Rules vary by nationality and can change. This guide was last checked in November 2026, using UK government advice and Nepali embassy pages, because we couldn't open the Department of Immigration's own site. Please check with your nearest Nepali embassy before you travel.
Reported visa fees
| Length of stay | Fee |
|---|---|
| 15 days | US$30 |
| 30 days | US$50 |
| 90 days | US$125 |
Older websites may still show lower fees, so ignore any that show US$25, US$40 and US$100, which appear to be out of date. Several sources say children under 10 are generally exempt from the fee, although it's worth checking this for your own situation.
Who can get a visa on arrival?
Many nationalities can, but not all. Some travellers must apply in advance at an embassy. Check the current list for your passport, because rules for particular countries can be different. Indian citizens have separate entry arrangements, so they should check the current rules for their own travel.
How it works, step by step
- Check your passport. The UK government says it should expire at least 6 months after your entry date.
- Fill in the online application. The UK government says this can be done up to 15 days before travel, on the Nepal immigration portal. Save or print your receipt.
- Arrive in Kathmandu. Follow the signs to the visa area.
- Pay the fee. The UK government says cards are accepted, but it recommends carrying cash as a backup, preferably in US dollars.
- Collect your visa at the desk. Then go through immigration.
If you haven't filled in the form in advance, you can use forms or terminals at the airport, but expect a queue.
What to bring
- Your passport, with at least six months' validity
- Your online application receipt
- Your visa fee, including cash in US dollars as a backup, in clean notes
- Your hotel address and travel details
- Passport photos, which are also useful for trekking permits
Applying in advance
You can also apply for a tourist visa through a Nepali embassy or consulate before you travel. The UK government says this may speed up immigration on arrival. It's worth considering if you're nervous about queues, or if your nationality doesn't qualify for a visa on arrival.
Which length should you choose?
| Your trip | Choose |
|---|---|
| A short city and safari trip | 15 days |
| Most treks, such as Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp | 30 days |
| A long trek such as Upper Dolpo, or several trips together | Consider 90 days |
Count every day, including travel days and spare days for delayed mountain flights. Choosing a slightly longer visa is simpler than arranging an extension in a hurry.
Extending your visa
The UK government says you can extend online, up to a total of 150 days in one year. One source reports extensions at US$3 per day, with a 15-day minimum. Do this before your visa expires, because overstaying can cause fines or other problems.
Border crossings
Visas on arrival are also reported at some land borders. Check the current position for the crossing you plan to use. Facilities at land borders can be limited, and they may only accept cash.
Don't forget your other documents
- Trekking permits: your visa doesn't replace these. See our permit guide.
- Insurance: read what your policy must cover.
- Passport copies: keep digital and printed copies, separate from the original.
What happens at Kathmandu airport
Tribhuvan International Airport is small, and queues can build up when several flights land together, so be patient. There are usually separate stages for visa payment and immigration, so follow the signs and keep your receipt handy. Have your passport, receipt, hotel address and payment ready, because this tends to speed things up. Once through, collect your luggage and look for your driver, or use the official taxi counter.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing too few days: count spare days for flight delays and any time spent in cities.
- Using an old fee list: many websites still show out-of-date prices.
- Bringing only a card: carry US dollars as a backup, as the UK government suggests.
- Bringing damaged banknotes: clean notes are less likely to cause problems.
- Using an unofficial visa website: use the official Nepal immigration portal, and be careful with third-party sites that charge extra.
- Letting your visa run out: arrange any extension before it expires.
Money on arrival
You'll need Nepali rupees for most day-to-day spending. You can get them at the airport, from cash machines in the city, or from exchange counters in places like Thamel. Withdraw enough before you head out on a trek, because the UK government warns that cash machines and card payments may not be available in remote areas.
Common questions
Can I get a visa before I fly?
Yes, at a Nepali embassy or consulate. The online form on the immigration portal is a separate step for visa on arrival.
Does the online form cost anything?
The UK government describes collecting and paying at the airport after applying online. We couldn't confirm whether a separate fee applies, so check when you fill it in.
What if my passport has less than six months left?
Renew it before you travel. Airlines and immigration may refuse you otherwise.
Can I enter more than once?
Ask your embassy about re-entry conditions before you plan a side trip outside Nepal. Don't assume it's allowed.
Next steps
Plan your first days with our Kathmandu guide, or ask us to help plan your trip.
Comments