Nepal Visa & Travel Requirements (2026 Guide)

U.S. citizens traveling to Nepal must obtain a tourist visa, but it is available on arrival at the airport or border crossings. Travelers need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a photo, and visa fee payment. Tourist visas are typically issued for 15, 30, or 90 days.

Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa for Nepal?

Yes. U.S. travelers need a visa to enter Nepal.

However, Nepal offers one of the easiest systems—most travelers get a visa on arrival at the airport or land border, without needing to apply in advance.

Nepal Visa Options

Visa on Arrival (Most Common)

• Available at major airports and land borders
• Fast and simple process
• Issued as a tourist visa
• Allows multiple entries

Online Pre-Application (Recommended)

• Fill out visa form before arrival
• Speeds up processing at airport
• Still finalized and paid upon arrival

Embassy Visa (Optional)

• Apply before travel through a Nepal embassy
• Useful if you want to avoid airport lines

Nepal Visa Fees (2026)

• 15 days: $30
• 30 days: $50
• 90 days: $125

All visas are typically issued as multiple-entry tourist visas.

Nepal Entry Requirements

To enter Nepal, travelers must have:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• At least one blank passport page
• Completed visa form (online or at airport)
• Visa fee (cash or card depending on location)
• Passport photo (sometimes required)

You may also be asked for:

• Return or onward ticket
• Accommodation details

How to Get a Nepal Visa on Arrival?

Travelers visiting Nepal can obtain a visa on arrival by completing a simple process at the airport or border. First, fill out the arrival card, then complete the visa application form either online in advance or at a kiosk upon arrival. Next, pay the required visa fee, submit your documents to immigration officers, and receive your visa stamp in your passport. The process is usually quick, though wait times can increase during peak travel seasons.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Fill out arrival card
2. Complete visa form (online or kiosk)
3. Pay visa fee
4. Submit documents at immigration
5. Receive visa stamp

The process is generally quick, though delays can occur during peak travel seasons.

How Long Can You Stay?

• Tourist visas are issued for 15, 30, or 90 days
• Extensions are available inside Nepal
• Maximum stay is generally up to 150 days per year

Important Travel Tips for Nepal

• Bring USD cash for faster visa processing
• Complete the online form in advance to save time
• Carry extra passport photos just in case
• Expect longer wait times during peak trekking seasons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can U.S. citizens get a visa on arrival in Nepal?

Yes. U.S. citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at airports and land borders in Nepal.

Do I need to apply for a Nepal visa before traveling?

No. Most travelers can get a visa on arrival, though pre-filling the form is recommended.

How much is a Nepal visa?

Visa fees are $30 (15 days), $50 (30 days), or $125 (90 days).

How long does it take to get a Nepal visa on arrival?

Processing usually takes minutes to an hour, depending on airport traffic.

What happens if my passport is expiring soon?

You need at least 6 months validity or you may be denied entry.

Nepal remains one of the most traveler-friendly destinations in the world. The visa-on-arrival system makes entry simple, but preparing documents in advance helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth arrival experience.

Nepal Embassy & Consulate Information

Additional Nepal Information