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Bhutan Visa & Immigration Policies

Last reviewed · Bhutanova Travels

Who needs a visa?

All international visitors need a visa, except nationals of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, who receive an entry permit on arrival.

  • Indian nationals can enter with a valid passport or Voter ID card.
  • Everyone else must have a visa approved before travelling. You’ll receive a visa clearance letter; the visa is stamped in your passport on arrival.

How to apply

Apply online through the Department of Immigration’s official portal, or let your tour operator apply for you. You’ll need:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of departure
  • A recent passport photo
  • Travel insurance covering your full stay
  • Payment of the visa fee and the Sustainable Development Fee

Cost

The visa fee is a one-time USD 40 per person. The SDF is charged separately per night — see our SDF guide.

Guides and hotels

International tourists must stay in tourism-certified accommodation and be accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese guide when travelling beyond Thimphu and Paro. All our packages include both.

Customs

Declare cash over USD 10,000, electronics you’re carrying for personal use, and any tobacco products (duty applies). Antiques and religious artefacts cannot be exported without a permit. Drones require prior permission from the civil aviation authority.

Rules can change. Always confirm current requirements with the Department of Immigration or the Department of Tourism before you travel.

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