Bhutan Visit VISA: 5 Steps to Your VISA Application

Planning a trip to Bhutan? Checking the Bhutan visit VISA process is your first step to exploring this Himalayan kingdom. This guide provides all citizens with essential information to simplify the VISA application, covering types, costs, requirements, and eligibility.

Bhutan Visit VISA: 5 Steps for a Smooth Process

Step 1: Choose the Right VISA Type

Bhutan offers VISAS based on travel purposes:

• Tourist VISA: The most common option, requiring bookings through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
• Business VISA: Requires an invitation letter from a registered Bhutanese company.
• Other VISAS: Includes student, volunteer, or official visas for specific purposes.

Most travelers apply for a tourist VISA, valid for single entry and tied to a pre-paid tour package.

Step 2: Calculate Your VISA Costs and Fees

The Bhutan visit VISA involves several costs (subject to change):

• VISA Fee: $40 per person.
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): $200 per night, covering tourism infrastructure and conservation.
• Tour Package: Includes accommodation, meals, transport, and guide fees (varies by operator).
• Travel Insurance: Mandatory coverage of $50,000, including COVID-19.

Total costs depend on trip duration and tour preferences. Always verify fees on Bhutan’s Department of Immigration website.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Gather these essentials for your application:

• Passport: Valid for 6+ months beyond your stay, with blank pages.
• Passport Photos: Two recent, color photos (45mm x 35mm, white background).
• Tour Confirmation: Itinerary from a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
• SDF Payment Proof: Receipt from your tour operator.
• Travel Insurance: Policy covering medical emergencies and repatriation.
• Bank Statements: Proof of sufficient funds (if requested).

Step 4: Confirm Eligibility

To qualify for a Bhutan visit VISA, you must:

• Hold a valid passport.
• Book through a government-approved tour operator.
• Pay the SDF and VISA fee in advance.
• Provide proof of travel insurance.
• Have no criminal record or immigration violations.

Additional health requirements, like vaccinations, may apply based on current regulations.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Your tour operator handles the process:

1. They submit your documents to Bhutan’s Department of Immigration.
2. Processing takes ~5 working days.
3. Once approved, you’ll receive a VISA clearance letter via email.
4. Present this letter at entry (Paro or Phuentsholing) to receive your VISA stamp.

Final Tips

Navigating the Bhutan visit VISA process is straightforward with preparation. For personalized assistance, services like Foreignway can streamline applications, ensuring compliance with Bhutan’s unique requirements.

Disclaimer: VISA fees and policies may change. Always consult Bhutan’s official immigration website or your tour operator for the latest updates.