Travel guide · Nepal
Nepal Visa-Free & Gratis Countries
Who gets into Nepal free — India's exemption, gratis visas for SAARC nationals and children, and who needs a prior visa.
Most travellers need a Nepal tourist visa, but not everyone pays for one — and some need none at all. Indian citizens enter visa-free, certain nationalities and categories receive a gratis (free) visa, and a small number of countries are not eligible for visa on arrival and must apply in advance. This guide explains who falls into each group. Eligibility lists are revised periodically, so always confirm your status with Nepal's Department of Immigration before you travel.
Visa-free: Indian citizens
Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Nepal. They can travel on a valid passport or, in practice, certain approved photo identity documents, though a passport is simplest and best for air travel and onward connections. This reflects the long-standing open arrangement between the two countries.
Gratis (free) tourist visas
A gratis visa is a genuine tourist visa issued at no charge. You still go through the application and stamping process, but pay no fee. Common categories include:
- Children under 10, who are generally issued a free visa.
- Citizens of some SAARC neighbouring countries, who may receive a gratis tourist visa under regional arrangements.
- Certain other categories defined by current policy.
Because gratis eligibility changes, verify your category officially rather than assuming. The standard fee tiers for everyone else are in our Nepal visa fees 2026 guide.
Who must apply in advance
Most other nationalities simply get a visa on arrival or use the online visa application. However, a small number of countries are not eligible for visa on arrival and must obtain a visa beforehand at a Nepali embassy or consulate. The list is reviewed from time to time, so check whether your nationality is affected well before booking flights.
How to check and prepare
- Confirm your category — visa-free, gratis, on-arrival, or apply-in-advance — with the Department of Immigration.
- Check passport validity regardless of category; the six-month rule applies to almost everyone.
- Gather documents using the full Nepal entry requirements checklist.
- Pick a duration with our tourist visa types and durations guide if you're paying.
In summary
India enters free, children and some SAARC nationals can receive a gratis visa, most visitors pay one of the standard fees, and a few must arrange a visa in advance. This guide is part of the Nepal entry and visa essentials collection; for the overall process, see the main Nepal visa guide. Eligibility and fees change, so confirm the current rules with the Department of Immigration before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Who can enter Nepal without a visa?+
Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal and can travel on a passport or approved photo ID. All other nationalities need a tourist visa, available on arrival for most or in advance for a small number of countries. Confirm current rules before you travel.
What is a gratis visa for Nepal?+
A gratis visa is a free tourist visa Nepal issues to certain categories, including children under 10 and citizens of some SAARC neighbouring countries, who still complete the visa process but pay no fee. Eligibility changes periodically, so confirm your status officially.
Do Indian citizens need a passport for Nepal?+
Indians do not need a visa and can enter on a valid passport or certain approved photo identity documents. A passport is the simplest and most widely accepted option, especially for air travel and onward connections.
Which nationalities cannot get a Nepal visa on arrival?+
A small number of countries are not eligible for visa on arrival and must apply at a Nepali diplomatic mission beforehand. The list changes, so check your nationality's status with the Department of Immigration before booking.
