For an official visit to Nepal, international delegates have two main pathways for obtaining a visa, with the “Visa on Arrival” at Tribhuvan International Airport being the most common and convenient method.
The table below outlines the two primary visa processes for your delegation.
| Visa Method | Best For | Key Steps | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival | Delegates from most countries. | Fill online form & get barcode receipt.Pay fee in USD at airport bank counter.Submit docs & receipt at immigration. | Saves time; have new USD bills. |
| Visa Before Travel | Delegates from specific countries or those who prefer to have visa before travel. | Complete online application.Submit documents & payment to nearest Nepalese diplomatic mission. | Required for nationals of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland (Eswatini), Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria. |
Visa Fees and Validity
The standard fees for a Tourist Visa, which is issued upon arrival, are as follows:
- 15 Days: $30 USD
- 30 Days: $50 USD
- 90 Days: $125 USD
These visas are multiple-entry and can be extended for a minimum of 15 days at a rate of $3 per day at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara. The total stay in Nepal on a tourist visa cannot exceed 150 days in a single calendar year.
Practical Requirements for a Smooth Process
To ensure a hassle-free entry, please ensure your delegates have the following:
- Passport Validity: A passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of entry and have at least one blank visa page.
- Payment: While some airport counters may accept credit cards, it is highly recommended to carry sufficient U.S. dollars in cash. U.S. bills should be in good condition.
- Photographs: Carry several passport-sized photographs.
- Online Receipt: If you complete the online form beforehand, bring the printed barcode receipt.
- Supporting Document: For conference attendance, it is advisable to carry a printed copy of the conference invitation letter and your registration confirmation.
Special Exemptions and Important Notes
- Gratis (Free) Visa: Chinese nationals are eligible for a Gratis (free) visa.
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of SAARC countries (except Afghanistan) visiting for the first time in a visa year do not need a visa for up to 30 days. Indian citizens do not require a visa but must present a valid ID, such as a passport or voter ID card.
- Visa for Other Purposes: Please note that the “Tourist Visa” is the only entry visa for Nepal. If your delegates’ activities go beyond standard conference attendance (e.g., official government work), they may need to change their visa category after arrival at the Department of Immigration.