Passport and Visa

Nepal Passport and Visa Guide 2026: Everything Travelers Need to Know

Nepal is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, famous for the Himalayas, trekking routes, and rich culture. If you are planning a trip, understanding passport and visa requirements is very important. This guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information for 2026 in plain English.

1. Passport Requirements for Nepal

All foreign travelers entering Nepal must have a valid passport. Key points include:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Nepal.
• It should have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
• Carry a passport-sized photograph, as it may be required for the visa process.
• Keep a photocopy of your passport for safety in case it is lost or stolen.

Special note for Indian citizens: Indians do not require a visa to enter Nepal. They can travel using official identification such as a voter ID, Aadhaar card, or driver’s license along with proof of nationality.

Passport renewal in Nepal: Foreigners cannot renew their passport in Nepal. If your passport is lost or expired, you must contact your home country’s embassy or consulate. Nepalese citizens can renew passports at the Department of Passport in Kathmandu or at Nepalese embassies abroad.

2. Who Needs a Visa to Enter Nepal?

Most travelers to Nepal need a tourist visa. Exceptions:

• Citizens of India do not require a visa.
• Citizens of certain countries may qualify for free or special visas, like Chinese tourists.

Visitors from the United States, Europe, Australia, Japan, China, and most other countries require a tourist visa.

3. Required Documents for a Nepal Visa

To apply for a tourist visa, you will need:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• One passport-sized photograph.
• Sufficient blank pages in your passport for stamping.

Having these documents ready ensures a smooth process at the airport or land border.

4. Tourist Visa Fees and Payment

Tourist visa fees depend on your stay duration:

Payment details:

• Accepted currencies: USD, AUD, Canadian Dollar, Singapore Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Japanese Yen.
• Nepali Rupees, Indian Rupees, and credit cards are generally not accepted at visa counters.

5. How to Get a Nepal Visa

There are two main ways to obtain a visa:

A. Visa on Arrival

Most travelers use visa on arrival, available at:

• Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
• Pokhara International Airport
• Gautam Buddha International Airport, Lumbini
• Major land borders, including Sunauli, Kakarvitta, Birgunj, and others

Steps:

1. Fill out the visa application form online or at the airport/border.
2. Submit your passport and photograph.
3. Pay the visa fee in accepted currencies.
4. Receive the visa stamp in your passport.

Applying online before arrival saves time.

B. Pre-arranged Visa

Some travelers from countries that cannot get visa on arrival must apply at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in their home country.

Required steps:

• Submit a completed application form, passport, photograph, and visa fee.
• Wait for processing and collect the visa before traveling.

Countries requiring pre-arranged visas: Afghanistan, Palestine, Iraq, Cameroon, Swaziland, Ethiopia, Liberia, Somalia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria.

6. Visa Duration and Extension

• Tourist visas are available for 15, 30, or 90 days.
• You can extend your visa at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or selected branch offices.
• Maximum stay in a calendar year is 150 days including extensions.
• Overstaying your visa can result in fines.

7. Free Visa and Special Policies

• SAARC Nationals: Citizens of Pakistan, Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka can get a free 30-day tourist visa once per year (January–December). Extensions beyond 30 days require payment.
• Chinese Citizens: Chinese tourists may be eligible for a free visa. They can apply at Nepali missions in China, including Lhasa, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. This initiative promotes tourism and strengthens bilateral relations.

8. Online Visa Application

Nepal allows travelers to apply for a visa online via the Nepal Immigration Department website. The process requires:

• A digital photograph
• Payment through credit card or PayPal

Online applications save time at arrival and make the process faster.

9. Tips for Travelers

1. Check that your passport has six months’ validity.
2. Keep passport copies and extra photographs.
3. Fill out the visa application online if possible.
4. Carry acceptable currency for visa payment.
5. Keep hotel booking confirmations and travel itinerary ready.
6. Consider travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation, especially for trekking or remote travel.

10. Conclusion

Nepal provides a simple and traveler-friendly visa process. Most travelers can get visa on arrival or apply online, while certain countries must obtain visas before traveling. Understanding passport requirements, visa fees, duration, extensions, and special policies ensures a smooth entry.

By preparing in advance and following these guidelines, you can enjoy the breathtaking mountains, rich culture, and natural beauty of Nepal without worrying about immigration issues.