, which is valid for at least another six months and has at least two blank visa pages. Photocopies of the personal information page of your passport.

  6. अध्यागमन विभाग

    Important Notice Regarding Online Application and Payment for Nepalese Visa (2076-10-23) स्व-घोषणा ... A map showing all the entry and exit points to/from Nepal along with contact information about the offices in the points. ... Apply for VISA, Visa Extension/Conversion, Trekking Permit, Visa Transfer and other online operations.

  7. Nepal International Travel Information

    As of January 2023, all foreign travelers must arrive in Nepal on a tourist visa and can only convert their visa to a different category after arrival. Check with the Department of Immigration for visa details and the online application for various types of visas, including student and work visas. Your purpose of travel will dictate what ...

  8. Nepal Visa for Tourists: A Comprehensive Guide

    30 days visa - $40 USD. 90 days visa - $100 USD (Includes multiple entry fees of $20) Passport holders of SAARC (South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation) countries (except Afghanistan and India) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given year (Jan 01 to Dec 31), a 30-day visa ON ARRIVAL is issued free of cost.

  9. How to Obtain a Nepal Tourist Visa: A Simple Guide

    Cash for the visa fee (USD is preferred, though EUR, CHF, GBP, AUD, CAD, HKD, SGD, JPY are also accepted). Online Visa Application (In Advance) You have the option to apply for a tourist visa online within 15 days prior to your arrival date in Nepal. The online application requires your hotel address in Nepal and a recent digital passport-sized ...

  10. Electronic Travel Authorization for Visa

    ETA application submission time:- 9:15-13:00 hrs OR 14:00-15:30 hrs (on weekdays except public holiday including bank holiday).The appointment is not required. The traveller should submit valid physical passport (with validity of a minimum period of six months) either in person or via post to the Embassy along with the print-out of the visa ...

  11. Nepal Visa Guide:Fees, Requirements, and Application Process

    Information on Visa Extension. Tourist Visa Extension: Available for a minimum of 15 days at USD 45, with an additional USD 3 per extra day. Late Penalty: A fine of USD 5 per day is applicable for delays not exceeding 150 days. Plan Your Nepal Trip with Confidence. This guide aims to demystify the Nepal visa application process for all travellers.

  12. Nepal Tourist visa requirements, fees and visa application process

    Nepal Tourist Visa Fees. The fees for the Nepal tourist visa will depend on the intended duration of stay and the number of entries. For a stay of 15 days, the cost is 30 USD; for a stay of 30 days, the cost is 50 USD; and for a stay of 90 days, the cost is 125 USD. Some categories of applicants are exempt from the visa fees, including:

  13. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Nepal. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal.

  14. Online Services

    Apply for Entry Tourist Visa. Visa Plan Upgrade. Visa Plan Upgrade. Upgrade visa plan to SRE/MRE ... Certify for Non Visa Arrival/Departure. Visa Application Track. To track visa application. Track your visa application. ... To check visa issued by Nepal. Check visa issued by Nepal. Check Trekking Permit. To check trekking permit issued by ...

  15. Visas

    We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to reduce visa wait times to facilitate travel between the United States and Nepal. Please continue to monitor our website for further updates. ... Fee validity: All nonimmigrant visa application fee (also known as the MRV fee) payments made on or after October 1, 2022 are valid for 365 ...

  16. Entry requirements

    Passport validity requirements. To avoid problems at immigration, make sure your passport has an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after your date of entry into Nepal. Check with your travel ...

  17. On-arrival Visa Application

    On-arrival Visa Application. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) Select Language * English. Required. Select country (Your passport issuing country) * Select Visa Type * Tourist Visa ... Proceed Developed by Department of Immigration, Nepal ...

  18. Tourist Visa Application

    Complete "Online Visa Application" HERE A. Documents to be submitted for Tourist Visa: The printed copy of the "Online Visa Application" confirmation page Original Passport with at least 6 months of validity Visa fee in the form of Money Order or Bank Draft in the name of the Embassy of Nepal, Ottawa. Applicants submitting visa application in person may pay