08/05/2025
Process of on arrival visa in Nepal
Detailed process for getting a Visa on Arrival (VoA) in Nepal, primarily focusing on Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, as this is the most common entry point for tourists. The process at land borders is similar but might have fewer automated facilities.
Eligibility for Visa on Arrival:
Most Nationalities: Citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa on arrival.
Exceptions (Nationals who CANNOT get Visa on Arrival and must obtain a visa from a Nepalese diplomatic mission abroad):
Nigeria
Ghana
Zimbabwe
Swaziland
Cameroon
Somalia
Liberia
Ethiopia
Iraq
Palestine
Afghanistan
Syria
Refugees with travel documents.
This list can change, so always verify with the nearest Nepalese Embassy/Consulate or the official Department of Immigration, Nepal website before travel.
Indian Nationals: Do not require a visa to enter Nepal. They need to carry valid identification (Passport or Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India).
SAARC Nationals (excluding Indians): Can get a 30-day free visa on arrival for their first visit in a given visa year (January-December).
Chinese Nationals: Often receive free visas, but this policy can vary. Check current regulations.
Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs): Those holding an NRN card issued by the Nepalese government can get a tourist visa on arrival.
Documents Required:
Valid Passport: With at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry with 2 - 3 blank pages
Passport-Sized Photographs: At least one (1) recent passport-sized photograph (2x2 inches, white background). It's wise to carry a couple of extras.
Visa Fee (in cash):
15 Days – USD 30
30 Days – USD 50
90 Days – USD 125
Fees are subject to change. USD is preferred, but other major convertible currencies (like EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, etc.) are often accepted. Change might be given in Nepali Rupees. Credit cards are sometimes accepted at TIA, but it's unreliable – CASH IS KING.
Completed Arrival Card: Usually distributed on the flight or available in the arrival hall.
Completed Visa Application Form: You have two options:
Online Pre-Registration (Recommended): Fill out the form online at the Department of Immigration Nepal website ( http://nepalimmigration.gov.np/ then navigate to "Visa on Arrival" and "Apply Online"). You'll get a submission receipt with a barcode. Print this out and bring it. It's valid for 15 days. This speeds up the process significantly.
Paper Form at the Airport: If you haven't pre-filled, you can get a paper form at the airport or use the electronic kiosks (if working).
Step-by-Step Process at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu:
Step 0: Pre-Arrival (Highly Recommended)
Go to the official website of the Department of Immigration, Nepal (http://nepalimmigration.gov.np/).
Navigate to "Visa on Arrival" and then "Apply Online."
Fill in all the required details accurately (passport info, intended address in Nepal, duration of stay, etc.).
Upload a digital copy of your passport-sized photo if prompted (or you can use the kiosks at the airport for this).
Submit the form. You will receive a submission receipt with a barcode. Print this receipt.Bring it.
On Arrival at TIA:
Step 1: Fill out Forms (if not done online)
Arrival Card: If you didn't get one on the plane, pick one up in the arrival hall and fill it out.
Visa Application Form:
If you have the online submission receipt: Proceed to Step 2 or 3.
If you need to fill the form:
Kiosks: Locate the Visa Application Kiosks. These machines allow you to scan your passport, take a live photo (or use a pre-scanned one), and fill in the details. Once completed, it will print a visa application slip.
Manual Forms: If kiosks are busy or not working, paper forms are usually available. Fill one out manually.
Step 2: Payment of Visa Fee
Locate the bank counter/booth designated for visa fee collection. It's usually clearly marked.
Present your passport and the visa application slip (from the kiosk or your online pre-registration printout) or the completed paper form.
Pay the required visa fee in cash (USD is best). Ensure you get a receipt.
Step 3: Immigration Clearance
Proceed to the "Visa on Arrival" immigration counters. There might be separate lines for those who pre-filled online vs. those who filled at the airport.
Present the following to the Immigration Officer:
Your Passport
The Visa Fee Payment Receipt
The completed Visa Application Form (or the slip from the kiosk/online pre-registration)
The completed Arrival Card
Your passport-sized photograph (if you filled a paper form or if the kiosk didn't capture it properly).
The officer will check your documents, may ask a few basic questions (purpose of visit, where you're staying), and then stamp the visa into your passport.
Step 4: Collect Your Baggage and Clear Customs
Once you have the visa, proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage.
Then, go through customs.
At Land Border Entry Points:
The process is largely the same, but facilities might be more basic:
Approach the immigration office at the border.
Obtain and fill out the visa application form and arrival card.
Provide your passport, photos, and the visa fee (cash only, usually USD).
The immigration officer will process your application and stamp the visa.
Important Notes & Tips:
Carry Small Denominations of USD: This makes paying the exact fee easier.
Time: The process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the number of arrivals and how many immigration officers are on duty. Be patient.
Accuracy: Ensure all information on your forms is accurate and matches your passport.
Check Your Visa: Before leaving the immigration counter, double-check that the visa stamp is correct (dates, duration).
Visa Extension: Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara, up to a maximum of 150 days in a single visa year (January to December).
Official Website: Always refer to the official Department of Immigration, Nepal website (http://nepalimmigration.gov.np/) for the most up-to-date information on visa fees, regulations, and ineligible countries, as policies can change.
Proof of Accommodation/Return Ticket: While not always strictly enforced for VoA, it's good practice to have a hotel booking confirmation and a return/onward ticket itinerary, as immigration officers can ask for it.
direct link to online form: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/