Nepal has removed visa-on-arrival access for citizens of Iran. The change was confirmed on 13th March, 2026 Friday by the acting director general at Department of Immigration, Mr. Tikaram Dhakal.
Speaking on behalf of the department, Mr. Dahal said that Iranian citizens will now be required to secure a visa from Nepali diplomatic mission before traveling. This new rule applies to all the Iranian passport holders except those carrying diplomatic and official passports.
What the New Rule Means for Travelers?
Previously, the Iranian passport holders could obtain a visa upon arrival at major entry points such as Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or designated land borders. With the new policy in place, Iranian visitors now must complete the visa process in advance through Nepali Emabssies or consulate abroad, before boarding their flights to Nepal or entering via land.
Immigration officials say the change aligns Iran with a group of countries whose citizens are already ineligible for visa-on-arrival facilities.
Countries Without Visa-on-arrival Access
With Iran now included on the list, the total number of countries whose citizens cannot obtain visas on arrival in Nepal has reached 13. The list includes:
South Asia:
- Afghanistan
Middle East/West Asia
- Iraq
- Iran (added March 13, 2026)
- Palestine
- Syria
Central Africa
- Cameroon
East Africa
- Ethiopia
- Somalia
West Africa
- Ghana
- Liberia
- Nigeria
Southern Africa
- Eswatini (formarly Swaziland)
- Zimbabwe
Most countries on this list are located in Africa and Middle East, with Afghanistan being the only South Asian country included. While the government has not publicly detailed the reasons for each restriction, such policies are typically related to immigration management, security concerns or diplomatic considerations.
Travelers holding refugee travel documents are also required to apply for visas in advance through Nepali missions overseas.
Advice for Travelers
For Iranian travelers planning a visit- whether for trekking in the Himalayas, exploring heritage sites in Kathmandu Valley, or visiting religious landmarks – advance planning is now essential. Securing a visa from a Nepali Embassy or colsulate before departure will be mandatory.
Travelers are advised to check with the nearest Nepali diplomatic mission for updated visa requirements and processing time before making travel arrangements.
Nepal Visa Information
For more information regarding Nepal Visa, read Nepal Tourist Visa: Application, Process and Requirements
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