Travel guide · Before you go
Bhutan Visa & Travel Requirements
How entry to Bhutan works, what you need to prepare and where to confirm the current rules — arranged for you when you travel with us.
Current figures — last reviewed 2026-10-02
- Visa fee
- USD 40 per person (one-time visa fee)
- Processing
- Usually issued within a few working days once the SDF and visa fee are paid
- Passport
- Passport valid for at least six months from your date of arrival
- Other nationalities
- Visitors from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives follow a separate permit process. Your tour operator, or you directly, can apply online.
Entry to Bhutan is managed by the Department of Immigration, and visas are issued ahead of travel. When you book with a licensed operator such as Zhidey Holidays, we prepare and submit the application for you.
What you will need
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date
- A clear digital copy of the photo page of your passport
- Your confirmed itinerary and arrival and departure dates
- Payment of the visa fee and Sustainable Development Fee (see below for the current figures)
How it works with us
- You book your journey and send us your passport details.
- We submit the application and pay fees on your behalf.
- You receive your visa clearance by email before you fly.
- Your visa is stamped on arrival, and your guide meets you at the airport.
Rules change — always confirm
Visa fees, processing times and entry procedures are set by the Royal Government of Bhutan and are updated from time to time. The figures on this page are reviewed regularly, but please also check the official sources listed below before you travel. If anything differs, the official source applies.
Travellers from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives
These visitors follow a separate permit process and different fee structure. Tell us your nationality when you enquire and we will explain the steps.
Official sources
Common questions
Do I need a visa for Bhutan?
Most nationalities need a visa to enter Bhutan. Visitors from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives follow a separate permit process. We handle your visa application as part of your booking.
How long does the visa take?
Processing times vary. We apply as soon as your passport details and payment are confirmed, and we will tell you the expected timeline when we plan your trip.
Start the conversation
Questions? Ask us directly.
A real person from our Thimphu team will answer — usually within one working day.