Nepal Visa Photo Requirements

Nepal Visa Photo Specifications

Most visitors to Nepal can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or land borders. You'll need a passport photo for the application form. Good news: Nepal uses the same 35×45mm format for all visa types!

Visa Types Covered

Tourist Visa

15, 30, or 90 days. Visa on arrival available.

Trekking Permit (TIMS)

Required for most trekking routes.

Business Visa

For business activities in Nepal.

Study Visa

For students at Nepali institutions.

Visa on Arrival Tips

• Bring a printed passport photo (35×45mm)
• Have exact USD or major currency for visa fee
• 15 days: $30, 30 days: $50, 90 days: $125
• Fill out the form in advance at nepalimmigration.gov.np

Common Visa Photo Mistakes to Avoid

Non-White Background

Nepal immigration requires a plain white background for all visa photos. Photos with blue, gray, or cream backgrounds — often taken at airports — will be rejected at the visa on arrival counter.

Wrong Photo Size

Nepal uses 35×45mm for visa photos. If you're coming from a country that uses 2×2 inch (like the US), your standard photos won't fit the Nepal visa form.

Dark or Blurry Photo

Photos taken in hotel rooms or dimly lit areas often come out too dark. Immigration officers at Tribhuvan Airport will ask you to get a new photo, causing delays in the visa line.

Wearing Sunglasses or Hat

Remove all headwear and sunglasses. Only religious head coverings are permitted. Your full face from forehead to chin must be clearly visible in the photo.

Not Bringing Printed Photos

You need a physical printed photo for the visa on arrival form. Digital-only won't work at the Tribhuvan Airport visa counter. Print before you board your flight.

Using an Old Photo

Your photo must be recent (within 6 months). Immigration officials may compare it to your passport photo. Significant changes in appearance can cause questioning or delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a photo for visa on arrival in Nepal? ▼

Yes — you need one printed 35×45mm photo for the visa on arrival application form at Tribhuvan International Airport. While some travelers report getting through with phone photos, this is unreliable. Print one before your trip to avoid stress.

Is the TIMS card photo the same size as the visa photo? ▼

Yes — both the Tourist Visa and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card use 35×45mm photos with white background. Bring at least 4 printed copies to Nepal so you're covered for visa, TIMS, and any national park permits like Sagarmatha or Annapurna.

How many photos should I bring for a Nepal trip? ▼

Bring at least 4-6 photos: 1 for visa on arrival, 2 for TIMS card, 1-2 for national park entry permits (Sagarmatha, Annapurna, Langtang). Trekking agencies in Thamel can also use a spare. Better to have extra than to hunt for a photo shop in Lukla.

Can I create my Nepal visa photo with VisaPicPro for free? ▼

Absolutely — VisaPicPro is 100% free with no signup. Select "Nepal Passport" preset (same 35×45mm for visa), upload your photo, and download a print-ready sheet. Print at any photo printer before your trip.