Steps to Extend a Tourist Visa for Mountain Climbing in Nepal
Nepal, renowned for its breathtaking Himalayan peaks, attracts numerous mountaineers from around the world. Visitors who wish to embark on a mountaineering expedition in Nepal must obtain a valid tourist visa and may need to extend it for an extended stay. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the steps involved in extending a tourist visa for mountain climbing in Nepal:
1. Determine Eligibility
- Tourist visas are typically valid for 15, 30, or 90 days.
- Extensions are granted for a maximum of 120 days beyond the initial visa validity.
- Mountaineers who require more than 120 days for their expedition must apply for a trekking permit and a special climbing permit from the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA).
2. Gather Required Documents
- Original passport with a valid tourist visa
- One passport-size photograph
- Visa extension application form (available at the Department of Immigration)
- Proof of mountain climbing expedition (e.g., climbing permit, itinerary, trekking operator’s confirmation)
- Payment for the extension fee (varies depending on the duration of extension)
3. Visit the Department of Immigration
- Visit the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu (Lainchaur) or the Immigration Office in Pokhara (for extensions in Western Nepal).
- Submit the completed application form, passport, photograph, and other required documents.
- Make the necessary payment for the extension fee.
4. Process Time and Fees
- The processing time for visa extensions is typically 2-3 working days.
- The extension fee varies based on the duration of the extension:
- 1-30 days: NPR 2000 per day
- 31-60 days: NPR 3000 per day
- 61-90 days: NPR 5000 per day
5. Collect Extended Visa
- Once the extension is approved, collect your passport with the extended visa from the Department of Immigration.
- Ensure that the extension period aligns with your intended mountaineering itinerary.
Additional Considerations:
- Mountaineers are advised to apply for the visa extension well in advance of their intended departure date.
- Overstaying the visa validity without obtaining an extension can result in penalties and fines.
- It is recommended to consult with a registered trekking operator or the NMA for guidance on obtaining the necessary permits and visa extensions.
- Carry a copy of your visa extension document while trekking or climbing for verification purposes.
Note: Visa regulations and fees may change over time. It is advisable to check with the Department of Immigration or the Nepalese embassy in your home country for the most up-to-date information.