Why Is a TB Test Required?
The UK requires all visa applicants from Nepal to provide a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate when applying for a visa to stay in the UK for more than six months. Nepal is on the UK's list of countries with high TB prevalence, making this a mandatory requirement — not optional.
The test must be done at a UK Visas and Immigration approved clinic. Results from other hospitals or clinics will not be accepted.
Approved TB Testing Clinics in Nepal
As of 2025, UKVI has approved the following clinics in Nepal:
- Hams Hospital, Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu — Tel: +977-1-4372031
- B&B Hospital, Gwarko, Lalitpur — Tel: +977-1-5170000
- Nepal Mediciti Hospital, Bhaisepati, Lalitpur
Always verify the current list on the official UKVI website before booking, as approvals can change.
What Does the Test Involve?
- A chest X-ray to check for signs of TB
- If the X-ray shows any abnormalities, a sputum test may be required
- The entire process usually takes 1–2 hours at the clinic
You do not need to fast before the test. Bring your original passport as ID.
Costs and Certificate Validity
The cost at approved clinics ranges from approximately NPR 4,000–6,000 depending on the clinic and any additional tests required.
Your TB test certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. Make sure you apply for your visa within this window — if your certificate expires before you submit your application, you will need to be retested.
What If the Test Shows TB?
If the test detects active TB, you will not receive clearance and your visa application cannot proceed until you have completed a course of treatment and been retested.
If the test shows latent TB (infection without active disease), you may still receive clearance as latent TB is not contagious. The clinic's doctor will advise you on the appropriate course of action.