Learn the simple steps to apply for an on-arrival visa from Nepal, ensuring a smooth entry process for your international journey. 

Nepal is a country situated between India and China. Nepal is known as the home of Mount Everest and birth place of Buddha. People come to Nepal to explore the hidden architecture of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur. Tourists assemble in Nepal not only to explore its rich cultural heritage but also to embark on thrilling trekking adventures in the Himalayas.

Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital is a popular tourist destination known for its ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and preservation of its heritage through tourism. It contains various landscapes with diverse lakes, mountains, snow capped peaks, rivers and valleys. People are attracted towards the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people. 

It is known for its diverse culture, beautiful temples and eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains. Tourists can explore the country’s countless temples, meet locals and shop for handicrafts. The Nepalese government facilitates visa applications making most foreigners eligible for one on arrival or at land borders.

Nepal offers various visa types including Tourist, Business, Transit, Work, Relationship and Student catering to diverse travel needs including adventure, business, family reunions and education.

Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s only international airport that offers Visa on Arrival services to tourists along with other border regions providing similar services. The ‘On Arrival’ visa procedure is quick and simple but may have queues during peak tourist season. Obtaining a visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions can skip queues. Total stay counts from arrival.

Tourist Visas, specifically ‘On Arrival’ visas, are the only entry visa to Nepal, with multiple Re entry facilities. For non-tourism purposes, tourists should still obtain a Tourist Visa. Nationals from designated countries must acquire visas from diplomatic missions. Eligibility for On Arrival visas is checked.

Why Do We Need Visas To Travel The World?

Visas are important for regulating international travel, ensuring national security and managing diplomatic relations between countries. They help control the entry of foreign visitors, manage issues like illegal immigration and protect citizens and residents. 

Visa

Visas also help protect national security by screening travelers for potential threats and preventing unwanted people from entering the country. Diplomatic relations influence visa requirements with countries imposing restrictions or easing them based on geopolitical developments or international agreements. 

Visa policies can greatly affect the economy by impacting tourism, trade, and investment. They also encourage countries to make similar agreements, where visas are recognized or waived for specific citizens. Overall, visas are crucial for facilitating safe and orderly travel while protecting the interests of both travelers and host countries.

How To Apply For An On-arrival Visa From Nepal?

Once you arrive at the airport, please follow these simple procedures for a Tourist Visa on Arrival.

1st  Step – Fill in ‘Arrival Card’

Fill in the Online ‘Tourist Visa ‘form ( you can fill it up  prior to your arrival  visiting the official website of the 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 a submission Receipt with a barcode, please print it out and bring it along for acquiring a 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 the visa fees collection counter), we advise you to carry some cash to be on the safe side.

On Arrival Visa Fee

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 a visa to you upon his/her satisfaction.

On Arrival Visa Can Be Issued To:

  1. Travelers holding the passport of the countries eligible to obtain on-arrival visa of Nepal,
  2. Holders of Diplomatic/Official Passports, UN Laissez-Passer and their family members, foreigners working at Diplomatic Missions, UN agencies and INGOs in Nepal, foreign nationals of Nepali origin and NRN card holders.

Required Documents For On-Arrival Visa

visa

  1. Valid passport having duration of at least 6 months at the time of entry to Nepal
  2. Duly filled-in Visa application form (downloadable at Visa Application Form) and two passport size photographs,
  3. Pre-visa application approval print out
  4. Required visa fee (as $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days and $125 for 90 days)
  5. Copy of approval if the travel is intended for mountaineering or trekking or other activities requiring advanced approval.
  6. Applicant’s Passport having validity duration for at least 6 months at the time of entry to Nepal.
  7. Approval letter/copy issued by the competent authorities of Nepal (where applicable such as Trekking/Mountaineering and other activities required prior approval.

Who Needs A Nepal Visa On-arrival?

Nepal offers on-arrival visas to citizens from various countries, including the United States, UK, Canada, Australia, and many European and Asian nations. These visas are generally available for both tourist and business purposes such as sightseeing, trekking or business meetings. 

The duration and conditions of the visa can vary with tourist visas allowing up to 15-30 days and business visas having different validity periods. Some countries may have visa exemptions, allowing citizens to enter Nepal without a visa for a specified period. 

Special visa categories for volunteering, studying and working may have different application procedures and requirements. Regardless of nationality, travelers must present a valid passport, recent passport-sized photograph and proof of onward travel.

What Is The Difference Between Tourist Visa And On-arrival Visa?

The difference between Tourist Visa and On-arrival Visa are as follows:

Tourist Visa

 

Tourist visas are obtained in advance through an embassy or consulate, with travelers submitting their application, documents and fees. Processing time varies depending on the country and application volume. 

Tourist visas have longer validity periods, allowing travelers to stay for weeks to months. Upon arrival, travelers must present their visa approval letter or sticker, with immigration officers verifying their documents.

On-arrival Visa

Visa on arrival is a visa application process that allows travelers to obtain a visa at the destination country’s airport or border checkpoint, avoiding the need for pre-travel visa arrangements.

It offers convenience and may have shorter validity periods compared to tourist visas. However, it may not be available for all nationalities or entry points, so travelers should check eligibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, applying for an on-arrival visa from Nepal is a simple process that offers convenience and flexibility. It requires researching visa requirements, preparing necessary documents and understanding the application procedure. Ensure to check specific visa requirements for your nationality and destination country for a smooth entry. With proper preparation, travelers can start on international journeys confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for an on-arrival visa from Nepal?

Citizens of many countries are eligible for on-arrival visas from Nepal. However, the specific nationalities eligible may vary depending on the destination country. It’s essential to check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country to confirm eligibility.

2. What documents do I need to apply for an on-arrival visa from Nepal?

The required documents typically include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining, a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of onward travel and sometimes proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. It’s advisable to check the specific documentation requirements for your destination country.

3. Can I extend an on-arrival visa obtained from Nepal?

Whether or not you can extend your on-arrival visa depends on the immigration laws of the destination country. Some countries allow visa extensions under certain circumstances, while others do not. It’s best to inquire about visa extension options before traveling.

4. Are there any countries that offer visa-free entry for Nepali citizens?

Yes, some countries offer visa-free entry or visa exemptions for Nepali citizens for short visits. These exemptions may vary in duration and purpose of visit. Common examples include India and several Southeast Asian countries. However, it’s essential to check the latest visa regulations before traveling to any country.

5. Do I need to pay a visa fee for an on-arrival visa from Nepal?

Some countries may require travelers to pay a visa fee upon arrival. The visa fee amount and accepted currencies can vary depending on the destination country. It’s recommended to carry the appropriate amount of currency, preferably in Nepalese Rupees or USD.

6. Can I apply for an on-arrival visa from Nepal if I have a criminal record?

Travelers with a criminal record may face difficulties when applying for visas, including on-arrival visas. Each country has its own immigration policies regarding criminal records. It’s essential to disclose any relevant information truthfully and consult with the embassy.