How To Apply For A Nepal Visa On Arrival (For Tourists)

Introduction

Welcome to Nepal, a land of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. If you’re planning a trip to this captivating country, one of the first things you’ll need to do is apply for a visa. Fortunately, Nepal offers a convenient visa on arrival process for tourists entering the country by air or land.

Obtaining a Nepal visa on arrival is a straightforward process that allows you to obtain a visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other border entry points. This eliminates the need to go through the lengthy process of applying for a visa at a Nepali embassy or consulate in your home country.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for a Nepal visa on arrival. We will provide you with all the necessary information and tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

So, whether you’re planning a trekking adventure in the Himalayas, exploring ancient temples and palaces, or immersing yourself in the unique cultural heritage of Nepal, let’s dive into the process of obtaining a Nepal visa on arrival.

Step 1: Check Eligibility for Visa on Arrival

Before you start preparing for your Nepal visa on arrival, it’s essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. The visa on arrival is available for citizens of most countries, except for a few exceptions.

To check if you are eligible for a Nepal visa on arrival, you can visit the official website of the Department of Immigration of Nepal or consult with your local Nepali embassy or consulate. They will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements.

It’s important to note that the visa on arrival is primarily meant for tourist purposes and has certain limitations. If you are planning to work, study, or engage in any other non-touristic activities in Nepal, you may need to apply for a different type of visa in advance.

Some nationalities may also require additional permits for specific regions or activities in Nepal, such as trekking in restricted areas. It’s crucial to research and understand these requirements before your trip to avoid any complications or delays.

It’s also worth mentioning that the visa on arrival is usually issued for a maximum stay of 15, 30, or 90 days. The duration varies depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, you can do so by applying for an extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu.

Once you have confirmed your eligibility and understand the visa requirements, you can proceed to the next step of gathering the necessary documents for your Nepal visa on arrival.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Before traveling to Nepal, it’s important to gather all the required documents for your visa on arrival. Having the necessary documents ready will streamline the process and prevent any delays or complications at the immigration counter.

The documents you will need for your Nepal visa on arrival include:

1. A valid passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Nepal. It should also have at least one blank page for the visa sticker.
2. Completed visa application form: You can obtain the application form at the immigration counter upon arrival or download it in advance from the official website of the Department of Immigration. Fill out the form with accurate and truthful information.
3. Passport-sized photos: Carry at least two recent, color passport-sized photographs (size: 1.5 x 1.5 inches) with a white background. These photos will be affixed to your visa application form.
4. Visa fee: Prepare the appropriate amount of cash in USD or the local currency (Nepalese Rupees) to pay for the visa fee. The fee varies based on the duration of your stay in Nepal, so it’s advisable to have the exact amount ready.
5. Additional documents: Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be required to provide additional documents. For example, if you are visiting Nepal for a volunteer program, you might need a letter of sponsorship or invitation from the organization hosting you.

It’s always recommended to carry copies of important documents, such as your passport data page and travel insurance, as well as any supporting documents relevant to your visit to Nepal. These copies can come in handy in case of loss or emergency.

By ensuring you have all the necessary documents prepared in advance, you’ll be well-prepared to proceed with the visa application process upon your arrival in Nepal.

Step 3: Travel to Nepal

After confirming your eligibility and gathering the required documents, the next step is to make travel arrangements to Nepal. Whether you plan to fly into Kathmandu or enter via a land border, ensuring smooth travel will help set the stage for a stress-free visa on arrival experience.

If you’re traveling by air, you’ll most likely arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Many international airlines have direct flights to Kathmandu from major cities around the world. It’s a good idea to book your flights well in advance to secure the best fares and convenient travel times.

If you’re entering Nepal by land, you can choose one of the several entry points along the Nepal-India or Nepal-China border. These include Sunauli-Bhairawa, Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, and Mahendranagar, among others. Make sure to check the availability and operating hours of these border crossings before planning your trip.

Additionally, it’s crucial to review any travel advisories or entry requirements issued by your home country’s government regarding travel to Nepal. Stay informed about the latest updates and ensure that you comply with any health, safety, or security guidelines.

When planning your travel, take into consideration the weather conditions and peak tourist seasons in Nepal. The country experiences unique climatic variations across its diverse landscapes and regions, so make sure to pack accordingly and be prepared for the prevailing weather during your visit.

Lastly, consider arranging your accommodation and transportation within Nepal in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. Nepal offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels, depending on your preferences and budget.

By planning your travel to Nepal with care and keeping in mind important considerations, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth and enjoyable visa on arrival experience.

Step 4: Arrival at Nepal Airport

Congratulations, you have arrived in Nepal! As you disembark from your flight and make your way through Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a seamless visa on arrival process.

Once you enter the airport, follow the signs for immigration and head towards the immigration area. It’s advisable to go directly to the visa on arrival counter to avoid any unnecessary delays.

At the visa on arrival counter, you will find immigration officers who will process your visa application. This is where you will submit your completed visa application form, along with your passport, passport-sized photos, and visa fee in the specified currency (USD or Nepalese Rupees).

The immigration officers may ask you a few questions about your visit to Nepal, such as the purpose of your trip, duration of stay, and your travel plans. Be prepared to answer these questions confidently and truthfully.

It’s worth noting that during peak travel seasons, there may be a queue at the visa on arrival counter. While waiting, take this time to fill out the arrival card, which will be provided to you at the airport.

Make sure to keep your boarding pass or e-ticket handy, as sometimes you may be asked to present it along with your passport and visa application form. Also, remember to keep your documents and valuables safe during this process.

Once your visa application has been processed and approved, the immigration officer will attach a visa sticker to your passport. This sticker serves as your official visa to enter and stay in Nepal for the prescribed duration.

Now that you have successfully obtained your Nepal visa on arrival, it’s time to proceed to the immigration process and enter this beautiful country. Follow the instructions of the immigration officers and obey any immigration rules and regulations.

With the visa sticker in your passport, you are now ready to explore the wonders of Nepal. Remember to keep your passport and visa documents secure throughout your stay in the country.

Continue to the next step to learn about filling out the arrival card, an important document required upon your arrival in Nepal.

Step 5: Filling out the Arrival Card

After obtaining your Nepal visa on arrival, the next step is to fill out the arrival card. This is an important document required by the immigration authorities upon your arrival in Nepal. The arrival card collects essential information about your travel and stay in Nepal.

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or other border entry points, you will be given the arrival card by the immigration staff. The card is typically provided along with your visa application form, or it may be available at a separate counter. You can also download and print the arrival card in advance from the official website of the Department of Immigration.

To fill out the arrival card, follow these steps:

1. Title: Write your title, such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss, in the designated field.
2. Full Name: Enter your full name as it appears in your passport.
3. Date of Birth: Write your date of birth in the format of day-month-year.
4. Nationality: Mention your nationality, which should match the country of your passport.
5. Passport Number: Enter your passport number. Ensure that you enter it correctly to avoid any discrepancies.
6. Occupation: State your occupation or profession, such as student, engineer, teacher, or any other relevant occupation.
7. Flight Number: If you are arriving by air, provide the flight number of your arriving flight. If you are entering by land, you can leave this field blank.
8. Address in Nepal: Write the address of your place of stay in Nepal, such as the hotel, guesthouse, or the home address of your local host.
9. Purpose of Visit: Indicate the purpose of your visit to Nepal, whether it’s tourism, business, work, study, or any other purpose.
10. Duration of Stay: Specify the number of days or the intended duration of your stay in Nepal.
11. Sign and Date: After completing the arrival card form, sign your name and write the current date in the respective fields.

Ensure that you provide accurate and truthful information while filling out the arrival card. It’s important to double-check all the details before submitting the form to the immigration officer.

Once you have filled out the arrival card, submit it along with your passport and visa documents to the immigration officer for further processing. The officer will stamp your passport and return the necessary documents to you.

Filling out the arrival card accurately and efficiently will save you time and ensure a smooth transition through the immigration process, allowing you to proceed with your exploration of Nepal without any delay.

Step 6: Paying Visa Fee

After completing the visa application and arrival card, the next step in the Nepal visa on arrival process is paying the visa fee. The visa fee varies based on the duration of your stay in Nepal and can be paid in either US dollars or Nepalese Rupees. It’s important to have the exact amount ready to avoid any inconvenience.

When you approach the visa on arrival counter at the airport or land border entry point, the immigration officer will inform you of the visa fee applicable based on your nationality and the duration of your stay. The fee may be different for single-entry and multiple-entry visas.

The visa fee can usually be paid in cash, so make sure to have the exact amount available. If you prefer to pay in a currency other than US dollars, it’s advisable to exchange some money beforehand, either at the airport or at a local currency exchange facility.

It’s important to note that credit or debit card payments may not be accepted for visa fees at the visa on arrival counters. Therefore, it’s recommended to carry sufficient cash in the appropriate currency to cover the visa fee.

While paying the visa fee, be sure to count the amount correctly and hand it over to the immigration officer. They will verify the payment and issue you a receipt for the visa fee.

Keep the receipt safely as proof of payment throughout your stay in Nepal. The receipt may be required for certain activities, such as extending your visa or obtaining permits for restricted areas.

By having the visa fee amount ready and being prepared to pay in the accepted currency, you can quickly and efficiently complete this step of the visa on arrival process in Nepal.

Step 7: Immigration Process

Once you have completed the necessary paperwork and paid the visa fee, you will proceed to the immigration process. This step involves having your passport and visa documents checked and stamped by the immigration officers.

At the immigration counter, present your passport, visa application form, arrival card, and the receipt of the visa fee payment to the immigration officer. They will verify the information and ensure that all the required documents are in order.

The immigration officer may ask you a few questions regarding your trip, such as the purpose of your visit, the duration of your stay, and your accommodation details. Answer the questions honestly and confidently.

The officer will then stamp your passport with the entry seal, indicating your arrival date and the duration of your visa validity. Verify the accuracy of the information on the entry seal before leaving the counter.

Once your passport has been stamped, it is essential to check that all your documents have been returned to you. Ensure that you have received back your passport, visa sticker, arrival card, and the receipt for the visa fee payment.

It’s important to keep your passport and visa documents in a safe and secure place throughout your stay in Nepal. Carry them with you when traveling within the country and be prepared to show them when required, such as during hotel check-ins or when dealing with local authorities.

With the completion of the immigration process, you are now officially cleared to enter Nepal. You can collect your belongings and proceed to explore the beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that Nepal has to offer.

Remember to follow all rules and regulations during your stay in Nepal, and respect the local customs and traditions. Enjoy your time in this enchanting country and make lasting memories.

Step 8: Collect Visa Sticker

Once you have completed the immigration process and received the entry stamp on your passport, the last step of the Nepal visa on arrival process is to collect your visa sticker. The visa sticker serves as proof of your authorized stay in Nepal and should be affixed to your passport.

After exiting the immigration area, take a moment to carefully examine your passport and ensure that the visa sticker has been placed correctly. The visa sticker contains important information such as your name, visa type, duration of stay, and the date of issuance.

Make sure that all the details on the visa sticker accurately reflect the information you provided during the application process. If you notice any errors or discrepancies, promptly notify the immigration officers or staff at the airport for correction.

It’s important to handle your passport with care and keep it in a secure place throughout your stay in Nepal. The visa sticker should not be tampered with or removed under any circumstances.

During your time in Nepal, local authorities or accommodation providers may request to see your visa sticker. It’s recommended to carry a photocopy of your passport with the visa sticker page, while keeping the actual passport safely stored.

If you plan to extend your stay in Nepal, you can apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or its regional offices. Make sure to initiate the extension process well before your current visa expires to avoid any penalties or legal issues.

Remember, it is your responsibility to comply with all immigration laws and regulations while in Nepal. Failure to do so may result in fines, deportation, or other legal consequences.

With your visa sticker in place, you are now ready to make the most of your time in Nepal. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that this remarkable country has to offer.

Enjoy your journey, and may your time in Nepal be filled with incredible experiences and unforgettable memories!

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully navigated the process of applying for a Nepal visa on arrival. This hassle-free and convenient option allows you to obtain your visa upon arrival at the airport or land border entry points, eliminating the need for prior visa applications at Nepali embassies or consulates in your home country.

In this comprehensive guide, we have walked you through the step-by-step process to ensure a smooth visa on arrival experience. We covered everything from checking your eligibility and gathering the required documents to traveling to Nepal and completing the immigration process.

By following these steps, you can confidently arrive in Nepal and explore all that this incredible country has to offer. From the majestic peaks of the Himalayas to the ancient temples and vibrant cultural heritage, Nepal is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural wonders.

Remember to check the eligibility criteria before your trip, gather all the necessary documents, and carefully fill out the arrival card. Be prepared to pay the visa fee in the local currency, and ensure a smooth immigration process by providing accurate information and complying with the rules and regulations.

As you embark on your Nepalese adventure, always carry your passport with the visa sticker securely, along with any other important documents. Respect the local culture, customs, and regulations, and make the most of your stay in Nepal.

Whether you’re planning to trek through the Himalayas, immerse yourself in the rich spiritual heritage, or simply enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, Nepal offers a truly unforgettable experience.

So, pack your bags, prepare for an incredible journey, and get ready to create cherished memories in the mesmerizing land of Nepal.

Have a fantastic trip!