United States Visa RequirementsFor Nepal passport holders
Nepali citizens require a B-1/B-2 US tourist visa to visit the United States, applied for at the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
Nepal passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply online at the US Consular Electronic Application Center (ceac.state.gov) by completing Form DS-160. The non-refundable fee is $185 USD. Schedule a biometrics and interview appointment at the US Embassy in Kathmandu. Processing times vary. Required documents include bank statements, property evidence, employment letter, family ties documentation, and a clear itinerary.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Nepal to United States: What You Need to Know
The United States has a growing Nepali diaspora, with significant communities in the New York, Dallas, and Washington DC areas. Many Nepali nationals have relatives in the US, driving family visit applications. The US embassy in Kathmandu processes visa applications, but approval rates for tourist visas from Nepal are known to be selective, as officers assess the risk of overstay. Students apply for F-1 visas separately. The DV Lottery (Diversity Visa) has historically been open to Nepali nationals.
Practical Tips
Prepare thoroughly for the visa interview. Officers assess ties to Nepal (employment, property, family) to determine likelihood of return. Having a detailed, specific itinerary helps. Prior travel history to other countries, especially Schengen or UK, strengthens your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Nepali citizens need a visa for the USA?
Yes. Nepali passport holders require a B-1/B-2 visitor visa for the United States. Apply online at ceac.state.gov (Form DS-160), pay the $185 USD fee, and attend an interview at the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
What should I prepare for a US visa interview at the Kathmandu embassy?
Prepare to demonstrate strong ties to Nepal: employment letter, bank statements, property documents, and evidence of family responsibilities. Have a clear and specific itinerary. Be honest and concise in your answers. Prior travel to other countries strengthens your profile.
How long can Nepali citizens stay in the USA on a tourist visa?
B-1/B-2 visas are typically issued for 10 years (multiple entry) but the actual length of each stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at entry, usually up to 6 months per visit. Overstaying is a serious violation with long-term consequences.
Are Nepali citizens eligible for the US Diversity Visa Lottery?
Yes. Nepal has historically been eligible for the US Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery program as it meets the required criteria. Check the US Department of State website each year for the application period, typically in October and November. The lottery is free to enter.