Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is simple. Follow the flow of passengers toward Immigration. Most travellers qualify for Visa on Arrival, and the process is clear once you reach the kiosks.
Immigration & Visa
If you need a Visa on Arrival
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Head straight to the Visa Kiosks.
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Fill out the form on-screen.
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The kiosk will either print a confirmation or show it on-screen—take a photo if it doesn’t print.
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Go to the cash counter, pay the visa fee, and collect the receipt.
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Take the receipt to the Immigration counter for your visa stamp.
If you completed the ETA (Online Visa Application)
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If you’ve already paid for your ETA, carry the payment receipt (digital or printed).
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Go directly to the Immigration counter—no kiosk needed.
If you already have a visa
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Go straight to Immigration.
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Want to speed things up?
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Apply online up to 14 days before arrival using the ETA system.
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Fill the form, wait for the confirmation, then pay and wait for the payment receipt.
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If you’re in touch with us, we can process the payment on your behalf and send the receipt—just make sure you complete the form at least a week before you land.
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After Immigration
Once your passport is stamped, take the escalators down to the metal-free zone.
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Here, your cabin baggage is screened (a check mainly for smuggled gold).
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Continue forward to the baggage carousel area.
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Baggage Collection
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Only four carousels—easy to find your way.
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Top tip: Keep your baggage tag handy for customs verification.
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Entering the Arrival Hall
Walk out through the Green Channel. In the Arrival Hall, you’ll see:
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Currency exchange booths
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Pre-paid taxi counters
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SIM card vendors
IMPORTANT: If someone is picking you up
Top tip: Skip the airport ATMs and SIM counters. It’s unnecessary and a waste of time if you’re being collected. Everything is easier and cheaper to sort out in the city.
Heading to the City
If you have a pre-arranged pick-up with us, look for the socialtours placard with your name or follow the instructions from your WhatsApp group.
Prefer to go on your own? The pre-paid taxis are simple and reliable for your first ride into town.
Travel Time
TIA is centrally located. Expect around 30 minutes to Thamel, depending on traffic.
