Nepal student visa (Study Visa)

The Department of Immigration issues study visas for three purposes: study, research and teaching. Students on academic degree programmes and on non-academic courses qualify, as do researchers attached to a Nepali academic institution and teachers or professors in academic work recommended by the competent government agency. The visa is granted for the period recommended or the length of the study, up to one year at a time, and is renewed each year with a progress report.

The key document is a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education, together with the original admission receipt from the university or college and a bank statement issued within the last week showing sufficient funds. Researchers add an offer or appointment letter from a Nepali academic institution and the general agreement between that institution and their home institution. Teachers need the Ministry of Education's recommendation, the Ministry of Home Affairs' work agreement and the Department of Labour's permit.

The Department's fee table sets USD 30 a month for degree programmes, USD 75 for non-degree courses, USD 50 for teaching and research and USD 10 a month for family members, with USD 20 for single and USD 60 for multiple re-entry. Some neighbouring countries have special rates: Bhutanese students pay USD 15 a month, Maldivian students USD 25 a year and Bangladeshi students USD 15 a year, and Sri Lankan and Pakistani students are exempt. Another Department page and its FAQ give different figures (for example USD 20 for academic study and USD 40 for teaching), so confirm the current rate before paying.

Holders of a study visa may not take employment; the only exception is the study visa issued for teaching. Spouses and children can accompany a student as dependants if the marriage and birth certificates are submitted. Every renewal requires a progress report card from the institution.