Bhutan visas
Whether you need a visa to enter Bhutan depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Almost all foreign nationals must obtain a visa before travelling, with only nationals of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives entitled to an entry permit instead; most visitors also pay a Sustainable Development Fee. All visas and entry permits are issued by the Department of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs, with tourism policy and the Sustainable Development Fee administered alongside the Department of Tourism.
Bhutanese visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Bhutan — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.3 visas
- Work visasComing to Bhutan to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.2 visas
- Study visasStudying in Bhutan — student visas and permits for accepted students.1 visa
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Bhutan.1 visa
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Bhutan as a highly skilled individual.2 visas
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Bhutan long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.1 visa
Bhutanese visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Bhutan — key facts
- Visa authority
- Department of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Ngultrum (BTN)
- Time zone
- Bhutan Time (BTT, UTC+6)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.