Visiting Nepal is an unforgettable experience. From ancient temples to soaring Himalayan peaks, there are countless things to do in Nepal, but one of the most popular activities is trekking in Nepal. Home to some of the highest mountains in the world, Nepal is a top destination for adventure travelers and nature lovers alike. Our Nepal travel guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Before you pack your bags, make sure you meet all the Nepal entry requirements including your visa. Here's everything US citizens need to know about the application process.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Nepal?
Yes, US citizens are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Nepal. This applies to citizens of virtually every country in the world, with the sole exception of India.
The good news is that US citizens are eligible to apply for a Nepal tourist visa online, making the process fast and convenient.
How to Apply for a Nepal Visa as a US Citizen
There are three ways to obtain a Nepal visa as a US citizen:
- Online (recommended): The tourist visa available for stays of 15, 30, or 90 days, can be applied for entirely online. This is the safest and most convenient option, as it allows you to review and correct your application before traveling.
- On arrival at the airport: It is possible to obtain a visa upon landing in Nepal, but this is not recommended. If any documents are missing or errors are made, there will be little time or opportunity to fix them on the spot.
- At the nearest Nepalese embassy: Non-tourist visas, such as work, study, or transit visas, must be applied for in person at your closest Nepalese embassy or consulate.
Regardless of how you apply, your visa must be presented to immigration officials upon arrival at the airport in Nepal.
How Much Does a Nepal Visa Cost for US Citizens?
Nepal visa fees depend on the length of your stay. All government fees are paid at the airport upon arrival, there is no upfront charge when applying online:
- 15 days: $30 USD
- 30 days: $50 USD
- 90 days: $125 USD
The following travelers are exempt from visa fees:
- Children under 10 years of age.
- Citizens of SAARC countries (excluding Afghan nationals).
- Holders of a Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) card.
- Chinese nationals.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Nepal Visa for US Citizens?
When applying online, your Nepal visa application must be submitted at least 48 hours and no more than 14 days before your arrival in the country. Once issued, the form is valid for 15 days, so make sure to time your application accordingly.
Nepal Visa Requirements for US Citizens
To apply for a Nepal tourist visa, US citizens must provide the following:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining and at least three blank pages.
- Passport-size photograph taken within the same year as your trip.
- Completed application form, submitted online or at the airport.
While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended for anyone visiting Nepal given the nature of the terrain and activities available.
For non-tourist visa categories, requirements may differ. Contact the Embassy or Consulate of Nepal in the US for specific information.
Where Is the Nepalese Embassy in the US?
Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C.
Address: 2730 34th Place NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: +1 (202) 667-4550
Fax: +1 (202) 667-5534
Consulate General of Nepal in New York City
Address: 820 2nd Avenue, Suite 17B, New York, NY 10017
Phone: +1 (212) 370-3988 / 370-3989 / 370-3732
Fax: +1 (212) 953-2038
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
Where Is the US Embassy in Nepal?
US citizens who need consular assistance while in Nepal can contact the American Embassy in Kathmandu:
Address: Maharajgunj Road, Kathmandu 44606, Nepal
Phone: +977 1 423-4000
Fax: +977 1 400-7272
What Vaccines Do You Need to Travel to Nepal from the US?
The CDC recommends that US travelers be up to date on the following vaccines before visiting Nepal:
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
- Flu (Influenza)
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Polio
- Shingles
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Japanese Encephalitis (especially recommended for travel between June and October)
- Cholera
Consult your doctor or a travel medicine specialist well in advance of your trip for personalized recommendations based on your itinerary.
What Is the Time Difference Between Nepal and the US?
Nepal operates on a unique fixed time zone of UTC+5:45, one of only two places in the world with a quarter-hour offset, alongside the Chatham Islands. Nepal does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Since the United States spans six time zones, the difference varies depending on your location:
- Eastern Time (ET) — UTC−5: Nepal is 10 hours and 45 minutes ahead.
- Central Time (CT) — UTC−6: Nepal is 11 hours and 45 minutes ahead.
- Mountain Time (MT) — UTC−7: Nepal is 12 hours and 45 minutes ahead.
- Pacific Time (PT) — UTC−8: Nepal is 13 hours and 45 minutes ahead.
- Alaska Time (AKT) — UTC−9: Nepal is 14 hours and 45 minutes ahead.
- Hawaii-Aleutian Time (HAT) — UTC−10: Nepal is 15 hours and 45 minutes ahead.
What Is the Currency of Nepal and the Exchange Rate to US Dollars?
Nepal's official currency is the Nepalese rupee (ISO code: NPR; symbol: Rs), shared with the Indian rupee and divided into 100 paisa. The most convenient ways to access local currency are ATMs and licensed exchange banks.
Exchange rates fluctuate, so we recommend checking the current rate before your trip. As a general reference, 1 US dollar is equivalent to approximately 132 Nepalese rupees.
Are There Direct Flights from the US to Nepal?
There are no direct flights between the United States and Nepal. All available routes require at least one stopover and typically take 16 hours or more, with fares starting at around $1,300. Common connecting hubs include Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates), and Delhi (Air India), among others.
We recommend comparing prices and layover times in advance to find the best option for your schedule and budget.
