Your Essential Guide to Obtaining a Nepal Visa
Are you dreaming of trekking amidst the majestic peaks of Nepal? Securing the right visa is your first step towards making that dream a reality. At Alpine Luxury Treks, we’re committed to making your journey seamless, and that starts with understanding Nepal’s visa requirements. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring you’re well-prepared to explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage that await.
Nepal Visa on Arrival: Your Gateway to Adventure
For most travelers eager to experience the Himalayas, obtaining a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the most convenient and straightforward option.
Choose Your Duration: Select the visa that aligns with your travel plans:
- 15 Days: USD 30
- 30 Days: USD 50
- 90 Days: USD 125
Multiple Entries: Enjoy the flexibility of multiple entries into Nepal within your visa’s validity period, perfect for those planning side trips to neighboring countries like India or Bhutan.
Eligibility: All tourists are eligible for a visa on arrival, streamlining the process for a hassle-free experience.
Extending Your Himalayan Journey: Tourist Visa Extension
If you find yourself enchanted by Nepal’s beauty and want to stay longer, extending your tourist visa is a simple process. You can do so at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Minimum Extension: 15 days (USD 45)
- Additional Days: USD 3 for each day beyond the initial 15-day extension.
- Eligibility: You must have a valid tourist visa.
Gratis Visa (Free Visa): A Warm Welcome for Specific Visitors
Nepal extends a warm welcome to certain individuals and groups by offering gratis (free) visas:
- Children under 10: (excluding U.S. citizens)
- First-time Visitors from SAARC Countries: (except Afghanistan) for up to 30 days
- Non-Residential Nepalese (NRN): NRN cardholders
- Chinese Nationals:
- Officials: From China, Brazil, Russia, and Thailand (based on mutual agreements)
Pre-Arrival Visa: Essential for Some Nationalities
While most travelers can get a visa on arrival, some nationalities must obtain their Nepal visa in advance from the nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate. This applies to individuals from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, Syria, and refugees holding travel documents.
Obtaining Your Nepal Visa on Arrival at TIA: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Arrival Card and Visa Form: Complete these forms online before your arrival (through the official immigration website) or at the kiosk machines available at TIA. You can also complete them manually.
- Payment: Choose your desired visa duration (15/30/90 days), pay the fee using cash (USD, EUR, GBP) or card, and keep the receipt for your records.
- Immigration: To receive your visa, present your completed forms, payment receipt, and passport at the Immigration Desk.
Important Reminders for a Smooth Visa Experience:
- Validity: Pre-arrival visas from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions are valid for six months from the date of issue.
- Visa Extensions and Gratis Visa: To extend your visa or apply for a gratis visa, visit the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Tourist Visas Only at TIA: All visas issued at the airport, including gratis visas, are classified as tourist visas. Contact the Department of Immigration if you need an extension or a different visa category.
Plan Your Nepal Adventure with Confidence:
Alpine Luxury Treks is here to assist you throughout the visa application process, ensuring a seamless start to your Himalayan adventure. For the most up-to-date and official information, we recommend visiting the website of the Nepal Department of Immigration.
Contact us today to start planning your dream trek!
