Nepal is a destination defined by its natural beauty, ancient cultural heritage, and unparalleled opportunities for adventure tourism. The country's landscape ranges from the humid, fertile lowlands of the Terai to the breathtaking, high-altitude peaks of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.

This geographical diversity supports a wide array of activities, most notably trekking on trails such as the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp route, as well as jungle safaris in Chitwan National Park, cultural tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley, and adventure sports like white-water rafting and paragliding.

For all international tourists entering Nepal, obtaining a tourist visa is a mandatory requirement set by the Government of Nepal's Department of Immigration.

The visa is a official authorization permitting entry into and travel within the country for a specified duration and purpose.

Key Information at a Glance

While visas can be acquired in advance from Nepalese diplomatic missions (embassies or consulates) abroad, the most convenient and efficient method for the majority of tourists is the Visa on Arrival (VOA) facility.

The Nepal Visa on Arrival is a streamlined process designed to minimize bureaucracy and processing time for eligible foreign nationals upon their arrival at designated entry points.

It eliminates the need for prior application through an embassy for passport holders of many countries, allowing tourists to obtain their visa directly at immigration counters.

This system is particularly beneficial for spontaneous travelers and those arriving from countries without a nearby Nepalese diplomatic mission. The process involves presenting required documents, completing necessary forms, and paying the applicable visa fee in person.

What is Nepal Visa on Arrival

The Nepal Visa on Arrival (VOA) is an official authorization stamped into a passport upon entering the country, granted to eligible foreign nationals at designated ports of entry without the need to obtain a visa from a Nepalese embassy or consulate beforehand.

It is a official concession by the Government of Nepal, specifically designed to facilitate and promote tourism by streamlining the entry process, thereby minimizing administrative time and bureaucracy for short-term visitors.

The primary benefit of the Nepal VOA is its convenience. It allows tourists to avoid the often lengthier procedures of applying for a visa through diplomatic channels, which can involve mailing passports, scheduling appointments, and longer processing times.

Instead, the entire process is conducted upon arrival, making it the most efficient option for the vast majority of tourists visiting Nepal for purposes such as sightseeing, trekking, and adventure activities.

It is crucial to understand the distinction between a Visa on Arrival and a pre-arranged visa. A Nepal tourist visa obtained in advance from a Nepalese embassy or consulate is mandatory for citizens of certain countries that are not eligible for the VOA facility, as listed by the Department of Immigration.

This pre-approval process involves submitting an application form, required documents, and fees to the diplomatic mission outside of Nepal. In contrast, the VOA is processed and issued directly at the immigration counter in Nepal.

For eligible travelers, the VOA is not a different type of visa but rather a different, more convenient method of obtaining the same standard tourist visa.

The Nepal Visa on Arrival for foreigners is typically available at one international airport and several land border crossings. The primary and most common point of entry is the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.

Upon disembarking, eligible passengers proceed directly to the dedicated VOA counters before reaching the primary immigration desks. The process is also available at major land border entry points, such as Sunauli, Birgunj, and Kakarvitta. 

The procedure at land borders is fundamentally the same as at the airport, though facilities and processing times may vary.

The visas issued through the VOA system are almost exclusively Tourist Visas. Nepal offers tourist visas for varying durations: 15 days, 30 days, and 90 days.

The visa fee is payable in foreign currency or Nepali Rupees upon application and is determined by the desired length of stay. It is important to note that the VOA facility is generally not applicable for other visa categories, such as business, study, or employment visas, which require prior approval and specific documentation from relevant Nepalese authorities before travel.

In summary, the Nepal Visa on Arrival is a efficient, straightforward process intended for tourists from eligible countries. It is designed to expedite entry by centralizing the application, payment, and issuance steps at the port of entry, provided the traveler has all the correct documentation ready for inspection.

Eligible Countries

The Nepal Visa on Arrival facility is extended to passport holders of a specific list of countries, as defined by the Nepal Department of Immigration. The eligibility is primarily based on bilateral agreements and international considerations.

Citizens from the majority of nations in North and South America, Europe, Oceania, and many parts of Asia are permitted to obtain their visa upon arrival.

The most current and official list of eligible countries is maintained on the website of the Nepal Department of Immigration, and it is the traveler's sole responsibility to verify their eligibility against this list before commencing their journey.

As a general guideline, the following nationalities are typically eligible for the Visa on Arrival:

A key group with specific provisions are citizens of SAARC member countries (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation). This includes India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Nepal Visa for SAARC citizens operates under a special framework.

While they are eligible for a visa on arrival, they are often granted a gratis (free) visa for a specific initial period, subject to certain conditions. For example, citizens of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka receive a gratis visa for the first 30 days in one visa year (January to December).

However, they must still follow the same application procedure at the immigration counter and will be required to pay fees for any extension beyond the free period.

It is critical to understand that eligibility for the VOA facility is determined by the passport the traveler holds, not their country of residence. A permanent resident of the United States who holds a passport from a non-eligible country, for instance, cannot obtain a VOA and must secure a visa from a Nepalese embassy beforehand.

Certain categories of individuals may also be eligible for visa on arrival or exemption under special circumstances, though this is often subject to prior approval or specific documentation. This includes:

• Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) holding a valid NRN card.
• Chinese passport holders are eligible, though it is always advisable to check for any specific, temporary regulations.
• Official delegations and certain diplomatic personnel, as per international conventions.

Given that international agreements and immigration policies can change with little notice, the absolute necessity of checking the official Department of Immigration website for the latest list of Nepal Visa eligibility cannot be overstated.

Relying on outdated information from third-party sources can result in denied boarding by airlines or refusal of entry upon arrival in Nepal.

Countries Requiring Pre-Approval

Citizens of a specific list of countries are not eligible for the Visa on Arrival (VOA) facility under any circumstances. Nationals from these countries must obtain a Nepal Visa pre-approval in the form of a valid visa stamped into their passport before traveling to Nepal.

This pre-arranged visa can only be acquired by applying directly at a Nepalese embassy or consulate located abroad.

The current list of countries whose citizens require a pre-arranged visa includes, but is not limited to:

This list is subject to change based on the Nepalese government's international relations and security policies. Therefore, it is imperative to consult the official website of the Nepal Department of Immigration for the most current and definitive list before making any travel plans.

The process for obtaining a Nepal Visa embassy application involves contacting the nearest Nepalese diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) well in advance of the intended travel date.

The standard procedure requires the applicant to submit a completed visa application form along with supporting documents, which typically include their original passport, passport-sized photographs, proof of travel itinerary, and sometimes additional documentation such as a letter of invitation or proof of accommodation.

The embassy will process the application, and if approved, will affix the visa sticker directly to the applicant's passport.

Practical advice for this process is essential to avoid complications:

• Initiate the process early: Embassy visa processing can take several weeks. Contact the embassy to inquire about their specific processing times, required documentation, and application submission procedures (e.g., in-person, by mail, or through an appointed agent).
• Submit complete and accurate documentation: Ensure every field on the application form is filled out correctly and that all required documents are provided. Incomplete applications are the primary cause of delays or rejections.
• Avoid last-minute complications: Do not book flights with non-refundable tickets until the visa has been successfully issued and the passport is returned. Airlines will rigorously check for a valid Nepalese visa in the passports of citizens from these countries at the point of departure and will deny boarding to any passenger without one.

Travelers holding passports from these countries who attempt to enter Nepal without a pre-arranged visa will be denied entry by immigration authorities at the port of entry and will be subject to deportation on the next available flight, bearing all associated costs. There are no exceptions to this rule for tourists.

Passport and Photos

The passport is the primary document required for obtaining a Nepal Visa on Arrival, and it must meet specific, non-negotiable criteria set by the Nepal Department of Immigration.

Failure to comply with any of these requirements will result in the refusal of the visa application upon arrival.

Passport Validity

The submitted passport must have a minimum validity of at least six months from the date of entry into Nepal. For example, if you are arriving in Nepal on January 1st, 2025, your passport's expiry date must be no earlier than July 1st, 2025.

Immigration officials will check this meticulously, and passports with less than six months of validity will be considered invalid for travel, leading to denied entry.

Blank Visa Pages

The passport must contain a minimum of one completely blank visa page. This page is necessary for the immigration officer to affix the Nepal visa sticker.

Pages marked "for endorsements" or "amendments" are not sufficient; the page must be designated for visas. Passports that are full will not be accepted, and the traveler will be denied the visa.

Physical Condition

The passport should be in good physical condition. Significant damage, such as a torn cover, detached pages, water damage, or an unreadable personal data page, may lead to scrutiny and potential refusal at the discretion of the immigration officer.

The machine-readable zone (MRZ) at the bottom of the photo page must be fully intact and legible.

Passport-Sized Photographs

Two recent, identical, color passport-sized photographs are mandatory for the visa application. These photographs must adhere to strict international standards:

• Size: 1.5 inches by 1.5 inches (35mm x 45mm).
• Background: Plain, light-colored, and preferably white. No patterns, shadows, or other people in the background.
• Expression: Neutral facial expression, with both eyes open and clearly visible. The face must be centered and facing the camera directly.
• Attire: Avoid wearing uniforms or white clothing that blends into the background. Headgear is only permitted for religious reasons and must not obscure any facial features.
• Age: The photographs must be taken within the last six months to be a current likeness of the applicant.

Practical Organization

It is highly recommended to carry multiple physical copies of all required documents. Keep the passport, the two photographs, and several photocopies of the passport's bio-data page together in an easily accessible and secure folder within your carry-on luggage.

This organization allows for efficient presentation at the visa counter and helps avoid delays caused by fumbling through bags. Having extra photographs on hand is also advised as a precaution against loss or accidental damage.

These Nepal Visa documents are your responsibility to provide, and being prepared is fundamental to a smooth Nepal Visa passport requirement process.

Online Pre-Arrival Form

The Nepal Visa online pre-arrival form is a digital application system managed by the Nepal Department of Immigration. This online platform allows eligible travelers to submit their personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary electronically before their arrival in Nepal.

While the Visa on Arrival itself is obtained physically at the immigration counter, completing this form in advance is a strongly recommended and highly beneficial step that is considered a de facto required document for a streamlined process.

The form is accessed through the official "Online Visa Application" section of the Nepal Department of Immigration's website. The application process involves creating a user profile and accurately filling out all mandatory fields in the digital form.

The information required typically includes the applicant's full name (as it appears in the passport), date and place of birth, nationality, passport number, issue and expiry dates, intended address in Nepal, date of entry, and intended duration of stay.

The primary benefit of this Nepal Visa online submission is a significant reduction in processing time upon arrival. Applicants who have completed the form online and obtained a receipt will join a separate, and typically much shorter, queue at the dedicated "Visa Pre-Application" counters at Tribhuvan International Airport or designated land borders.

This allows them to bypass the longer lines of passengers who are filling out paper forms manually at the airport. The pre-submission of data also minimizes the potential for errors and speeds up the verification process for immigration officers.

There are critical technicalities and common pitfalls to avoid:

Form Validity: The submitted online form is only valid for 15 days from the date of application. It is therefore advised to complete the form no earlier than two weeks before your scheduled date of arrival in Nepal. An expired application will not be processed, and you will be required to fill out a paper form upon arrival, negating the time-saving benefit.

Accuracy of Details: All information entered into the Nepal Visa online pre-arrival form must exactly match the details in your passport. Any discrepancy, such as a misspelled name or an incorrect passport number, will result in the application being rejected at the immigration counter. You will then be directed to fill out a new paper form, causing delays.

Final Step: Printing the Receipt: Upon successful submission and payment of the visa fee (if the option is available online), the system generates a confirmation receipt with a barcode and application number. It is mandatory to print a physical copy of this receipt in color or black and white.

A digital screenshot on a phone is not always accepted. You must present this printed receipt along with your passport and photographs at the immigration counter in Nepal. Failing to carry the printout may result in being unable to use the pre-application line.

In summary, while the Visa on Arrival is still issued at the port of entry, the online pre-arrival form is an essential preparatory document. Its correct completion and presentation are crucial for avoiding queues and ensuring a faster, more efficient entry process into Nepal.

Travelers should treat this electronic form with the same importance as their physical passport.

Step-by-Step VOA Process

The physical process of obtaining your Visa on Arrival upon entering Nepal is methodical and requires attention to detail at each stage to ensure a smooth experience.

The current fee structure for a tourist visa is as follows:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days: USD 125 (Department of Immigration, 2025)

Step 1: Arrival Card / Form Submission

Immediately after disembarking your flight at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) or upon arrival at a land border crossing, proceed directly to the Visa on Arrival area. This is typically located before you reach the main immigration clearance counters.

Your first action is to obtain and complete the necessary forms. There are two potential documents:

1. Tourist Visa Application Form: A paper form that all applicants must complete. These are available on tables or counters in the VOA area.
2. Arrival Card: A separate form required for all incoming passengers, regardless of visa status.

If you have not completed the Nepal Visa online pre-arrival form, you must fill out the paper Tourist Visa Application Form in its entirety. Use a blue or black pen and write in clear, block letters. The form requires personal details, passport information, and your travel itinerary in Nepal.

If you have completed the online form, you must still fill out the physical Arrival Card. However, you can bypass the queue for the paper visa forms. Instead, proceed directly to the dedicated "Visa Pre-Application" counter or line.

You will need to present your printed online application receipt, completed Arrival Card, passport, and two passport-sized photographs to the official at this counter.

At this submission stage, the officer will conduct a preliminary check to ensure all your Nepal Visa documents are present, the forms are fully completed, and the information matches your passport. If anything is missing or incorrect, you will be asked to step aside to rectify the issue, which will cause delays.

Step 2: Visa Fee Payment

After your forms and documents have been preliminarily accepted at the first counter, you will be directed to the visa fee payment counter. The Nepal Visa fee is determined by the duration of your stay and must be paid before your visa can be processed.

Payment must be made in cash. The accepted currencies are US Dollars (USD) or Nepalese Rupees (NPR). It is strongly recommended to pay in USD for the most favorable and transparent exchange rate.

While some payment counters may accept major credit or debit cards, this is not guaranteed and often incurs an additional processing fee (typically 3-4%). Relying on card payment is not advised.

Practical advice for payment:

• Ensure your USD bills are new, clean, and undamaged. Old or torn bills may be rejected.
• Attempt to have the exact amount for your desired visa duration. This significantly speeds up the transaction.
• Receipts from approved money exchanges or ATMs at the airport (if available) are available, but it is best to arrive with the correct cash already in hand.

After payment, you will receive an official payment receipt. Guard this receipt carefully, as it is your proof of payment and must be presented in the final step.

Step 3: Approval and Visa Stamp

With the official payment receipt in hand, proceed to the final immigration counter for the Nepal Visa approval. Here, you will present your complete packet of documents to the immigration officer for final verification and stamping. This packet includes:

• Your original passport.
• The completed Arrival Card.
• The payment receipt.
• Your two passport-sized photographs (if not already collected).

The officer will scrutinize all details, verify the payment, and may ask simple questions regarding your stay in Nepal. Answer clearly and honestly. Once satisfied, the officer will affix the Nepal VOA stamp, i.e., a visa sticker, to a blank page of your passport and provide an entry stamp.

The visa sticker will clearly state the type of visa (Tourist), the date of issue, the date of expiry, and the duration of your stay.

Before leaving the counter, it is imperative to double-check the visa sticker for any errors in your name, passport number, or the validity dates.

Rectifying a mistake after leaving the immigration area is a complex and time-consuming process. Once confirmed, you may proceed to baggage claim and customs.

Keep your passport and visa accessible, as you may need to present it again at subsequent security checks within the airport.

Arrival Points

The Nepal Visa on Arrival can be obtained at one international airport and several designated land border crossings. The process is fundamentally the same at all locations, but the infrastructure, volume of travelers, and specific procedures can vary significantly.

Understanding the layout and nuances of your specific point of entry is crucial for an efficient experience.

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the primary and busiest port of entry for tourists arriving in Nepal by air. The Nepal Visa on Arrival process is integrated into the arrival flow within the international terminal.

Upon disembarking, follow the signs for "Arrivals," which will lead you to the pre-immigration area. Before reaching the main passport control counters, you will find the dedicated Nepal Visa on Arrival section.

This area is typically comprised of several clearly marked stations:

• Form Counters: Tables stocked with stacks of paper "Tourist Visa Application" forms and "Arrival/Departure Cards." There are usually pens available, but it is advisable to carry your own.
• Visa Application Counters: These are the first official counters where you submit your completed paper form (if you did not pre-apply online), your passport, and photographs for initial verification.
• Pre-Application Counter: A separate, dedicated counter for travelers who have completed the Nepal Visa online pre-arrival form. You must present your printed receipt here to proceed.
• Fee Payment Counters: Counters operated by bank staff where you pay the visa fee in cash. These are clearly signed.
• Immigration Counters: The final row of counters where immigration officers conduct the final check, approve the application, and affix the visa sticker to your passport.

For first-time visitors, the area can be bustling, especially during peak hours when multiple flights arrive simultaneously. To avoid confusion and long queues, completing the online pre-arrival form is the most effective strategy. This allows you to bypass the lines for paper forms and proceed directly to the pre-application line

Typical wait times can vary from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and number of arrivals. Having all documents organized and ready for presentation will expedite your process regardless of the queue length.

Land Border Entry Points

The Nepal Visa on Arrival facility is also available at several land border crossings for travelers entering by road from India or Tibet (China). The process is identical in requirement but often more basic in its infrastructure. The major designated land entry points include:

• Sunauli-Belahiya (connecting to Uttar Pradesh, India): The most popular land crossing for tourists.
• Kakarvitta (connecting to West Bengal, India)
• Birgunj-Raxaul (connecting to Bihar, India)
• Nepalgunj-Jamunaha (connecting to Uttar Pradesh, India)
• Dhangaadi-Gauriphanta (connecting to Uttar Pradesh, India)
• Mahendranagar-Banbassa (connecting to Uttarakhand, India)
• Kodari (Tatopani-Zhangmu border connecting to Tibet, China) - Note: This crossing can be subject to frequent and prolonged closures; its status must be verified before travel.

The process at a Nepal Visa land border involves parking your vehicle or walking from the foreign side of the border, locating the Nepalese immigration office, and following the same steps: obtaining and filling out the paper forms, submitting documents, paying the fee at the cash counter, and finally receiving the visa stamp from the immigration officer.

Key challenges at land borders include potential language barriers, as staff may have varying levels of English proficiency, and less structured queue management. The facilities are more rudimentary compared to TIA.

Tips for a smooth entry include having all documents exceptionally well-organized, carrying exact cash in USD or NPR, and being patient. It is also critical to verify the operating hours of the specific border crossing in advance, as they are not open 24/7 like an airport.

Travelers should be prepared for a more manual and potentially slower process than at TIA.

Gratis / Free Visa

A Gratis Visa is a visa for which no fee is charged. The Government of Nepal extends this facility to specific categories of foreign nationals based on bilateral agreements, regional cooperation, and age-based exemptions.

It is crucial to understand that a gratis visa is not a separate visa type but rather a fee waiver applied to a standard tourist visa. The application procedure, submitting forms, documents and undergoing immigration approval, remains mandatory for all eligible individuals, with the only exception being citizens of India.

The following categories are eligible for a Nepal free visa under the conditions outlined:

A) Children: Foreign nationals below the age of 10 (ten) are granted a gratis visa. However, their details must be included in the visa application process, and they must possess their own valid passport.

They are not exempt from the requirement to have a visa; the fee for its issuance is simply waived.

B) SAARC Citizens: Citizens of member nations of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) are eligible for a gratis visa for a specific initial period.

The SAARC member countries are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

a) Citizens of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka are granted a gratis visa for the first 30 (thirty) days of their stay in each visa year (January to December).

This means a citizen of Bangladesh, for example, can receive one free 30-day visa per calendar year. If they wish to extend their stay beyond 30 days, they must pay the standard visa extension fee for the additional days.

b) Citizens of India do not require a visa to enter Nepal. As per the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, citizens of both countries can travel to the other without a passport or visa, using only valid government-issued photo identification for air travel and voter identification for land crossings.

However, for trekking, certain permits and identification at hotels, carrying a passport is strongly recommended.

C) Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs): Holders of a valid Non-Resident Nepali Identity Card are eligible for a gratis visa for the duration of the card's validity. They must present their original NRN card upon arrival to avail of this benefit.

D) Official and Diplomatic Personnel: Members of official delegations, diplomatic passport holders, and certain government personnel traveling on official business may be eligible for gratis visas based on international conventions and bilateral agreements.

They typically must provide a note verbale or official letter from their respective government or international organization.

Note: Officials from China, Brazil, Russia, and Thailand do not need an Entry Visa based on a reciprocal visa waiver Agreement (Department of Immigration, 2025).

It is imperative to note that the gratis visa is typically granted only once per visa year for categories like SAARC citizens. For example, if a citizen of Sri Lanka enters Nepal in March and receives a free 30-day visa, exits, and then attempts to re-enter in November of the same year, they will be required to pay the standard visa fee for their new visit. The eligibility for a fee waiver is not perpetual within a single calendar year.

All individuals receiving a gratis visa are still subject to the same immigration rules and regulations, including the requirement to not overstay the validity of their visa and to adhere to the conditions of their stay.

The standard penalties for overstaying apply if the visa is not extended before its expiration.

Travelers should always be prepared to present documentation proving their eligibility for a gratis visa (e.g., a passport to confirm age or nationality, an NRN card) to the immigration officer upon request.

Common Mistakes and Challenges

Navigating the Visa on Arrival process can be straightforward, but many travelers encounter avoidable delays and complications due to a lack of preparation.

Understanding these common pitfalls and their solutions is key to ensuring a smooth entry into Nepal.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Invalid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date. Airlines and immigration will deny travel if it is not.
• Missing Photos: Always carry two required passport-sized photos. Without them, the process stops, causing major delays.
• Form Errors: Fill out all forms completely and legibly. Inaccurate or messy forms will be rejected, forcing you to restart.
• Online Form Mistakes: Double-check that all details in the online form exactly match your passport. Any error nullifies the form and its benefits.
• Underestimating Stay: Apply for the correct visa duration (15, 30, 90 days) upfront. Extending later is more expensive and time-consuming.
• Assuming Card Payment: Do not rely on credit cards. Bring enough cash in USD or NPR to pay the visa fee, as card machines may not work.

Challenges and Solutions

Even with preparation, certain situational challenges can arise. Here are practical Nepal Visa tips and solutions to manage them effectively.

• Long Queues: Complete the online pre-arrival form to access the faster queue. Have a pen and documents ready to fill out paper forms while waiting.
• Technical Issues: Have a printed copy of your online form receipt as a backup. Carry cash (USD) to avoid reliance on card machines that may be offline.
• Eligibility Confusion: Verify your eligibility on the official Department of Immigration website before you travel to avoid being denied entry.
• Language Barriers: Keep documents organized. Use simple words, point to your passport, and have the fee schedule printed to bridge communication gaps.
• Group Travel: Appoint one person to manage all group passports, forms, and payments to streamline the process.
• Overarching Solution: Advanced preparation is the most effective strategy. Verify requirements, complete the online form, carry exact cash and extra photos, and keep all documents in one accessible folder.

Cash and Currency Rules

The Government of Nepal, through the Nepal Rastra Bank (Central Bank of Nepal), enforces specific regulations on the amount of cash and precious metals that can be brought into or taken out of the country.

These Nepal currency rules are strictly enforced by customs officials, and failure to comply can result in confiscation, fines, or legal penalties. Tourists must be fully aware of these limits to avoid any complications during arrival or departure.

Cash and Precious Metals

The regulations distinguish between foreign currency, Nepalese currency, and precious metals, such as gold and silver.

Foreign Currency

Importing into Nepal: There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency that a tourist can bring into Nepal. However, if the amount exceeds USD 5,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies), it must be declared upon arrival by filling out a Customs Declaration Form provided by the customs authorities.

Failure to declare amounts above this threshold can lead to scrutiny and potential confiscation.

Exporting from Nepal: A tourist is permitted to take out of Nepal foreign currency up to the amount they declared upon entry. If you declared USD 10,000 when you arrived, you can take out up to USD 10,000.

If you did not declare any amount because you brought in less than USD 5,000, you are allowed to take out a maximum of USD 5,000 in foreign currency without any documentation.

• • To take out more than USD 5,000, you must be able to present proof that the funds were either declared upon entry, obtained through legal banking channels within Nepal (e.g., an ATM receipt or bank exchange receipt), or are the unused portion of the declared amount.

Nepalese Currency (Nepalese Rupees - NPR):

Importing into Nepal: There is no restriction on bringing Nepalese Rupees into Nepal.

Exporting from Nepal: It is strictly prohibited to take Nepalese Rupees out of the country. Any NPR in your possession upon departure must be exchanged back into foreign currency before going through customs and security checks. Attempting to export NPR is a violation of foreign exchange regulations.

Indian Currency (Indian Rupees - INR):

• Importing into Nepal: There are no restrictions on bringing Indian Rupees into Nepal. INR is widely accepted in many businesses, especially in areas near the Indian border.
• Exporting from Nepal: Tourists are permitted to take out of Nepal a maximum of INR 25,000. This is a fixed limit and applies to all travelers.

Precious Metals (Gold and Silver):

Importing into Nepal: There are strict limits on the amount of gold and silver that can be brought into Nepal duty-free. A female passenger is allowed to bring up to 50 grams of gold and 100 grams of silver.

A male passenger is allowed to bring up to 25 grams of gold and 50 grams of silver. These items must be declared upon arrival. Quantities exceeding these limits are subject to customs duty and other taxes.

Exporting from Nepal: Exporting gold and silver from Nepal is highly restricted and generally requires special permission from the relevant authorities.

Tourists should not purchase gold or silver jewelry or bullion with the intention of taking it out of the country without first verifying the exact export regulations and obtaining the necessary documentation.

In summary, the key Nepal Visa cash limit considerations are to declare any foreign currency over USD 5,000 upon arrival, ensure you do not have any Nepalese Rupees in your possession when departing, limit exported Indian Rupees to INR 25,000, and be aware of the strict allowances for gold and silver.

Retaining all foreign exchange receipts from banks within Nepal is highly advisable as proof of legal acquisition for customs officials during departure.

Requirements for Departing Nepal

• Ensure your passport is valid on your departure date; an expired passport will prevent you from boarding your flight.
• Do not overstay your visa. Overstaying incurs a strict fine of USD 5 per day for the first two months, which must be paid in full at immigration before you are allowed to leave.
• If you officially extended your visa in Nepal, verify that the extension sticker is correctly affixed and details are accurate.
• If you replaced your passport while in Nepal, you must formally transfer your visa to the new passport at a Department of Immigration office before departing. You cannot exit with a visa in an old, canceled passport.
• Locate and keep safe the Departure Card you received upon arrival; you must surrender it when leaving. If lost, you will need to fill out a replacement form, causing delays.
• If you declared foreign currency or valuable items upon arrival, retain your customs declaration form as you may need to present it upon departure.
• Do not attempt to export restricted items like antiques, religious artifacts, or wildlife products without the required special permits.
• Confirm with your airline that the airport departure tax is included in your ticket price to avoid any last-minute payments.
• Nepalese Rupees (NPR) cannot be taken out of the country; exchange any remaining NPR for foreign currency before going through immigration.
• Always check the official Department of Immigration website for the latest exit procedures and regulations before your travel.

Expert Tips and Travel Hacks

Pre-Arrival Document Organization:

• Create a dedicated, easy-to-access folder for your carry-on luggage.
• Include your passport, two passport-sized photos, and a pen.
• Add printed copies of your online visa receipt (if applicable) and the official fee structure.
• This prevents frantic searching and speeds up the process at the counter.

Complete the Online Pre-Arrival Form:

• This is the most effective way to avoid long queues at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
• Fill out the form within 15 days of your arrival, ensuring all details exactly match your passport.
• Print the confirmation receipt to use the faster "Pre-Application" line.

Financial Preparedness:

• Obtain the exact amount of US Dollars (USD) for your visa fee before you travel.
• Ensure USD bills are new, clean, and undamaged to avoid rejection.
• Relying on ATMs at the airport is not recommended; cash is more reliable.

Verify Latest Requirements:

• Check the official Nepal Department of Immigration website within 72 hours of your departure.
• Confirm there have been no changes to eligible countries, fees, or required documents.

Secure Travel Insurance:

• While not a visa requirement, comprehensive insurance is critical.
• Ensure it covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip interruption.

Create Document Backups:

• Make two photocopies of your passport's bio-data page and your Nepal visa once stamped.
• Keep one copy separate from your originals and leave another with a contact at home.
• Store clear digital scans in a secure cloud service accessible from your phone.

Calculate Visa Duration Accurately:

• Count the days from your entry stamp to your exit stamp.
• It is cheaper and easier to apply for a longer visa (e.g., 30 days) upfront than to extend a shorter one (e.g., 15 days) later.

Group Travel Strategy:

• Appoint one person to handle all passports, forms, and cash for the entire group.
• This streamlines the process and keeps the group together.

FAQs and Resources

Q: I have a long layover at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Do I need a visa to transit?

A: If you are not leaving the airport's international transit area, you do not require a Nepalese tourist visa. However, if your layover requires you to collect baggage, change terminals, or you wish to leave the airport to visit Kathmandu, you must obtain a visa. The Visa on Arrival process is designed for this purpose.

Q: How long is the online pre-arrival form valid?

A: The submitted online application is valid for 15 days from the date of submission. It is recommended to complete the form no earlier than two weeks before your scheduled arrival date in Nepal. An expired application will not be processed.

Q: Can I extend my tourist visa after arriving in Nepal?

A: Yes, tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu or its branch in Pokhara. Extensions are granted for a minimum of 15 days. You must apply for the extension before your current visa expires.

Standard extension fees apply, and there is an additional late fee if you apply after the visa has already expired. The total stay cannot exceed 150 days in a single visa year.

Q: What are the visa requirements for children traveling to Nepal?

A: Every individual, regardless of age, must have their own passport. Children below the age of 10 are eligible for a gratis (free) visa, but their details must be included in the visa application process upon arrival. They are not exempt from the requirement to have a visa stamped in their passport.

Q: I am a citizen of a SAARC country. Is my visa free?

A: Citizens of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka receive a gratis (free) visa for the first 30 days in a visa year (January to December).

If they wish to extend their stay beyond 30 days or re-enter within the same year, standard visa fees apply. Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal.

Q: What happens if I overstay my visa in Nepal?

A: Overstaying your visa is a violation of immigration law. Penalties are strictly enforced upon departure. The current fine is USD 5 per day for the first two months of overstay, with significantly higher fines for periods beyond that.

Payment of the fine is mandatory at the immigration counter before you will be allowed to exit the country.

Q: Can I get a visa on arrival if I am entering for a purpose other than tourism (e.g., business, study, volunteer work)?

A: No. The Visa on Arrival facility is exclusively for tourist visas. All other visa types, including business, study, research, and volunteer visas, require prior approval from the relevant Nepalese authorities and must be obtained from a Nepalese embassy or consulate abroad before travel.

References

Department of Immigration. (2025). Visa On Arrival. Department of Immigration. https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/page/visa-on-arrival

Laxu Sapkota

General Manager

Laxu Sapkota views travel as his lifelong calling. Born and raised in the heritage-rich Kathmandu Valley, his earliest memories are tied to the breathtaking sights of white mountain peaks in the north... Read More