Quick Answer
Use the e-Visa if you want to skip the airport queue — apply online before travel at online.nepalimmigration.gov.np, processing takes 2–4 days, and you walk straight through immigration. Use visa on arrival if you did not plan ahead — it is reliably available at Tribhuvan International Airport, costs the same, and works fine if you are prepared to queue 20–45 minutes.
Fees and Durations
| Duration | Fee |
|---|---|
| 15 days | $30 USD |
| 30 days | $50 USD |
| 90 days | $125 USD |
Fees are identical for e-Visa and visa on arrival. For remote workers planning a meaningful stay, the 90-day visa at $125 is the obvious choice. It works out to $1.39/day for visa costs — negligible.
e-Visa: How to Apply
1. Go to online.nepalimmigration.gov.np
2. Create an account and fill in the application form
3. Upload passport photo and bio page scan
4. Pay online (credit/debit card)
5. Receive approval email within 2–4 business days
6. Print the approval or save to phone — present at immigration on arrival
The e-Visa is a PDF you show at immigration. No sticker, no separate counter — you join the e-Visa lane which is usually faster.
Visa on Arrival: What to Expect
Available at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu and several land border crossings. Steps:
1. Fill in arrival card on the plane or at the form station before immigration
2. Queue at the visa on arrival counter (can be 20–45 minutes during busy periods)
3. Submit form, passport, and USD cash (or card at some counters)
4. Receive visa stamp in passport
5. Proceed to immigration with stamp
Bring USD cash as a backup even if you plan to use card — some counters only accept cash. Crisp bills preferred (no tears, no writing).
Extending in Nepal
Extensions processed at the Department of Immigration, Maitighar, Kathmandu (open Sunday–Thursday). Cost: NPR 3,000 (~$22) per month of extension. Bring passport, passport photo, and completed extension form. Process takes 1–2 hours same day.
Maximum stay per visa year: 150 days. Most remote workers do 90 days + 60-day extension = 150 days cleanly.
Nationalities That Need to Apply in Advance
Citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Somalia, Iraq, and a handful of other countries must apply through a Nepalese embassy rather than on arrival. Indian nationals need no visa. Check nepalimmigration.gov.np for the current list.
Bottom Line
e-Visa if you are organised. On arrival if you are not. Both work. Get the 90-day option — you will want it.
Next steps: Nepal Digital Nomad Guide | Cost of Living in Kathmandu
*Last updated: May 2026*