Travel Tips
Nepal e-Visa: How to Apply Online Before You Arrive
A step-by-step guide to applying for Nepal's online e-visa so you can skip the arrival queue entirely.
Overview
Nepal introduced its e-visa system to let travelers apply online before departure, reducing time spent at immigration on arrival. The e-visa portal is managed by the Department of Immigration and is available at nepalimmigration.gov.np. Once approved, you receive a visa approval letter by email that you present at the immigration counter, where a sticker or stamp is placed in your passport.
How to Apply
Visit the official Nepal immigration portal and create an account using your email address. Fill in personal details exactly as they appear in your passport, upload a recent passport-sized photo (JPEG, max 500KB), a scanned copy of your passport data page, and proof of onward travel. Choose your visa category (tourist), duration (15, 30, or 90 days), and pay the fee online using a credit or debit card.
Processing Time
The e-visa typically processes within 24-72 hours, though peak periods can stretch this to five business days. Apply at least a week before travel to be safe. You will receive a PDF approval notice to print or show on your phone at the airport.
Arriving With an e-Visa
At Tribhuvan Airport, proceed to the e-visa counter (separate from the visa on arrival queue) with your approval letter and passport. Processing at this counter is significantly faster, often under 10 minutes.
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FAQ
Q: Is the e-visa mandatory or optional?
It is optional. You can still get a visa on arrival without pre-applying. The e-visa is simply more convenient if you want to minimize airport wait time or prefer to have documentation sorted before travel.
Q: Can I change my visa duration after applying?
No. Once submitted and paid, the visa duration cannot be changed. If you want a different duration, you must submit a new application and pay again. Plan carefully before submitting.
Q: Does the e-visa work at all entry points?
The e-visa is valid at Tribhuvan International Airport, Pokhara Regional Airport, and major land border crossings including Birgunj, Bhairahawa (Sunauli), Belhiya, Kakarbhitta, Kodari (when open), Rasuwagadhi, and Nepalgunj. Confirm your specific border crossing is listed before applying.
