If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, obtaining a visa is a straightforward process. Whether you’re flying into Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu or crossing into Nepal from India or Tibet, securing a visa is simple and hassle-free. Nepal offers a visa-on-arrival system for most travelers, but there are a few exceptions based on nationality. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain a Nepal visa and everything you need to know about the process.
Who Can Get a Visa on Arrival in Nepal?
Nepal’s visa-on-arrival service is available at several immigration entry points, including Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and various land border crossings with India and China (Tibet).
Most nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival, but citizens from certain countries, such as Nigeria, Ghana, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Somalia, and a few others, may not be eligible for this facility. It’s always recommended to check if your nationality qualifies for a visa on arrival before you travel.
Essential Documents for Obtaining a Nepal Visa
To obtain a visa for Nepal, you will need the following documents:
A Valid Passport:
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Nepal.
- Ensure that your passport has at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
Online Visa Application Form:
- Complete the online visa application form before arriving in Nepal. This can be done via the official Nepal Immigration website.
- The application form remains valid for 15 days from the date of submission, so make sure to apply within this window to avoid having your application automatically deleted.
Visa Fee Payment:
Visa fees can be paid in cash or by credit card upon arrival. The fees are non-refundable once paid, so ensure you are ready with the correct amount.
Accommodation Details:
You will need to provide the address of your accommodation in Nepal. If you are booking through services like Female Guide Holiday, you can use the hotel details, such as:
Nova Boutique Hotel
Street Name: Ga:Hiti Marg, Thamel
Ward No: 26
Kathmandu, Nepal
Nepal Entry Points
Nepal can be accessed via several immigration entry points, including:
- Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (TIA)
- Eastern Nepal – Kakarvitta, Jhapa
- Central Nepal – Birjung, Parsa
- Northern Border – Kodari, Sindhupalchowk
- Western – Rupandehi (Belhiya, Bhairahawa)
- Mid-western – Banke (Jamuna, Nepalgunj)
- Far Western – Kailali (Mohana, Dhangadhi) / Kanchanpur (Gaddachauki, Mahendranagar)
Each of these entry points allows you to obtain a visa on arrival, provided you meet all the necessary requirements.
Nepal Visa Fees
Visa fees for Nepal depend on the duration of your stay. The fees are as follows:
- USD 30 or equivalent for a 15-day visa
- USD 50 or equivalent for a 30-day visa
- USD 125 or equivalent for a 90-day visa
Special Visa Information for SAARC Nationals and Indian Citizens
SAARC Nationals: Citizens from SAARC countries (such as India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, etc.) are granted a free visa for up to 30 days.
Indian Nationals: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. However, they must present a valid identification document, such as a passport, voter ID, or citizenship card, when entering by air. Children under 10 years old need to present a birth certificate.
Visa Extension
If you decide to extend your stay in Nepal, visa extensions are possible with the following fees:
- USD 30 or equivalent for an extension of up to 15 days.
- For extensions beyond 15 days, an additional fee of USD 2 per day applies.
- The maximum visa extension allowed is 150 days within a single visa year (January to December).
Transit Visa
If you’re transiting through Nepal and your flight makes an unexpected stop, you can obtain a transit visa for one day for a nominal fee of USD 5 or its equivalent in another currency.
Important Travel Information
- Illegal Stay: Staying in Nepal without a valid visa is illegal. Always ensure you renew or extend your visa if you plan to stay longer.
- Visa Fees Are Non-Refundable: Once paid, visa fees are non-refundable, and a visa cannot be amended after it has been issued.
- Children: Children under 10 years old do not need to pay visa fees but must still have a valid visa.
- Trekking Permits: If you plan on trekking in Nepal, ensure you carry the necessary permits along with your passport.
Respect Local Culture and Customs
Nepal has a rich cultural heritage, and as a responsible traveler, it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid activities that could offend local sentiments, and always seek permission before taking photographs, especially in religious or sacred sites.
Restricted Areas in Nepal
Certain areas of Nepal are restricted for activities like filming, trekking, or other special permits. Always ensure you follow the rules and regulations to avoid any legal issues during your visit.
Getting Assistance with Your Nepal Visa
For female travelers looking for support with visa processing, accommodation, and tailored itineraries, Female Guide Holiday provides expert assistance to make your journey stress-free. They can help you with all aspects of your Nepal travel, from obtaining a visa to ensuring a comfortable stay.
By following these steps and guidelines, obtaining a visa for Nepal will be a straightforward process, leaving you more time to explore the beauty and culture of this fascinating country.