VISA (Visitors International Stay Admission)
Traveling to the Kingdom of Bhutan is a truly exquisite experience, guided by the nation’s tourism policy of “High Value, Low Volume.” This approach ensures that visitors receive unparalleled service and have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s unique culture while exploring its pristine natural beauty.
To facilitate your journey, the Department of Immigration provides online visa processing information on their website. Alternatively, you can entrust Butter Lamp Tours to handle your travel documents and plan your trip, offering dedicated customer service to address any inquiries regarding visa applications and travel arrangements within the country
For entry into Bhutan, visitors need only present their passports or other acceptable nationality documents. The visa fee is USD 40 per person, non-refundable, with processing typically taking up to five working days. Additionally, tourists from India are subject to a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of Nu. 1,200 per person per night, while visitors from other countries are charged USD 100 per person per night. This contribution directly supports Bhutan’s economic, environmental, social, and cultural development initiatives.
The SDF(Sustainable Development Fund) facilitates investment in transformative programs aimed at preserving cultural traditions, protecting heritage and the environment, improving infrastructure, fostering opportunities for youth, and enhancing resilience.
During their stay in Bhutan, visitors also have access to free healthcare services. Neighboring tourists driving into the country can do so through designated entry points in Phuntsholing and Samdrupjongkhar, while those arriving by air will land at Paro International Airport. Approved visas are typically issued with a visa clearance letter, which must be presented at the designated entry points for stamping on passports.
VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
For travelers planning a trip to Bhutan, here’s what you need to know about the visa application process:
VISA APPLICATION PROCESS:
- VISA REQUIREMENT: Visas are necessary for visiting Bhutan, and they are processed exclusively through local tour operators like Butterlamp Tours in conjunction with tour bookings.
- SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS: After full tour payment is received, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- Scanned Passport Copy (with page containing photo & details), ensuring clarity.
- Passport validity of at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Bhutan.
3. ARRIVAL BY AIR:
- Visa applications are processed in advance, and a visa clearance document will be provided to you. This document is essential for check-in and boarding your flight to Bhutan.
- Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, the actual visa will be stamped on your passport. Passport size photo is not required for immigration at Paro Airport.
4. ARRIVAL BY LAND:
- Similar to air travel, visa applications are processed beforehand, and a visa clearance document is provided. This document is necessary at the border Immigration Check Points at Phuntsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, and Gelephu.
- Upon arrival at these border town Immigration Check Points, the actual visa will be stamped on your passport. Passport size photo is not required. Fingerprints and photos will be taken at the border town Immigration Check Points.
5. OTHER COUNTRY VISA:
- Ensure you have the necessary visas and documents for other countries you may transit through or visit before or after Bhutan.
By adhering to these guidelines and providing the required documentation, you can facilitate a smooth visa application process for your trip to Bhutan.
