Planning a trip to Nepal? As of August 17, 2026, Nepal has fully implemented its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, streamlining the tourist visa process for eligible foreign travelers before they even arrive. This advance authorization simplifies and speeds up visa issuance at Nepali immigration counters for those eligible for Nepal’s visa-on-arrival facility. It’s crucial to remember that the Nepal ETA is an authorization, not a visa itself.
Who Needs to Apply for Nepal ETA?
The Nepal ETA is primarily for foreign nationals who qualify for Nepal’s visa-on-arrival facility. This system helps pre-clear your travel, making your entry smoother.
Important Note for Indian Citizens: While Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal, they are still required to complete the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel. For entry, a valid passport is recommended for faster processing, though a voter ID card is also accepted for eligible Indian travelers.
However, travelers from the following countries are currently not eligible for a visa on arrival and must secure their visa in advance through a Nepali diplomatic mission:
- Nigeria
- Ghana
- Zimbabwe
- Eswatini (Swaziland)
- Cameroon
- Somalia
- Liberia
- Ethiopia
- Iraq
- Palestine
- Afghanistan
- Syria
Additionally, ordinary passport holders from Iran must also obtain a visa before traveling to Nepal, as per a separate restriction implemented in 2026.
How to Apply for Nepal ETA Online
Applying for your Nepal Electronic Travel Authorization is a straightforward process completed through Nepal’s official NepaliPort immigration portal before your departure. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official NepaliPort website and select the “Electronic Travel Authorization” option.
- Carefully enter all your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.
- Provide your passport information, nationality, planned arrival date, and general travel details.
- State your purpose of visit and your intended address in Nepal.
- Upload a clear copy of your passport and a recent photograph as required.
- Thoroughly review all entered information for accuracy before submitting your application.
- Complete the applicable visa fee payment (if any).
- Save or print your ETA/application confirmation and ensure you carry it with your passport when traveling.
Important: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry into Nepal.
Permitted Activities and Duration with Nepal Tourist Visa
Travelers obtaining a visa on arrival in Nepal, facilitated by the ETA, can typically stay for up to 90 days, depending on the specific visa granted. This visa permits tourism and limited business activities, including:
- Attending meetings and conferences
- Participating in negotiations
- Signing contracts
- Visiting business facilities
Please note that employment or any form of productive work is strictly prohibited under a Nepal tourist visa. The Nepal ETA serves primarily as a time-saving immigration tool, digitizing arrival paperwork rather than creating a new visa category.
Nepal ETA and Digital Arrival Card for Indian Travelers
For Indian citizens, the implementation of the Nepal ETA system introduces no new visa requirements. You continue to enjoy visa-free entry into Nepal. However, the key change is the transition from a physical arrival card to a mandatory digital arrival card, which must be completed online before your journey.
The main benefit for Indian travelers flying from Indian cities to Kathmandu is potentially faster processing at the airport due to this digital pre-clearance. While a voter ID is accepted, carrying a valid passport is strongly recommended for all Indian citizens, especially for international flights, to ensure the smoothest possible immigration experience.
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