- adv.rojen@gmail.com
- Anamnagar Kathmandu
Visa Law of Nepal
28
Mar
Table of Contents
Are you planning to visit, work, invest, or live in Nepal? Understanding the visa law of Nepal is essential for every foreigner before entering the country. Nepal's immigration framework has undergone significant changes, and staying informed about current regulations can prevent legal complications, fines, and deportation.
This comprehensive guide explains the visa law of Nepal covering all visa categories—tourist, work, business, investment, student, and residential visas. Whether you are a backpacker planning a Himalayan trek, an entrepreneur seeking investment opportunities, or a professional considering employment, this guide provides everything you need to know about Nepal's immigration system in 2026 .
Overview of Visa Law of Nepal
The visa law of Nepal is primarily governed by the Immigration Act 2049 (1992) and Immigration Rules 2051 (1994), supplemented by the Labor Act 2074 (2017) and Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act 2075 (2019) for employment and investment-related visas .
| Legal Framework | Key Provisions |
|---|---|
| Immigration Act 2049 (1992) | Entry, stay, and exit regulations; visa categories; penalties |
| Immigration Rules 2051 (1994) | Detailed procedures for visa issuance and renewal |
| Labor Act 2074 (2017) | Foreign employment restrictions and work permit requirements |
| FITTA 2075 (2019) | Investment visa eligibility and business visa framework |
| Foreign Citizen Labor Permission Directive 2076 (2019) | Work permit procedures and documentation |
Under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 2049, no foreigner may enter or stay in Nepal without a valid passport and visa, except where specific exemptions apply .
Who Needs a Visa for Nepal?
Visa-Exempt Nationals
| Category | Exemption Details |
|---|---|
| Indian Nationals | No visa required; entry permitted with passport, voter ID, or other government-issued photo ID |
| Bhutanese Nationals | Generally exempt under bilateral arrangements |
| Chinese Nationals | Gratis (free) tourist visa |
| SAARC Nationals | First 30 days free in a calendar year (Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka) |
Visa-Required Nationals
All other foreign nationals must obtain a visa before or upon arrival in Nepal. As of February 2025, foreign travelers must arrive on a tourist visa and can only convert to other categories after arrival .
Important Update for 2026: Citizens of Afghanistan, Swaziland, Somalia, Ethiopia, Palestine, Liberia, Iraq, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe cannot obtain visas on arrival and must apply in advance at Nepalese embassies or diplomatic missions .
Types of Visas Under Visa Law of Nepal
Nepal offers multiple visa categories based on purpose of visit :
| Visa Type | Purpose | Initial Duration | Extendable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourism, sightseeing, trekking | 15/30/90 days | Yes, up to 150 days/year |
| Work Visa | Employment in Nepali organizations | Up to 1 year | Yes, up to 5 years |
| Business Visa | Investment, trade, business operations | 1 month to 5 years | Yes |
| Student Visa | Educational pursuits | Duration of course | Yes |
| Residential Visa | Long-term residence | Up to 10 years | Yes |
| Non-Tourist Visa | Researchers, journalists, volunteers | Varies | Yes |
| Transit Visa | Air transit, emergency landing | 24 hours | No |
| Non-Residential Nepalese Visa | Foreigners of Nepalese origin | Up to 10 years | Yes |
| Marriage Visa | Spouses of Nepali citizens | Up to 1 year | Yes |
Tourist Visa: Most Common Entry Route
The tourist visa is the primary entry point for most foreigners under the visa law of Nepal .
Visa on Arrival (2026)
| Duration | Fee (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 15 days | $30 | Short treks, cultural tours |
| 30 days | $50 | Standard trekking (Everest/Annapurna) |
| 90 days | $125 | Long-stay travelers, researchers |
Entry Points for Visa on Arrival
By Air:
- Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
By Land:
- Kakarvitta, Jhapa District (Eastern Nepal)
- Biratnagar, Morang District (Southeastern Nepal)
- Birgunj, Parsa District (Central Nepal)
- Belahiya, Bhairahawa, Rupandehi District (Southern Nepal)
- Gadda Chauki, Mahendranagar, Kanchanpur District (Western Nepal)
- Timure, Rasuwa District (Northern Border)
Required Documents for Tourist Visa
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | Minimum 6 months validity |
| Passport Photo | One recent passport-sized photo |
| Completed Application Form | Online form or kiosk at airport |
| Visa Fee | USD cash (exact change recommended) |
| Return Ticket | Sometimes requested |
| Proof of Accommodation | Hotel booking or agency letter |
Important: Payment at land borders must be made in U.S. dollars only (bills issued after 2003, in good condition). Credit cards and other currencies are not accepted .
Tourist Visa Extension
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Stay | 150 days per calendar year (January-December) |
| Extension Fee | $45 for 15 days minimum, then $3 per day |
| Late Fine | $5 per day for overstay |
| Extension Locations | Kathmandu (all visas), Pokhara, Kakarvitta, Birgunj, Belahiya (tourist visas only) |
Work Visa and Permits Under Visa Law of Nepal
Foreign employment in Nepal is strictly regulated under Chapter 6 of the Labor Act 2074 .
Who Requires a Work Permit?
All foreign nationals engaging in employment in Nepal require a valid work permit, irrespective of job type or duration .
Work Permit Application Process
| Step | Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vacancy publication in national daily | 1 month |
| 2 | Application to Department of Labor (if no qualified Nepali applicant) | Variable |
| 3 | Work permit issuance by DOL | Upon approval |
| 4 | Work visa application to Department of Immigration | Online submission |
| 5 | Work visa issuance | Upon verification |
Online Application: http://online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/working-visa
Work Visa Fees (2026)
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| Per month | USD 75 |
| Single re-entry | USD 20 |
| Multiple re-entry | USD 60 |
Work Permit Fees
| Duration | Fee (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Less than 6 months | 15,000 |
| More than 6 months | 20,000 |
Special Work Visa Categories
| Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Standard Employment | Job advertisement, DOL approval |
| FDI/NGO/INGO Employees | Up to 3 foreigners without advertising |
| Technical/Short-Term | Maximum 3 months for installation/repair |
Important: Employment without a valid work permit and visa may lead to visa cancellation, deportation, and fines under Labor and Immigration laws .
Business Visa Under Visa Law of Nepal
The business visa facilitates commercial activities and investment in Nepal .
Eligibility for Business Visa
| Eligible Persons | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Foreign investors | Approved investment under FITTA 2019 |
| Company representatives | Authorized by registered companies |
| Export traders | Engaged in export trade from Nepal |
| Foreign buyers | Purchasing Nepali goods for export |
Note: Indian nationals do not require a business visa to work or invest in Nepal due to bilateral agreements .
Business Visa Application Process
| Step | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Obtain foreign investment approval from Department of Industry |
| 2 | Complete company and tax registration |
| 3 | Secure recommendation letter from DOI or line agency |
| 4 | Submit application to Department of Immigration |
| 5 | Pay applicable visa fees |
Business Visa Fees (2026)
| Investment Level | Monthly | Annual | 5-Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than NPR 10 million | USD 35 | USD 400 | USD 1,000 |
| More than NPR 10 million | USD 20 | USD 200 | USD 500 |
| More than NPR 100 million | No charges | No charges | No charges |
Note: Business visas include multiple re-entry facility regardless of duration .
Investor Visa Under Visa Law of Nepal
The investor visa is designed for substantial foreign investors .
Minimum Investment Requirements
| Investment Threshold | Visa Benefits |
|---|---|
| NPR 20 million minimum | Standard investor visa |
| NPR 10-100 million | Reduced visa fees |
| Above NPR 100 million | Free visa (no charges) |
Investor Visa Application Requirements
| Document | Source |
|---|---|
| Investment approval letter | Department of Industry or IBN |
| Company registration certificate | Office of Company Registrar |
| Proof of investment transfer | Bank records |
| PAN/VAT registration | Inland Revenue Department |
| Shareholder certificate | Company records |
| Recommendation letter | Department of Industry |
Benefits of Investor Visa
- Legal residence during business management
- Ability to supervise and control operations
- Sponsorship of dependent visas for family
- Investment protection under Nepalese law
- Profit repatriation rights
Other Important Visa Categories
Student Visa
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Proof of admission | From recognized educational institution |
| Financial support | Evidence of funding |
| Duration | Course duration, extendable |
Residential Visa
| Eligibility | Duration |
|---|---|
| International reputation | Up to 10 years |
| Significant contribution to development | Up to 10 years |
| Substantial investment | Up to 10 years |
| Non-business residence | Up to 10 years |
Marriage Visa
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Spouse of Nepali citizen |
| Initial Duration | Maximum 6 months (first-time applicants) |
| Renewal | Up to 1 year |
| Fee | USD 10 per month |
| Multiple Re-entry | Additional USD 60 |
| Requirement | Nepali spouse must be present at every renewal |
Key Compliance Requirements Under Visa Law of Nepal
Visa Conversion Rule (Effective February 2025)
As of February 2025, foreign travelers must arrive in Nepal on a tourist visa and can only convert to other categories (work, business, student) after arrival .
General Compliance Obligations
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | 6+ months validity at all times |
| Visa Validity | Must not expire during stay |
| Extension Application | Before expiration date |
| Address Reporting | Changes must be reported to immigration |
| Employment Restrictions | Only authorized work permitted |
Penalties for Violations
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Overstaying visa | USD 5 per day fine |
| Working without permit | Visa cancellation, deportation |
| Long overstay | Heavy fines, arrest, detention, deportation ban |
| Self-transfer of visa between passports | Crime punishable by imprisonment and fines |
Recent Changes in Visa Law of Nepal (2025-2026)
| Change | Effective Date | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory tourist visa arrival | February 2025 | All foreigners must enter on tourist visa first |
| Visa conversion after arrival | February 2025 | No pre-arrival work/business visas |
| Iranian citizens visa-on-arrival removal | 2026 | Must apply in advance |
| Digital application systems | 2025-2026 | Online forms, barcode receipts |
Frequently Asked Questions About Visa Law of Nepal
What is the visa law of Nepal?
The visa law of Nepal comprises the Immigration Act 2049 (1992), Immigration Rules 2051 (1994), Labor Act 2074 (2017), and FITTA 2075 (2019), governing entry, stay, and exit of foreign nationals .
Do Indian citizens need a visa for Nepal?
No. Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Nepal and can use passport, voter ID, driving license, or other government-issued photo ID .
Can I get a visa on arrival in Nepal in 2026?
Yes, most nationalities can obtain visas on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or designated land border points. However, citizens of Afghanistan, Swaziland, Somalia, Ethiopia, Palestine, Liberia, Iraq, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Zimbabwe must apply in advance .
How long can I stay in Nepal on a tourist visa?
Maximum 150 days per calendar year (January-December). Initial visas are issued for 15, 30, or 90 days and can be extended .
What are the fees for Nepal tourist visa?
USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days .
Can I work in Nepal on a tourist visa?
No. Working on a tourist visa is illegal. You must obtain a work permit and work visa before commencing employment .
How do I convert my tourist visa to a work visa?
You must first secure employment, your employer must obtain a work permit from the Department of Labor, and then you apply for a work visa through the Department of Immigration online portal .
What is the minimum investment for a business visa?
There is no strict minimum, but visa fees vary based on investment level: less than NPR 10 million (USD 35/month), more than NPR 10 million (USD 20/month), and free for investments above NPR 100 million .
Can I bring my family to Nepal on my visa?
Yes, business visa and investor visa holders can sponsor dependent visas for spouses and children .
What happens if I overstay my visa in Nepal?
Overstaying attracts a fine of USD 5 per day. Long overstays may result in heavy fines, arrest, detention, deportation, and future entry bans .
Conclusion
Understanding the visa law of Nepal is essential for every foreigner planning to visit, work, invest, or reside in the country. Nepal offers a relatively open visa policy for tourists but maintains strict regulations for employment and long-term stays.
Key takeaways for 2026:
- Most tourists can obtain visas on arrival for $30-$125
- All employment requires work permits and work visas
- Business and investment visas offer long-term residence options
- Compliance with visa conditions is strictly enforced
- Recent changes require tourist visa entry before category conversion
For professional assistance with visa applications, work permits, or immigration compliance, Corporate Np provides comprehensive legal services. Our team specializes in Nepal's immigration laws and can guide you through every step of the process.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and visa regulations are subject to frequent amendments. Readers should consult qualified legal professionals and check official government sources for the most current information. The author and publisher disclaim liability for any actions taken based on this information.
References
- Department of Immigration Nepal Official Website
- Immigration Act 2049 (1992) - Nepal Law Commission
- Immigration Rules 2051 (1994) - Nepal Gazette
- Labor Act 2074 (2017) - Ministry of Labor
- Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act 2075 (2019)
- Department of Labor Nepal
- Department of Industry Nepal
- Investment Board Nepal
- U.S. State Department - Nepal Travel Information
- Nepal Tourism Board
Need expert assistance with your Nepal visa application or immigration matters? Contact Corporate Np today for professional guidance through the visa law of Nepal.
