Planning a trip to the United States requires preparation, and for Nepali citizens, securing an america tourist visa is the critical first step. Whether you are planning to explore the Grand Canyon, visit family in New York, or attend a brief business conference, the B1/B2 visitor visa is your gateway.
This comprehensive 2026 guide breaks down the entire process for obtaining a us tourist visa from nepal, from filling out the required forms to acing your interview at the US Embassy in Kathmandu. If you are preparing for international travel, reviewing a solid Nepal Tourist Visa Guide and exploring our Global Visa Service can ensure you are fully prepared.
Overview of the B1/B2 Visitor Visa
The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant, temporary visa.
- B1 is for business purposes (consulting with associates, attending conferences, negotiating contracts).
- B2 is for tourism, vacation, medical treatment, or visiting family and friends.
Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa. The standard application fee in 2026 is $185 (approx. NPR 24,420), and all Nepali citizens must attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Kathmandu.
Planning ahead: Before you apply, it’s wise to review affordable international destinations from Nepal or discover the visa-free countries for Nepali passports if you need alternative travel options while waiting for your appointment.
Top USA Travel Destinations
Once your usa tourist visa is approved, the United States offers incredible diversity. Consider these top-ranked spots for your itinerary:
- New York City, New York: The iconic skyline, Central Park, and Broadway.
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: A breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography.
- Orlando, Florida: The ultimate family destination with Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: Famous for its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.
Visa Requirements: What You Need
Proper documentation is essential. At a minimum, you must prepare the following for your interview:
| Document | Details |
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in the US. |
| DS-160 Confirmation | Must have the barcode clearly visible. |
| Visa Fee Receipt | Proof of the $185 payment. |
| Photographs | 2×2 inches with a white background, taken within the last 6 months. |
| Interview Appointment | Printed confirmation from CGI Federal. |
| Proof of Ties to Nepal | Employment letters, property documents, bank statements, or family ties. |
The Step-by-Step Pipeline
Applying for a US visa involves a strict sequential process. Follow these steps carefully:
1.Complete the DS-160 Form:Online application via CEAC.
Go to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website and fill out the DS-160 form. You must upload a compliant 2×2 inch digital photograph. Answer all questions honestly and accurately. Once submitted, print the confirmation page containing the barcode—you cannot change the form after submission.
2.Pay the Visa Application Fee:$185 (Non-refundable).
Create a profile on the CGI Federal website (ustraveldocs.com/np). You will generate a payment slip to pay the $185 (NPR 24,420) MRV fee. Payment can be made at approved bank branches in Nepal or via online banking options provided on the portal. Keep the receipt.
3.Schedule Your Appointment:Book via CGI Federal.
Once your fee is processed, log back into your CGI Federal profile to schedule your interview at the US Embassy in Kathmandu. Wait times can vary significantly depending on the season, so book well in advance.
4.Attend the Embassy Interview:Mandatory in-person screening.
Arrive at the US Embassy in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You will undergo security screening, biometrics (fingerprinting), and a brief interview with a consular officer.
If you find this process overwhelming, utilizing an International Tourist Visa Service can help ensure your forms are filled out correctly.
What to Expect During the Interview in Kathmandu
The in-person interview is the most critical part of obtaining an america tourist visa. Here is what you need to know about the Embassy rules and the interview itself:
- Security Rules: The US Embassy has strict security. Do not bring large bags, backpacks, luggage, or electronic devices (laptops, smartwatches). You are typically only allowed to bring your mobile phone (which must be turned off or left at the security gate) and your document folder.
- The Interview Duration: The actual face-to-face interview with the consular officer usually lasts only 3 to 10 minutes.
- The Core Focus: The officer is trying to determine two main things:
- Do you have a legitimate purpose for traveling?
- Do you have strong ties to Nepal (a job, business, family, or property) that guarantee you will return home?
- Answering Questions: Be concise, confident, and absolutely honest. Answer only what is asked without over-explaining. If your documents are in Nepali, bring certified English translations.
If approved, the officer will keep your passport to stamp the visa, and you can collect it from your designated pickup location within 5-10 business days. If rejected, you will be handed a letter explaining the refusal, and your passport will be returned immediately.
Before setting off on any international trip, be sure to read our guide on must-know things before traveling abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does a US tourist visa from Nepal cost?The standard application fee for a B1/B2 tourist visa is $185 (approximately NPR 24,420), which is non-refundable.
2. Can I guarantee that my US visa will be approved? No. The final decision rests entirely with the US consular officer during your interview based on your eligibility and ties to Nepal.
3. What is the DS-160 form?The DS-160 is the mandatory online nonimmigrant visa application form used by the US Department of State. Everyone applying for a B1/B2 visa must complete it.
4. Can I take my mobile phone inside the US Embassy in Kathmandu? Usually, you can bring a mobile phone, but it must be switched off and left at the security checkpoint. No other electronics, smartwatches, or large bags are permitted.
5. How long is the B1/B2 visa valid for Nepali citizens?While the maximum length of stay for a single visit is typically up to 6 months (determined by the CBP officer at the port of entry), the visa itself can be issued for multiple entries.
6. Do I need to book flight tickets before applying? No, the US Embassy strongly advises against booking non-refundable tickets or making final travel arrangements before your visa is actually approved and in your hands.