This comprehensive guide walks you through applying for a Bhutan Visa online — by yourself. We cover the most common questions including: Do I need a Visa to visit Bhutan? Do Indian Citizens need a Visa? What does it cost? And much more.
We recommend working with your tour operator to handle the application on your behalf for a hassle-free experience. However, if you prefer to apply yourself, follow the step-by-step instructions below.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Bhutan?
Visa requirements by nationality
International Visitors
All international tourists require a Bhutan Visa, which must be arranged before or upon arrival through a licensed tour operator or the Department of Immigration.
Indian Nationals
Indian citizens do not need a Visa — they require an Entry Permit, which can be obtained at the port of entry or applied for before traveling.
Via Tour Operator
Visitors can apply for a Bhutan Visa or entry permit online themselves, or seek assistance from a licensed Bhutanese tour operator like Found Bhutan.
Official Application Portal
Visas are issued by the Bhutan Department of Immigration. Only apply through the official government portal.
What is the Cost of a Bhutan Visa?
A one-time fee for your entire stay
USD 40 Per Person
The Bhutan Visa fee is USD 40 per person — a single one-time payment that covers your entire stay in Bhutan, regardless of how many days you visit.
Non-Refundable
The visa fee is non-refundable once paid. Apply only when your Bhutan trip is fully confirmed and you are certain of your travel dates.
Documents Required to Process a Bhutan Visa
Have these ready before you apply
Valid Passport
A copy of your passport — must be valid for at least six months from your intended departure date from Bhutan.
Digital Photograph
A recent digital passport-sized photograph meeting standard requirements.
Payment Method
You must pay both the Bhutan SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) and the Visa Application Fee during the application process. Have your payment method ready.
Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for a Bhutan Visa Online
Follow these steps after preparing all necessary documents
Create an Account
Register at the Department of Immigration website to create your applicant account.
Enter Travel Details
Provide your arrival and departure dates, travel purpose, and personal details. You can save and return to complete the application at any time.
Make Your Payments
Pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and the USD 40 Visa Fee during the application. Both are required to complete your submission.
Await Visa Clearance
The Immigration office reviews your application in approximately 5 working days. You will receive your e-visa (3-page PDF) via email upon approval.
Bhutan Visa for Indian, Maldives & Bangladesh Citizens
Special rules for regional visitors
Indian Citizens
Indian citizens do not need a Visa. They require an Entry Permit, obtainable at the entry point or before travel. A valid passport or voter ID is accepted.
Bangladesh & Maldives
Visitors from Bangladesh and Maldives must have a visa but can obtain one upon arrival at the entry point. A valid passport and SDF payment are required.
Swiss & Thai Diplomats
Swiss and Thai nationals with diplomatic or official passports can get a visa on arrival. Applying beforehand is still recommended for a seamless experience.
How to Apply for a Bhutan Visa at the Port of Entry
Documents required for visa on arrival
One Passport-Sized Photograph
Bring a recent passport-sized photograph meeting standard requirements.
Valid Passport or ID
Original passport with minimum six months validity from your departure date. Indian nationals may use a valid voter ID card. Children under 18 need a birth certificate and must travel with a legal guardian.
SDF Payment
The applicable Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee — in INR for Indian nationals, or USD for other nationalities.
How Long Can I Stay in Bhutan?
Visa validity and maximum stay
Maximum 90 Days
With a Bhutan Tourist Visa or entry permit, you can stay for a maximum of 90 days. Your e-visa will clearly state your eligible entry and exit dates.
Other Visa Types
For information about business, work, or other visa categories, visit the Department of Immigration website.
Can I Renew My Bhutan Visa While in Bhutan?
Extension and renewal process
Yes — Extensions are Possible
You can renew or extend your Bhutan Visa or E-permit from within Bhutan. The Department of Immigration will process your application after SDF payments are confirmed.
Apply Early
The renewal process can take up to five working days. Start as early as possible to avoid any disruption to your travel plans inside Bhutan.
Can I Bring an Indian-Registered Vehicle to Bhutan?
Rules and requirements for Indian vehicles
Border Zones — Free of Charge
Indian vehicles can travel within designated border towns (Phuentsholing, Samtse, Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar) without any charges.
Green Tax — INR/Nu 4,500/day
A Green Tax of INR 4,500 per day applies if the vehicle leaves the designated border zones and travels into the interior of Bhutan.
Required Documents
Original Driving License, Registration Certificate (RC), Insurance, Emission Certificate, and Road Worthiness Certificate. Vehicle must be less than 10 years old.
CPMS Registration Required
Register on the CPMS (Check Post Management System) to pass RBP checkpoints. If you're not the owner, bring an authorization letter from the owner.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit the Border Towns Only?
Day visits and border crossing rules
24 Hours or Less — No Visa Needed
You do not need a Visa or entry permit to visit bordering towns for 24 hours or less. Enter through the pedestrian terminal at Phuentsholing, which is open 24/7.
Overnight or Beyond Checkpoints
To stay overnight or pass certain checkpoints, you need a permit from the Immigration Department or Regional Immigration Office. The Bhutan SDF also applies.
Pre-register Online for Day Visits
Apply for pre-registration entry online. The system generates a QR code — show it with your ID at the immigration counter. Entry fee is Nu/INR 10 per person.
Conclusion
Your Bhutan visa journey starts here
Most Visitors Need a Visa
All international visitors except Indian nationals require a Bhutan Visa. Indian citizens need an Entry Permit available at the entry point.
Let Found Bhutan Handle It
We manage the entire visa application process for you as part of your tour booking — one less thing to worry about before your Bhutan adventure.
