Nepal Launches Full e-Visa System From August 17, 2026: What Indian Travellers Need to Know

Nepal is taking another step towards digitalising its immigration process with the full rollout of its electronic visa system from August 17, 2026. The new system is designed to allow eligible international travellers to complete their visa application online before travelling, making the process more convenient and reducing paperwork at immigration counters.

For Indian travellers, however, there is an important distinction: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. The new e-Visa system is therefore more relevant to travellers of nationalities that require a Nepalese visa.

What Is Nepal's New e-Visa System?

Nepal's new digital visa system allows eligible foreign travellers to submit their visa applications online before travelling to the country.

Under the new procedure, applicants can provide their personal information, passport details, intended travel dates and accommodation information online. They may also be required to upload a copy of their passport and a recent photograph.

Once approved, the electronic visa can be received digitally before departure, reducing the need for travellers to complete the entire visa process after reaching Nepal.

The move is part of Nepal's wider effort to modernise immigration services and make international travel more convenient.

When Does Nepal's Full e-Visa System Start?

Nepal's full e-Visa system is scheduled to become operational from:

📅 August 17, 2026

The rollout follows a testing phase during which Nepal's immigration authorities worked on technical and administrative preparations for the new system.

Travellers who need a Nepalese visa will be able to use the country's online immigration platform to begin the application process before their journey.

Do Indians Need a Nepal e-Visa?

No. Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal.

This is particularly important for Indian travellers reading about Nepal's new e-Visa system.

According to Nepal's immigration information, Indian nationals are exempt from the visa requirement. However, they must carry an accepted identity document when travelling to Nepal.

Therefore, the introduction of the e-Visa system does not create a new visa requirement for Indian tourists.
Also Read : 10 Places in Nepal That Look Straight Out of a Dream (2026 Travel Guide)

Documents Indian Travellers Can Carry

Indian citizens travelling to Nepal should carry an accepted document proving their identity and Indian citizenship.

A valid Indian passport is one option. Certain other government-issued identity documents, including an Election ID card, are also recognised under Nepal's immigration guidance.

Travellers should check the latest requirements before departure, particularly when travelling with children, senior citizens or family members.

What Changes for Other International Travellers?

For foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Nepal, the new system could make the travel process considerably easier.

Instead of relying entirely on visa processing after arrival, eligible travellers can submit information online before their trip.

The online application may require:

• Personal details

• Passport information

• Travel dates

• Address or hotel details in Nepal

• Passport copy

• Recent photograph

• Visa payment, where applicable

Applicants should carefully check all information before submitting the application.

How to Apply for Nepal's e-Visa?

Eligible foreign travellers can use Nepal's official immigration portal to access electronic visa services.

The general process involves:

1. Visit the official Nepal immigration portal

Travellers should use Nepal's official government immigration website rather than third-party websites offering visa services.

2. Select the electronic visa/online visa option

Choose the relevant tourist visa category and enter the required information.

3. Enter passport and travel details

Provide accurate passport information, intended travel dates and accommodation details.

4. Upload the required documents

Applicants may need to upload their passport copy and a recent photograph.

5. Pay the applicable visa fee

Visa fees depend on the duration and type of visa. Nepal's immigration offices currently list tourist visa fees of US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days.

6. Receive and carry the electronic visa

Once approved, travellers should keep a digital and printed copy of the visa available for their journey.

Nepal Tourist Visa Fees in 2026

For travellers who require a tourist visa, the currently published fees are:

These are the standard tourist visa fees listed by Nepal's immigration authorities.

Some travellers may qualify for visa exemptions or gratis visas depending on their nationality and circumstances.

What About Visa on Arrival?

Nepal continues to provide visa-on-arrival facilities for eligible foreign nationals.

The country's immigration offices currently describe a process where travellers can complete an online tourist visa form, pay the applicable fee and then proceed to the immigration desk after arrival.

The new e-Visa system gives eligible travellers another option by allowing them to complete the visa process electronically before travelling.

Travellers should check whether their nationality qualifies for e-Visa, visa on arrival or another entry arrangement before booking their trip.

Why Is Nepal Introducing the e-Visa System?

The move is part of Nepal's broader push to modernise its immigration infrastructure.

Digital visa processing can help reduce paperwork, streamline applications and make immigration procedures easier for international visitors.

Nepal's Department of Immigration has previously highlighted the use of digital technologies, including electronic visa services and online payments, as part of efforts to improve immigration services.

What Does This Mean for Indian Tourists?

For Indians, the biggest takeaway is simple: Nepal remains a visa-free destination for Indian nationals, so the new e-Visa system does not require Indian tourists to apply for an e-Visa.

However, travellers should still make sure they have the correct identification documents before leaving India.

This is particularly important for air travel, where airlines may verify travel documents before boarding.

Why Nepal Remains Popular Among Indian Travellers

Nepal continues to be one of the most accessible international destinations for Indian travellers.

Its proximity to India, Himalayan landscapes, cultural attractions and relatively affordable travel costs make it popular for short holidays and longer trips.

Popular destinations include:

• Kathmandu

• Pokhara

• Chitwan

• Nagarkot

• Lumbini

• Everest region

• Annapurna region

From mountain adventures and trekking to cultural tourism and wellness experiences, Nepal offers a wide range of travel options.

Important Tips Before Travelling to Nepal

Whether you are an Indian traveller or an international visitor requiring a visa, check the latest entry requirements before your journey.

Indian travellers should:

• Carry a valid accepted identity document.

• Check airline-specific document requirements before departure.

• Keep copies of important travel documents.

• Check the latest Nepal immigration rules before travelling.

• Avoid unofficial websites claiming to process Nepal visas.

Nepal's immigration authorities have also warned travellers about fraudulent websites and unauthorised online visa-fee payment platforms, making it particularly important to use official government channels.

Final Takeaway

Nepal's full e-Visa rollout from August 17, 2026 marks an important step in the country's move towards digital immigration services. Eligible international travellers can benefit from a more convenient online application process and potentially complete their visa formalities before departure.

For Indian travellers, however, the key point is that no Nepal e-Visa is required because Indian nationals are exempt from Nepal's visa requirement. Travellers should instead ensure they carry the required identification documents and check the latest entry rules before travelling.