Overview
Most nationalities can get a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport or other entry points, but since February 2024 the Department of Immigration also runs a genuine online eVisa / Electronic Travel Authorisation, letting you complete the entire application and payment before you fly — the fastest, most self-service option. SAARC nationals (except Afghanistan) get up to 30 days free of charge on their first visit in a visa year. A short list of nationalities — including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Iraq, Iran, Syria and Afghanistan — cannot get a visa on arrival at all and must apply in advance through a Nepalese embassy instead.
Visa categories
| Tourist visa — 15 days | Multiple entry, standard short-trip option. |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa — 30 days | Multiple entry. |
| Tourist visa — 90 days | Multiple entry, for longer stays. |
| Embassy-only route | Mandatory in advance for a short list of excluded nationalities — check the current list before travel. |
Documents checklist
- Passport with at least 6 months' remaining validity
- Digital photo, 1.5" × 1.5", light background
- Permanent residence address and detailed address in Nepal (hotel or host)
- Landline and mobile telephone numbers
- Email address
- Credit or debit card for the fee, payable in USD
Step-by-step application process
1. Check whether you're excluded from visa-on-arrival
If your nationality is on the excluded list, you must apply at a Nepalese embassy or mission before travel — the online eVisa/ETA route isn't available to you.
2. Choose your application route
Apply directly to the Department of Immigration's eVisa/ETA portal (fastest, instant online processing), or via the Nepalese Embassy/Mission portal in your country.
3. Complete the online form
Enter your passport, personal and accommodation details; the submitted application stays valid in the system for 15 days.
4. Pay online in USD
Pay by card through the portal.
5. Receive your approval by email
Bring a printed or digital copy along with your passport when you arrive.
Fees & processing time
| Processing | Same-day for most eVisa/ETA applications; roughly an hour if completing it as visa-on-arrival at the airport |
|---|---|
| Fee | Set in USD by visa length — check the current fee schedule on the official portal |
| SAARC nationals | Up to 30 days free on first visit in a visa year (except Afghanistan) |
Sources reviewed: immigration.gov.np and nepaliport.immigration.gov.np (Department of Immigration, Nepal), Nepalese embassy consular pages (India, Hong Kong), Nepal Tourism Board. Excluded-nationality lists and fees change — always confirm on the official portal before applying.