Bhutan Visa Information

Visiting Bhutan

Bhutan is a beautiful Himalayan Kingdom with beautiful mountain landscape with old monasteries, strong culture and adherence to sustainable tourism. Bhutan, popularly known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”, is a land of distinctive natural beauty and cultural heritage.

International tourists are required to satisfy special visa and travelling conditions, which are not the case in many destinations. Mission Himalaya Treks helps the traveller out with the visa application process and all of the travel arrangements needed to make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

Do you Need a Visa to Visit Bhutan?

Yes.  Most foreign travellers need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visas must be obtained before arrival and are normally arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an authorized travel agency.

Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian citizens have a separate entry procedure and do not require a tourist visa like other international visitors.

How To Apply Bhutan Visa

Most foreign travellers require a visa before travelling to Bhutan. Visa applications are commonly arranged through licensed Bhutanese tour operators or authorized travel agencies as part of the travel booking process.

To process the visa application, travellers typically have to provide:

• Clear copy of their passport
• Passport size photo (if applicable)
• Travel information and arrival details
• Completed booking confirmation

Mission Himalaya Treks will organize the visa application process for you and help you gather all the required documentation before your trip.

Passport Requirements

Visitors should have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the date of intended travel.

Any details provided in the visa application process need to be identical to those on the passport or delays or inconveniences are likely to arise.

Visa Approval Procedure

After filling in the necessary papers and confirming the trip, the Bhutan visa is applied at the corresponding authorities.

After the application is approved, the traveller will be issued a visa clearance paper that they will produce when flying to Bhutan or entering the country using an approved land border.

The actual visa is issued on arrival after checking the approved visa clearance.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Bhutan’s distinctive tourism policy is rooted in sustainable and responsible travel. International visitors are usually charged a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). The SDF helps to fund the country’s environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and healthcare and education programs.

Applicable fees and regulations are subject to change from time to time, so travellers are encouraged to check the latest requirements before travel.

We will update you with more information during the booking process.

Make an Entry by Air

Most visitors arrive in Bhutan by air via the international airport in Paro. There are direct flights to some cities in Nepal, India, Thailand and Singapore.

Travellers are advised to carry their passport and visa clearance document while checking-in for the flight.

Entry by Land

Bhutan can also be accessed through designated land border points with India. Travellers taking land routes will still have to obtain the requisite travel authorization prior to arrival.

Our team can advise on the current border procedures and entry requirements.

Indian Visa Application

Indian citizens do not need a tourist visa to enter Bhutan. But you usually need a valid passport or voter identification card to get in.

Additional regulations and travel requirements may apply to travellers and they should check for the latest information prior to departure.

Duration of Visa Processing Time?

Once the necessary documents have been submitted, the visa process is normally simple. We would suggest that you book your trip to Bhutan a few weeks prior to the date you wish to depart, to avoid any last minute problems.

Early confirmation gives sufficient time for visa arrangements and travel plans.

Important Travel Information

Visa rules and entry conditions may change according to government policies and travel advisories. Travellers should verify the accuracy of all documents provided, and should not make non-refundable arrangements prior to receiving confirmation of travel approvals.

Mission Himalaya Treks is updated with the latest travel regulations and will help you through the planning process.

Mission Himalaya Treks Travel to Bhutan

Getting a Bhutan visa is easy if you go through a trusted travel company. Mission Himalaya Treks helps travellers with visa applications, travel plans, accommodation, and transportation and guided tours to different parts of Bhutan.

Whether you wish to experience the cultural riches of Paro and Thimphu, visit the well-known Tiger’s Nest Monastery or explore the tranquil mountain scenery of Bhutan, our team is on hand to help make your trip smooth and memorable.

Before planning your trip please consult Mission Himalaya Treks for the most up-to-date Bhutan visa requirements and travel information.