Welcome to this comprehensive guide on applying for a Nepal on-arrival visa. As an experienced traveller and writer, I’ve navigated the labyrinth of visa applications more times than I can count. Yet, each experience is unique, offering lessons for future journeys. Today, I am excited to share my insights and experiences on securing a Nepal on-arrival visa.
Nepal, a nation full of natural beauty and cultural richness, welcomes thousands of tourists worldwide each year. One key element that makes travelling to Nepal a breeze for many is its on-arrival visa policy. This policy allows travellers to apply for and receive their visas upon landing in Nepal, eliminating the need to visit embassies or consulates before travel.
Although the process may seem straightforward, some nuances and details can distinguish between a smooth application and potential setbacks. This guide aims to help you master the process, ensuring a stress-free start to your Nepalese adventure.
Check if your country supports Nepal Evisa or Visa or Visa on Arrival
| Afghanistan | visa required |
| Albania | visa required |
| Algeria | visa required |
| Angola | visa on arrival |
| Antigua and Barbuda | e-visa |
| Armenia | visa required |
| Australia | e-visa |
| Bahamas | visa required |
| Bahrain | e-visa |
| Barbados | visa required |
| Belarus | visa required |
| Belize | visa required |
| Benin | e-visa |
| Bhutan | visa required |
| Bolivia | visa on arrival |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | visa required |
| Botswana | visa required |
| Brazil | visa required |
| Burkina Faso | visa required |
| Burundi | visa required |
| Cambodia | visa on arrival |
| Cape Verde | visa on arrival |
| Central African Republic | visa required |
| Chad | visa required |
| China | visa required |
| Colombia | e-visa |
| Comoros | visa on arrival |
| Congo | visa required |
| Costa Rica | visa required |
| Croatia | visa required |
| Cuba | visa required |
| Djibouti | e-visa |
| Dominican Republic | visa required |
| DR Congo | visa required |
| Ecuador | e-visa |
| Egypt | visa on arrival |
| El Salvador | visa required |
| Equatorial Guinea | visa required |
| Eritrea | visa required |
| Ethiopia | e-visa |
| Gabon | e-visa |
| Ghana | visa required |
| Grenada | visa required |
| Guatemala | visa required |
| Guinea | e-visa |
| Guinea-Bissau | visa on arrival |
| Guyana | visa required |
| Honduras | visa required |
| India | visa free |
| Iran | e-visa |
| Iraq | visa required |
| Ireland | visa required |
| Ivory Coast | e-visa |
| Jamaica | visa required |
| Jordan | visa required |
| Kazakhstan | e-visa |
| Kenya | visa on arrival |
| Kiribati | visa required |
| Kosovo | visa required |
| Kuwait | visa required |
| Kyrgyzstan | e-visa |
| Lebanon | visa required |
| Lesotho | e-visa |
| Liberia | visa required |
| Libya | visa required |
| Madagascar | visa on arrival |
| Malawi | e-visa |
| Malaysia | e-visa |
| Maldives | visa on arrival |
| Mali | visa required |
| Mauritania | visa on arrival |
| Mexico | visa required |
| Moldova | e-visa |
| Morocco | visa required |
| Mozambique | visa required |
| Myanmar | e-visa |
| Namibia | visa required |
| Nauru | visa required |
| Nicaragua | visa required |
| Niger | visa required |
| Nigeria | visa on arrival |
| North Korea | visa required |
| North Macedonia | visa required |
| Palau | visa on arrival |
| Palestine | visa free |
| Panama | visa required |
| Paraguay | visa required |
| Peru | visa required |
| Qatar | e-visa |
| Rwanda | visa on arrival |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | e-visa |
| Saint Lucia | visa required |
| Samoa | visa on arrival |
| Sao Tome and Principe | e-visa |
| Saudi Arabia | visa required |
| Senegal | visa on arrival |
| Serbia | visa required |
| Sierra Leone | visa required |
| Slovakia | visa required |
| Slovenia | visa required |
| Somalia | visa on arrival |
| South Africa | visa required |
| South Sudan | e-visa |
| Sudan | visa required |
| Suriname | e-visa |
| Swaziland | visa required |
| Syria | visa required |
| Tajikistan | e-visa |
| Tanzania | visa on arrival |
| Togo | visa on arrival |
| Tonga | visa required |
| Trinidad and Tobago | visa required |
| Tunisia | visa required |
| Turkey | visa required |
| Tuvalu | visa on arrival |
| Uganda | visa on arrival |
| Ukraine | e-visa |
| United Arab Emirates | e-visa |
| United Kingdom | visa required |
| Uzbekistan | e-visa |
| Vanuatu | visa required |
| Venezuela | visa required |
| Yemen | visa required |
| Zambia | e-visa |
| Zimbabwe | e-visa |
Understanding the Concept of On Arrival Visa
The concept of an on-arrival visa is quite simple. Unlike traditional visas, which require you to apply and receive approval before your journey, an on-arrival visa lets you apply and receive your visa at the port of entry. In this case, that would be Tribhuvan International Airport or any designated land border crossings in Nepal.
This system offers significant flexibility, especially for last-minute travellers. However, while the on-arrival visa process is straightforward, it lacks paperwork and requirements. Understanding these in advance will make your arrival smoother and less stressful.
So, why does Nepal offer an on-arrival visa? The main reason is to encourage tourism. By making the visa process easier and more accessible, Nepal hopes to attract more visitors. However, this convenience does come with responsibility. As visitors, we must respect the rules and regulations of the visa process to ensure it remains a viable option for future travellers.
Eligibility Criteria for Nepal On Arrival Visa
Before setting your sights on the majestic Himalayas, it’s crucial to determine your eligibility for a Nepal on-arrival visa. The eligibility criteria primarily revolve around your nationality and travel documentation.
Currently, all nationalities except for nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Palestine, Somalia, Syria, and Zimbabwe are eligible for a Nepal on-arrival visa. If you’re from one of these countries, you must apply for a visa at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country before travelling.
In addition to nationality, you must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining from your planned entry date. You’ll also need to provide details of your accommodation in Nepal and have a confirmed return or onward travel ticket.
Read: How to apply for Nepal eVisa
Detailed Process of Applying for a Nepal On-Arrival Visa
Now that we’ve clarified the concept and eligibility criteria, let’s dive into the detailed process of applying for a Nepal-on-arrival visa. Again, preparation is key. The more you know about the process, the easier it will be.
You must complete a visa application form upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or a designated land border crossing. This form can be completed on an automated kiosk at the airport or manually at a visa counter.
After filling out the form, you must pay the visa fee. The cost depends on the duration of your stay – $25 for 15 days, $40 for 30 days, and $100 for 90 days. Payment can be made in any major currency, but having US dollars is always good.
Once you’ve paid the fee and submitted your application, immigration officers will review your documents. If everything is in order and meets the requirements, you’ll receive your Nepal on-arrival visa and be allowed to enter the country.
Required Documents for Nepal On Arrival Visa
You’ll need a few documents when applying for a Nepal on-arrival visa. These include:
- A valid passport with at least six months remaining from your planned entry date.
- A completed visa application form.
- A recent passport-sized photo (if you’re filling out the form manually).
- Proof of accommodation in Nepal.
- A confirmed return or onward travel ticket.
- Sufficient funds to cover your stay in Nepal.
Having these documents ready will expedite the application process and ensure you meet all the requirements for a successful visa application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Nepal On-Arrival Visa
Despite the relative simplicity of the on-arrival visa process, it’s not uncommon for travellers to make mistakes. Here are a few common ones to avoid:
- Arriving with an almost expired passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your planned entry date.
- Not having a return or onward travel ticket: This is a requirement for the visa application, and failing to have one could cause issues.
- Not having a recent passport-sized photo: If you’re applying manually, you’ll need a photo. It’s best to bring one with you to avoid any delays.
Case Study: Successful Application of Nepal On Arrival Visa
Let’s look at a case study of a successful Nepal on-arrival visa application to give you a real-life perspective. John, a seasoned traveller from the United States, recently embarked on a solo trip to Nepal.
John had all his required documents ready – a valid passport, a printed copy of his accommodation details in Nepal, a return flight ticket, and a recent passport-sized photo. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, he filled out the visa application form at an automated kiosk, paid the visa fee in US dollars, and submitted his application.
John’s visa application was approved quickly, and he was allowed entry into Nepal. He credits his smooth experience to his meticulous preparation and understanding of the visa process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nepal On Arrival Visa
To further aid your preparation, here are some frequently asked questions about the Nepal on-arrival visa:
- Can I extend my Nepal on-arrival visa? You can extend your visa for 150 days in a calendar year (January – December) at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Can I apply for a Nepal on-arrival visa online? You can complete the application form online within 15 days of your planned arrival date.
- What happens if I overstay my visa? Overstaying your visa is considered a legal offence and can result in fines and potential bans from returning to Nepal.
Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Visa Process
In wrapping up this guide, I’d like to share some tips and tricks that can help ensure a smooth visa process:
- Be Prepared: Prepare all required documents and understand the visa process.
- Plan Ahead: Decide on the duration of your stay in advance to pay the correct visa fee.
- Follow the Rules: Respect the rules and regulations of the visa process to avoid any legal issues.
Read: How to apply and get Sri Lanka Visa on Arrival
Navigating the process of applying for a Nepal on-arrival visa may seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, it can be a straightforward experience. This guide offers a comprehensive look at the process, from understanding the concept and eligibility criteria to the application process and required documents. Remember, the beauty and richness of Nepal await you on the other side of this process. Safe travels!