USA Tourist Visa (B1/B2) for Nepali Citizens 2026: Steps, Fees, Documents & Processing Times

What the B1/B2 visa is for

The B1/B2 visa lets Nepali passport holders travel to the United States for short‑term business (B1) or tourism, medical treatment, or visiting friends and family (B2). It does not permit employment or long‑term study. To qualify you must show a legitimate reason for the trip, enough money to cover the stay, and strong ties to Nepal that will bring you back home.

Step‑by‑step application guide

1. Complete the DS‑160 form

Go to the Consular Electronic Application Center, fill out the online DS‑160, and print the confirmation page with the barcode. Double‑check every field — especially the passport number and travel dates — because corrections after submission require a new form.

2. Pay the MRV fee

The non‑immigrant visa application fee (often called the MRV fee) is published on the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu website. As of September 2026 the amount for B1/B2 applicants is $185. Payment can be made online through the embassy’s designated bank portal or at any authorized payment center in Nepal. Keep the receipt; you will need the receipt number to schedule the interview.

3. Schedule the interview

Log in to the U.S. Visa Appointment System using the receipt number. Choose a date and time at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu. Slots fill quickly during peak seasons, so book as early as possible. You will receive an appointment confirmation letter — print it and bring it to the interview.

4. Attend the visa interview

Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. Security screening is strict; leave phones, bags, and electronic devices at home or in the designated lockers. The consular officer will ask about your travel purpose, itinerary, finances, and ties to Nepal. Answer honestly and keep responses concise.

Fee summary for Nepali citizens (2026)

• MRV (application) fee: $185 — non‑refundable, paid before scheduling.
• Visa issuance fee: $0 for B1/B2 (the embassy does not charge a separate issuance fee for Nepali nationals).
• Reciprocity fees: check the embassy’s reciprocity schedule for any additional charges that may apply to specific visa categories.
• Optional courier or premium‑service charges: vary by provider; see the embassy’s “Visa Services” page for current rates.

All fees are subject to change; always verify the latest amounts on the official embassy fee schedule before paying.

Document checklist

Bring the following originals plus one photocopy of each:

• Valid Nepali passport (must be valid at least six months beyond your intended U.S. stay).
• DS‑160 confirmation page with barcode.
• MRV fee receipt (showing the receipt number).
• One 2 × 2 inch color photo meeting U.S. visa photo specifications.
• Appointment confirmation letter.
• Proof of ties to Nepal — property deeds, employment letter, business registration, family affidavit, or school enrollment for dependents.
• Financial evidence — recent bank statements (last three months), salary slips, tax returns, or a sponsorship letter with the sponsor’s bank documents.
• Travel itinerary — flight reservation, hotel booking, or invitation letter from a U.S. host.
• Any previous U.S. visas or entry stamps (photocopies are fine).

Additional supporting letters (e.g., conference invitation, medical appointment) strengthen the case but are not mandatory.

Checking processing times and appointment availability

Processing times fluctuate. The most reliable source is the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) status check tool — enter your case number after the interview to see the current stage. For appointment availability, the Visa Appointment System shows real‑time openings; you can also sign up for email alerts when new slots appear.

Common reasons for delay or refusal

• Insufficient proof of ties — the officer cannot be convinced you will return.
• Inconsistent information between DS‑160, interview answers, and supporting documents.
• Unexplained large cash deposits or unclear source of funds.
• Previous visa overstays, unauthorized work, or immigration violations.

Tips to strengthen the application: prepare a concise “ties” summary, bring original documents for verification, and practice clear, honest answers about your travel purpose.

After the visa is approved

Your passport will be returned with the visa foil via the courier service you selected (or you can pick it up at the embassy). The B1/B2 visa is typically valid for ten years for multiple entries, but the final validity period is decided by the consular officer. The length of each stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry — usually up to six months.

If the officer places your case in administrative processing, you will receive a notice with an estimated timeline. You can track progress on CEAC; do not make non‑refundable travel plans until the visa is physically in hand.

Frequently asked questions

Does a previous U.S. visit help or hurt?

A clean travel history — no overstays, no unauthorized work — is a positive factor. It shows you respect U.S. immigration rules.

What about dual intent?

B1/B2 is a non‑immigrant category; you must demonstrate non‑immigrant intent. Holding a pending immigrant petition does not automatically disqualify you, but you must convince the officer that this trip is temporary.

Are there any COVID‑related restrictions still in effect?

As of September 2026 the United States no longer requires vaccination proof or a negative test for entry. However, individual airlines may have their own health policies, so check with your carrier before departure.

Can I apply for a visa renewal without an interview?

Certain applicants who meet the Interview Waiver Program criteria (previous visa expired within 48 months, same classification, no refusals) may qualify for a mail‑in renewal. Verify eligibility on the embassy’s “Visa Renewal” page.