Visa Requirements for Bhutan
General Guidelines
- Visa Requirement: All foreign nationals, except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, must obtain a visa to enter Bhutan.
- Application Process: The visa must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. This is usually included in your travel package, and the operator will handle the application process on your behalf.
Types of Visa
- Tourist Visa: Most visitors will require a tourist visa, which is valid for the duration of your stay as indicated in your travel itinerary.
- Business Visa: If you’re visiting for business purposes, you must apply for a business visa, which may have different requirements and processes.
Visa Application Steps
- Choose a Licensed Tour Operator: Research and select a licensed Bhutanese tour operator to assist you with your travel plans. They will manage your visa application.
- Submit Required Documents: You’ll typically need to provide:
- A completed visa application form.
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity from your intended entry date.
- Passport-sized photographs (usually two).
- Travel itinerary, including hotel bookings and a list of places you plan to visit.
- Payment for the visa fee and daily tariff (details below).
- Visa Fee: The visa fee is usually included in your daily tariff, which covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed guide. The daily tariff for tourists is:
- High Season (March, April, May, September, October, November): USD 250 per day
- Low Season (June, July, August, December, January, February): USD 200 per day
- Visa Approval: Once your tour operator submits your application, it is processed by the Department of Immigration in Bhutan. Approval usually takes 3-5 business days.
- Visa Clearance: Upon approval, your tour operator will send you a visa clearance letter. You must present this letter upon arrival in Bhutan to obtain your visa.
- Upon Arrival:
- At Paro International Airport, present your visa clearance letter and passport to immigration officials to receive your visa stamp.
- Ensure that your passport has blank pages for the visa stamp.
Important Notes
- Visa Validity: The visa is typically valid for the duration specified in your travel itinerary.
- Visa Extension: If you wish to extend your stay in Bhutan, you can apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Thimphu before your initial visa expires.
- Travel Restrictions: Always check for any travel restrictions or requirements related to COVID-19 or other health regulations before your journey.
Special Cases
Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals: Citizens from these countries do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. However, they must carry valid identification, such as a passport or a voter ID card.
