Bhutan Visa Guide 2025-2026: Everything You Need to Know
Bhutan does not issue visas on its own. Every international visitor, with the exception of citizens of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, must obtain a visa through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or through Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines. Understanding how this works will save you confusion and prevent delays.
Who needs a Bhutan visa?
All international visitors except citizens of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives require a visa. Citizens of these three countries may enter Bhutan with a valid national identity card or passport without a visa, though they are still required to obtain a permit at the border or airport.
How the visa process works
Bhutan operates a pre-clearance system. You cannot walk into a Bhutanese embassy and apply independently. Instead:
- Book your tour through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator (such as Kiyul Odyssey).
- Your operator submits your passport details to the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB).
- TCB issues a visa clearance letter, which your operator forwards to you.
- You present this letter at the airline check-in counter when boarding your flight to Paro.
- Your actual visa stamp is issued on arrival at Paro International Airport.
Visa fee
The Bhutan visa fee is USD 40 per person. This is a flat fee regardless of nationality or length of stay. It is typically included in your tour package. Confirm with your operator before booking.
Processing time
Visa clearance is processed within 3 to 5 working days of submitting your documents. During peak festival season (March to April and September to November), allow up to 7 working days. We recommend booking at least 4 to 6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Required documents
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
- Clear passport-size photograph (digital copy accepted)
- Confirmed tour booking and payment receipt from your operator
Visa validity and entry
The Bhutan visa is a single-entry visa valid for the exact number of days specified in your tour itinerary. If you plan to exit Bhutan and re-enter (for example, via a side trip to Nepal), you must apply for a new visa clearance for the second entry.
Port of entry
Most international visitors enter through Paro International Airport. Land entry is also possible for Indian nationals and for visitors arriving overland from India at the Phuentsholing, Samdrup Jongkhar, Gelephu or Paro border crossings.
Extending your visa
Visa extensions can be arranged inside Bhutan through your tour operator and the Department of Immigration. An extension of up to 7 additional days is generally approved with a valid reason. The extension fee is approximately BTN 500 to 1,000 per day.
Visa at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fee | USD 40 (included in most tour packages) |
| Issued by | Tourism Council of Bhutan via your operator |
| Type | Single entry, fixed duration |
| Processing time | 3 to 7 working days |
| Stamp location | Paro International Airport on arrival |
| Exempt nationals | India, Bangladesh, Maldives |
How Kiyul Odyssey helps
Kiyul Odyssey handles the entire visa process on your behalf. Once you confirm your booking, we submit your documents directly to the Tourism Council of Bhutan and send your clearance letter as soon as it is approved.
