Bhutan visas

Who Must Obtain a Bhutan Visa?

Bhutan requires visas from all visitors with the exception of Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians. Visas may be obtained upon arrival after submitting a visa clearance application through a travel operator.

Entry into Bhutan

The tourism sector in Bhutan is modest and closely regulated. It is not possible for an international tourist or business traveller to independently enter Bhutan.

All international tourists seeking to enter Bhutan are required to obtain a visa (currently costing US$40) through a licenced Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. The tour operator will handle all visa and immigration processes, issue an entry visa, and arrange any necessary travel and lodging reservations.

Beyond Thimphu and Paro, tourists are need to receive a special permit from the Bhutanese Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, but this is typically handled by your tour operator.

Eligibility to apply for a Bhutan visa

You will need a passport to enter and exit Bhutan. However, in order to qualify for a Bhutan visa, you must ensure you have the following:

• Forwarding letter from the head of the Department addressed to Dy. Chief of Protocol)
• Notesheet from the concern Ministry.
• Filled up Visa application form (need to be filled up by the guests only)
• Passport photocopy of the visitor.

Processing time for Bhutan visas

Therefore, it is recommended that you apply for a Bhutan visa at least one week before your departure date, but it is definitely a better idea to apply a couple of months in advance.

Appointment waiting times

Appointments can be made on the website of the Embassy. Non-immigrant visa appointment waiting times vary, but are typically at least one week. How long does an appointment to apply for a visa last?

Normal waiting periods for an appointment are approximately two to three weeks on average.

Who can visit Bhutan without a visa?

All foreigners (with the exception of Bangladeshis and Maldivians) are required to obtain a visa to enter Bhutan, whereas Indian nationals are required to obtain a permission and may only enter the country via Phuntsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar by land, or Paro by air. Before entering Bhutan, all tourists (with the exception of those from Bangladesh, India, and the Maldives) must acquire visa approval from Thimphu. The Tourism Council of Bhutan can provide additional information, including a list of authorised Bhutanese travel operators.

What to do if your Bhutan visa is refused?

Most travellers entering Bhutan are required to have a visa. Visas will be issued to the traveller when they arrive in Bhutan. If your visa is refused by the Bhutan Embassy, you can re-apply online for another one. The Bhutan Embassy allow most visas into the country, providing you have all relevant documents. Ensure this is the case before you travel. If your visa happens to be rejected, you can re apply online and will have to go through the process again.