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 Bhutan Visa and Entry Permit Guide for Indian and International Travellers

Introduction
Planning a journey to Bhutan begins with understanding the correct visa or Entry Permit requirements for your nationality.

Indian nationals do not require a tourist visa for Bhutan. They must obtain an Entry Permit using an accepted Indian travel document. Travellers holding passports from most other countries must obtain an approved Bhutan tourist e-visa before entering the kingdom.

Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals require a visa but may apply before travelling or complete the process on arrival, subject to immigration clearance.

La Bhutanz Tours assists travellers from India and around the world with personalised Bhutan tour planning, documentation guidance, visa or permit coordination, Sustainable Development Fee information and carefully arranged travel logistics.

This guide explains the current Bhutan tourist visa and Entry Permit requirements for travellers planning to visit Bhutan in 2026.

Quick Bhutan Visa and Entry Permit Guide

Indian Citizens

Indian citizens do not require a tourist visa. They require a Bhutan Entry Permit and must carry a valid Indian passport or Indian voter identity card.

Bangladesh and Maldives Citizens

Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders require a Bhutan visa. They may apply online before travelling or obtain a visa on arrival, subject to immigration approval.

Other International Travellers

Travellers holding passports from most other countries must obtain an approved Bhutan tourist e-visa before arriving in Bhutan.

NRI and OCI Travellers

The applicable process is determined by the passport used for travel. An Indian passport follows the Entry Permit process, while a foreign passport follows the visa rules applicable to that nationality.

Final Entry Decision

Possession of an approved visa or permit does not automatically guarantee admission. Final entry into Bhutan is determined by immigration officials at the port of entry.

 Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Bhutan?

No. Indian citizens do not require a tourist visa to visit Bhutan.

Indian nationals must obtain a Bhutan Entry Permit before travelling or at an authorised port of entry. The permit allows the traveller to enter and travel in Bhutan for the approved dates and itinerary.

Although Indian travellers can apply on arrival, arranging the permit before departure is recommended. Advance processing can reduce waiting time and allows identity details, travel dates and documentation to be checked before the journey begins.

Documents Required for Indian Adults Travelling to Bhutan

Indian nationals aged 18 years and above should carry one of the following accepted travel documents:

• A valid Indian passport; or

• A valid voter identity card issued by the Election Commission of India

When travelling with a passport, it must have a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

Travellers should also prepare:

• A recent passport-size photograph

• Confirmed arrival and departure dates

• Accommodation and itinerary details

• Contact information

• Sustainable Development Fee payment details

• Any additional document requested during immigration assessment

The name, date of birth and identity-document number used for the permit must match the traveller’s original document exactly.

Aadhaar, PAN Card and Driving Licence

Can Indians Travel to Bhutan Using an Aadhaar Card?

Indian travellers should not rely on an Aadhaar card, PAN card or driving licence as their primary Bhutan entry document.

The officially accepted travel documents for Indian adults are:

• A valid Indian passport

• A valid Indian voter identity card

Travellers should carry the original accepted document used in the Entry Permit application throughout the journey.

Documents Required for Indian Children Below 18 Years

Indian nationals below the age of 18 may travel using:

• A valid Indian passport; or

• An original birth certificate

Minor travellers must be accompanied by a legal guardian.

Parents or guardians should also carry:

• A recent passport-size photograph of the child

• The child’s original birth certificate when a passport is unavailable

• The passport or voter ID of the accompanying parent or guardian

• Supporting proof of relationship where necessary

• A consent letter when the child is travelling with only one parent or another guardian

All names and personal details should be consistent across the documents submitted.

How to Apply for a Bhutan Entry Permit Online

Indian travellers may apply for their Entry Permit online before travelling to Bhutan.

The application may be completed:

• Directly by the traveller

• By a tour operator on the traveller’s behalf

• By a participating accommodation provider

The usual process includes:

1. Preparing the accepted identity document

2. Uploading a recent passport-size photograph

3. Providing the intended arrival and departure dates

4. Entering accommodation and travel information

5. Paying the applicable Sustainable Development Fee

6. Submitting the permit application for assessment

7. Keeping a digital and printed copy of the approved permit

Travellers must carry the original passport or voter identity card used for the application when entering Bhutan.

Can Indian Travellers Obtain a Bhutan Permit on Arrival?

Yes. Indian nationals are eligible to request an Entry Permit at an authorised port of entry.

For an on-arrival permit, travellers should carry:

• Original Indian passport or voter identity card

• Recent passport-size photograph

• Accommodation details

• Travel itinerary

• Arrival and departure information

• Sustainable Development Fee payment arrangement

Permit-on-arrival processing may involve waiting, particularly during festivals, public holidays and peak travel periods.

Advance permit processing is therefore recommended for travellers seeking a smoother and more predictable arrival experience.

Bhutan Entry Permit for Indian Travellers Arriving by Air

Indian travellers flying to Bhutan complete immigration formalities at Paro International Airport.

Travellers should keep the following documents readily accessible:

• Original passport or voter identity card

• Approved Entry Permit, when arranged in advance

• Recent passport-size photograph

• Flight details

• Accommodation information

• Return or onward travel details

• Sustainable Development Fee payment confirmation

Immigration officials will verify the traveller’s documents and determine admission at the airport.

Bhutan Entry Permit for Indian Travellers Arriving by Road

Indian travellers entering Bhutan by road must complete immigration formalities at an authorised land port of entry.

Travellers commonly entering through Phuentsholing should ensure that their identity documents, travel dates, accommodation arrangements and onward itinerary are properly coordinated.

Before beginning the journey, confirm:

• The authorised border entry point

• Border and immigration operating arrangements

• Original passport or voter identity card

• Approved Entry Permit, when processed in advance

• Hotel confirmations

• Vehicle and driver details

• Sustainable Development Fee payment

• Planned travel dates and destinations

Old information stating that Indian travellers may initially visit only Paro and Thimphu should not be relied upon. The approved permit and itinerary should accurately reflect the traveller’s intended journey.

Immigration procedures and operational timings may change, so current arrangements should be reconfirmed before departure.

Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee for Indian Travellers

Indian nationals presenting a valid Indian passport or voter identity card currently pay the following Sustainable Development Fee:

Adults and Travellers Aged 12 Years or Above

Nu. 1,200 or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees per person, per night

Children Aged 6 to Below 12 Years

Nu. 600 or INR 600 per child, per night

Children Below 6 Years

No Sustainable Development Fee

The SDF is separate from:

• Hotel accommodation

• Meals

• Private transport

• Licensed guide services

• Monument and attraction fees

• Flights

• Personal expenses

• Travel insurance

• Tour planning and operational services

The final SDF is calculated according to the traveller’s age, nationality and number of chargeable nights in Bhutan.

Bhutan Visa for Bangladeshi and Maldivian Travellers

Citizens of Bangladesh and the Maldives require a visa to visit Bhutan.

They may:

• Apply online before travelling; or

• Apply for a visa on arrival at an authorised port of entry

Advance application is recommended to reduce waiting time and allow documentation to be checked before departure.

Travellers should normally prepare:

• A valid passport

• Recent passport-size photograph

• Arrival and departure dates

• Accommodation information

• Travel itinerary

• Sustainable Development Fee payment

• Any additional document requested by immigration

The passport should have a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

Final visa approval and admission remain subject to assessment by Bhutanese immigration authorities.

Sustainable Development Fee for Bangladesh and Maldives Citizens

Bangladeshi and Maldivian travellers are not eligible for the reduced Indian SDF rate.

The standard international Sustainable Development Fee applies:

Adults and Travellers Aged 12 Years or Above

US$100 per person, per night

Children Aged 6 to Below 12 Years

US$50 per child, per night

Children Below 6 Years

No Sustainable Development Fee

The applicable visa-processing charge and payment instructions should be confirmed through the official immigration application system when the application is submitted.

Bhutan Tourist Visa for International Travellers

Most foreign nationals, other than Indian citizens and travellers covered by specific visa-on-arrival arrangements, must obtain an approved Bhutan tourist e-visa before entering the country.

Travellers should not arrive in Bhutan without receiving the required visa approval.

The tourist e-visa process applies to travellers from countries including:

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Canada

• Australia

• New Zealand

• European countries

• Middle Eastern countries

• African countries

• East Asian and Southeast Asian countries

• South American countries

• Other international markets

Bhutan does not publish a general list of nationalities prohibited from applying for a tourist visa. However, every application remains subject to immigration assessment.

Approval of a visa does not remove the requirement to complete immigration formalities upon arrival.

Documents Required for a Bhutan Tourist e-Visa

International travellers should prepare the following information and documents:

• Clear digital copy of a valid passport

• Recent digital passport-size photograph

• Intended arrival date

• Intended departure date

• Accommodation details

• Travel itinerary

• Contact information

• Payment details for the visa application fee and SDF

• Any additional supporting document requested by immigration

Passport Validity

The passport must have a minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

Document Accuracy

The traveller’s full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number and passport validity dates must be entered exactly as shown in the passport.

Incorrect or inconsistent information may delay assessment or require the application to be corrected and resubmitted.

How to Apply for a Bhutan Tourist Visa

Step 1: Confirm Your Travel Dates

Finalise the intended arrival and departure dates. These dates determine the requested visa period and the Sustainable Development Fee calculation.

Step 2: Check Your Passport

Ensure that the passport will remain valid for at least six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare a clear passport scan, recent passport photograph, accommodation details and travel information.

Step 4: Complete the Application

The traveller may apply directly through Bhutan’s official online immigration system. A tour operator or participating hotel may also submit the application on the traveller’s behalf.

Step 5: Pay the Required Charges

Pay the applicable visa application fee and Sustainable Development Fee through the approved application process.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Review all personal and travel details carefully before submitting the application.

Step 7: Wait for Assessment

A correctly completed tourist visa application may take up to five working days to process.

Step 8: Receive the Approved e-Visa

Keep a digital copy and printed copy of the visa approval.

Step 9: Travel with the Same Passport

The traveller must enter Bhutan using the same passport used in the visa application.

Step 10: Complete Immigration Formalities

Final admission is determined by immigration officials at the port of entry.

Bhutan Tourist Visa Application Fee

The standard Bhutan tourist visa application fee is:

US$40 per person

This is a one-time, non-refundable visa application fee.

The visa fee is separate from:

• Sustainable Development Fee

• Accommodation

• Flights

• Transport

• Guide services

• Meals

• Attraction fees

• Travel insurance

• Tour arrangements

Travellers should verify the final amount shown in the official application portal before making payment.

Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee for International Travellers

The current Sustainable Development Fee for most international visitors is:

Adults and Travellers Aged 12 Years or Above

US$100 per person, per night

Children Aged 6 to Below 12 Years

US$50 per child, per night

Children Below 6 Years

No Sustainable Development Fee

The SDF is calculated according to the number of chargeable nights spent in Bhutan.

The SDF supports Bhutan’s national development, environmental conservation, cultural preservation, infrastructure, education, healthcare and initiatives that help protect the kingdom’s distinctive travel environment.

How Long Does a Bhutan Tourist Visa Take?

A correctly completed Bhutan tourist visa application may take up to five working days to process.

Travellers should apply well before their intended departure date because additional time may be required when:

• Information is incomplete

• Passport details are incorrect

• Photographs or scans are unclear

• Additional documents are requested

• Payment confirmation is delayed

• Public holidays affect processing

• Travel dates or passport information change

International travellers should avoid confirming non-refundable travel arrangements until the required documentation and travel conditions have been carefully reviewed.

How Long Can a Tourist Stay in Bhutan?

The Bhutan tourist visa allows an international traveller to remain in the country for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry.

The approved visa dates, travel itinerary and Sustainable Development Fee payment should accurately reflect the intended stay.

Travellers planning to change or extend their journey should address the required visa, permit and SDF adjustments before altering their confirmed arrangements.

Approval of an extension is subject to the applicable immigration rules and official assessment.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Bhutan?

Bhutan’s Department of Tourism announced in April 2024 that the mandatory tourist travel-insurance requirement introduced during the COVID-19 period had been lifted.

However, some Department of Immigration information pages may still display travel insurance among the listed application requirements.

Travellers should therefore check the live application portal and current instructions at the time of applying.

Even when it is not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Suitable cover should ideally include:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Medical evacuation

• Trip cancellation

• Travel delays

• Missed flight connections

• Lost or delayed baggage

• Trekking or adventure activities, when applicable

• Weather-related disruption

Insurance conditions vary by provider, age, nationality and planned activities.

Bhutan Visa Rules for NRI and OCI Travellers

The traveller’s entry category is determined by the passport used for the Bhutan journey.

Travelling on an Indian Passport

The traveller follows the Indian Entry Permit process and may qualify for the Indian Sustainable Development Fee rate.

Travelling on a Foreign Passport

The traveller follows the Bhutan visa rules applicable to the nationality shown on that passport.

OCI Card Holders

An Overseas Citizen of India card does not replace the passport required for international travel and does not automatically qualify the traveller for the Indian Entry Permit or reduced Indian SDF rate.

Dual-Nationality Travellers

Travellers should use one passport consistently for:

• Flight reservations

• Visa or permit application

• Hotel documentation

• Immigration clearance

• Entry into and departure from Bhutan

NRI, OCI and dual-nationality travellers should confirm the passport they will use before permit, visa, flight and SDF arrangements are finalised.

Visa, Permit and SDF Changes

Travellers should ensure that their approved visa or permit dates match the final travel itinerary.

Changes to the journey may require:

• Updating travel dates

• Revising accommodation information

• Adjusting the visa or permit

• Paying an additional Sustainable Development Fee

• Requesting an SDF refund for a shortened or cancelled journey

The Sustainable Development Fee may be refundable for an eligible cancelled or shortened trip, after applicable bank charges.

The visa application fee is non-refundable.

Refund and amendment requests should be submitted through the official system and remain subject to the applicable government procedures.

Important Bhutan Visa and Permit Guidance

Use only current official immigration requirements.

• Do not rely on old information stating that Indian travellers are limited to Paro and Thimphu.

• Carry the original passport, voter ID or birth certificate used for the application.

• Ensure that all names, passport numbers and dates are entered correctly.

• Keep digital and printed copies of the approved visa or permit.

• Confirm that the approved travel dates match the final itinerary.

• Apply in advance whenever possible to reduce arrival delays.

• Do not treat a visa or permit as an automatic guarantee of entry.

• Immigration officials may request additional documents.

• Requirements, fees and procedures can change through government notification.

• Reconfirm current rules before departure, especially when entering by road.

How La Bhutanz Tours Assists with Bhutan Visa and Entry Permit Planning

La Bhutanz Tours supports Indian and international travellers with clear, practical guidance throughout the Bhutan travel-planning process.

Our assistance may include:

• Identifying whether the traveller requires a visa or Entry Permit

• Reviewing basic document readiness

• Coordinating tourist visa or permit applications where applicable

• Checking passport and identity-document details

• Aligning application dates with the itinerary

• Calculating the applicable Sustainable Development Fee

• Coordinating accommodation and private transport

• Planning fly-in and overland journeys

• Sharing approved travel documents before departure

• Assisting with changes when travel arrangements are revised

• Providing destination and arrival guidance

Visa and Permit Approval

All visas and Entry Permits are issued by the relevant Bhutanese government authority.

La Bhutanz Tours cannot guarantee visa or permit approval, influence an immigration decision or override the requirements of Bhutan’s Department of Immigration.

Our role is to help travellers prepare carefully, understand the process and coordinate their Bhutan journey with greater clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bhutan Visas and Entry Permits

1. Do Indian citizens need a visa for Bhutan?

No. Indian citizens require a Bhutan Entry Permit rather than a tourist visa. They must use a valid Indian passport or voter identity card.

2. Can Indians apply for a Bhutan Entry Permit online?

Yes. Indian travellers may apply online before travelling. A tour operator or participating hotel may also apply on their behalf.

3. Can Indians obtain a Bhutan Permit on arrival?

Yes. Indian nationals are eligible for an Entry Permit at an authorised port of entry. Advance processing is recommended because on-arrival applications may involve waiting.

4. Can an Indian citizen enter Bhutan with an Aadhaar card?

Travellers should not rely on Aadhaar as the primary entry document. Indian adults should use a valid Indian passport or voter identity card.

5. What document does an Indian child need?

An Indian child below 18 may use a valid passport or original birth certificate and must travel with a legal guardian.

6. How much SDF do Indian citizens pay?

Indian travellers aged 12 and above pay Nu. 1,200 or the equivalent in Indian rupees per night. Children aged 6 to below 12 pay Nu./INR 600 per night, while children below 6 are exempt.

7. Do Bangladesh citizens need a Bhutan visa?

Yes. Bangladeshi passport holders require a visa but may apply before travelling or obtain it on arrival, subject to immigration approval.

8. Do Maldives citizens need a Bhutan visa?

Yes. Maldivian passport holders require a visa but may apply online in advance or obtain it on arrival.

9. Do American, British, Canadian, Australian and European travellers need a visa?

Yes. Travellers holding ordinary passports from these countries must normally obtain an approved Bhutan tourist e-visa before entering Bhutan.

10. How much is the Bhutan tourist visa fee?

The standard tourist visa application fee is US$40 per person. It is a one-time, non-refundable fee.

11. How much is the SDF for international travellers?

The standard SDF is US$100 per adult per night. Children aged 6 to below 12 pay US$50 per night, while children below 6 are exempt.

12. How long does a Bhutan visa application take?

A correctly completed application may take up to five working days. Applying earlier is advisable.

13. How long can a tourist stay in Bhutan?

A tourist visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days from the date of entry, subject to the approved arrangements.

14. Can a tour operator apply for the visa?

Yes. A tour operator or participating hotel may submit an application on behalf of the traveller when provided with the required information and documents.

15. Is travel insurance compulsory?

The mandatory tourist-insurance requirement was officially lifted in April 2024, but travellers should check the current application instructions. Comprehensive travel insurance remains strongly recommended.

16. Does an OCI card qualify for the Indian Entry Permit?

An OCI card alone does not replace a passport. The applicable process depends on the passport used for the journey.

17. Does an approved visa guarantee entry into Bhutan?

No. Final admission is determined by Bhutanese immigration officials at the port of entry.

18. Can La Bhutanz Tours guarantee visa approval?

No. We can assist with guidance and coordination, but only Bhutan’s authorised immigration authority can approve or refuse a visa or Entry Permit.

Plan Your Bhutan Journey with Clear Visa and Permit Guidance

Whether you are travelling from Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, elsewhere in India or another part of the world, the correct documentation is an essential part of planning a smooth Bhutan journey.

Share the following details with La Bhutanz Tours:

• Nationality

• Passport type

• Number of adults and children

• Intended travel dates

• Preferred arrival route

• Journey duration

• Places you wish to explore

• Preferred travel style

We will help you understand the applicable visa, Entry Permit and Sustainable Development Fee process while carefully planning your personalised Bhutan experience.

Exceptional . Explorable . Experience

Important Disclaimer

This page provides general tourist visa, Entry Permit and Sustainable Development Fee guidance based on official information available in 2026.

Bhutan’s immigration rules, fees, application systems, supporting-document requirements and entry procedures may change without prior notice.

Final visa or Entry Permit approval and admission into Bhutan are determined exclusively by the relevant authorities of the Royal Government of Bhutan.

Travellers should reconfirm the current requirements before making non-refundable arrangements or beginning their journey.