Nepal Visa on Arrival Guide 2026 - Easy Process for Tourists

For many travelers, the dream of seeing Mount Everest or exploring the ancient temples of Kathmandu begins with a bit of paperwork. Fortunately, Nepal remains one of the most welcoming countries in the world for tourists. The Nepal Visa on Arrival system is designed to be efficient, but in the post-2025 landscape of digital transformation, there are specific nuances you must know to avoid long queues and technical hiccups.

In 2026, the Department of Immigration has streamlined the process, blending digital pre-registration with traditional on-site payments. This guide covers everything from the moment you land at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) to the moment your passport is stamped.

Who Can Get a Nepal Visa on Arrival?

Most nationalities are eligible for the Visa on Arrival (VoA) at the port of entry. However, it is essential to check your specific status before booking your flight.

Eligible Nationalities

Citizens from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most EU countries, and many Asian and South American nations can easily obtain a visa upon landing.

Exceptions (Prior Visa Required)

As of 2026, citizens of the following countries are still required to obtain a visa from their local Nepal Embassy or Consulate prior to arrival:

Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Liberia, Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.

The Special Status of Indian Nationals

Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal under the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship. However, you must carry a valid Indian Passport or a Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India. Aadhar cards are generally not accepted as primary travel documents for air entry.

Visa Types and Fees in 2026

The government of Nepal periodically reviews visa fees. For 2026, the fees for a Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry) are as follows:

Visa Duration	Fee (USD)	Recommended Use
15 Days	$30	Short city tours or quick treks like Poon Hill.
30 Days	$50	Standard Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit treks.
90 Days	$125	Long expeditions, volunteer work, or multiple treks.

Note: The visa is "Multiple Entry," meaning you can leave for Bhutan or Tibet and return to Nepal within the validity period of your visa.

Step-by-Step Process at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)

When you land in Kathmandu, the atmosphere can be chaotic but vibrant. Follow these steps to navigate immigration like a pro.

Step 1: The Online Pre-Arrival Form (The "Pro" Move)

While you can fill out your details on the kiosks at the airport, the smart move in 2026 is to complete the Online Tourist Visa Form before you fly.

Visit the official Department of Immigration website.
Upload a digital passport-sized photo.
Print the "Submission Receipt" with the barcode.
Why? This receipt is valid for 15 days. Having it ready allows you to skip the long kiosk lines and go straight to the payment counter.

Step 2: The Kiosk Machines (If you didn't pre-fill)

If you didn't do it online, look for the electronic kiosks in the arrival hall. You will scan your passport and take a digital photo. The machine will spit out a slip of paper.

Step 3: The Payment Counter

Take your slip (either from the kiosk or your pre-printed receipt) to the bank counter.

Currency: While the bank accepts various currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD), Cash is King. We strongly recommend carrying the exact amount in crisp, new US Dollar bills.
Credit Cards: In 2026, card machines are more common, but "network errors" are frequent. Don't let a faulty card reader delay your holiday.

Step 4: The Immigration Desk

Now, join the line for "Visa on Arrival." Hand over:

Your Passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Your Payment Receipt from the bank.
Your Online Submission Form/Kiosk Slip.
A smile (it goes a long way with the immigration officers!).

Land Border Entries: Entering from India or China

The Nepal Visa on Arrival isn't just for the airport. If you are entering overland, the process is similar but requires more preparation.

Major Border Points:

Kakarbhitta & Birgunj: Main entries from Eastern and Central India.
Belahiya (Sunauli): The most popular entry for those coming from Varanasi or Delhi.
Kodari/Rasuwagadhi: The entry points from Tibet (China).

Important Tip for 2026: Unlike the airport, land borders rarely have working credit card machines. You must have USD cash for your visa fee. Additionally, keep a few printed passport-sized photos in your bag, as digital cameras at land borders are often "out of service."

Visa Extensions: Staying Longer in Paradise

Many travelers fall in love with Nepal and decide to stay. If you want to extend your stay beyond your original visa:

You can extend your tourist visa for a total of 150 days per calendar year.
The extension must be done at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara.
The cost is approximately $3 per day for the extension, with a minimum 15-day extension period.

Required Documents Checklist for 2026

To ensure a smooth entry, double-check your "Immigration Kit" before leaving home:

Passport: Must have at least two blank pages and be valid for 6 months beyond your departure date.
Cash: USD 30, 50, or 125 in clean bills.
Submission Receipt: The printed barcode from the online application.
Proof of Stay: While not always asked for, having your first night’s hotel address (e.g., in Thamel) is required for the form.
Travel Insurance: For 2026, it is highly recommended that your insurance covers COVID-19 and high-altitude rescue if you are trekking.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Over the years, Best Heritage Tour has helped many clients resolve "airport emergencies." Here are the most common issues:

The "Old Bill" Rejection

Nepalese banks are notoriously picky. If your US Dollar bills are torn, faded, or have writing on them, the bank counter at the airport may reject them. Always bring "Series 2013" or newer bills in pristine condition.

The Transit Mix-up

If you are flying through India to reach Nepal, ensure you check if you need a transit visa for India. Many travelers get stuck in Delhi because their bags aren't checked through to Kathmandu.

Arrival During Festivals

If you arrive during Dashain or Tihar (usually October/November), the airport will be extremely crowded as Nepalese diaspora return home. Expect longer wait times and be patient.

Life After Immigration: Getting to Thamel

Once you have your stamp, you’ve officially entered the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal!

Currency Exchange and SIM Cards

After collecting your luggage, you will find several currency exchange booths. Their rates are okay, but you’ll get better rates in Thamel. However, do get a local SIM card (Ncell or Nepal Telecom) right at the airport. You will need your passport and a thumbprint to register.

Transport to the City

Avoid the aggressive touts outside the terminal. Instead:

Pre-paid Taxi: There is a booth inside the terminal with fixed rates.
Best Heritage Tour Pickup: If you have booked a tour with us, look for our representative holding a placard with your name or the Best Heritage Tour logo. We provide seamless transfers to your hotel.

Final Thoughts for the 2026 Traveler

The Nepal Visa on Arrival is your gateway to the greatest mountains on earth, vibrant spiritual traditions, and a culture that treats guests as gods. While the process has moved toward digital systems, the heart of Nepali hospitality remains unchanged.

By preparing your documents in advance and carrying the right currency, you can breeze through immigration and start your journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Whether you are here for the trekking trails, the UNESCO World Heritage sites, or the peaceful atmosphere of the monasteries, your journey starts here.

Need Help Planning Your Nepal Experience?

Navigating visa rules is just the first step. Let Best Heritage Tour handle the rest. From luxury cultural tours in Kathmandu to rugged treks in the Everest and Annapurna regions, we provide end-to-end service to ensure your trip is flawless.

Phone / WhatsApp / Viber: +977-9851149197 / +977-9810043046

Email: info@bestheritagetour.com / bestheritagetour@gmail.com

Website: www.bestheritagetour.com

Office: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal