Do I need a visa to travel to Bhutan?
Yes, a visa is mandatory to enter Bhutan. Applications must be submitted through an approved tour operator at least 15 days before departure. Budget USD 40 plus required documents: valid passport (6 months validity), photos, and photocopies.
Mandatory visa procedure
The Bhutanese visa is not obtained at an embassy but exclusively through an approved tour operator or its representative abroad. This unique procedure worldwide guarantees controlled tourism.
Required documents and timeframes
The application must be submitted at least 15 days before departure. Required documents:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry
- Passport photocopy
- Two recent identity photos
- Payment of 40$ US (visa fees)
Approval process
The tour operator submits the application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Thimphu which issues the authorization. This authorization is then sent to the Ministry which produces the visa within 3 days.
Key points to remember
The entry visa is separate from the Daily Minimum Package (Sustainable Development Fee) imposed by the Bhutanese government for all stays.