Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals can obtain a permit upon arrival at the port of entry by presenting a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months of validity. Indian nationals may also use their voter's identity card (VIC) as an alternative document. All other travelers, except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, must obtain a Bhutanese visa for purposes such as tourism and trekking.
To process a Bhutanese visa, we require a clear, readable, color copy of your passport (containing your passport number and a clear picture) in JPEG or PDF format. Please submit this copy at least 20 days before your planned entry into Bhutan. Your passport should remain valid for at least six months from your departure date from Bhutan.
Your authorized Bhutanese tour operator processes visas online, either directly or through a foreign travel agent. Once the full payment for your vacation, which includes a USD 40 visa fee, has been wire transferred and deposited in the TCB bank account, the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) will process the visa. Visa clearance will typically be processed within 72 working hours after receipt of payment.
The Tourism Council of Bhutan will issue an e-visa clearance letter closer to your travel date, which will be sent to you via email, fax, or your local travel agent. Travelers are required to present this e-visa clearance copy during check-in for Druk Air flights. If you enter Bhutan by surface through Phuentsholing or Samdrup Jonkhar, you must also provide this visa clearance letter at the immigration counter. Upon arrival at your entry point, your visa will be stamped into your passport.
Just so you know, Bhutan does not offer visa-only services. Guests must purchase a full-service tour package from a local tour operator, which includes accommodation, guided tours, transfers, and other necessary services.
To ensure a smooth and professional visa application process, kindly follow these instructions:
Please follow these guidelines to ensure a hassle-free and efficient visa application and entry process into Bhutan. If you have any questions or need any more help, please don't hesitate to contact your tour operator or the Tourism Council of Bhutan. We greatly appreciate your cooperation in following these procedures.