Nepal Visa and Permits: A Guide for Travelers
When planning a visit to Nepal, it's important to familiarize yourself with the visa and permit requirements. Here's all you need to know to ensure a smooth entry into this beautiful country.
General Visa Information:
- Your passport must have a validity of at least six months before applying for a visa
- For Indian nationals, there's great news! Nepal maintains an open border with India, which means no visa is required for Indian citizens. A valid national ID card is sufficient for entry into Nepal
Gratis Visa (Visa for Free):
The following categories of visa applicants are eligible for Gratis Visa, which is issued free of cost:
- Children below 10 years (except US citizens)
- SAARC citizens (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa year, for up to 30 days. Afghan citizens can request a Gratis Visa 'On Arrival' upon the recommendation of the Department of Immigration
- Non-Residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholders (issued by MoFA/Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)
- Chinese nationals
- Officials from China, Brazil, Russia, and Thailand, based on reciprocal visa waiver agreements
Note : It's important to note that all visas issued at the airport are tourist visas. If you require an extension, you can obtain it from the Immigration Office in Pokhara.
In Conclusion
Before you embark on your journey to Nepal, ensure that you have the appropriate visa or permit in place. Whether it's a visa on arrival, obtaining a visa before arrival, or being eligible for a Gratis Visa, these guidelines will help you navigate the visa process with ease. So, get ready to explore the wonders of Nepal with all the necessary documentation in hand. Safe travels!
