Bhutan maintains strict entry controls under its “High Value, Low Volume” tourism policy. Independent travel is not allowed for most visitors. A visa (or entry permit for certain nationalities) must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

Who Needs a Visa?

• Most nationalities (including citizens of the USA, UK, EU countries, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most others) require a tourist visa arranged in advance.
• Indian nationals: No visa required. An entry permit is issued on arrival (or can be applied for online in advance). Valid Indian passport or Voter ID card is accepted.
• Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals: Special arrangements apply (often visa on arrival or reduced/ waived fees, with concessional SDF rates). Confirm current rules with your operator.

Visa Application Process

1. Book your trip with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
2. Provide a clear scan/copy of the photo page of your passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry).
3. The operator submits the application online to the Department of Immigration / Tourism Council of Bhutan together with proof of payment for the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and visa fee.
4. Visa clearance is usually issued within 3–7 working days (longer in peak season).
5. You receive an official visa clearance letter by email.
6. Present the printed clearance letter (and your passport) on arrival at Paro International Airport or a land border. The actual visa stamp is placed in your passport at immigration.

There is no need to visit a Bhutanese embassy or consulate in most cases.

Visa Fee

• USD 40 per person (one-time, non-refundable) for most nationalities.
• Exempt for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals under their respective permit systems.

Passport Requirements

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Bhutan.
• Sufficient blank pages for the visa stamp and any exit stamps.

Duration of Stay

• The visa is issued for the exact dates of your confirmed tour (typically matching the duration of your package).
• Maximum stay is usually up to 90 days cumulative per calendar year for standard tourist visas.
• Extensions are possible in limited cases and must be applied for in person at the Department of Immigration in Thimphu (additional SDF payment required).

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) Link

The visa cannot be issued until the SDF has been paid for the full duration of the stay. Current SDF rates (valid until 31 August 2027):

• Most international adults: USD 100 per person per night
• Children 6–12 years: USD 50 per person per night
• Children under 6: Exempt
• Indian nationals: Nu. 1,200 (or equivalent INR) per person per night

Important Notes

• A licensed guide is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay (except limited short visits restricted to certain border towns).
• COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements are no longer in force for entry, but travellers should check the latest health advice.
• Always use a Tourism Council of Bhutan-licensed operator. Unofficial arrangements can result in denial of entry.
• Policies can change — confirm the latest requirements with your licensed operator or the official Bhutan tourism / immigration portals before finalising plans.

Once your visa clearance is issued and international flights are confirmed, you are ready to travel. Your operator will provide full guidance on the documents to carry and the arrival process at Paro Airport or land borders.