As of 2026, Nepali passport holders can travel to approximately 40 to 45 countries and territories either visa-free, with a Visa on Arrival (VOA), or via an eVisa. The Nepali passport is currently ranked around 102nd globally. The most significant visa-free destination is India, where Nepali citizens enjoy unrestricted travel, living, and working rights under the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship. Other key destinations include Bhutan, Maldives, Indonesia (VOA), Sri Lanka (eVisa), and Thailand (VOA).
The Current Power of the Nepali Passport in 2026
According to the 2026 Henley Passport Index and Passport Index, the Nepali passport ranks between 101st and 105th globally. While it requires advance visas for most Western nations, it provides excellent regional mobility within South Asia and growing access to popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean through Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) and electronic visa (eVisa) facilities.
Top Visa-Free Countries for Nepali Passport Holders
These countries allow Nepali citizens to enter without obtaining a visa beforehand.
Visa-Free Countries for Nepali Passport Holders in South Asia & Regional Partners
- India: Visa-Free (Unrestricted). Under the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, Nepali citizens can enter, live, and work in India without a visa. Note: While a Nepali Citizenship Card or Voter ID is accepted at land borders, carrying a valid Nepali Passport is highly recommended for air travel.
- Bhutan: Visa-free for up to 14 days. Nepalis can enter using a valid passport or a government-issued ID card.
Island Nations & Others
- Maldives: Free 30-day visitor visa granted on arrival (effectively visa-free).
- Seychelles: Free Visitor’s Permit granted on arrival for up to 90 days.
- Haiti: Visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Micronesia: Visa-free for up to 30 days.
- Cook Islands: Visa-free for up to 31 days.
Best Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) & eVisa Countries for Nepalis
For many popular tourist and business destinations, Nepali citizens can obtain a visa upon landing at the airport or apply for a quick eVisa online.
Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) Countries for Nepal in Asia
- Indonesia (Bali): Visa on Arrival (VOA) for 30 days (extendable).
- Thailand: Visa on Arrival (VOA) for 15 days (requires proof of funds and return ticket).
- Sri Lanka: Free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) / Tourist visa on arrival.
- Cambodia: Visa on Arrival or eVisa (30 days).
- Laos: Visa on Arrival (30 days).
- Vietnam: eVisa available for up to 90 days.
- Bangladesh: Visa on Arrival for tourism and business.
- Maldives: 30-day free visa on arrival.
Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) Countries for Nepal in Africa & Middle East
- Egypt: Visa on Arrival (15 days) or eVisa.
- Kenya: Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) required prior to travel (effectively visa-free but requires online registration).
- Rwanda: Visa on Arrival or eVisa (30 days).
- Tanzania: Visa on Arrival at major airports like Julius Nyerere (DAR) and Kilimanjaro (JRO).
- Uganda: Visa on Arrival or eVisa.
- Mauritius: Visa on Arrival for up to 60 days.
Tip from Nepali Travelers & Immigration Experts
“When traveling to Visa-on-Arrival countries like Thailand or Indonesia, immigration officers at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) will strictly check for three things before letting you board: 1) A confirmed return or onward flight ticket, 2) Proof of accommodation (hotel booking), and 3) Proof of sufficient funds (usually $500-$1000 equivalent in cash or bank statement). Always carry printed copies of these documents!”
Countries Requiring Advance Visas for Nepali Citizens
Unfortunately, Nepali passport holders must apply for and obtain traditional visas well in advance for most Western and developed nations. Processing times for these can be long, so plan early.
- United States (B1/B2 Tourist Visa)
- United Kingdom (Standard Visitor Visa)
- Canada (Visitor Visa / TRV)
- Schengen Area / Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc. – Schengen Visa)
- Australia (Visitor Visa Subclass 600)
- New Zealand (Visitor Visa)
- Japan (Tourist Visa – requires extensive documentation)
- South Korea (Tourist Visa)
- China (Tourist Visa)
How to Maximize Your Travel Freedom as a Nepali Citizen
1. Leverage the India-Nepal Treaty
The open border and special treaty with India is a massive advantage. Use it for business expansion, medical tourism, or higher education without the hassle of visa applications. Just ensure your documents (Passport or Citizenship Card) are valid and easily accessible.
2. Utilize eVisas for Faster Processing
Instead of visiting an embassy, always check if the destination country offers an eVisa. Countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka allow you to apply online, pay via credit card, and receive your visa via email within 24-72 hours.
3. Consider a Second Passport or Residency
For frequent global travelers, entrepreneurs, or students, the limitations of the Nepali passport can be a hurdle. Many Nepalis are now exploring residency-by-investment or citizenship-by-investment programs in countries like Turkey, Caribbean nations (Dominica, St. Lucia), or obtaining long-term work visas in the US/UK/Australia to gain a second passport with greater global mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many visa-free countries are there for Nepali passport holders?
Nepali citizens can travel to approximately 40 to 45 countries either completely visa-free or by obtaining a Visa on Arrival (VOA) / eVisa.
Can Nepali citizens travel to India without a passport?
yes. Under the 1950 Treaty, Nepalis can enter India via land borders using a valid Nepali Citizenship Card or Voter ID. However, for air travel, airlines and immigration strictly require a valid Nepali Passport.
Do Nepalis need a visa for Thailand?
Nepali citizens can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Thailand for a stay of up to 15 days. You must present a passport valid for at least 30 days, a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof of funds (10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family).
Can Nepalis travel to Europe (Schengen) without a visa?
No. Nepali passport holders must apply for a Schengen Visa at the respective embassy or visa application center (like VFS Global) in Nepal well in advance of their travel dates.
Is the Maldives visa-free for Nepalis?
Yes. Nepali citizens receive a free 30-day visitor visa upon arrival at Velana International Airport in Malé, provided they have a confirmed hotel booking and a return ticket.
Verified Sources & References
- Henley & Partners – Henley Passport Index 2026 Global Rankings: henleyglobal.com
- Passport Index 2026 – Nepal Passport Dashboard & Mobility Score: passportindex.org
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nepal – Official Travel Advisories and Treaty Information: mofa.gov.np
- IATA Travel Centre – Visa and Health Requirements for Nepali Passport Holders: iatatravelcentre.com