Planning a trek or holiday in Nepal? Getting your Nepal visa is straightforward, and for most nationalities, you can obtain it on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or apply online before you travel. This complete guide covers every visa type, current fees, the application process, permit requirements for trekking, and answers to the most common questions travellers ask.
At Mountain World Treks, we help hundreds of international trekkers visit Nepal every year. We’ve put together this guide to make your visa process as smooth as possible.
Do You Need a Visa for Nepal?
Most international visitors require a visa to enter Nepal. However, citizens of a small number of countries are exempt.
Countries That Do NOT Need a Visa for Nepal
Citizens of the following countries can enter Nepal without a visa:
- India — no visa required, no time limit (valid passport or official ID card)
- China — no visa required for organised groups through designated ports of entry (conditions apply; individual travellers should verify with the Nepal Embassy)
All other nationalities require a valid visa to enter Nepal. The good news is that Nepal offers visa on arrival at entry points for citizens of most countries in the world.
Countries NOT Eligible for Nepal Visa on Arrival
Citizens of a small number of countries are not eligible for a visa on arrival and must apply in advance at a Nepal Embassy or Consulate:
- Afghanistan
- Cameroon
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Iraq
- Liberia
- Nigeria
- Palestine
- Somalia
- Swaziland (Eswatini)
- Syria
- Zimbabwe
Citizens of these countries must obtain a visa from the nearest Nepal Embassy before travelling.
Types of Nepal Visa
1. Nepal Tourist Visa
The most common visa for trekkers, travellers, and holidaymakers. This is available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) and at overland border crossings, or via the online e-visa system before departure.
Available durations:
- 15 days
- 30 days (most popular)
- 90 days (maximum single entry)
Multiple entries: Nepal tourist visas can be issued as single or multiple entry. Multiple-entry tourist visas are valid for 150 days within a visa year and allow re-entry from India or China.
2. Nepal e-Visa (Online Visa Before Travel)
Nepal’s Department of Immigration operates an official e-visa portal where you can apply online before your trip. This is the recommended option if you want to save time at the airport.
Official e-visa website: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np
How to apply:
- Visit the official portal and create an account
- Fill in your personal details and travel information
- Upload a recent passport-size photo (white background) and a scanned copy of your passport bio page
- Pay the visa fee online by credit/debit card
- Receive your visa approval letter via email (typically within 24–72 hours)
- Print the approval letter and present it on arrival in Nepal
Note: The e-visa is only valid for entry through Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu), Gautam Buddha International Airport (Bhairahawa/Lumbini), and a number of designated land border crossings.
3. Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Nepal offers visa on arrival to eligible nationalities at the following entry points:
Airports:
- Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
- Gautam Buddha International Airport, Bhairahawa (Lumbini)
- Pokhara International Airport (when international flights operate)
Land Border Crossings (for visa on arrival):
- Birgunj / Raxaul (India–Nepal)
- Bhairahawa / Sonauli (India–Nepal)
- Kakarbhitta / Panitanki (India–Nepal)
- Mahendranagar / Banbasa (India–Nepal)
- Kodari / Zhangmu (Tibet–Nepal) — verify status before travel
- Rasuwagadhi / Kerung (Tibet–Nepal)
4. Nepal Business Visa
For those visiting Nepal for business purposes. Requires a letter of invitation from a Nepal-registered company. Duration and fees vary.
5. Nepal Transit Visa
For travellers transiting through Tribhuvan International Airport. Valid for up to 96 hours.
6. Nepal Non-Tourist Visa
For those visiting for study, research, NGO work, journalism, or diplomatic purposes. These require prior approval and specific documentation.
Nepal Visa Fees 2025–2026
| Duration | Fee (USD) | Fee (Equivalent EUR approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 days | USD $30 | ~€28 |
| 30 days | USD $50 | ~€46 |
| 90 days | USD $125 | ~€115 |
Payment accepted at Kathmandu Airport:
- US Dollars (USD) — preferred
- Euros (EUR)
- British Pounds (GBP)
- Most major foreign currencies
- Credit/Debit cards (at the e-visa kiosks)
Children under 10 years of age: Free (no visa fee)
Note: Fees are set by the Government of Nepal and subject to change. Always check the official Department of Immigration website for the latest figures before travel.
Nepal Visa on Arrival: Step-by-Step Process at Kathmandu Airport
Here is exactly what happens when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport without a pre-arranged e-visa:
Step 1 — Fill in the Arrival Form Pick up the arrival card on the plane or at the airport. Fill in your name, passport number, flight details, accommodation address in Nepal, and purpose of visit.
Step 2 — Use the Automated Kiosk (Recommended) TIA has self-service visa application kiosks near the immigration hall. Enter your passport details, take a photo at the kiosk, and pay by card. This is significantly faster than the manual counter.
Step 3 — Join the Visa on Arrival Queue If not using the kiosk, fill in a paper visa form and queue at the Visa on Arrival counter. Have your photo (passport size, 35mm x 45mm, white background) ready — there is a photo booth at the airport if needed.
Step 4 — Submit Documents and Pay Submit your passport, completed form, and photo. Pay the visa fee (cash or card). Keep your receipt.
Step 5 — Collect Your Passport with Visa Your passport is returned with the visa stamp. Proceed to the immigration counter for entry.
Average processing time: 15–45 minutes (longer during peak season, October–November and March–April).
Pro tip from Mountain World Treks: Apply for your Nepal e-visa online 2–3 days before departure. It’s the same cost, avoids airport queues, and gives you peace of mind.
Nepal Visa Extension in Kathmandu
If you want to stay longer than your original visa allows, you can extend your Nepal tourist visa in Kathmandu.
Where: Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu (near the French Embassy) Hours: Sunday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Saturdays and public holidays) Website: https://www.immigration.gov.np
Extension fees:
- USD $3 per day for the first 30 days of extension
- USD $5 per day for extensions beyond 30 days (up to 150 days total in a visa year)
Documents required:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed extension application form
- 1 recent passport-size photo
- Visa fee (payable in USD or Nepali Rupees)
- Proof of sufficient funds (sometimes requested)
- Onward travel ticket (sometimes requested)
Maximum stay: Tourists may stay in Nepal for a maximum of 150 days in a single visa year (January–December or as calculated from first entry).
Nepal Visa for Indian Citizens
Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. You can enter Nepal from any open border crossing or through Tribhuvan International Airport with:
- A valid Indian passport, OR
- A valid Indian Voter ID card (for land border crossings)
- An Aadhaar card is not accepted as a travel document
There is no fee, no visa form, and no time restriction on an Indian citizen’s stay in Nepal. However, you must register at the immigration checkpoint on entry.
Trekking Permits in Nepal — Required in Addition to Your Visa
A Nepal tourist visa alone does not grant permission to trek in all areas. Depending on your trekking route, you will need one or more of the following permits:
1. TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- Required for most standard trekking routes in Nepal
- Free TIMS (Green card): For trekkers going with a registered trekking agency (like Mountain World Treks)
- Individual TIMS (Blue card): USD $20 for independent trekkers
- Obtained through your trekking agency or the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu/Pokhara
2. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit
- Required for the Everest Base Camp Trek and all routes through Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park
- Fee: NPR 3,000 (~USD $23) per person
- Obtained at the park entrance at Monjo or in Kathmandu
3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Required for all treks in the Annapurna region (Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, etc.)
- Fee: NPR 3,000 (~USD $23) per person
- Obtained through trekking agencies or Nepal Tourism Board offices
4. Langtang National Park Entry Permit
- Required for the Langtang Valley Trek, Gosaikunda Trek, and Helambu Trek
- Fee: NPR 3,000 (~USD $23) per person
5. Restricted Area Permits
Some remote and sensitive trekking regions require a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which must be obtained through a registered trekking agency. These include:
| Area | Fee | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Mustang (Upper Mustang) | USD $500 for 10 days | Must trek with licensed agency |
| Dolpo (Upper Dolpo) | USD $500 for 10 days | Must trek with licensed agency |
| Dolpo (Lower Dolpo) | USD $250 for 10 days | Must trek with licensed agency |
| Manaslu Circuit | USD $100 per week (Sept–Nov) / USD $75 (other months) | Must trek with licensed agency |
| Kanchenjunga | USD $100 per week (Sept–Nov) / USD $75 (other months) | Must trek with licensed agency |
| Humla | USD $90 per week | Must trek with licensed agency |
Mountain World Treks handles all permit applications on your behalf as part of our trekking packages. You do not need to visit government offices yourself.
Passport Requirements for Nepal
Your passport must:
- Be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Nepal
- Have at least one blank visa page for the Nepal visa stamp
- Not be damaged or mutilated
If your passport is expiring soon, renew it before booking your Nepal trip.
Travel Insurance for Nepal — Strongly Recommended
While not a visa requirement, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended (and required by Mountain World Treks for all trekking clients). Your policy should cover:
- Medical treatment and hospitalisation
- Helicopter evacuation (essential for high-altitude trekking above 3,000 m)
- Trip cancellation and interruption
- Lost or stolen luggage
- Emergency repatriation
Make sure your policy specifies coverage for the maximum altitude you plan to reach (e.g., 5,400 m for Everest Base Camp). Many standard travel policies do not cover high-altitude trekking — read the fine print.
Frequently Asked Questions: Nepal Visa
Q: Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival at Kathmandu Airport?
Yes. Citizens of most countries (except those listed above) can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You will need a valid passport, one passport-size photo, and the visa fee in foreign currency or by card.
Q: How much does a Nepal tourist visa cost?
A 15-day Nepal tourist visa costs USD $30. A 30-day visa costs USD $50. A 90-day visa costs USD $125. Children under 10 years of age are exempt from visa fees.
Q: How long can I stay in Nepal on a tourist visa?
You can stay up to 90 days on a single tourist visa. The maximum total stay in Nepal in any single visa year is 150 days.
Q: Can I extend my Nepal visa in Kathmandu?
Yes. You can extend your tourist visa at the Department of Immigration in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu. The extension fee is USD $3 per day for the first 30 days and USD $5 per day beyond that.
Q: Do I need a visa to trek in Nepal, or just a trekking permit?
You need both. A valid Nepal tourist visa is required for entry into the country. In addition, specific trekking permits (TIMS card, national park entry permits, restricted area permits) are required depending on your route.
Q: Is there a Nepal e-visa? How do I apply?
Yes. Nepal’s official e-visa portal is at https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np. You can apply online, pay by card, and receive your visa approval letter before travel. It is valid for entry at Kathmandu airport and designated land borders.
Q: Do Indian citizens need a visa for Nepal?
No. Indian citizens do not need a visa for Nepal and can stay for any length of time. A valid Indian passport or Voter ID card is accepted at land borders.
Q: Can I enter Nepal from Tibet (China) with a visa on arrival?
Citizens of most countries can enter Nepal from Tibet via Rasuwagadhi/Kerung or Kodari/Zhangmu with a visa on arrival, subject to the border crossing being open. Check current border status before travel, as these crossings can be subject to closures.
Q: What photo is required for a Nepal visa?
One recent passport-size photo (35mm x 45mm, white background, clear face). A photo booth is available at Kathmandu Airport if you do not have one. For the e-visa, you upload a digital photo.
Q: Do I need a Nepal visa if I am just transiting through Kathmandu Airport?
If you are transiting and do not pass through immigration, no visa is needed. If you exit the airport or need to transit for more than 24 hours, a transit visa (valid for up to 96 hours) is required.
Q: Can Mountain World Treks arrange my trekking permits?
Yes. Mountain World Treks handles all trekking permit applications, TIMS card, national park entry permits, and restricted area permits, as part of every trekking package. You do not need to visit government offices yourself.
Q: What happens if I overstay my Nepal visa?
Overstaying your visa is a serious matter. You will be required to pay a fine at the immigration desk upon departure. Repeated or significant overstays can result in a travel ban from Nepal.
Nepal Entry Points — Airports and Major Land Borders
International Airports
| Airport | City | IATA Code |
|---|---|---|
| Tribhuvan International Airport | Kathmandu | KTM |
| Gautam Buddha International Airport | Bhairahawa (Lumbini) | BWA |
| Pokhara International Airport | Pokhara | PKR |
Major Land Border Crossings (India–Nepal)
| Nepal Border Town | Indian Border Town | State (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Birgunj | Raxaul | Bihar |
| Bhairahawa | Sonauli | Uttar Pradesh |
| Kakarbhitta | Panitanki | West Bengal |
| Nepalganj | Rupaidia | Uttar Pradesh |
| Mahendranagar | Banbasa | Uttarakhand |
| Dhangadhi | Gauriphanta | Uttarakhand |
Tibet (China)–Nepal Land Border Crossings
| Nepal Border Town | Tibet Border Town |
|---|---|
| Rasuwagadhi | Kerung (Gyirong) |
| Kodari | Zhangmu |
Note: Tibet border crossings require a separate Tibet Travel Permit in addition to a China visa and Nepal visa. These crossings are subject to seasonal closures. Verify status before travel.
Nepal Visa — Quick Reference Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do most nationalities need a visa? | Yes |
| Visa on arrival available? | Yes, at Kathmandu Airport and most land borders |
| E-visa available? | Yes — nepaliport.immigration.gov.np |
| Tourist visa fee (30 days)? | USD $50 |
| Maximum stay on one visa? | 90 days |
| Maximum stay per visa year? | 150 days |
| Extendable in Nepal? | Yes — Department of Immigration, Kathmandu |
| Indian citizens need visa? | No |
| Children under 10? | Free |
| Trekking permits separate from visa? | Yes — TIMS + National Park permits required |
Need Help Planning Your Nepal Trip?
Sorting out visas and permits can feel overwhelming when you’re also planning accommodation, flights, gear, and an itinerary. That’s where Mountain World Treks comes in.
When you book a trek with us:
We provide a complete pre-departure information pack including visa guidance specific to your nationality
We handle all trekking permit applications on your behalf
Our team in Kathmandu is available 24/7 to answer questions before and during your trip
We advise on travel insurance that meets Nepal’s requirements for high-altitude trekking
We pick you up from the airport and guide you through arrival formalities
Whether you are joining us for the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Circuit, the Mardi Himal Trek, or any other adventure in Nepal — we take care of the logistics so you can focus on the mountains.
Contact Mountain World Treks: 
+977-9808563601 (WhatsApp available) 
mountainworldtreks@gmail.com 
www.mountainworldtrek.com 
GPO BOX 7447, Kalanki-13, Kathmandu, Nepal
Useful Official Links
- Nepal Department of Immigration: https://www.immigration.gov.np
- Nepal e-Visa Portal: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np
- Nepal Tourism Board: https://www.welcomenepal.com
- Himalayan Rescue Association: https://www.himalayanrescue.org.np
- Nepal Embassy Finder: Check your country’s Nepal Embassy website for advance visa applications
This visa information guide is prepared by Mountain World Treks & Expedition and is updated regularly. Visa regulations, fees, and entry requirements are set by the Government of Nepal and are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the official Nepal Department of Immigration or your nearest Nepal Embassy before travel.
Last reviewed: May 2026 | Mountain World Treks & Expedition, Kathmandu, Nepal