Bangladesh and Nepal share membership in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Despite this regional connection, Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens in Nepal is still required, as Bangladeshi citizens are not entitled to visa-free entry into Nepal for general tourism or business purposes. However, Nepal offers a relatively straightforward visa process for Bangladeshi nationals, including the facility of Visa on Arrival (VoA) at designated entry points.
This article covers everything a Bangladeshi citizen needs to know before traveling to Nepal.
Does Nepal Require a Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens?
Yes, Nepal requires a valid visa for Bangladeshi citizens. Bangladesh does not appear on Nepal’s visa-free country list. However, Bangladeshi nationals can obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and other designated land border entry points. Bangladeshi citizens may also apply for a Nepal visa in advance through the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka.
The primary legal framework governing entry and stay of foreign nationals in Nepal is the Immigration Act, 2049 (1992) and the Immigration Rules, 2051 (1994). These laws empower the Department of Immigration of Nepal to regulate all visa-related matters.
Official website of the Department of Immigration Nepal: https://www.immigration.gov.np/
SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Bangladeshi Citizens
Under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, certain categories of Bangladeshi nationals can enter Nepal without a regular visa. This scheme was introduced in 1988 and covers specific official categories, not general tourists.
The categories eligible under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme include:
- Heads of State or Government
- Members of Parliament
- Judges of the Supreme Court
- Senior civil servants (gazetted officials)
- Businessmen holding a SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) card
- Journalists accredited by the government
Regular Bangladeshi tourists, students, and workers do not fall under this scheme and must obtain a regular visa.
Types of Nepal Visas Available for Bangladeshi Citizens
Bangladeshi citizens can apply for several categories of Nepal visas depending on the purpose of their visit.
1. Tourist Visa
The most common visa type for Bangladeshi travelers. It is valid for multiple entries and allows a stay of 15 days, 30 days, or 90 days within a visa year (January to December).
2. Business Visa
Issued for conducting business activities in Nepal. It requires a recommendation letter from a Nepalese company or business entity.
3. Non-Tourist Visa
Issued for non-tourism purposes like research, study, employment, or NGO work. Sub-categories include:
- Student Visa
- Employment Visa
- Residential Visa
- Diplomatic and Official Visa
4. Transit Visa
Valid for 24 hours and issued for travelers passing through Nepal to a third country.
5. Gratis (Free) Visa
Nepal provides free tourist visas to certain categories including children below 10 years of age and nationals of SAARC countries for the first 30 days of stay (this benefit may vary and is subject to government policy changes).
Note: As per the Department of Immigration Nepal, SAARC nationals including Bangladeshi citizens have historically received certain fee concessions. Always verify current policies before travel on the official immigration website.
Nepal Visa Fees for Bangladeshi Citizens
| Visa Duration | Fee (USD) | Multiple Entry |
|---|---|---|
| 15 Days Tourist Visa | USD 30 | Yes |
| 30 Days Tourist Visa | USD 50 | Yes |
| 90 Days Tourist Visa | USD 125 | Yes |
| Transit Visa (24 hrs) | USD 5 | No |
| Visa Extension (per month) | USD 45 | — |
Note: Citizens of SAARC countries (including Bangladesh) may receive the first 30-day tourist visa free of charge during initial visits. This concession is subject to prevailing government notification and should be confirmed before travel.
Fees are payable in USD or equivalent Nepalese Rupees (NPR) at the point of entry.
Documents Required for Nepal Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
For Visa on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Valid Bangladeshi passport with a minimum of 6 months validity
- Completed visa application form (available at the airport)
- Two recent passport-size photographs (35mm x 45mm, white background)
- Return air ticket or onward travel proof
- Proof of accommodation in Nepal (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Sufficient financial means for the duration of stay (bank statement or cash)
- Visa fee in cash (USD preferred)
For Nepal Visa from Embassy in Dhaka
- Valid Bangladeshi passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed and signed visa application form
- Two passport-size photographs
- Proof of accommodation
- Return ticket
- Bank statement (last 3–6 months)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed
- Visa fee as prescribed
Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka: https://np.mfa.gov.np/
Nepal Visa on Arrival Process for Bangladeshi Citizens: Step-by-Step
- Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, or a designated border entry point.
- Proceed to the Visa on Arrival Counter before the immigration counter.
- Collect and fill out the visa application form (or pre-fill online at Nepal e-Visa Portal).
- Submit the form along with your passport and photographs.
- Pay the applicable visa fee in cash (USD or NPR).
- Collect your visa sticker/stamp on your passport.
- Proceed to the immigration counter for entry stamp.
- Collect your baggage and proceed through customs.
Tip: The Nepal e-Visa system is available at https://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/evisa. Applying online before departure reduces wait time at the airport.
Land Border Entry Points for Bangladeshi Citizens Traveling to Nepal
Bangladeshi citizens traveling overland to Nepal can enter through the following designated border checkpoints:
| Entry Point | Border Town (Nepal) | Border Town (India side) |
|---|---|---|
| Kakarvitta | Kakarvitta, Jhapa | Panitanki, West Bengal |
| Birgunj | Birgunj, Parsa | Raxaul, Bihar |
| Bhairahawa | Bhairahawa, Rupandehi | Sunauli, UP |
| Belhiya | Belhiya, Rupandehi | Nautanwa, UP |
| Nepalgunj | Nepalgunj, Banke | Rupaidia, UP |
Since Bangladesh and Nepal do not share a direct land border, Bangladeshi citizens must transit through India when traveling by land. This requires a valid Indian transit visa or Indian tourist visa in addition to the Nepal visa.
Nepal Visa Extension for Bangladeshi Citizens
If a Bangladeshi citizen wishes to stay in Nepal beyond the visa validity period, they may apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or district immigration offices.
- Maximum stay on a tourist visa per year: 150 days
- Extension fee: USD 3 per day or USD 45 per month
- Extensions are processed at the Department of Immigration, Maitighar, Kathmandu
Under Section 9 of the Immigration Act, 2049, the immigration officer has the authority to grant visa extensions based on valid reasons. Overstaying without extension may result in fines as per Immigration Rules, 2051, Schedule 1.
Restricted and Prohibited Areas for Foreign Nationals in Nepal
Under the Immigration Act, 2049 (1992), certain areas in Nepal are restricted for foreign nationals, including Bangladeshi citizens. These areas require a special permit in addition to the regular visa:
- Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Required for places like Upper Dolpo, Upper Mustang, Humla, etc.
- Trekking Area Permit: Required for entering specific trekking regions managed by the Department of Immigration or Nepal Tourism Board.
Employment and Study Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens in Nepal
Bangladeshi citizens who wish to work or study in Nepal must obtain specific visa categories:
- Employment Visa: Requires prior approval from the Department of Labour and a valid job offer from a Nepalese employer.
- Student Visa: Requires admission confirmation from a recognized educational institution in Nepal and approval from the Ministry of Education.
Both categories require the applicant to apply through the Embassy of Nepal in Dhaka before entry, as these visas are generally not available on arrival.
Key Immigration Laws Governing Nepal Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
- Immigration Act, 2049 (1992): The principal law governing entry, stay, and exit of foreigners in Nepal.
- Immigration Rules, 2051 (1994): Specifies procedures, fees, and conditions for visa issuance.
- Foreign Investment and Technology Transfer Act, 2075 (2019): Relevant for Bangladeshi investors seeking business visas.
- Nepal Citizenship Act, 2063 (2006): Not directly applicable but relevant for dual-status cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Bangladeshi citizens get a Nepal visa on arrival?
Yes. Bangladeshi citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and designated land border entry points. The process is straightforward and fees are payable in USD or NPR.
2. Is the Nepal tourist visa free for Bangladeshi citizens?
As SAARC nationals, Bangladeshi citizens may receive the first 30-day tourist visa free. However, this policy is subject to change. Travelers should confirm with the Department of Immigration before travel.
3. How long can a Bangladeshi citizen stay in Nepal on a tourist visa?
A Bangladeshi citizen can stay up to 90 days per visit and up to 150 days in a calendar year on a tourist visa, subject to visa extension approvals from the Department of Immigration.
4. Does a Bangladeshi citizen need an Indian visa to reach Nepal by land?
Yes. Since Bangladesh and Nepal share no direct land border, Bangladeshi travelers must transit through India, requiring a valid Indian visa in addition to the Nepal visa.
5. Where is the Nepal Embassy in Bangladesh located?
The Embassy of Nepal in Bangladesh is located in Dhaka. The official contact and address can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal website at https://np.mfa.gov.np/.
6. Can Bangladeshi citizens apply for a Nepal e-Visa?
Yes. Bangladeshi citizens can apply for a Nepal e-Visa through the official portal at https://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/evisa before their departure to reduce processing time at the airport.