Bhutan entry and exit requires a passport and VISA. Bhutan VISA are only issued on arrival, but you must apply in advance through a tour operator and receive visa approval before you travel. We recommend you to keep a photocopy of your passport VISA pages and flight ticket separate from the originals when travelling.
All other visitors travelling to Bhutan need a visa except for visitors from India, Bangladesh and Maldives.
Indian, Bangladeshis and Maldivian nationals can obtain a permit at the port of entry on submitting a copy of valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity (Indian nationals may use their Voters Identity Card (VIC)).
Tourist from other countries must obtain a visa clearance prior the travel to Bhutan. Bhutanese travel agencies process your VISA through an online System directly or through some other foreign travel agent.
Inorder to apply for VIS, the tour operator requires your photo photo or scanned copy of your passport. Once the VISA is applied and full payment of your holiday (including a USD $40 visa fee) is paid, Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) will process your VISA application. The VISA clearance will be processed within 72 working hours.
During your entry at Bhutan, you need to show your visa clearance letter, the visa will then be stamped into your passport.
