Nepal Visa for US Citizens: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2026/2027

Planning your first or fifth trip to Nepal? One of the first questions every American traveler asks is simple: do US citizens need a visa for Nepal, and how does the process actually work?

The short answer is yes, US citizens do need a Nepal visa, but the good news is that Nepal operates one of the most traveler-friendly visa systems in Asia. There are no embassy appointments required, no weeks-long waiting periods, and no mountains of paperwork. American passport holders can obtain their Nepal visa either on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through a quick online pre-registration and the entire process, when done right, takes less than 30 minutes.

This is your complete, step-by-step guide to the Nepal visa for US citizens in 2026 and 2027 covering fees, required documents, the airport process, online pre-application, visa extension rules, trekking permits, and every insider tip you need to walk through immigration like a seasoned Himalayan traveler.

Quick Reference: Nepal Visa for US Citizens at a Glance (2026)

Before diving into the details, here is everything you need to know at a glance:

Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Nepal?

Yes. Nepal visa for US citizens is mandatory for entry into the country. Unlike a handful of countries that enjoy visa-free access to Nepal (India and a small number of others), citizens of the United States must obtain a tourist visa before or upon entering Nepal.

The important distinction and the reason so many American travelers are pleasantly surprised is that Nepal does not require US citizens to apply at a Nepali embassy or consulate before traveling. The visa is available:

1. On Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu
2. On Arrival at designated land border crossings
3. In Advance through online pre-registration (which still results in a visa issued on arrival it simply pre-fills your data and shortens the airport queue)
4. In Advance at the Nepal Embassy in Washington D.C. or Nepal Consulate in New York (optional, mostly useful for those with complex itineraries or who prefer paperwork done ahead of time)

For the vast majority of US citizens traveling to Nepal in 2026, the Visa on Arrival route ideally combined with online pre-registration is the simplest, fastest, and most commonly used method.

Nepal Visa Fees for US Citizens in 2026/2027

Nepal’s visa fee structure is straightforward, transparent, and has remained stable in recent years. All tourist visas issued to American citizens are multiple entry, meaning you can exit to Bhutan or Tibet (for approved tours) and return to Nepal within the visa’s validity period.

Standard Tourist Visa Fees

15-Day Multiple Entry Tourist Visa USD $30 Best for: Short holidays, cultural tours of Kathmandu Valley, brief trekking introductions, business meetings combined with leisure

30-Day Multiple Entry Tourist Visa USD $50 Best for: Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna Circuit, comprehensive cultural itineraries, most popular Nepal travel experiences

90-Day Multiple Entry Tourist Visa USD $125 Best for: Extended trekking expeditions, multiple regions, volunteering, yoga and meditation retreats, long-stay travelers

Children’s Visa Policy

Children under the age of 10 years receive their Nepal tourist visa free of charge. This applies to US citizen children as well, though they must still complete the standard application process.

Important Payment Tips for 2026

Nepal’s visa fee is payable in US dollars at Tribhuvan International Airport. A few critical details that catch American travelers off guard:

• US dollar bills must be dated 2003 or later and in excellent, undamaged condition. Worn, folded, torn, or faded notes will be rejected at the payment counter no exceptions.
• At Tribhuvan International Airport, credit and debit cards are accepted, but network errors and machine failures are common enough that cash remains the strongly recommended option. Do not rely solely on a card.
• Land border crossings accept cash only no card facilities are available.
• There are no ATMs at land border crossings. Withdraw sufficient USD before crossing.
• ATMs at Tribhuvan Airport charge high fees for dispensing dollars. Bring cash from home or withdraw in your transit city.

Pro Tip: Always buy a slightly larger denomination than your visa fee requires. If you’re getting a 30-day visa for $50, carry $60-70 in small bills in case of any discrepancy or if you decide to upgrade to a longer duration visa at the counter.

The Two Methods: Visa on Arrival vs. Online Pre-Registration

Method 1: Visa on Arrival (Standard)

The standard Nepal Visa on Arrival process is available 24 hours a day at all official entry points. US citizens arrive, complete forms either on paper or at kiosks, pay the fee, and receive their stamp. The full process takes 20–40 minutes on quiet days and up to 60–90 minutes during peak trekking seasons.

Method 2: Online Pre-Registration (The Smarter Option)

Nepal’s Department of Immigration operates an online pre-registration system at nepaliport.immigration.gov.np that allows travelers to pre-fill all their visa application data before arriving at the airport.

This does not result in a traditional e-visa your visa is still physically stamped in your passport on arrival. What it does is generate a barcode receipt that allows you to skip the kiosk line and proceed directly to the payment counter, saving significant time during busy periods.

Key rules for online pre-registration:

• Complete no earlier than 15 days before your arrival date (the form expires after 15 days)
• Upload a digital passport-sized photo
• Print the barcode receipt or save it digitally on your phone
• This service is free of charge

During peak trekking seasons (October–November and March–May) when hundreds of international flights arrive within hours of each other, the difference between pre-registered travelers and those filling out forms at kiosks can be 30–60 minutes of saved waiting time. For anyone arriving on a night flight after a long journey, that difference is not trivial.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Nepal Visa at Tribhuvan International Airport

This is the complete, step-by-step airport process for US citizens arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu in 2026.

Before You Fly: Pre-Arrival Checklist

Step 0 Complete Online Pre-Registration (Recommended)

Visit nepaliport.immigration.gov.np between 15 and 1 days before your arrival. Enter your passport details, travel information, and personal data. Upload a passport-sized digital photo. Submit the form and print or download the barcode receipt. This receipt gets you into the faster pre-registration queue at the airport.

Documents to prepare and carry in your hand luggage (not checked bags):

• Valid US passport (minimum 6 months validity from your arrival date, at least 1 blank page)
• Printed or digital copy of your online pre-registration receipt (if completed)
• 1–2 passport-sized photos (light background; note that kiosks can take digital photos, but physical copies serve as a backup)
• Exact cash in USD for your chosen visa duration ($30, $50, or $125)
• Arrival card (distributed on your flight or available at the airport fill it completely)

At the Airport: The Step-by-Step Process

Step 1 Clear Customs Pre-Check

After deplaning at Tribhuvan International Airport, follow signs to the immigration/arrivals area. The visa section is clearly signposted before you reach the primary immigration desks. All passengers who require visas proceed to this area first.

Step 2 Use the Electronic Kiosks (If Not Pre-Registered)

If you did not complete online pre-registration, proceed to the electronic kiosk machines in the arrivals hall. These machines are touchscreen terminals where you:

• Scan your passport
• Have your digital photo taken by the kiosk camera
• Enter your personal and travel details
• Receive a printed slip with a barcode

Keep this slip you need it at the next step.

If you completed online pre-registration, you can proceed directly to Step 3, bypassing the kiosk queue entirely.

Step 3 Proceed to the Bank/Payment Counter

Take your kiosk slip (or pre-registration barcode receipt) to the bank payment counter in the visa area. Present your document and pay the appropriate fee for your chosen visa duration.

• 15 days: USD $30
• 30 days: USD $50
• 90 days: USD $125

At the payment counter, you can pay in USD cash (strongly recommended) or by card. After payment, you receive a payment receipt.

Step 4 Fill Out the Arrival Card

If you haven’t already completed your arrival card (usually distributed on the aircraft), do so now. The card requires basic information: name, passport number, nationality, purpose of visit, address in Nepal (your first hotel name is sufficient), and flight information. Fill it completely and legibly.

Step 5 Proceed to the Immigration Desk

Join the queue for the immigration desk and present:

• Your valid US passport
• Your payment receipt from the bank counter
• Your completed arrival card
• Your kiosk slip or pre-registration receipt

The immigration officer will verify your documents, take biometric data if required, and stamp your passport with the tourist visa showing your entry date, visa type, and expiry date.

Step 6 Collect Your Stamped Passport and Proceed

Your passport is returned with your Nepal tourist visa stamped inside. Proceed through to baggage claim and the arrivals exit. You are now legally in Nepal.

Total Processing Time: 20–30 minutes (pre-registered) | 45–90 minutes (non-registered, peak season)

Getting Your Nepal Visa at Land Border Crossings

US citizens entering Nepal overland typically from India can also obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at designated land border crossings. The most commonly used by American travelers are:

• Birgunj / Raxaul (connecting to Patna and central India)
• Bhairahawa / Sunauli (connecting to Varanasi and the Lumbini circuit)
• Kakarvitta / Panitanki (connecting to Darjeeling and Northeast India)
• Kodari / Rasuwagadhi (connecting to Tibet currently limited access)

The border crossing visa process follows the same basic steps as the airport process. Key differences:

• Cash only — no card payment facilities at land borders
• No ATMs at border crossings — bring exact USD beforehand
• Processing times are generally faster at land borders (fewer travelers) but facilities are more basic
• Hours vary — check current operating hours before planning your crossing, as some borders have restricted hours

Applying for a Nepal Visa at the Embassy Before Travel

While the Visa on Arrival is the most convenient option, US citizens have the alternative of applying for their Nepal visa in advance at:

Embassy of Nepal Washington D.C. 2131 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 Tel: +1 (202) 667-4550 consular@nepalembassyusa.org

Consulate General of Nepal New York 820 Second Avenue, Suite 17B, New York, NY 10017 Tel: +1 (212) 370-4188

Process for Embassy/Consulate Application:

1. Complete the online application form and generate a submission receipt
2. Submit your passport, application receipt, 2 passport photos, and visa fee (by money order or cashier’s check for mail applications)
3. For mail applications, include a pre-paid return envelope with tracking
4. Processing time is typically 3–5 business days

This option makes sense for:

• Travelers who prefer everything organized before departure
• Those with very tight transit times on arrival
• Travelers who want their visa paperwork in hand before leaving home

Most experienced Nepal travelers, however, choose the Visa on Arrival for its simplicity and flexibility.

Nepal Visa Extension for US Citizens

Nepal’s tourist visa extension policy allows US citizens to extend their stay beyond the initial visa duration without leaving the country. Extensions are processed at:

Department of Immigration Main Office Kalikasthan, Kathmandu Hours: Sunday–Thursday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Friday 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Closed Saturday

Department of Immigration Pokhara Office For travelers in the Annapurna and Lakeside area

Extensions are also available at certain land border immigration offices.

Extension Fees and Rules

• Visa extension costs USD $45 per 15-day block
• Each additional day beyond 15 days costs USD $3 per day
• Extensions must be applied for before your current visa expires late applications incur overstay penalty fees
• The maximum total stay for US citizens on tourist visas is 150 days per calendar year (January 1 to December 31)
• The 150-day counter resets on January 1 each year, making early-year arrivals advantageous for long-stay travelers

How to Apply for a Visa Extension

Step 1: Visit the Department of Immigration during office hours (Sunday–Thursday 10:00 AM–3:00 PM; Friday 10:00 AM–1:00 PM)

Step 2: Obtain and complete the visa extension application form (available at the office or online before visiting)

Step 3: Submit your application with your passport, extension fee, and a passport-sized photo at the designated counter

Step 4: Pay the extension fee at the payment window inside the office

Step 5: Collect your receipt and wait for processing (typically 1–2 hours during peak seasons)

Step 6: Collect your passport with the extended visa stamp

Important: Apply for your extension with at least a few days to spare before your visa expires. Processing is generally straightforward for American travelers with clean visa records, but cutting it close to the expiry date creates unnecessary stress.

Nepal Visa Overstay: What Happens and How to Avoid It

Overstaying your Nepal visa is a mistake that carries real consequences and should be avoided carefully.

The overstay fine is USD $5 per day beyond your visa expiry date. This fine must be paid in full at the Department of Immigration before you are permitted to leave the country or continue your stay legally. The process involves completing an “overstay form,” having it verified by an immigration officer, generating a payment challan, and paying at the bank counter on the premises.

Beyond the financial penalty, significant overstays can result in:

• Entry bans on future visits to Nepal
• Detention in serious cases
• Difficulty obtaining future visas from Nepali embassies

Common causes of unintentional overstay include:

• Miscounting days — your visa expiry date is the final day, not a grace period
• Trekking in remote areas — it’s easy to lose track of dates in the wilderness. Note: your TIMS card and Conservation Area permits do not extend your visa
• Flight cancellations or disruptions — if your departure is delayed due to flight cancellation, document the reason and contact the Department of Immigration proactively
• Medical emergencies — hospitalization is a valid ground for overstay fine waiver if properly documented

Best Practice: Set calendar reminders on your phone for 5 days and 2 days before your visa expiry date. If you’re trekking, note your expiry date on paper and leave it accessible. Plan your itinerary to return to Kathmandu or Pokhara with buffer days before your visa runs out.

Required Documents for Nepal Visa: Full Checklist for US Citizens

Here is the complete document checklist for the Nepal visa for US citizens in 2026:

Mandatory Documents:

• Valid US Passport — must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your arrival date in Nepal; must have at least 1 blank page for the visa stamp
• 1–2 Passport-Sized Photos — recent color photograph, light background. Note: digital kiosks at TIA can take photos if you forget, but carrying physical copies saves time
• Visa Fee in USD Cash — $30 (15 days), $50 (30 days), or $125 (90 days); bills must be from 2003 or later and in good condition
• Completed Arrival Card — distributed on your flight or available at the airport

Strongly Recommended (Not Strictly Mandatory):

• Printed/Digital Pre-Registration Receipt — if you completed the online pre-application, bring your barcode receipt
• Return/Onward Flight Booking — Nepal does not formally require proof of onward travel, but having your return ticket accessible in your email can help answer any immigration questions quickly
• Accommodation Details — your first hotel name and address in Nepal; not officially required but commonly asked on arrival cards

What You Do NOT Need:

Nepal’s Visa on Arrival is refreshingly lean on documentation. US citizens do not need to provide:

• Bank statements
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Travel insurance certificates
• Hotel booking confirmations (though having them is sensible)
• Vaccination records (no mandatory vaccines are required for US citizens; Yellow Fever certificate only required if arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country)
• Sponsor letters or invitation letters

Trekking Permits: What US Citizens Need Beyond the Tourist Visa

A Nepal tourist visa covers your legal presence in the country but does not, by itself, authorize trekking in protected areas. US citizens planning to trek in Nepal’s major regions need additional permits. This is a point that many first-time visitors don’t fully understand until they reach a checkpoint on the trail.

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

The TIMS card is required for most established trekking routes in Nepal. It serves as a trekker registration and safety database. The TIMS card costs approximately NPR 4,000 (around USD $30) for non-SAARC nationals, including US citizens.

TIMS cards are obtained in Kathmandu (at the Nepal Tourism Board office near Bhrikutimandap) or in Pokhara (at the TAAN office).

Important 2026 Update: As of March 22, 2026, the previous requirement for a minimum of two trekkers per group for restricted area permits has been removed. Individual trekkers can now obtain restricted area permits provided they are accompanied by a licensed guide and have booked through a registered trekking agency.

National Park and Conservation Area Entry Permits

These permits are in addition to the TIMS card and are specific to the region you’re trekking in:

Sagarmatha National Park Permit (Everest Region) Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD $23) Required for: Any trekking in the Everest region, including the Everest Base Camp route

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD $23) Required for: Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani–Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and all Annapurna region treks

Langtang National Park Permit Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD $23) Required for: Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, Helambu

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit Cost: Varies by season (NPR 3,500–7,000 approximately) Required for: Manaslu Circuit

Restricted Area Permits (RAPs)

Some of Nepal’s most spectacular and remote regions require an additional Restricted Area Permit, obtainable only through a licensed trekking agency:

Upper Mustang: USD $500 per person for the first 10 days; USD $50 per additional day Manaslu Circuit (restricted section): USD $75 per week (September–November), USD $50 per week (December–August) Upper Dolpo: USD $500 per person for the first 10 days Tsum Valley: USD $40 per week (September–November), USD $20 per week (other months)

Critical Warning for 2026: Nepal’s permit landscape has changed more between 2023 and 2026 than in the previous decade. If caught trekking without a required permit at a checkpoint, the on-site fine is USD $120 per person. In restricted areas, trekkers without correct documentation may have permits revoked and face deportation. Additionally, trekking without proper permits can void your travel insurance for helicopter evacuation costs a potentially catastrophic financial consequence at high altitude.

Always confirm current permit requirements with your trekking agency or the Nepal Tourism Board before departure, as rules and fees are subject to change.

US Embassy in Kathmandu: Consular Services for American Citizens

US citizens in Nepal have access to consular services through the US Embassy in Kathmandu, located in Maharajgunj:

US Embassy Kathmandu Maharajgunj, Kathmandu Emergency: +1 (202) 501-4444 (after-hours American Citizen Services) np.usembassy.gov

Register your trip with the US State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before visiting Nepal. This free service allows the Embassy to contact you in case of emergency, provides you with safety updates and travel alerts, and helps your family reach you if something happens. Registration takes less than 5 minutes at step.state.gov and is strongly recommended for any Nepal travel.

Frequently Asked Questions: Nepal Visa for US Citizens

Can I get a Nepal visa on arrival as a US citizen?

Yes. US citizens are fully eligible for the Nepal Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at major land border crossings. This is the most common and recommended method for American travelers.

How long can US citizens stay in Nepal?

US citizens can stay in Nepal for up to 150 days per calendar year on a tourist visa. Initial visas are available for 15, 30, or 90 days, with extensions available at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Do I need to book anything before arriving in Nepal?

No pre-booked hotels, tours, or return flights are mandatory for Nepal visa issuance. However, having your accommodation details and return flight bookings accessible helps answer common immigration questions quickly.

Can children get a Nepal visa?

Yes. Children of all ages require a Nepal visa (except Indian nationals). Children under 10 years old receive their visa free of charge. Standard process applies.

Can I apply for a Nepal e-Visa online?

Nepal’s online system is a pre-registration service, not a traditional e-visa. US citizens complete an online form at nepaliport.immigration.gov.np to generate a barcode receipt, which speeds up the airport process. The actual visa is still stamped in your passport on arrival it is not issued digitally in advance.

What if my passport has less than 6 months validity?

You will be denied a Nepal visa. Renew your passport before traveling if it has less than 6 months remaining from your planned arrival date. US passport renewals can take 6–8 weeks through standard service; expedited processing takes 2–3 weeks. Apply early.

What happens if I overstay my Nepal visa?

You will be fined USD $5 per day of overstay. This must be paid before departing Nepal. Significant overstays can result in future entry bans. There is no grace period.

Can I work in Nepal on a tourist visa?

No. A tourist visa does not permit employment in Nepal. Travelers intending to work, volunteer in certain capacities, or conduct extended business activities should apply for the appropriate visa category through the Department of Immigration after arrival, or through a Nepali embassy before traveling.

Can I re-enter Nepal on the same tourist visa?

Yes. Nepal tourist visas are multiple entry, allowing you to exit to neighboring countries (Bhutan, India, Tibet) and return to Nepal within your visa’s validity period, provided you don’t exceed the 150-day annual maximum.

Is Nepal safe for American travelers in 2026?

Nepal is generally considered safe for tourists. The US State Department currently classifies Nepal at Level 1 or Level 2 depending on specific regions. Natural hazards (altitude, landslides, earthquakes) represent the primary risks for most travelers. Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation, which is essential for trekking.

Nepal Visa Tips for US Citizens: Pro Advice for 2026

1. Always choose a longer visa duration. The $20 difference between a 15-day ($30) and 30-day ($50) visa is not worth the hassle of an extension if your plans change. Even if you initially plan 15 days, the 30-day option provides flexibility without a significant cost increase.

2. Complete online pre-registration. The time saved at the airport during peak seasons (March–May and October–November) can be 30–60 minutes. It takes 10 minutes to do online and is completely free.

3. Carry clean USD bills. This is the single most common point of friction for US travelers at the Nepal visa counter. Bills must be from 2003 or later, in good condition, and ideally in $50 denominations. Check your bills before leaving home.

4. Set visa expiry reminders. Nepal’s trekking routes and cultural experiences have a way of making days blur together. Calendar reminders set for 5 and 2 days before visa expiry have saved many travelers from costly overstay fines.

5. Arrange trekking permits before leaving Kathmandu or Pokhara. Do not assume you can sort permits at trailhead checkpoints. Plan a half-day in Kathmandu or Pokhara specifically for permit acquisition before beginning any trek.

6. Register with the US Embassy STEP program. Five minutes of registration before departure gives you a meaningful safety net in case of emergency.

7. Get travel insurance with evacuation coverage before departure. Medical evacuation from Himalayan altitudes by helicopter costs USD $3,000–$10,000+. Most US domestic health insurance plans provide zero coverage in Nepal. Purchase comprehensive international travel insurance it is non-negotiable for any trekking itinerary.

8. Know your entry point. If arriving overland from India, confirm in advance that your chosen land border crossing is operational and what its hours are. Border crossing hours and access can change seasonally.

Summary: Your Nepal Visa Checklist for US Citizens (2026/2027)

Before Departure:

• Confirm passport has 6+ months validity from Nepal arrival date
• Confirm at least 1 blank passport page available
• Complete online pre-registration at nepaliport.immigration.gov.np (within 15 days of travel)
• Print or save barcode receipt on phone
• Prepare USD cash (2003 or later, clean condition) in the right amount
• Arrange 1–2 passport-sized photos
• Register with STEP at step.state.gov
• Purchase travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage
• Research trekking permit requirements for your planned routes

At the Airport:

• Collect and fill arrival card on the plane
• Proceed to visa area (before immigration desks)
• Use pre-registration queue (if you have barcode receipt) OR kiosk
• Pay visa fee at bank counter
• Present documents at immigration desk
• Receive visa stamp check dates on your passport before leaving the desk

In Nepal:

• Obtain TIMS card and all required trekking permits before heading to trailheads
• Note your visa expiry date and set phone reminders
• Apply for extension at least 3–5 days before expiry if needed
• Do not rely on TIMS card or Conservation Area permits to extend your visa they do not

Getting your Nepal visa as a US citizen is one of the easiest parts of planning a Nepal trip. Nepal’s open, accessible visa system reflects the country’s genuine commitment to welcoming international visitors and American travelers have been among the most enthusiastic recipients of that welcome.

The system rewards preparation: do your online pre-registration, carry clean USD bills, choose the right visa duration for your itinerary, and understand your trekking permit requirements before you arrive at the trailhead. Do those things, and immigration becomes a brief administrative formality before the real journey begins.

And what a journey it is. Eight of the world’s fourteen highest peaks. Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites within one valley. Ancient living cultures, sacred Buddhist monasteries, wild rhinoceros in subtropical jungle, and the most ambitious trekking routes on the planet all waiting on the other side of that visa stamp.

The Himalayas are extraordinary. The visa process is simple. There is no good reason to delay.

For the most current visa requirements, fees, and official forms, visit the Nepal Department of Immigration’s official website at immigration.gov.np and the Nepal Tourism Board at welcomenepal.com. For emergency consular assistance as a US citizen in Nepal, contact the US Embassy in Kathmandu at np.usembassy.gov.