Yes — U.S. citizens need a tourist visa for Nepal, but it's one of the easiest in Asia: visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport and major land borders, or an online pre-application that speeds things up. Tourist visas cost $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, or $125 for 90 days, and can be extended inside Nepal up to 150 days per calendar year.
Visa on arrival — how it works
At Kathmandu's Tribhuvan airport, use the kiosk or your own phone to complete the arrival form, pay at the counter (USD cash is safest — cards can be offline), and get your visa sticker. The whole thing takes 15-45 minutes depending on queues.
Pro tip: fill the official online pre-application (Nepal Immigration's website) within 15 days before arrival. You get a submission barcode that skips the kiosk step entirely.
Prices and duration
Visas are multiple-entry within their validity — you can side-trip to Bhutan or India and return on the same visa.
| Visa length | Cost | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 15 days | $30 | Short treks (EBC, Annapurna) |
| 30 days | $50 | Most itineraries |
| 90 days | $125 | Long treks + volunteering |
Land border crossings
Visa on arrival is issued at major land crossings too (Sunauli/Belahiya from India, Rasuwagadhi from Tibet when open). Bring a passport-size photo — some border posts ask for one — and USD cash.
Apply online — skip the paperwork
iVisa handles visa and travel authorization applications online — document review, government submission, and delivery to your inbox.
Extending your stay
Extensions are processed at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu (or Pokhara office) for $45 + $3/day. The legal maximum is 150 days per calendar year. Overstaying is fined $5/day and can complicate future entries.
Nepal Visa for U.S. Citizens: Visa on Arrival & eVisa (2026) — FAQ
Do Americans need a visa for Nepal?
Can I get a Nepal visa online before travel?
How long can a U.S. citizen stay in Nepal?
What documents do I need for Nepal visa on arrival?
Country entry requirements
Related guides
Entry rules change without notice. Always verify with official government sources (travel.state.gov, embassy websites) before booking. Last reviewed October 2026. This page may contain partner links — see our affiliate disclosure.