Visa Types in Nepal: Latest Update (2026)
Understanding Nepal's visa requirements is essential for planning your visit. This guide provides up-to-date information on the available visa categories, their fees, and basic requirements as of 2024. For the most up-to-date information before your trip, always consult the official Department of Immigration website or your nearest Nepali diplomatic mission.
Diplomatic Visa
This visa category is issued to individuals holding diplomatic passports from any country, with a recommendation from their respective diplomatic mission. It is granted free of cost.
Requirements:
Valid Diplomatic Passport
Diplomatic Mission Note and Recommendation
Official Visa
Issued to individuals traveling to Nepal for official government business, along with their family members. This visa is also provided free of charge.
Requirements:
Valid Official Passport
Diplomatic Mission Note and Recommendation
Tourist Visa
The most common visa for travelers visiting Nepal for tourism, recreation, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. Tourist visas are available for various durations with corresponding fees:
15 days: USD 30
30 days: USD 50
90 days: USD 125
Requirements:
Valid Ordinary Passport (with at least 6 months validity from arrival date)
Previous visa information (if applicable)
Completed online application form
Recent passport-sized photograph
Tourist visas can be obtained at Nepali diplomatic missions abroad, at the entry points (Tribhuvan International Airport and land borders), or through the online application portal before arrival.
Non-Tourist Visa
This category encompasses several visa types for individuals visiting Nepal for purposes other than tourism. Each has specific fees and requirements:
Working Visa: For foreign nationals employed in Nepal
Press Visa: For journalists and media professionals
Relation Visa: For individuals with family connections to Nepali citizens
Marriage Visa: For foreign nationals married to Nepali citizens
Study Visa: For students enrolled in Nepali educational institutions
Business Visa: For those conducting business activities in Nepal
Non-Residential Nepali Visa: For individuals of Nepali origin holding foreign citizenship
Residential Visa: For long-term residents meeting specific criteria
Applicants for non-tourist visas should consult the Department of Immigration or their local Nepali embassy for detailed requirements and application procedures, as these vary significantly by visa type and individual circumstances.
Transit Visa
For foreign nationals transiting through Nepal for up to 24 hours, with no intention of leaving the transit area or entering the country for tourism.
Fee: USD 5
Requirements:
Valid Passport
Proof of onward travel within 24 hours
Confirmed flight or transportation arrangements
Reciprocity Visa
This category includes Tourist, Study, Working, and Press visas with fees and requirements determined by reciprocity agreements between Nepal and specific countries. For example, US citizens may have different fee structures or validity periods based on reciprocal arrangements. Applicants should check with their local Nepali embassy to determine if reciprocity agreements affect their visa application.
Important Notes for Travelers
Online application: Most visa types can be applied for through Nepal's official online visa portal, streamlining the process and reducing waiting times at entry points.
Visa extensions: Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or at immigration offices in Pokhara. Extension fees apply.
Overstay penalties: Overstaying your visa results in fines payable at immigration offices before departure.
Passport validity: Ensure your passport has at least six months' validity beyond your intended departure date from Nepal.
Visa on arrival: Available for citizens of most countries at Tribhuvan International Airport and designated land border entry points. Check eligibility before travel.
Conclusion
Nepal offers various visa options to accommodate different travel purposes, from short tourism visits to long-term work and study. Understanding these categories helps ensure a smooth entry process and compliance with immigration regulations. For personalized assistance with your Nepal travel plans, including visa guidance and itinerary planning, contact Global Nepal Treks.
Website: www.globalnepaltreks.com
Email: info@globalnepaltreks.com
