Nepal offers visa on arrival for citizens of several countries. However, there are some requirements and restrictions to keep in mind when entering Nepal with a visa on arrival. This blog provides a thorough overview of Nepal visa rules and regulations to help plan your trip.
Visa Categories in Nepal
There are several categories of visas available when entering Nepal:
- Tourist Visa: For leisure travel and sightseeing. Valid for 30 or 90 days.
- Business Visa: For business meetings, conferences, work. Valid for 30 days.
- Student Visa: For full-time students enrolled in Nepali institutions. Valid for duration of studies.
- Journalist Visa: For reporters and media persons visiting for coverage. Valid for 30 days.
- Transit Visa: For transit through Nepal to a third country. Valid for 15 days.
- Medical Visa: For seek medical treatment in Nepal. Valid for 6 months.
- Volunteer Visa: For volunteer/charity work. Valid for 6 months.
Requirements for Visa on Arrival
Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or land border crossings. The main requirements are:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Recent Color Photograph (35mm x 45mm)
- Details of Address in Nepal
- Onward/Return Air Ticket or Travel Itinerary
- Proof of Accommodation Booking
Some countries may require additional documents like entry proof for next country, visa approval letter etc. Fees are $25-40 depending on nationality, paid in US dollars. Random security deposits may be applicable too.
Eligible Nationalities for Visa on Arrival
Nationals from the following countries are eligible for Visa on Arrival in Nepal:
| Country | Duration | Fees in USD |
| Australia | 30 days | 25 |
| Bhutan | 30 days | 25 |
| Canada | 30 days | 25 |
| China | 30 days | 25 |
| Denmark | 30 days | 30 |
| Finland | 30 days | 30 |
| France | 30 days | 30 |
| Germany | 30 days | 30 |
| India | 30 days | 25 |
| Italy | 30 days | 30 |
| Japan | 15 days | 40 |
| South Korea | 30 days | 30 |
| Norway | 30 days | 30 |
| Switzerland | 30 days | 30 |
| UK | 30 days | 30 |
| USA | 30 days | 40 |
Nationals from countries not mentioned may need to apply for eVisa or obtain a visa from Nepali embassy prior to travel. Detailed list is available on Nepal Immigration Department website.
Extension of Visa in Nepal
Tourist/visa on arrival can be extended once up to maximum 150 days total. Application must be made before expiration with:
- Passport and entry stamp photocopy
- Application Form
- Recent Photograph
- Extension Fees (USD $2 per day)
Extension can be done at Department of Immigration Offices in Kathmandu, Bhairahawa or Nepalgunj. Overstay is strictly prohibited and fines apply. Departure from Nepal is advised before visa expiration.
COVID-19 Related Travel Restrictions
Due to the pandemic, all travelers must present a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of boarding flight to Nepal.
On arrival, random testing may be done and mandatory 14-day quarantine applies. Travelers must have proof of address/accommodation booking for quarantine period. Certain activities are allowed after 7 days with negative re-test.
Rules keep changing as per the virus situation. So do check latest updates on Ministry of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation website before traveling to Nepal.
I hope this extensive guide helps you understand Nepal visa processes in detail and prepare accordingly for your trip. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions. Safe travels!