The country of Nepal, located in the Himalayas, is ready to welcome tourists from all over the globe. Whether you're going to hike in the Annapurna region, fly over Everest by helicopter or visit the historical temples of Kathmandu, knowing about Nepal’s visa requirements will allow you to undertake your travels without stress. The following information will aid you in this process.
1. Do I Need a Visa To Go To Nepal?
Nepal has a relatively simple visa policy. However, depending on where you are from will determine what type of visa you will need to obtain:
• Visa On Arrival (most foreigners can obtain a visa-on-arrival when entering Nepal through a major point of entry)
• Visa Free Entry (Indian and SAARC nation citizens have different visa free entry options as listed below):
• India Citizens - No visa required, just a valid government issued photo id.
• Bhutanese Nationals, Bangladesh Nationals, Pakistani Nationals, Maldives Nationals, or Sri Lanka Nationals - No visa required for the purposes of tourism.
Tip: It is always recommended that you travel with more than 1 form of identification and passport size photo(s) even if you are an eligible applicant for a visa-on-arrival.
2. Types of Tourist Visa in Nepal
Nepal offers tourist visas in multiple durations to suit your travel plans:
Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration offices in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Biratnagar.
• Maximum stay per year on a tourist visa is 150 days, after which you must leave Nepal.
A. Visa on Arrival:
The simplest approach for most tourists will be arriving at the following locations:
1. Kathmandu - Tribhuvan International Airport or Pokhara Airport,
Major Land Crossing Points –
2. Upon arrival, complete the required visa applications at the airport or online using Nepal's Immigration Website.
3. Required Documents/App:
• Current Passport (minimum six months after arrival)
• A colour, passport-sized photo
• Completed visa application
4. Pay Visa Fee, using currency denominated in US Dollars, Euros, or Nepalese Rupees.
Some airports will also accept credit cards.
5. After receiving your visa, your passport will be stamped and you will be ready to enjoy Nepal!
B. Visa in Advance
Should your nationality require that you must apply for a visa prior to entering Nepal, you will be required to submit your visa application and relevant supporting documents to your local Nepalese Embassy or Consulate before travelling.
This can typically take anywhere from two (2) days to two (2) weeks, depending on local requirements.
4. Land Border Visa On Arrival Entry Points
Nepal shares an open border with India and China however the entry requirements are dependent upon the point of entry.
Entry Points From India
• Kakarvitta (Eastern Nepal) – From Siliguri or Darjeeling
• Birgunj (Central Nepal) – From Raxaul; entry point into Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Bhairahawa (Lumbini Region) – Gateway to the birthplace of Buddha
• Nepalgunj (Mid-West Nepal) – Located near Bardia National Park
• Dhangadi & Mahendranagar (Far-Western Nepal) – Remote areas such as Khaptad and far-western
From China (Tibet):
• Kodari (Tatopani-Zhangmu) – Mountain pass connecting Tibet to Nepal
Note: Border may be closed depending on political or weather conditions.
5. Required documents for entry into Nepal as a tourist include:
1) Your passport, with at least six months remaining validity after you arrive
2) Completed visa application form (can be submitted either on- or off-site)
3) One passport-sized photo
4) Cash to pay for your visa (in either USD, EUR, or NPR)
5) Also optional, but helpful for showing proof of your travel plans, is a copy of any flight itinerary or accommodation booking
6. Tips for travelling to Nepal:
→ The use of cash will be necessary, especially when using some land border crossings that may not accept credit cards so bring either or both USD and local currency.
→ Purchasing travel insurance is optional, but it is smart to do so in case of unforeseen situations while visiting Nepal (for example: on a trekking trip or if you are flying by helicopter).
→ If you plan on leaving Nepal before returning, tell the visa person upon arrival that you need a multi-entry visa.
→ If you find that your visa is about to expire, or if you would like to stay longer than your visa permits, you can apply for an extension at either the Kathmandu or
Pokhara offices of the Department of Immigration. You must bring your passport, your photos and pay the extension fee in cash.
7. For further information regarding visa requirements and procedures you can visit:
→ The official website of the Government of Nepal's Department of Immigration: www.nepalimmigration.gov.np
→ The Nepali embassies or consulates around the world for information about applying for your visa before travelling to Nepal.
Go Heli Services Pvt. Ltd. wants you to have an enjoyable trip to Nepal!
In addition to providing you with flights and/or adventure excursions we can also provide you with assistance regarding obtaining visas, border transportation or creating an itinerary for your visit to Nepal. From trekking and/or scenic helicopter flights, Go Heli Services Pvt. Ltd. can help you experience all that Nepal has to offer.
