Planning a trip to Nepal? This guide covers exactly who needs a visa, what it costs, how long it takes and where to apply — using figures from Nepal's official immigration authorities.
Quick answer
Most visitors to Nepal need tourist visa on arrival, with an official government fee of USD 30 (15 days), USD 50 (30 days), USD 125 (90 days) - all multiple-entry.
Nepal visa at a glance
| Visa required? | Yes, for many nationalities |
|---|---|
| Main visa type | Tourist visa on arrival |
| Government fee | USD 30 (15 days), USD 50 (30 days), USD 125 (90 days) - all multiple-entry |
| Processing time | Issued on arrival |
| Validity | Multiple-entry within the visa validity |
| Permitted stay | 90 days |
| Where to apply | https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np |
| HolidaySG assistance fee | S$65 per applicant (usually S$100) |
Who needs a visa for Nepal?
Tourist visa on arrival: Most nationalities (a short list must obtain a visa in advance) arriving at TIA Kathmandu or designated land borders
Gratis (Free) Visa - SAARC & selected nationals: Citizens of SAARC countries (except designated) and certain categories; first visa of the year issued free
Nepal visa options, fees and processing times
| Option | Official fee | Max stay | Processing | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist visa on arrival | USD 30 (15 days), USD 50 (30 days), USD 125 (90 days) - all multiple-entry | 90 days | Issued on arrival | https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np |
| Gratis (Free) Visa - SAARC & selected nationals | Free (USD 0) - online form still required | 30 days | On arrival | https://immigration.gov.np/online-visa-application-process |
Documents required
For the Tourist visa on arrival:
- Passport valid at least 6 months
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Completed form (online or airport kiosk)
- Fee in cash (USD/convertible) or card online
How to apply
- Check your requirement by nationality (table below) or use our checker.
- Tourist visa on arrival: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np — allow Issued on arrival.
- Gratis (Free) Visa - SAARC & selected nationals: https://immigration.gov.np/online-visa-application-process — allow On arrival.
- Arrival formalities: Online arrival form (optional pre-fill)
- Keep your approval/receipt with your passport; carry proof of accommodation, onward travel and funds.
Nepal visa for children and families
Children usually need their own visa or entry authorisation, even infants. For family applications, prepare each traveller's passport and photo, and add birth certificates for minors and, where a child travels with one parent or a guardian, a consent letter. Applying for the whole family together keeps travel dates and reference numbers consistent.
Common mistakes, delays and rejection reasons
From handling Nepal visa applications, these are the issues that most often cause delays or refusals. Avoiding them is the single biggest thing you can control:
- Passport validity: many countries require at least six months' validity beyond your travel dates — renew early if yours is close.
- Insufficient proof of funds: bank statements that are too thin, too new, or not in your name are a common reason for delays. Show a stable balance over the last 3–6 months.
- Photo specification errors: wrong size, background colour, glasses or a smile can bounce an application. Follow the exact spec for Nepal.
- Applying too late: submit well before departure — allow the full processing window plus a buffer, not the minimum.
- Mismatched documents: names, dates and passport numbers must match exactly across your form, flight and hotel bookings.
- Weak ties to your home country: employment letters, leave approval and return bookings help show you intend to return.
- Prior overstays or refusals: declare them honestly; hiding history causes more problems than the history itself.
- Forgetting the arrival card: Online arrival form (optional pre-fill) — complete it in the correct window or you can be delayed at the border.
Practical timeline: application → approval → travel
- 6–8 weeks before travel: check your passport validity, confirm your requirement, and start gathering documents.
- 3–4 weeks before: book refundable flights and accommodation (immigration may ask for these), then submit your Nepal application.
- Processing: allow Issued on arrival. Do not make non-refundable bookings until approved.
- On approval: print/save the approval, keep it with your passport, and complete any arrival card before you fly.
Before you travel to Nepal
- Arrival card / declaration: Online arrival form (optional pre-fill)
- Onward or return ticket: carry proof — airlines and immigration can ask for it.
- Funds: have evidence of enough money for your stay (card and some NPR (Nepalese Rupee)).
- Travel insurance: strongly recommended, and mandatory for some destinations.
- Copies: keep a digital and paper copy of your visa/approval and passport photo page.
Good to know
- Bring exact USD cash; card machines unreliable.
Nepal visa requirements by nationality
| Passport | Requirement | Max stay |
|---|
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Nepal visa?
Tourist visa on arrival: USD 30 (15 days), USD 50 (30 days), USD 125 (90 days) - all multiple-entry. HolidaySG's assistance fee is a separate flat S$65.
How long does it take?
Tourist visa on arrival: Issued on arrival.
Things to do once your Nepal visa is sorted
Popular experiences in Nepal you can book on HolidaySG:
- 8 Days Travel to Everest Base Camp — from CNY 13,569
- Kathmandu Bazaar Walking Tour — from SGD 5
- Kathmandu Evening Rickshaw Tour — from SGD 5
- Kathmandu Full Day Exploration — from SGD 4
- Kathmandu Heritage Tour — from SGD 4
- Kathmandu Morning Rickshaw Tour — from SGD 5
Official sources
- Department of Immigration Nepal — verified 19 August 2026
Last updated 20 August 2026. Written and reviewed by the HolidaySG visa team and checked against the official sources above (facts verified 19 August 2026). Visa rules change and depend on your passport, residence and purpose of travel — always confirm with the official source before booking, or use our visa checker. HolidaySG re-confirms current requirements at the time of your application.