# United Kingdom visa for Nepali citizens

> Apply for a United Kingdom visa from Nepal with Yatra — required documents, processing time, embassy fees, dummy ticket support, and concierge in Kathmandu.

Canonical page: https://yatraforfun.com/visa/united-kingdom
Last updated: 2026-04-26

## Embassy / mission

- **Mission:** British Embassy — Kathmandu (consular jurisdiction over Nepal; visa decisions issued by UKVI Sheffield Decision-Making Hub)
- **Address:** British Embassy, Lainchaur, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal (P.O. Box 106)
- **Phone:** +977 1 4237100
- **Email:** ukinnepal@fcdo.gov.uk
- **Hours:** Mon–Thu 09:00–17:00, Fri 09:00–13:00 (consular by appointment for emergency travel documents only — visa applications go via UKVI online + VFS Hattisar). The Embassy provides British nationals consular services; visa decisions are NOT made at the Embassy.
- **Application centre:** VFS UK Visa Application Centre — Kathmandu (Hattisar) — Hattisar Plaza, Kathmandu (3rd Floor) — Mon–Fri 08:00–14:00 submission, 14:00–16:00 collection. Biometric capture (fingerprints + photo) happens here AFTER online UKVI application is filed. Book appointment at gov.uk/standard-visitor -> Apply online -> after fee payment, schedule biometric appointment at VFS Kathmandu via vfsglobal.com/uk/np.
- **Online portal:** https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa — UKVI Visa Checker (start here to confirm eligible category) · https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor — Standard Visitor Visa (most common Nepali category) · https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa — Skilled Worker Visa · https://www.gov.uk/student-visa — Student Visa · https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa — Health and Care Worker Visa · https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk — UKVI Online Application Portal (mandatory for ALL applications) · https://visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/gbr — VFS UK Nepal (biometric appointment booking)
- **Payment:** UKVI fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) paid online by Visa / MasterCard / AmEx during the application. VFS service charge + courier in cash NPR or by card / QR at VFS Kathmandu counter. NO Demand Draft accepted for UKVI fees — all UK government fees settled online.

## Visa categories

### Tourist — Standard Visitor Visa — Tourism / Family Visit

**Purpose:** Tourism, sightseeing, leisure travel, visiting family / friends, short academic visit, private medical treatment, attending business meetings, recreational courses (≤ 30 days non-credit) within the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland).
**Stay duration:** Up to 6 months per visit.
**Validity:** 6 months single-entry (default for first-time applicants); OR 2-year / 5-year / 10-year multi-entry for repeat travellers with clean UK history.
**Entries:** Single (default) or Multiple.
**Processing time:** 15 working days standard via VFS Hattisar. Priority Service: 5 working days (additional GBP 500). Super Priority Service: 24 hours next-business-day (additional GBP 1,000) — limited slots, depends on UKVI Sheffield availability.
**How to apply:** Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor -> create UKVI account -> fill application + upload documents + pay fee online -> book biometric appointment at VFS Hattisar via vfsglobal.com/uk/np -> submit biometrics + originals -> wait for UKVI Sheffield decision -> courier passport collection at VFS.
**Financial requirement:** Bank statement (last 6 months) showing capacity for the trip — recommended ending balance NPR 5 lakh (5,00,000)+ for a typical 7–14-day UK trip — plus 3-year Income Tax Returns and an international credit card with 3-month statement. UKVI Sheffield Visa Officers reference GBP 100/day as the per-diem benchmark for proof-of-funds calculations.

**Required documents:**

- UKVI online application form (signed digital) — Filed online at gov.uk/standard-visitor. Generates a Visa Application Form (VAF) reference number used at VFS biometric appointment.
- Nepali passport (≥ 6 months validity beyond intended return; ≥ 1 blank page) — Plus photocopies of front + last + every used page of current passport AND last 2 old passports.
- One passport-size digital photograph (45 × 35 mm, white background, < 6 months old) — Captured at VFS Hattisar during biometric appointment.
- Travel medical insurance (recommended but not mandatory) *(conditional)* — GBP 30,000+ medical coverage Schengen-style policy acceptable.
- Confirmed return / onward air ticket — Yatra dummy ticket (NPR 999) acceptable at file-prep stage. Booking inspected by airline check-in staff in Kathmandu.
- Confirmed accommodation in the UK for the entire stay — Hotel booking, B&B reservation, OR invitation-letter accommodation with sponsor full address.
- Detailed travel itinerary (locations, duration per location) — Common UK tourist circuits: London + Edinburgh + Lake District + Bath + Stonehenge. Provide day-by-day plan.
- Cover letter explaining purpose of trip — Addressed to the UKVI Visa Officer; outlines who, why, where, when, who funds the trip, and why you will return to Nepal.
- Bank statement (last 6 months, NPR 5 lakh ending balance recommended) — Original on bank letterhead, signed and stamped, in English. Supplementary signed bank letter confirming average balance strengthens applications.
- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years, personal + company as applicable) — Notarised English translations.
- International credit card copy + last 3 months statement *(conditional)* — Strengthens financial profile when bank balance is borderline.
- Proof of social / professional status — Employed: employer letter on letterhead (position, tenure, leave grant, last 3 months salary slips, return-to-role commitment). Self-employed: company registration + PAN + audited accounts. Student: institution leave letter + valid ID.
- Nepali citizenship certificate copy + birth certificate (notarised English translations)
- For visiting family / friends: Letter of invitation from UK host (citizen / Settled / Pre-Settled / ILR / valid visa) *(conditional)* — Includes host name, address, status, relationship to applicant, dates of stay, who covers expenses, accommodation arrangement. UK host's passport / status proof copy attached.
- For medical treatment: NHS / private hospital appointment letter + cost estimate + treatment plan *(conditional)*
- For academic visitor: invitation from UK academic institution + research / collaboration plan *(conditional)*
- Foreign-exchange purchase receipt OR passport endorsement *(conditional)* — Demonstrates funds being carried for the trip.
- Minor-only documents (if applicant < 18): birth certificate + notarised parental consent if travelling without both parents + parent passport copies *(conditional)*
- ANY ONE income bundle — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (only one needed) — See per-bundle breakdown below — submit the bundle that matches your active income source.
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- A UK Standard Visitor Visa endorsed BIVS allows entry to the Republic of Ireland for the duration of the UK visa — many Nepalis applying for both UK + Ireland trips can save significantly by getting just the UK visa endorsed BIVS.
- Multi-entry sticker validity (2 / 5 / 10 years) is at UKVI Sheffield discretion — repeat travellers with clean UK + Schengen + US record can receive long-validity stamps from first application.
- Priority Service / Super Priority Service slots fill quickly during peak Nepali travel windows (March–May, September–November) — apply 6+ weeks before travel.
- UK visit visa approvals for Nepalis hover ~50–60 % — significantly lower than Schengen approvals (~70–80 %). Strong cover letter + comprehensive financial documentation are critical.

### Business — Standard Visitor Visa — Business

**Purpose:** Business meetings, contract negotiations, conferences, exhibitions, after-sales service of equipment sold by Nepali employer, internal corporate training (≤ 6 months) — no direct employment in UK.
**Stay duration:** Up to 6 months per visit.
**Validity:** Up to 10 years multi-entry for established business profiles.
**Entries:** Single or Multiple.
**Processing time:** 15 working days standard; 5 days Priority; 24 hours Super Priority.
**How to apply:** gov.uk/standard-visitor -> UKVI online portal -> VFS Hattisar biometric submission with UK inviter docs.

**Required documents:**

- Standard application set (UKVI form, passport, photos, return ticket, cover letter)
- Letter of invitation from UK company on company letterhead — Includes inviter's Companies House registration number, business activity, purpose of meeting, dates, and confirmation of who covers expenses.
- UK inviter business registration extract (Companies House — gov.uk/get-information-about-a-company)
- Cover letter from Nepali employer (on letterhead, signed and stamped) — Confirms position, purpose of trip, dates approved as work-related travel, return-to-role commitment.
- Conference / event registration (if applicable) *(conditional)*
- Bank statement (last 6 months, NPR 5 lakh ending balance recommended)
- Income Tax Returns (last 3 years)
- ANY ONE income bundle — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (Business bundle most relevant for self-employed travellers)
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.

**Notes:**
- Business visitors do NOT need a work permit — but the activity must be commercial-meeting-style with primary remuneration outside the UK.
- For ongoing engagement (>6 months), apply for Skilled Worker Visa with UK Sponsor Licence holder.
- Permitted Paid Engagement Visa (1 month) is a separate sub-category for invited paid speakers / artists / sportspeople — NOT the standard business visa route.

### Family Visit — Family Visa — Spouse / Partner / Parent / Child

**Purpose:** Joining a British citizen, person with Settled Status / Pre-Settled Status / Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) / valid Skilled Worker visa as family member (spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, fiancé(e), child under 18, parent of British child, adult dependent relative).
**Stay duration:** Spouse / partner: 2 years 9 months initially -> extension to total 5 years -> eligibility for ILR. Child: until 18, then transition to own basis.
**Validity:** Single-entry visa for first arrival; multi-entry on biometric residence (eVisa).
**Entries:** Single (entry); multiple via eVisa.
**Processing time:** 12 weeks standard via VFS Hattisar. Priority Service: 30 days (additional GBP 573). Super Priority Service: 5 working days (additional GBP 956).
**How to apply:** Apply online at gov.uk/uk-family-visa -> UKVI online portal -> VFS Hattisar biometric submission with sponsor docs.
**Financial requirement:** UK sponsor must demonstrate Minimum Income Requirement (MIR): GBP 29,000/year gross income from sponsor employment / self-employment / pension / savings (raised from GBP 18,600 on 11 April 2024). Higher for Sponsor + dependant children: + GBP 3,800 first child + GBP 2,400 each additional child. Alternative: GBP 88,500+ in cash savings held for 6+ months.

**Required documents:**

- UKVI online application form (signed digital)
- Standard supporting docs (passport, photo, biometrics, cover letter)
- UK sponsor status proof: British passport / Settled Status share-code / Skilled Worker eVisa
- Marriage certificate (for spouses) OR civil partnership certificate OR birth certificate (for children) — notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled
- Cohabitation evidence (for unmarried partners): joint lease, joint utility bills, joint bank statements, photos, communication history *(conditional)* — Required when applying as unmarried partner — must demonstrate genuine cohabitation for at least 2 years.
- Sponsor's income proof: 6 months payslips + employer letter + last tax year P60 + bank statements (for employed) OR 2 years company accounts + tax returns (for self-employed) OR pension statement (for pensioners) — Must equal or exceed MIR threshold (GBP 29,000+/year gross).
- UK accommodation proof (sponsor-owned property OR rental contract ≥ 12 months) + meets UK Housing Standards (no overcrowding)
- English language proficiency: IELTS for UKVI A1 (Spouse first application) / B1 (extension after 30 months) / B1 (ILR after 5 years) — Approved test centres: IDP IELTS (Putalisadak / Maitighar) and Trinity College London (limited centres). Some applicants exempt — over 65s, citizens of majority-English countries, prior English-medium degree.
- Tuberculosis (TB) test from IOM-approved clinic in Nepal (since 2013) — Mandatory for all Nepali Family Visa applicants for stays > 6 months. Performed at IOM Migration Health Assessment Centre (MHAC), Sankhamul, Kathmandu. Certificate valid 6 months.
- Police clearance from Nepal MoFA AND from any country lived 12+ months in last 10 years (MoFA-apostilled)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) — GBP 1,035/year × visa length, paid online during application
- ANY ONE income bundle for sponsor (only one needed) — Demonstrates sponsor can financially support the reunifying family member.
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- Family Visa is among the most-scrutinised UK visa categories — UKVI Sheffield refusal rate for first-time spouse visa applications hovers ~30 %. Strong cohabitation evidence + financial documentation are critical.
- After 5 years on Family Visa (with continuous spouse / partner / parent relationship), eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR — settlement). After 1 year on ILR, eligible for British citizenship by naturalisation.
- Children turning 18 must transition to their own residence basis (Student / Skilled Worker / Family of own spouse if applicable).

### Student — Student Visa (Tier 4 — Student route)

**Purpose:** Full-time study at a UKVI-licensed Sponsor institution (university, FE college, independent school) with Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
**Stay duration:** Programme length + 4 months grace post-completion. Bachelor's: 3 years + 4 months. Master's: 1–2 years + 4 months. PhD: up to 4 years + 4 months. Pre-sessional + Foundation: programme length.
**Validity:** Single-entry visa for first arrival; multi-entry on eVisa.
**Entries:** Single (entry); multiple via eVisa.
**Processing time:** 15 working days standard via VFS Hattisar. Priority Service: 5 working days (additional GBP 500). Super Priority Service: 24 hours next-business-day (additional GBP 1,000).
**How to apply:** Apply online at gov.uk/student-visa -> UKVI online portal with Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued by UK institution -> pay UKVI fee + IHS -> VFS Hattisar biometric submission -> wait for UKVI Sheffield decision -> eVisa issued.
**Financial requirement:** Funds proof: tuition for first year of study + (London) GBP 1,483/month × 9 months = GBP 13,347 OR (outside London) GBP 1,136/month × 9 months = GBP 10,224 living costs (effective 2 January 2024). Funds must be held in applicant's OR parent's name for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before application date. Loan accepted only from UK government, an academic / educational loans scheme, or recognised bank.

**Required documents:**

- UKVI online application form (signed digital)
- Standard supporting docs (passport, photo, biometrics)
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number — Issued by UKVI-licensed UK education institution; valid 6 months from issuance for visa application. CAS contains course details, tuition fee, accommodation status, English-language proof verification.
- Academic transcripts + Diplomas / Degrees (notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled) — SLC / SEE, +2, Bachelor's — every level completed. Verified by UK NARIC / UK ENIC if institution requests.
- English language proficiency: IELTS for UKVI Academic 6.0+ (overall + per band) for Bachelor's; 6.5+ for Master's; 7.0+ for nursing / medicine / professional programmes — IDP IELTS UKVI test centres in Kathmandu: Putalisadak + Maitighar. Test result valid 2 years.
- Funds proof: bank statement OR Educational Loan letter held for 28 consecutive days — Tuition fee for first year + maintenance: London GBP 13,347 / outside London GBP 10,224. Funds in applicant's OR parent's name (with relationship proof + parental consent letter for minors).
- Tuberculosis (TB) test from IOM-approved clinic in Nepal — Mandatory for all Nepali Student Visa applicants for stays > 6 months. IOM MHAC Sankhamul, Kathmandu. Certificate valid 6 months.
- Birth certificate + citizenship certificate (notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled)
- Police clearance (NOT routinely required for Student Visa, but recommended for over-18 applicants) *(conditional)*
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining choice of programme and UK *(conditional)* — Strengthens UKVI Sheffield credibility assessment for borderline applications. Not part of the official document checklist but highly recommended.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) — GBP 776/year × programme length, paid online during application
- ANY ONE income bundle for sponsor — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (only one needed) — Funds the tuition / living allowance. Sponsor's income bundle establishes that source of education funding is legitimate.
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

### Work — Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2 — sponsored employment)

**Purpose:** Salaried employment at a UKVI Sponsor Licence-holder employer in an occupation on the eligible occupations list with Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
**Stay duration:** Up to 5 years initially per CoS, renewable. After 5 years, eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR — settlement).
**Validity:** Single-entry visa for first arrival; multi-entry on eVisa.
**Entries:** Single (entry); multiple via eVisa.
**Processing time:** 15 working days standard via VFS Hattisar. Priority Service: 5 working days (additional GBP 500). Super Priority Service: 24 hours next-business-day (additional GBP 1,000).
**How to apply:** (1) UK employer holding Sponsor Licence issues Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) with role details + salary; (2) applicant files Skilled Worker Visa online at gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa with CoS reference number; (3) pay UKVI fee + IHS + Immigration Skills Charge (employer-paid); (4) VFS Hattisar biometric submission; (5) wait for UKVI Sheffield decision; (6) eVisa issued.

**Required documents:**

- UKVI online application form (signed digital)
- Standard supporting docs (passport, photo, biometrics)
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number from UK employer — Employer-side document. Contains UK employer Sponsor Licence number, occupation code (SOC 4-digit), salary, duration, work address. CoS valid 3 months from issuance for visa application.
- Educational certificates + Skilled Occupation evidence (Bachelor's degree minimum unless Going Rate covers via experience) — Notarised English translations + MoFA-apostilled. Some regulated occupations require UK professional registration (NMC for nurses, GMC for doctors, ACCA / CIMA for finance).
- English language proficiency: IELTS for UKVI 4.0+ (Bachelor's level) OR English-medium degree from majority-English country — IDP IELTS UKVI test centres in Kathmandu. Test result valid 2 years.
- Salary evidence: GBP 38,700/year minimum gross OR specific Going Rate for occupation OR GBP 23,200 for Health and Care Worker / shortage occupation roles
- Tuberculosis (TB) test from IOM-approved clinic in Nepal — Mandatory for all Nepali Skilled Worker Visa applicants. IOM MHAC Sankhamul. Certificate valid 6 months.
- Police clearance from Nepal MoFA AND from any country lived 12+ months in last 10 years (MoFA-apostilled)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) — GBP 1,035/year × visa length, paid online during application — Lower tier (GBP 776/year) for shortage occupations from October 2025.
- Funds proof: GBP 1,270 in applicant's name for 28 consecutive days OR sponsor employer certifies maintenance via "A-rated" Sponsor Licence
- ANY ONE income bundle (Salary bundle most relevant for employed applicants)
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.

**Notes:**
- Skilled Worker Visa is the standard UK employment route post-Brexit — replaced Tier 2 General. Salary thresholds + Going Rate verification are the primary gates.
- Health and Care Worker Visa is a parallel sub-category with lower fees, lower IHS, expedited processing — for NHS / approved care-employer roles. Major route for Nepali nurses + healthcare assistants.
- After 5 years of continuous Skilled Worker Visa residence, eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR — settlement). After 1 year on ILR, eligible for British citizenship by naturalisation.
- Family of Skilled Worker Visa holders (spouse + children) can apply as Dependants — separate application per family member with own IHS payment.
- Innovator Founder, Global Talent, High Potential Individual, Scale-up are alternative work routes for entrepreneurs / exceptional-talent / top-university-graduates / fast-growing-company hires.

### Transit — Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) / Visitor in Transit (VIT)

**Purpose:** Transit through a UK airport (Heathrow LHR / Gatwick LGW / Stansted STN / Manchester MAN / Birmingham BHX / etc.) en route to a third country. DATV: airside-only transit, no UK entry. VIT: transit with UK entry (e.g. to change airports).
**Stay duration:** DATV: up to 24 hours airside. VIT: up to 48 hours including UK entry.
**Validity:** Single use, tied to onward booking.
**Entries:** Single (or double for round-trip transits).
**Processing time:** 15 working days at VFS Hattisar.
**How to apply:** gov.uk/transit-visit-uk -> online portal + VFS Hattisar biometric submission.

**Required documents:**

- Standard application set (UKVI form, passport, photo, biometrics)
- Confirmed onward air ticket departing UK within transit window (DATV: ≤ 24 hrs / VIT: ≤ 48 hrs)
- Visa for the destination third country (where applicable) — UK Border Force verify onward admissibility at port of entry.
- Brief cover letter explaining transit *(conditional)*

**Notes:**
- DATV (Direct Airside Transit Visa) is the cheapest UK transit option — applicant remains airside throughout transit, never enters the UK. Useful for Nepali travellers connecting to Americas / Caribbean via London Heathrow.
- VIT (Visitor in Transit) allows brief UK entry for airport-change OR overnight stay during connecting flights — fee ~ GBP 64.
- Some Nepali transit travellers use Standard Visitor Visa instead of DATV / VIT — slightly more expensive but provides flexibility for unforeseen delays.

### Multi-Entry — Standard Visitor Visa — Long-Validity Multi-Entry (2 / 5 / 10 years)

**Purpose:** Repeat visits to UK for tourism, business, family — long-validity multi-entry visa for established Nepali travellers with clean visa history.
**Stay duration:** Up to 6 months per entry; total 180 days within any 12-month period.
**Validity:** 2 years / 5 years / 10 years multi-entry from issuance.
**Entries:** Multiple.
**Processing time:** 15 working days standard.
**How to apply:** gov.uk/standard-visitor -> UKVI online -> select longer validity at fee-payment stage.

**Required documents:**

- Standard Visitor Visa application set (form, passport, photos, return ticket, cover letter, accommodation)
- Travel history evidence: prior UK visa stamps + Schengen / US / Canada visas as proof of clean visa record — Long-validity multi-entry typically granted to applicants with 3+ prior UK visits OR strong Schengen / US / Canada travel history.
- Bank statement (last 6 months) showing sustained capacity — For long-validity applications, UKVI Sheffield expects higher consistent balance — recommended NPR 10 lakh+.
- Income Tax Returns (last 5 years) — Demonstrates established financial position over time.
- Cover letter explaining travel pattern + reason for multi-entry need — For business: ongoing UK partnerships + scheduled meetings. For family: regular family visits to UK relatives.
- ANY ONE income bundle — Business / Salary / Pension / Rental (only one needed)
- Income Details & Supporting Documents (For Visa Application) — Important Notes: (1) All documents issued in Nepali language must be translated into English and notarised (certified by a notary public). (2) The applicant is required to provide documents for any ONE source of income only from the categories listed below.
- 1. Business Income *(conditional)* — Applicants involved in business must submit the following:
- PAN Certificate — Permanent Account Number certificate issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Business Registration Certificate — Submit ONE of: (a) Company Registrar Certificate (for private/public limited companies), (b) Cottage / Small Industry (Gharelu) Registration, OR (c) Municipality / Ward (Wada) Registration Certificate.
- Additional Registration Certificates (if applicable) *(conditional)* — Sector-specific endorsements: (a) Tourism Board Registration for travel-related businesses, (b) Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) Registration for financial institutions, (c) Contractor License from Municipality / Ward Office.
- Latest Audit Report — Signed by a Nepal Chartered Accountants Institute (ICAN)–registered auditor, with company stamp.
- Tax Clearance Certificate — Issued by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for the latest fiscal year.
- 2. Salary-Based Income *(conditional)* — Applicants who are employed must provide:
- Salary Certificate / Salary Letter — On employer letterhead, signed and stamped — stating designation, joining date, monthly gross / net salary, and tenure.
- Leave Approval Letter — Confirming sanctioned leave dates covering the full trip plus a buffer; signed by HR / authorised signatory.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer — Confirming the employer has no objection to the trip and the applicant will return to duty after the leave window.
- Tax Clearance Certificate from IRD OR Tax Submission Letter from employer with tax statements — Either personal tax clearance from the Inland Revenue Department for the latest year, OR an employer letter confirming TDS deduction + remittance with attached employee tax statement.
- 3. Pension Income *(conditional)* — Applicants receiving pension must submit:
- Pension Certificate (Pension Patta) — Original Nijamati / armed-forces pension book issued by the Pension Management Office, plus copies of all entries.
- Company ID Card (if available) *(conditional)* — Photocopy of the former government / public-sector service ID card (front + back).
- Recent Pension Bank Statement — Last 3–6 months of pension-account transactions showing regular monthly pension credits — original, signed and stamped on every page.
- Pension Receiving Confirmation Letter from Bank — On bank letterhead, confirming the applicant's pension account, monthly credit amount, and account holder details.
- 4. Rental Income *(conditional)* — Applicants earning rental income must provide:
- Land Ownership Certificate — Original + copy of the Lalpurja (land title deed) for the rental-yielding land / property.
- Building Completion Certificate — Issued by the Municipality / Nagarpalika engineering office confirming the building is completed and fit for occupancy.
- Land and Building Tax Payment Certificate — Latest fiscal-year payment receipts from Municipality (Nagarpalika) and Ward (Wada) office (malpot / bhumi-ghar tax).

**Notes:**
- Long-validity multi-entry stickers (2 / 5 / 10 years) are issued at UKVI Sheffield discretion — applicant cannot specifically request longer validity, but strong file documentation increases chances.
- Each entry on long-validity visa is limited to 6 months max stay; cumulative stay limited to 180 days within any 12-month rolling window.
- 10-year multi-entry is rare — usually granted to senior business executives, frequent academic visitors, or applicants with extensive clean travel history.

## Important general notes

- Every Nepali-language document MUST be accompanied by a notary-certified English translation — embassies will reject untranslated originals. Use a Nepal Bar Council–registered translator and have each translation notarised by a Notary Public.
- Income proof for UK visas: ANY ONE of the four Nepal-side income bundles is sufficient (Business OR Salary OR Pension OR Rental) — pick the bundle matching your active income source.
- Nepalis MUST apply for a UK visa for ALL visits — Nepal is NOT on the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) eligible list (which started rolling out Apr 2025 for visa-exempt nationalities only — Nepalis remain in the full-visa category).
- UK is NOT in the Schengen Area and NOT in the EU since 1 February 2020 (Brexit). UK + Ireland operate the Common Travel Area (CTA) — visas to one country do NOT automatically allow entry to the other, EXCEPT under the British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) since 2014: a UK Standard Visitor Visa endorsed "BIVS" permits Ireland entry and vice-versa.
- British Embassy IS in Kathmandu (Lainchaur, Lazimpat) since 1816 — oldest UK Embassy in Asia after India. Embassy provides British-national consular services; visa decisions are made by UKVI Sheffield Decision-Making Hub (a centralised UK government office).
- VFS UK Visa Application Centre IS in Kathmandu (Hattisar Plaza, 3rd Floor) — biometrics + document drop-off only. Online application is the first step; biometric appointment at VFS Hattisar is the second.
- Biometrics (fingerprints + facial photograph) are mandatory for ALL UK visa applications. Captured at VFS Hattisar.
- Travel medical insurance is NOT mandatory for UK visit visas (UK has reciprocal NHS access for some nationals — Nepalis pay full charges if they need medical care). Strongly recommended for visit visas.
- For ALL UK visas with stay > 6 months, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is mandatory — GBP 1,035/year (Adults), GBP 776/year (Students/Youth Mobility), GBP 776/year (Children). Paid online during application.
- UK's eVisa (digital immigration status) replaced Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards from December 2024. New visa holders receive an eVisa accessible via the UKVI Account; existing BRP holders received eVisas automatically. Carriers (airlines / Eurostar) verify eVisa status via the UKVI Carrier API at check-in.
- Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold (effective 4 April 2024): minimum gross annual salary GBP 38,700 OR specific Going Rate for the occupation (whichever is higher). Salary thresholds revised annually by Home Office.
- Health and Care Worker Visa: minimum salary GBP 23,200/year — preserved at lower threshold to maintain NHS / care-sector hiring. Major route for Nepali nurses + healthcare assistants.
- Graduate Visa (post-study work): 2 years for Bachelor's + Master's graduates; 3 years for PhD graduates. Available to Nepali students who completed degree at a UKVI-licensed sponsor institution.
- Common refusal patterns for Nepal visit visas: weak ties to Nepal (no property / business / family obligation), unexplained funds, vague itinerary, undisclosed prior UK / Schengen / US refusals, applicants under 30 without dependants, weak English-language proficiency for student / skilled-worker categories.
- UK visa decisions are SUBJECTIVE — UKVI Sheffield Visa Officers apply the "balance of probabilities" test on every application. Strong supporting documents + clear cover letter materially improve approval odds.
- UK uses GBP (Pound Sterling) — 1 USD ≈ GBP 0.80 (2026).

## How to apply (4 steps)

1. **Confirm United Kingdom visa eligibility** — Check that your Nepali passport qualifies for the visa type you need (tourist, business, family, education). Diplomatic / official passport holders may have different rules.
2. **Gather supporting documents** — Prepare: UKVI online application form (signed digital); Nepali passport (≥ 6 months validity beyond intended return; ≥ 1 blank page); One passport-size digital photograph (45 × 35 mm, white background, < 6 months old); Confirmed return / onward air ticket; Confirmed accommodation in the UK for the entire stay; Detailed travel itinerary (locations, duration per location).
3. **Submit at VFS UK Visa Application Centre — Kathmandu (Hattisar)** — Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor -> create UKVI account -> fill application + upload documents + pay fee online -> book biometric appointment at VFS Hattisar via vfsglobal.com/uk/np -> submit biometrics + originals -> wait for UKVI Sheffield decision -> courier passport collection at VFS.
4. **Track and collect** — Processing typically takes 15 working days standard via VFS Hattisar. Priority Service: 5 working days (additional GBP 500). Super Priority Service: 24 hours next-business-day (additional GBP 1,000) — limited slots, depends on UKVI Sheffield availability.. Yatra's concierge tracks your application and notifies you on each status change.

## Frequently asked questions

### How long does a United Kingdom tourist visa take to process for Nepali citizens?

15 working days standard via VFS Hattisar. Priority Service: 5 working days (additional GBP 500). Super Priority Service: 24 hours next-business-day (additional GBP 1,000) — limited slots, depends on UKVI Sheffield availability.

### What bank balance is required for a United Kingdom visa?

Bank statement (last 6 months) showing capacity for the trip — recommended ending balance NPR 5 lakh (5,00,000)+ for a typical 7–14-day UK trip — plus 3-year Income Tax Returns and an international credit card with 3-month statement. UKVI Sheffield Visa Officers reference GBP 100/day as the per-diem benchmark for proof-of-funds calculations.

### How many days can Nepali citizens stay in United Kingdom on a tourist visa?

Up to 6 months per visit. (Standard Visitor Visa — Tourism / Family Visit).

### Where do Nepali citizens apply for a United Kingdom tourist visa?

Apply online at gov.uk/standard-visitor -> create UKVI account -> fill application + upload documents + pay fee online -> book biometric appointment at VFS Hattisar via vfsglobal.com/uk/np -> submit biometrics + originals -> wait for UKVI Sheffield decision -> courier passport collection at VFS.

### What documents are required for a United Kingdom tourist visa from Nepal?

Required documents include: UKVI online application form (signed digital); Nepali passport (≥ 6 months validity beyond intended return; ≥ 1 blank page); One passport-size digital photograph (45 × 35 mm, white background, < 6 months old); Confirmed return / onward air ticket; Confirmed accommodation in the UK for the entire stay; Detailed travel itinerary (locations, duration per location); Cover letter explaining purpose of trip; Bank statement (last 6 months, NPR 5 lakh ending balance recommended).

### Where is the United Kingdom embassy in Nepal?

British Embassy — Kathmandu (consular jurisdiction over Nepal; visa decisions issued by UKVI Sheffield Decision-Making Hub) — British Embassy, Lainchaur, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal (P.O. Box 106). Phone: +977 1 4237100.

### Can Nepali citizens apply for a United Kingdom business visa?

Yes — Standard Visitor Visa — Business. Business meetings, contract negotiations, conferences, exhibitions, after-sales service of equipment sold by Nepali employer, internal corporate training (≤ 6 months) — no direct employment in UK. Processing: 15 working days standard; 5 days Priority; 24 hours Super Priority..

### Is there an online portal to apply for a United Kingdom visa?

Yes — apply online at https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa — UKVI Visa Checker (start here to confirm eligible category) · https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor — Standard Visitor Visa (most common Nepali category) · https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa — Skilled Worker Visa · https://www.gov.uk/student-visa — Student Visa · https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa — Health and Care Worker Visa · https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk — UKVI Online Application Portal (mandatory for ALL applications) · https://visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/gbr — VFS UK Nepal (biometric appointment booking).

### How is the United Kingdom visa fee paid?

UKVI fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) paid online by Visa / MasterCard / AmEx during the application. VFS service charge + courier in cash NPR or by card / QR at VFS Kathmandu counter. NO Demand Draft accepted for UKVI fees — all UK government fees settled online.

### Can Yatra help with a United Kingdom visa application?

Yes — Yatra provides end-to-end visa assistance for United Kingdom including document preparation, appointment booking, application review, and a PNR-backed dummy ticket (NPR 999) when the embassy requires proof of onward travel.

## Sources

- https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa — UKVI Visa Checker (start here to confirm eligible category)
- https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor — Standard Visitor Visa policy
- https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa — Skilled Worker Visa policy
- https://www.gov.uk/student-visa — Student Visa policy
- https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa — Health and Care Worker Visa policy
- https://visas-immigration.service.gov.uk — UKVI Online Application Portal (mandatory for ALL applications)
- https://visa.vfsglobal.com/npl/en/gbr — VFS UK Nepal (biometric appointment booking, Hattisar Plaza Kathmandu)
- https://www.gov.uk/world/nepal — British Embassy Kathmandu (consular jurisdiction over Nepal; visa decisions issued by UKVI Sheffield)
- UK + Ireland Common Travel Area (CTA) + British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) since 2014 — UK Standard Visitor Visa endorsed BIVS allows entry to Ireland
- Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold raised to GBP 38,700 effective 4 April 2024
- Family Visa Minimum Income Requirement raised to GBP 29,000 effective 11 April 2024
- UK Student Visa funds proof updated 2 January 2024: London GBP 1,483/month × 9 = GBP 13,347; outside London GBP 1,136/month × 9 = GBP 10,224
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) standard rate: GBP 1,035/year (most categories) / GBP 776/year (Students / Youth Mobility / Children / shortage occupations from Oct 2025)
- UK eVisa replaced Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards from December 2024
- Tuberculosis (TB) test mandatory for all Nepali UK visa applicants for stays > 6 months — performed at IOM MHAC Sankhamul Kathmandu
- Nepal joined the Hague Apostille Convention on 14 March 2024 — Nepal-issued documents apostilled by Nepal MoFA after that date are accepted by UK authorities without further consular legalisation

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*Yatra (https://yatraforfun.com) provides end-to-end visa assistance for Nepali citizens — document review, embassy submission, dummy ticket (NPR 999) when proof of onward travel is required.*