Visitors from all nationalities, except Indian citizens, are required to obtain a visa prior to entering Bhutan. Travelers, excluding those from Bangladesh and the Maldives, must apply for and receive their visa in advance of their intended travel. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives have the option to apply for a visa either before their journey or upon arrival in Bhutan.
Indian visitors have the option to apply for a permit but must hold either an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals below the age of 18, entry is permitted with a passport or a birth certificate, accompanied by a legal guardian.
Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports can obtain a visa upon their arrival at the port of entry.
The visa application process typically takes up to five days to complete. There is a one-time processing fee of US$40, payable concurrently with the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) during the visa application process. The visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days from the date of entry, with the possibility of extending the stay by applying for an extension before the original visa or permit expires. Extensions can be processed through the online visa application portal, with fees for extension and daily SDF payments made via the same platform.
Furthermore, it is mandatory for all visitors to have valid travel insurance for the duration of their stay, with the exception of Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian visitors who have the option to purchase domestic travel insurance at their point of entry.
If visitors plan to bring their own vehicle to Bhutan, it must meet the requirements of Bhutan’s Roads Safety and Transport Authority, possess valid driver’s licenses, insurance, pollution control documentation, and maintain reasonable condition. Self-driving with a valid Indian driver’s license is accepted within Bhutan, subject to the same fees and regulations that apply to motorbikes. In cases where the vehicle is not owned by the travelers, an authorization letter is necessary. For further details, please contact Gangri tours at gangritt@gmail.com
