Bhutan visa (in 2 days)
Bhutan’s Unique Visa Policy:
- Bhutan has a distinctive visa policy aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and protecting its cultural heritage.
- Independent travel is not allowed in Bhutan; tourists are required to book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
- The tour operator will then handle the visa application process.
Visa Application Process:
- Travelers must contact a licensed Bhutanese tour operator to plan their trip. These operators are authorized by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
- The tour operator will assist in preparing the necessary documents, including a visa application form.
- A visa clearance will be processed by the Bhutanese government once the tour is confirmed, and the full tour payment has been received.
Tour Payment and Visa Approval:
- Bhutan has a minimum daily tariff requirement for tourists. This tariff covers accommodation, meals, transport, and guide services. The payment is made to the tour operator.
- Upon receiving the full payment, the tour operator will obtain the visa clearance letter from the Tourism Council of Bhutan. This clearance is essential for travelers to board the flight to Bhutan.
Visa Issuance at Entry:
- Once the visa clearance is obtained, a copy is sent to the traveler and the respective Drukair (Bhutan’s national airline) office. Travelers are required to show this clearance at the time of boarding their flight to Bhutan.
- The actual visa is stamped in the passport upon arrival at the Paro International Airport or other entry points if arriving overland.
Indian and Bangladeshi:
- Indian and Bangladeshi citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan but must carry appropriate identification documents.
- Residents of certain countries can also obtain a visa on arrival, but it is advisable to confirm this with the Bhutanese embassy.
Visa Duration:
- Tourist visas are usually granted for the duration of the planned tour. Extensions may be possible but need to be coordinated with the tour operator and the Department of Immigration in Bhutan.
Special Permits:
- For certain areas in Bhutan, additional permits may be required, and these are usually arranged by the tour operator.
e-Permit/e-Visa for tourists
Requirements:
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- Copy of Passport (other nationals)
- Recent passport size photo
- Copy of Passport / Voter ID card / Birth Certificate for children below the age of 18 years (for nationals of India)
- Passport must have minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan
- Valid travel insurance
- The Department may ask for additional documents during assessment, if required
Entry into Bhutan
- Nationals of India are eligible for Entry Permit at the port of entry.
- Nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives are eligible for visa on arrival.
- Nationals of Thailand and Switzerland holding Diplomatic/Official passports are eligible for visa on arrival.
- Foreigners issued with a valid SAARC Visa Exemption Sticker do not require prior visa/entry permit clearance.
- All other foreign nationals must obtain an e-visa prior to their entry into Bhutan.
- Admission into the country will be determined by Immigration Officers at the port of entry.
FAQ
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in our country’s growth.
The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people, through free healthcare, education and training, upskilling the tourism and hospitality industry, improved infrastructure, environmental preservation and conservation, cultural preservation programmes and initiatives that support local businesses and economies. The SDF is also a vital means of maintaining the exceptional forest cover and carbon-neutrality for which our small nation is world-renowned and globally critical.
Note: It’s essential to contact a licensed Bhutanese tour operator for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements, as they play a central role in the visa application process for tourists visiting Bhutan.