Visa porcedre fee

The Nepal visa procedure remains one of the most traveler-friendly systems in the world, designed to facilitate the thousands of trekkers and mountaineers who arrive annually. For those trekking with Summitlaya Adventure, understanding the nuances of the "Visa on Arrival" and the pre-arrival "Electronic Travel Authorization" (ETA) is essential for a smooth start to your Himalayan journey.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the current requirements, fees, and procedures for entering Nepal.

1. The Visa on Arrival System

Most international travelers can obtain a tourist visa directly upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu or at designated land border crossings (such as Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, Belahiya, Bhairahawa, and Gaddachauki).

2. The Three-Step Process at the Airport

1. Step 1: The Form: Upon landing, you must fill out the Arrival Card. Additionally, you need to complete the Online Tourist Visa Form. While there are kiosk machines at the airport, it is highly recommended to fill this out online via the official Department of Immigration website up to 15 days before your flight. This generates a barcode that significantly speeds up your processing time.
2. Step 2: The Payment: Proceed to the bank counter to pay the visa fee. It is best to pay in US Dollars (cash) to avoid unfavorable exchange rates or credit card processing issues. Keep the payment receipt carefully.
3. Step 3: The Desk: Take your passport (valid for at least 6 months), your online form barcode, and your bank receipt to the immigration desk to receive your visa sticker.
4. Updated Visa Fee Structure (2026)

The Government of Nepal has maintained a standardized fee structure based on the duration of stay. All tourist visas are Multiple Entry, which is ideal for trekkers who may wish to take short excursions to neighboring regions like Tibet or Bhutan during their stay.

 Duration Fee (USD)

15 Days $30 

30 Days $50

90 Days  $125

Note: Children under the age of 10 are generally exempt from visa fees.

3. Important Documentation for Trekkers

While the visa itself is straightforward, trekking with a professional agency like Summitlaya Adventure requires a few additional considerations:

Passport Validity: Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry. It should also have at least one (preferably two) blank pages for stamps.

Photos: While digital photos are used for the online form, it is wise to carry 4–6 physical passport-sized photos . These are often required for trekking permits (TIMS cards) and local SIM cards.

Proof of Onward Travel: Occasionally, immigration officers may ask for a copy of your return flight ticket.

Address in Nepal: You will need the name and address of your hotel in Kathmandu (Summitlaya usually provides this in your pre-trip briefing).

4. Visa Extensions and Stay Limits

If your adventure in the mountains takes longer than expected, or if you decide to add an extra trek to your itinerary, extending your visa is a routine process.

Where to Extend: Extensions must be done at the Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Cost: The extension fee is $3 USD per day* (for a minimum of 15 days).

Late Fines: If you stay past your visa expiration without an extension, you will be subject to a fine of $5 USD per day plus the extension fee.

Maximum Stay: A tourist can stay in Nepal for a maximum of 150 days within a single calendar year (January 1 to December 31)

5.Special Considerations

Gratis Visa (Free of Cost)

Citizens of South Asian (SAARC) countries (except Afghanistan) are eligible for a "Gratis Visa" for the first 30 days of their visit per year. *Chinese nationals* are also currently eligible for a visa fee waiver under certain bilateral agreements.

Indian Nationals

Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. However, they must carry either a valid Passport or a Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India to prove their identity when arriving by air.

Restricted Nationalities

Citizens of certain countries (including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Somalia, Liberia, and Afghanistan) are not eligible for Visa on Arrival and must obtain a visa from the nearest Nepalese Embassy or Consulate before traveling.

6. Pro-Tips for Summitlaya Clients

The "M-Receipt": When you fill out the online form before arrival, you will receive an "M-Receipt." Print this out. It is faster for the officer to scan a physical paper than a phone screen with low brightness.

Carry Small Bills: While the visa fees are set ($30/$50/$125), carrying the exact amount in USD cash prevents delays at the bank counter.

Permit Coordination: Remember that your Visa is your entry to the country, but your *Trekking Permits* (TIMS and National Park entries) are separate. Summitlaya Adventure handles these for you once you provide your passport and photos upon arrival.

Conclusion

Entering Nepal in 2026 remains a welcoming experience. By preparing your online form in advance and having your USD cash ready, you can clear immigration at TIA in roughly 30 to 45 minutes, leaving you more time to meet your Summitlaya representative and begin your Himalayan adventure