Bhutan Immigration & Visa Guide

Key Fact

Bhutan does not have embassies abroad for tourist visas. All visas are processed digitally through the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) via a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

Who Needs a Visa?

Almost all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Bhutan. The exceptions are nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, who can enter without a visa using a valid passport or (for Indian nationals) a Government of India Voter Identity Card.

For Most International Tourists (Visa Required)

Visa fee: USD 40 per person (paid separately from the SDF)
Visa is single-entry and valid for the duration of your tour (extendable)
Visa is arranged exclusively through your licensed Bhutanese tour operator — you cannot apply independently
The physical stamp is issued upon arrival at Paro Airport or land border checkpoints

For Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals

No visa required — entry with valid passport or Voter Identity Card (Indian nationals only)
Can book travel independently without a licensed tour operator
Still required to obtain an entry permit from the Department of Immigration

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Bhutan's high value, low volume tourism policy requires all international tourists (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) to pay a Sustainable Development Fee. Since September 2023, the SDF is USD 100 per person per night.

SDF Rates (2024–2025)

Adults (18+): USD 100 per night
Children (6–12 years): USD 50 per night
Children under 5: Free
Indian, Bangladeshi, Maldivian nationals: Exempt

The SDF funds free healthcare and education for Bhutanese citizens, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation. It is paid through the Tourism Council of Bhutan's online portal, and the receipt must be presented to immigration upon entry.

How to Get a Bhutan Visa — Step by Step

Find a licensed tour operator — Registered operators are listed on tourism.gov.bt. They handle all visa logistics.
Book your tour package — Your operator submits your details (passport scan, photo) to the TCB portal.
Pay the SDF and visa fee — Payment is made online through the TCB portal or via your operator.
Receive visa clearance — TCB typically processes applications within 5 working days. You receive a clearance letter by email.
Present documents upon arrival — Show your passport, visa clearance letter, and SDF receipt at immigration.
Collect your visa stamp — The physical stamp is placed in your passport at the port of entry.

Entry Points into Bhutan

By Air

Paro International Airport (PBH) is the only international airport in Bhutan, located 6 km from Paro town and about 54 km from Thimphu. Paro is considered one of the world's most challenging commercial airports — the approach navigates tight valleys and requires special pilot certification. Only about 30 pilots in the world are certified to land at Paro.

International airlines operating to Paro:

Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines) — Bangkok, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Singapore, Kathmandu, Dhaka, Bodh Gaya
Bhutan Airlines — Bangkok, Kolkata, Delhi, Kathmandu

By Land

Three official land border crossing points for international tourists:

Phuentsholing (Chhukha District) — connects to Jaigaon, West Bengal, India. Most commonly used land entry.
Samdrup Jongkhar (Trashigang District) — connects to Assam, India. Gateway to eastern Bhutan.
Gelephu (Sarpang District) — connects to Assam, India. Increasingly popular gateway.

Important Note on Land Entry

Land border crossings have specific operating hours and may require additional permits. Check current status before travel as policies can change. Contact your tour operator for up-to-date requirements.

Restricted Area Permits

Certain areas in Bhutan require additional permits beyond the standard tourist visa:

Protected Area Permit (PAP) — Required for national parks and restricted zones. Costs USD 5–10 per day.
Haa District Permit — Special permit for the Haa Valley (near the Chinese border).
Upper valleys (Lhuentse, Wangdue Phodrang) — Some high-altitude trekking routes require an additional trekking permit.

Your licensed tour operator handles all permits as part of the package.

Duration of Stay and Extensions

Standard tourist visas are issued for up to 15 days, extendable at the Department of Immigration offices in Thimphu, Paro, or Phuentsholing. Extensions cost approximately Nu 900 (~USD 11) per day plus the applicable SDF.

What to Bring

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates)
Visa clearance letter (printed copy recommended)
SDF payment receipt
Tour itinerary confirmation from your operator
Return/onward travel ticket
Sufficient funds for your stay

Travel Tip

Apply for your visa at least 2–4 weeks before travel. During peak season (March–May, Sept–Nov), the TCB portal can be slower. Your tour operator will guide you through every step.