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Travel Guide

Do US citizens need visas for Nepal?

Suraj Katwal
Suraj Katwal
Published: β€’Last Updated: β€’5 min read
Key points
  • US passport holders need to check Nepal’s current tourist visa requirements before travel.
  • Compare arrival and pre-arrival options, and confirm fees with the official immigration source.
  • Use Nepal’s official immigration guidance to confirm current visa options and fees.
  • Check passport and application requirements before choosing arrival or advance processing.

If you are a US citizen planning a trip to Nepal for holidays or trekking, one of the first questions you will ask is: do US citizens need visas for Nepal?

In this guide, we cover tourist visa options, official fee structures, online pre-arrival application procedures, currency rules, and contact information for the US Embassy in Kathmandu and the Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C.

Do US citizens need visas for Nepal?

Yes, US passport holders require a visa to enter Nepal. US citizens can obtain a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, at major land border crossings, or in advance through Nepalese embassies and consulates overseas.

Do US citizens need visas for Nepal?

How to Get a Nepal Visa for US Citizens

Obtaining a Nepal tourist visa for US citizens is straightforward. You can follow these guidelines to complete the process:

  • Visa on Arrival is available at Tribhuvan International Airport and official land border entry points for stays up to 90 days per entry.
  • You must hold a US passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival date with at least two blank visa pages.
  • You can fill out the online pre-arrival tourist visa form via the official Department of Immigration portal up to 15 days before your flight to speed up processing at arrival kiosks.
  • Visa fees are payable in US dollars or major convertible foreign currencies upon arrival. Credit card payment kiosks are available at Kathmandu airport, though bringing cash USD is recommended as a backup.
  • Make sure you carry your passport, flight itinerary, hotel booking details, and documents such as your US driving license or IDP if you plan to drive locally.

Nepal Visa Fees for US Citizens

Official tourist visa fees set by the Nepal Department of Immigration for multiple-entry tourist visas are as follows:

Visa Fees & Policy Notice: Visa fees and entry regulations are determined by the Nepal Department of Immigration. Rates and accepted payment methods may be updated by immigration authorities. We recommend checking the official Department of Immigration portal before your journey.
Visa DurationEntry TypeOfficial Fee (USD)
15 DaysMultiple Entry$30
30 DaysMultiple Entry$50
90 DaysMultiple Entry$125

Travelers who wish to extend their stay can apply for a tourist visa extension at the Department of Immigration office in Kathmandu or the Immigration Office in Pokhara. Tourist visas can be extended up to a maximum limit of 150 days in a single calendar year.

Can I Travel to Nepal with a US Passport?

Yes, US passport holders can travel to Nepal without needing a pre-approved visa before departure. You can complete your entry visa upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport or designated land border checkpoints.

US Passport

Travel Costs from the United States to Nepal

Travel costs depend on your travel season and style, but Nepal remains an affordable destination for international travelers. Budget accommodations, local transportation, and dining offer high value compared to Western standards.

Round-trip flight fares from major US cities to Kathmandu typically range between $800 and $1,400 depending on airline connections and seasonal demand. Early flight reservations provide the best rates.

Flights from the US to Nepal

Direct flights between the US and Nepal are not currently operating. Major airline routes connect through international transit hubs such as Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Singapore Airlines, or Air India.

Comparing routes on flight comparison platforms helps locate optimal flight schedules.

How Much Cash Can You Carry to Nepal?

Travelers can carry up to US$ 5,000 in cash or equivalent foreign currency into Nepal without making a customs declaration. Carrying foreign currency exceeding $5,000 requires declaring the amount upon arrival at customs. Read our detailed guide on carrying US dollars to Nepal for full rules.

Also Read: Essential Documents Required While Traveling Nepal

FAQs

Is there a US Embassy in Nepal?

Yes, the US Embassy in Nepal is located in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu.

What is the contact information for the US Embassy in Kathmandu?

The US Embassy in Kathmandu is located in Maharajgunj (Chakrapath area). Telephone: +977-1-423-4000. Email: usembktm@state.gov.

Where is the Embassy of Nepal in the United States?

The Embassy of Nepal in the US is located at 2131 Leroy Place, NW, Washington, DC 20008. Telephone: +1 (202) 667-4550. Email: eonwashington@mofa.gov.np.

How long can US citizens stay in Nepal on a tourist visa?

US citizens can stay in Nepal for up to 150 days per calendar year. Initial visas are issued for 15, 30, or 90 days and can be extended at immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Is COVID-19 testing required for entering Nepal?

Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination certificates and PCR testing entry requirements have been lifted for travelers entering Nepal.

Summary Tips for Traveling to Nepal

  • Check the official Department of Immigration portal before departure to verify current visa forms and policies.
  • Carry cash USD for visa fee payments at arrival entry points.
  • Get a local tourist mobile connection at the arrival terminal. Learn details in our SIM Cards in Nepal guide.
  • Review transport options in our Getting Around Nepal guide to plan your travel across the country.

I hope this guide answers your questions regarding Nepal visa requirements for US citizens. If you have further queries, feel free to leave a comment below.

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Suraj Katwal

Suraj Katwal

Founder & Local Writer

Born and raised in Nepal, Suraj has lived in Kathmandu for over 15 years and explored routes from the subtropical jungles of Chitwan to high Himalayan passes across Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang. He writes honest, field-tested guides based on firsthand trail experience to help travelers explore Nepal safely and with confidence.