Visa and Entry Requirements
Before You Arrive: What to Know About Entering Bhutan
Planning your journey to Bhutan is the beginning of something special. As the only carbon-negative country in the world, Bhutan invites travelers to arrive with intention—and with a few important documents in hand.
Whether you are entering through the quiet beauty of Paro or crossing one of our land borders, all travelers must meet Bhutan’s visa and entry requirements. These policies help protect the culture, people, and environment that make this Himalayan kingdom unlike anywhere else.
We’ve created this guide to help you prepare with ease.
Who Needs a Visa?
Bhutan has different requirements depending on your nationality:
Citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives do not need a visa to enter Bhutan.
- Indians may enter using a valid passport or voter ID card.
- Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals must travel with a valid passport.
All other travellers are required to obtain an e-Visa in advance. Bhutan does not offer visa-on-arrival services. Your visa must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator (such as Jambayang Travel Service) or directly via immi.gov.bt
How the Visa Process Works
We take care of this for you. Once your tour is confirmed and payment has been submitted, we’ll apply for your Bhutanese visa through the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
To apply, you will need:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
- A recent passport-sized photo
- A confirmed travel itinerary
Processing typically takes about 5 business days, and your visa will be valid only for the dates listed in your itinerary. Extensions may be arranged while you are in-country if needed.
Fees: Visa & Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan requires the following fees for all international travelers:
| Traveler Category | Visa Requirement | Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) |
|---|---|---|
| India | No visa required | INR 1,200 per night |
| Bangladesh & Maldives | No visa required | USD 100 per night |
| All other countries | e-Visa required | USD 100 per night + USD 40 visa fee |
- Visa Fee: USD $40 (non-refundable)
- SDF: Supports Bhutan’s long-standing commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation.
Where Can I Enter Bhutan?
You may enter the country through the following official points:
By Air
Paro International Airport – Bhutan’s only international airport, nestled in the Himalayan foothills.
By Land (from India):
- Phuentsholing – Southwest Bhutan
- Gelephu – South-central Bhutan
- Samdrup Jongkhar – Southeast Bhutan
Please note that all entry points require prior visa approval and valid travel documents.
Tips Before You Travel
- Double-check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry.
- Keep a printed copy of your visa clearance with you when traveling.
- Your visa is linked to your specific travel dates and itinerary—spontaneous changes may not be permitted without prior approval.
Questions or Need Help?
Still have questions about the visa process? We’re here to help.
Reach out to us at
📩 Jambayangtours@gmail.com
We’ll walk you through every step. Your journey to Bhutan begins with care—and we’re honoured to be part of it.
