Nepal is set to fully launch its e-Visa system on August 17, 2026, marking a major step in digitising entry procedures. The new process will allow travellers to apply online and receive their visa by email, reducing wait times and easing queues at immigration checkpoints.
According to Tikaram Dhakal, spokesperson for Nepal’s Department of Immigration, the system will operate alongside existing visa-on-arrival options during a transition period. Dhakal explained: “Applications should generally be processed within 24 hours.”
Key Benefits of the New System
The digital approach is expected to shorten processing times, reduce administrative costs, and ease queues at immigration. Travellers will no longer need a physical visa sticker at arrival or at a Nepalese diplomatic mission, streamlining the entire process.
This modernisation aligns with global trends towards digital travel documentation and is part of Nepal's broader efforts to enhance tourism and business travel.
How to Apply for Nepal e-Visa
Eligible travellers can apply through the official portal at nepaliport-new.immigration.gov.np. The process requires personal details, passport information, travel dates, and address, as well as uploading a passport copy and a recent photograph.
Once approved and fees are paid online, the visa will be emailed to the applicant. Travellers must print the document and present it both when departing for Nepal and upon arrival.
Visa Fees and Options
The Department of Immigration now details the ETA/eVisa procedure at immigration.gov.np/eta-visa-nepal. Travellers can choose a multiple-entry tourist visa with the following fees:
- 15 days: $30
- 30 days: $50
- 90 days: $125
Payment is accepted online via credit or debit card. The visa must be used within six months of issue.
Free Visa Categories
Several groups qualify for a free visa, including children under 10 (except U.S. citizens) for up to 30 days, SAARC citizens once per calendar year for 30 days, and NRN card holders issued by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Afghan nationals, however, must still obtain a recommendation from the Department of Immigration for visa-on-arrival eligibility.
Visa on Arrival Still Available
Despite the e-Visa rollout, Nepal is not ending its visa-on-arrival programme. Most travellers can still obtain a visa at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other authorised entry points.
Only nationals of 12 countries — including Afghanistan, Cameroon, Iraq, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe — are excluded from visa-on-arrival and must apply in advance.
Transition Period for ETA and e-Visa
Dhakal confirmed that the existing ETA system will continue to operate alongside the new e-Visa during a transition period. This ensures travellers and tourism professionals have time to adapt to the changes.
Nepal’s move towards a fully digital visa system marks a significant step in streamlining travel. With faster approvals, online payments, and reduced queues, the Nepal e-Visa is set to make visiting the Himalayan nation more convenient than ever.
