72-hour free Transit: still eligible if don't have Visa yet for final destination?

Hi - would like to to apply for the 72-hour free Transit, but I plan to get a L type upon arrival in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport). I will be travelling through CAN, long layover.

I have a US passport and the outbound flight ticket, but will not yet have Visa for final destination (Nepal). Please advise if I can still apply for the 72-hour free transit. Thanks!