What is a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa is an official document issued by the Government of Nepal that allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in Nepal for tourism purposes. It grants temporary permission to visit Nepal for activities such as sightseeing, trekking, mountaineering, and other recreational purposes.
Is a Tourist Visa compulsory in Nepal?
Yes, a tourist visa is compulsory for most foreign nationals entering Nepal. According to the Immigration Act 1992 and Immigration Regulation 1994, foreign citizens must obtain a valid visa before entering Nepal, with most citizens obtaining Visa-on-Arrival. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal. Additionally, citizens of a 150+ countries are eligible for visa-on-arrival.
What are the requirements to obtain a Tourist Visa in Nepal?
The key requirements to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal include:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
- A completed visa application form
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
- Confirmed return/onward flight tickets
- Visa fees payment
Additional documents may be required depending on the type and duration of visa requested.
Which Countries don’t get On-Arrival Visa in Nepal?
While Nepal offers visa-on-arrival to citizens of most countries, nationals of the following countries are not eligible for visa-on-arrival and must obtain a visa in advance from a Nepali diplomatic mission: Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine & Afganistan.
Citizens of these countries need to apply for and receive a visa before traveling to Nepal.
Who provides the Tourist Visa in Nepal?
Tourist visas for Nepal can be obtained from the following authorities:
- Department of Immigration, Nepal
- Nepali Embassies and diplomatic missions abroad
- Immigration offices at entry points (for visa-on-arrival)
- Online visa application system (for pre-approval)
The Department of Immigration is the primary authority for issuing and regulating tourist visas in Nepal.
How to obtain Tourist Visa for Nepal?
There are several ways to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal:
- Visa on Arrival: Available for eligible nationalities at designated entry points like Tribhuvan International Airport and land border crossings.
- Online Application: Apply through the official online portal before travel for pre-approval.
- Nepali Diplomatic Missions: Apply at Nepali embassies or consulates in your home country.
- Travel Agencies: Some authorized travel agencies can process visa applications on behalf of tourists.
The visa on arrival and online pre-approval options are the most convenient for most travelers.
What is the procedure of obtaining a Tourist Visa in Nepal?
Step 1: Determine the Eligbility of Visa
Step 2: Prepare Required Docuuments
Step 3: Choose the Method for Application
Step 4: Submit Application along with Fees
Step 4: Reveive Tourist Visa
The step-by-step procedure for obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal is as follows:
Step 1: Determine Visa Eligibility
Check if you are eligible for visa-on-arrival or need to obtain a visa in advance based on your nationality.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents like passport, photos, application form etc. as per the visa requirements.
Step 3: Choose Application Method
Decide whether to apply online, at a Nepali mission abroad, or get a visa on arrival.
Step 4: Submit Application and Fees
Complete the visa application process by submitting documents and paying the applicable visa fees.
Step 5: Receive Visa
Collect your visa sticker/stamp in your passport upon approval.
What are the documents required to obtain a Tourist Visa in Nepal?
The following documents are required to obtain a tourist visa for Nepal:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Visa fees payment receipt
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, credit cards etc.)
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Hotel bookings or tour itinerary (recommended)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Additional documents may be required for longer stay visas or specific visa categories.
What are the government fees for obtaining a Tourist Visa?
The government fees for tourist visas to Nepal are as follows:
- 15 days multiple entry: $30 USD
- 30 days multiple entry: $50 USD
- 90 days multiple entry: $125 USD
Visa fees are payable in USD cash or equivalent convertible currency. Credit card payment is available at some entry points.
What is the approximate time taken to obtain a Tourist Visa?
The processing time for tourist visas varies depending on the application method:
- Visa on Arrival: 15-30 minutes
- Online Pre-Approval: 2-3 working days
- Nepali Diplomatic Missions: 3-5 working days
Visa on arrival is the quickest option for eligible nationalities. Online pre-approval helps save time at the entry point.
What is the time validity of a Tourist Visa?
The validity periods for Nepal tourist visas are:
- 15 days from the date of issue
- 30 days from the date of issue
- 90 days from the date of issue
The visa validity starts from the date of entry into Nepal. Tourists can stay in Nepal for the duration mentioned on their visa.
Can a Tourist Visa be renewed?
Yes, tourist visas can be renewed and extended in Nepal. Tourists can apply for visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara Immigration Office before their existing visa expires.
What is the procedure of renewing a Tourist Visa for Nepal?
The procedure for renewing a tourist visa in Nepal involves the following steps:
- Visit the Department of Immigration office before current visa expires
- Fill out the visa extension application form
- Submit required documents
- Pay the visa extension fees
- Provide biometrics if required
- Collect the visa extension stamp in passport
It’s advisable to apply for extension at least 3 days before the current visa expires.
Also Read: Business Visa in Nepal Work Visa in Nepal Student Visa in Nepal Residential Visa in Nepal
What are the documents required for Tourist Visa renewal?
The following documents are required for tourist visa renewal:
- Original passport
- Completed visa extension application form
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Visa extension fee payment receipt
- Copies of passport and current visa pages
- Proof of sufficient funds for extended stay
Additional documents may be requested on a case-by-case basis.
What are the government fees for Tourist Visa renewal?
The government fees for tourist visa extension in Nepal are:
- $3 USD per day for extensions up to 150 days
- $2 USD per day for extensions beyond 150 days
Late fees and penalties apply for overstaying the initial visa validity period.
What is the time taken for Tourist Visa renewal?
The processing time for tourist visa renewal is typically:
- Same day service if applied before 1 PM
- Next day service if applied after 1 PM
Urgent processing may be available for an additional fee in some cases.
What are the laws governing Tourist Visas in Nepal?
The key laws and regulations governing tourist visas in Nepal include:
- Immigration Act, 1992
- Immigration Regulation, 1994
- Immigration Procedures, 2008
These laws outline the rules for entry, stay and exit of foreign nationals in Nepal, including visa requirements, fees, and procedures.
Conclusion
Obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal is a straightforward process for most nationalities. The visa-on-arrival facility and online pre-approval system have made it convenient for tourists to visit Nepal. However, it’s important to check the latest visa requirements and procedures before planning your trip, as regulations may change.
FAQs
How to get a Tourist Visa for Nepal?
To get a tourist visa for Nepal, eligible nationals can obtain a visa on arrival at designated entry points by filling out a form, providing a passport photo, and paying the visa fee. Alternatively, you can apply online for pre-approval or visit a Nepali diplomatic mission in your country.
How long is a Tourist Visa in Nepal?
Tourist visas for Nepal are available for 15 days, 30 days, or 90 days. The visa validity starts from the date of entry into Nepal. Tourists can stay in Nepal for the duration mentioned on their visa, with options to extend if needed.
How much is a Tourist Visa for Nepal?
The tourist visa fees for Nepal are $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, and $125 for 90 days. These fees are payable in USD or equivalent convertible currency. Additional charges may apply for visa extensions or special services.
Who is eligible for Tourist Visa?
Most foreign nationals are eligible for a tourist visa to Nepal. However, citizens of some countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Afghanistan need to obtain a visa in advance. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal.
How can I get tourist Visa easily?
The easiest way to get a tourist visa for Nepal is through the visa-on-arrival system at major entry points like Tribhuvan International Airport. Alternatively, applying online for pre-approval can save time at the entry point.
How to pay visa fee in Nepal?
Visa fees in Nepal can be paid in USD cash or equivalent convertible currency at the visa counter. Some entry points also accept credit card payments. For online applications, electronic payment options are available.
How long can I stay in Nepal without a Visa?
Foreign nationals, except for Indian citizens, cannot stay in Nepal without a valid visa. The maximum duration of stay on a tourist visa is 150 days per visa year. Longer stays require special permits or visa conversions.
Can I get a Visa on Arrival in Kathmandu?
Yes, eligible nationals can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The process involves filling out a form, providing a passport photo, and paying the visa fee at the visa counter upon arrival.
What documents are required for Nepal Visa on Arrival?
To get a Nepal Visa on Arrival, you need a valid passport, 1-2 passport-sized photos, and the visa fee in cash (USD or EUR).
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