July 28, 2025
Nepal is a stunning destination for content creators and filmmakers—but navigating its visa and permit rules can be confusing. One of the most common questions asked by foreign crews is: Can I film in Nepal while on a tourist visa?
The short answer is: Yes, but only under certain conditions. This blog explains when it’s legally safe to film on a tourist visa, when you’ll need additional approvals, and how to avoid issues with customs or immigration.
Understanding Nepal’s Visa System for Foreign Filmmakers
Nepal currently offers these main visa types relevant to visitors:
- Tourist Visa – For sightseeing, trekking, and casual visits
- Working Visa – For employment, long-term research, or official collaborations
- Filming/Media Visa – Issued in coordination with the Ministry of Information and Communication (MoIC) for approved filming projects
When Can You Film on a Tourist Visa?
You can legally film on a tourist visa if:
- You are shooting non-commercial personal content
- You’re using light equipment (e.g. handheld cameras, mobile phones, GoPros)
- Your footage is not intended for sale, promotion, or global distribution
- You do not use drones or shoot in restricted zones (like national parks or military areas)
- You are not hiring large local crews or blocking public spaces
Examples:
- Personal travel vlogs
- Social media shorts
- Trekking videos with commentary
- Test footage for location scouting
When a Tourist Visa Is Not Enough
You will need special filming permission (and likely a filming/media visa) if:
- Your film is commissioned, monetized, or part of a professional shoot
- You’re working for a brand, media house, or distributor
- You’re using drones, tripods, or long-lens cameras
- You’re filming in national parks, temples, or heritage sites
- You plan to screen or sell the content commercially
- You’re importing equipment through customs under carnet
In these cases, a tourist visa alone is not sufficient, and filming without the proper permits can result in:
- Seizure of equipment or footage
- Fines or deportation
- Bans on future entry or work in Nepal
What’s the Legal Workaround?
The Ministry of Information and Communication (MoIC) allows foreign crews to:
- Enter Nepal on a tourist visa
- Apply for official filming permission
- Get media visa endorsement upon approval
This way, you don’t need to obtain a special visa before arrival. But you must submit your filming application through the right channels before you begin shooting.
Customs Clearance and the Tourist Visa Problem
If you’re arriving with professional equipment:
- Nepalese customs officers may flag your gear and ask for filming permits or carnets
- If you can’t show a filming permission letter from MoIC, your gear may be held at the airport
- Avoid importing drones or large equipment unless your permits are in place
Pro tip: If your shoot is small and you’re on a tourist visa, avoid declaring yourself as a “filmmaker” at immigration unless asked directly. Say you’re a tourist until you’ve sorted filming clearance locally.
What About Filming with a Nepali Fixer?
Many foreign creators partner with local fixers or production houses. This allows you to:
- Work under the Nepali company’s filming license
- Avoid applying for a separate filming visa yourself
- Use their experience to fast-track permissions
However, if you appear on camera or direct the production, you may still need to apply as an official foreign contributor.
Summary: Tourist Visa Filming Rules in Nepal
| Scenario | Is Tourist Visa Enough? |
|---|---|
| Filming a personal vlog | Yes |
| Filming with drones | No |
| Professional documentary | No |
| Content for YouTube monetization | Risky without permit |
| Filming in national parks | No |
| Gear brought through airport customs | May trigger checks |
| With a local fixer on private land | Possibly, with caution |
Final Tips
- Keep your shoot low profile if filming casually
- Get written permissions if shooting in temples, towns, or near people
- Don’t fly drones unless you’ve been officially cleared
- If your content might go viral or be sold—play it safe and get permits