Bhutan Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Bhutan maintains one of the world's most unique tourism policies, operating on a 'High Value, Low Impact' principle. All international tourists (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must book their travel through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners and pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). This policy ensures sustainable tourism while preserving Bhutan's culture and environment. Entry to Bhutan is primarily through Paro International Airport or via land borders with India. The immigration process in Bhutan is straightforward but requires advance planning. Travelers must obtain visa clearance before arrival, which is arranged by their tour operator. Upon arrival, visitors receive their visa stamp at the port of entry. Bhutan does not issue visas on arrival without prior clearance. The country has limited entry points: Paro Airport (the only international airport), and land crossings at Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar on the Indian border. Before traveling to Bhutan, visitors should understand that independent travel is not permitted for most nationalities. All aspects of your trip, including accommodation, transportation, and guide services, must be pre-arranged through a licensed operator. The Sustainable Development Fee is currently USD 100 per night (reduced from USD 200 in September 2022), though exemptions and reductions apply for children and certain nationalities. This comprehensive approach to tourism management makes Bhutan a unique destination requiring more preparation than typical international travel.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Bhutan's visa policy is closely tied to its tourism model. Most international visitors require a visa, which must be arranged in advance through a licensed tour operator. Citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives have special arrangements and can travel more independently.

Visa-Free Entry (Regional Citizens)

Indian citizens can stay indefinitely; Bangladeshi and Maldivian citizens receive 14-30 days

Citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives can enter Bhutan without a visa

Includes

India Bangladesh Maldives

Indian citizens need a valid passport or Voter ID card. These travelers can arrange independent travel without a tour operator and are not required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee, though they must obtain entry permits. They can enter via land borders or Paro Airport.

Tourist Visa (Pre-Arranged)

Typically issued for the duration of the tour, usually 7-30 days, extendable

All other nationalities require a visa arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Germany France Italy Spain Netherlands Japan South Korea Singapore China Thailand and all other countries not listed as visa-free

How to Apply: Your licensed tour operator submits your visa application to the Tourism Council of Bhutan after full payment is received (including the SDF). Visa clearance is typically processed within 7-10 working days. You receive a visa clearance letter via email, which you present upon arrival to receive your visa stamp.
Cost: Visa fee is USD 40 (paid as part of tour package). Additionally, Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 per night is mandatory. Children under 6 are exempt from SDF; children 6-12 receive 50% discount; full-time students under 25 with valid ID receive 50% discount.

You cannot apply for a visa independently - it must be arranged through a licensed operator. Citizens of some countries may face additional restrictions or requirements. Bring your visa clearance letter and passport photos for arrival.

Business/Official Visa

Varies based on purpose, typically 7-30 days

For business travelers, official delegates, and those visiting on government business

How to Apply: Apply through sponsoring organization in Bhutan or your country's diplomatic mission. Business visitors are exempt from the mandatory tour package requirement but must have a local sponsor.

Business visa holders are exempt from the Sustainable Development Fee. Required documents include invitation letter from Bhutanese organization, business registration documents, and purpose of visit documentation.

Arrival Process

Entry to Bhutan is streamlined but requires proper documentation. Most visitors arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the world's most challenging airports to land at, surrounded by mountains. The immigration process is efficient, typically taking 30-60 minutes depending on flight arrivals. Your tour guide will be waiting outside the airport to assist with any issues.

Pre-Arrival Preparation

Ensure you have received your visa clearance letter from your tour operator via email. Print multiple copies and keep digital copies accessible. Verify your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining.

Health and Customs Forms

Complete arrival/departure cards and customs declaration forms distributed on the flight or available at the airport. These request basic information about your visit, accommodation, and items being brought into the country.

Immigration Counter

Present your passport, visa clearance letter, return ticket, and completed arrival card at the immigration counter. The officer will verify your documents, may ask basic questions about your visit, and stamp your visa into your passport. Have passport-sized photos ready (usually 2 photos required).

Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect your luggage and proceed to customs. Declare any items exceeding duty-free allowances, restricted items, or large amounts of currency. Most tourists pass through the green channel without inspection unless carrying unusual items.

Exit and Meet Tour Guide

Exit the arrivals hall where your licensed tour guide will be waiting with a sign bearing your name or tour company. They will assist with transportation to your hotel and handle any immediate questions.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Bhutan. Should have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa Clearance Letter

Email confirmation from Tourism Council of Bhutan sent through your tour operator. Print multiple copies and keep digital backup. This is essential for boarding your flight and obtaining visa stamp on arrival.

Passport Photos

Two recent passport-sized photographs (usually required at immigration, though requirements may vary). Bring extras for any permits needed for restricted areas.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Bhutan, either return flight or confirmed onward travel arrangements.

Tour Itinerary

Provided by your tour operator, showing your planned activities, accommodation, and guide details. Keep this accessible as it may be requested.

Travel Insurance

While not always checked at entry, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and may be required by your tour operator.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with USD cash for incidental expenses, as ATMs are limited and credit cards are not widely accepted outside major hotels. Your tour package covers most expenses, but you'll need cash for souvenirs and tips.

Keep your visa clearance letter easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. You'll need it at check-in for your flight to Bhutan and again at immigration.

Dress modestly and respectfully when arriving in Bhutan. First impressions matter, and Bhutanese culture values modest dress. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing.

Set your watch to Bhutan Time (BTT), which is UTC+6. There is no daylight saving time.

Have small denomination USD bills ready for any immediate purchases or tips. Exchange rates at the airport may not be favorable for large amounts.

If traveling during peak season (March-May, September-November), expect longer queues at immigration. Patience is appreciated.

Take photos sparingly at the airport and immigration areas. Always ask permission before photographing officials or facilities.

Customs & Duty-Free

Bhutan's customs regulations reflect its commitment to preserving culture and environment. The country has strict rules on certain items, particularly tobacco products (which are heavily regulated), and items that may impact cultural or religious sensitivities. Customs officers are generally courteous but thorough when inspecting suspicious items.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits and 1 liter of wine per person

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol above this limit is subject to duty. Bhutanese customs may be strict about quantities as alcohol consumption is regulated.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or equivalent tobacco products for personal use

Tobacco sales are banned in Bhutan. You must declare all tobacco products and pay 200% sales tax and customs duty. Keep all receipts and declaration forms as you may need to show them if questioned by police. Public smoking is prohibited in most areas. Failure to declare tobacco can result in heavy fines or prosecution.

Currency

No limit on foreign currency, but amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared

Indian Rupees (INR) up to 500 denomination can be used. Higher denominations must be exchanged. Bhutanese Ngultrum cannot be taken out of the country. Keep declaration forms if bringing large amounts.

Gifts/Personal Goods

Personal effects and gifts valued up to USD 100 are duty-free

Items clearly for personal use during your stay are generally not taxed. New, unused items in original packaging may be questioned. Professional camera equipment and electronics should be declared on arrival to avoid issues when departing.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Bhutan has zero tolerance with severe penalties including long prison sentences
Weapons and ammunition - Including replica weapons, pepper spray, and martial arts weapons
Pornographic materials - Strictly prohibited in all forms including digital media
Antiques and religious artifacts - Export of antiques over 100 years old is prohibited without special permits
Wildlife products - Including ivory, furs, and products from endangered species
Plastic bags - Single-use plastic bags are banned in Bhutan as part of environmental protection
Tobacco products for commercial purposes - Only personal use quantities with proper declaration and tax payment allowed
Counterfeit goods - Fake branded items are prohibited

Restricted Items

Drones and aerial photography equipment - Require special permits from the Tourism Council and relevant authorities. Generally not permitted for tourists.
Professional film/photography equipment - May require permits if used for commercial purposes. Declare all professional equipment on arrival.
Satellite phones - Require special permission and registration with telecommunications authority
Prescription medications - Bring reasonable quantities for personal use with prescription and doctor's letter. Certain controlled substances may require additional documentation.
Religious materials for distribution - Buddhist materials for personal use are fine, but materials for proselytizing require permits
Cordyceps and other medicinal herbs - Collection and export require permits from agriculture department

Health Requirements

Bhutan does not currently mandate specific vaccinations for most travelers, but health precautions are recommended due to the high altitude and rural nature of many areas. Travelers should consult their healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before departure.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries. Certificate must be presented at immigration.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food and water contamination
Hepatitis B - Recommended for those who might have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Japanese Encephalitis - Consider if spending extended time in rural areas, especially during transmission season
Rabies - Consider for adventure travelers, those working with animals, or visiting remote areas with limited medical access
Altitude sickness prevention - Consult doctor about medications like acetazolamide if susceptible to altitude sickness

Health Insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended and often required by tour operators. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical evacuation, as Bhutan has limited advanced medical facilities and serious cases may require evacuation to Thailand or India. Your policy should cover activities at high altitude (up to 5,000+ meters) and any adventure activities planned. Medical costs must often be paid upfront, so ensure adequate coverage limits.

Current Health Requirements: As of December 2024, COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements have been largely removed, but travelers should check current requirements before departure as policies may change. Visit the official Tourism Council of Bhutan website or consult your tour operator for the latest health entry requirements. Some countries may still require negative tests for return travel. Consider altitude acclimatization needs - many areas of Bhutan are above 2,000 meters, and Paro Airport itself is at 2,235 meters elevation.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Tourism Council of Bhutan

Official tourism authority - www.tourism.gov.bt

For visa information, licensed tour operator verification, and official tourism policies. Email: info@tourism.gov.bt

Department of Immigration

Immigration services and visa extensions

Located in Thimphu. Your tour operator typically handles immigration matters, but contact for visa extensions or issues: +975-2-323-725

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 112 or 113 (Police: 113, Ambulance: 112, Fire: 110)

English may be limited outside Thimphu. Your tour guide should assist with emergencies. Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu: +975-2-322-496

Your Country's Embassy

Limited countries have embassies in Bhutan (India, Bangladesh, Kuwait). Most countries handle Bhutanese affairs through embassies in New Delhi, India

Tour Operator Emergency Contact

Your licensed tour operator provides 24/7 emergency contact

This should be your first contact for any issues during your trip. Save this number before departure and keep it accessible at all times.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passports and follow the same visa requirements as adults. Children under 6 years are exempt from the Sustainable Development Fee; children aged 6-12 years receive a 50% discount on the SDF. Minors traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s), including contact details and authorization for the child to travel. Birth certificates may be requested to verify age for SDF discounts. Consider altitude effects on children and consult a pediatrician before travel. Most tour operators can arrange child-friendly itineraries with appropriate acclimatization.

Traveling with Pets

Bringing pets to Bhutan is extremely difficult and generally not recommended for tourists. If absolutely necessary, pets require: import permit from Department of Livestock, valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days but not more than 12 months old), health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel, quarantine may be required upon arrival. Airlines flying to Bhutan have strict pet policies. Contact the Department of Livestock (+975-2-323-735) at least 30 days before travel. Most tour itineraries are not suitable for pets due to temple visits and accommodation restrictions.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas can be extended through your tour operator by applying to the Department of Immigration in Thimphu. Extensions require continued payment of the Sustainable Development Fee and tour operator services. Maximum stay on tourist visa is typically 90 days, though longer stays may be possible with justification. For stays beyond tourism (work, study, volunteering), you must apply for appropriate permits: work permits through employing organization, research permits through relevant ministry, volunteer permits through sponsoring NGO. Long-term residents must obtain a residence permit. All extended stays require continued compliance with Bhutan's regulations and sponsorship by a local entity.

Visiting Restricted Areas

Certain areas of Bhutan require special permits beyond the standard tourist visa, including some border regions and sensitive areas. Your tour operator arranges these permits, but they require additional time (2-4 weeks advance notice) and may have additional fees. Restricted areas may include certain dzongkhags (districts) near borders and some high-altitude trekking routes. Permits check your itinerary, so changes require permit amendments. Always carry permit copies when traveling to these areas as checkpoints verify documentation.

Students and Volunteers

Full-time students under 25 years with valid student ID and letter from their institution receive 50% discount on the Sustainable Development Fee. Student status must be verified with official documentation. Volunteers working with registered NGOs or government programs may be eligible for SDF exemption with proper authorization from the Gross National Happiness Commission. Volunteer permits require sponsorship letters, detailed work plans, and can take 4-8 weeks to process. Educational tours and study programs require coordination with Bhutanese educational institutions and special permissions.

Medical Tourism

Bhutan is developing medical tourism, particularly for traditional medicine and wellness retreats. Medical tourists follow standard visa procedures but should coordinate with recognized medical facilities. Traditional medicine treatments at institutes like the National Traditional Medicine Hospital can be arranged through tour operators. Bring complete medical records and doctor referrals. Ensure travel insurance covers medical treatment in Bhutan. For specialized treatments, confirm facility capabilities before travel as advanced medical care is limited.