Business & investor visas
Bhutanese Foreign Direct Investment (Investor Route)
The framework under which foreign investors can establish a company in Bhutan and bring in expatriate staff to run the venture.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
FDI equity caps (49%/74%), minimum project costs (Nu. 5m–50m) and the 1:5 localisation ratio come from the FDI Policy and may have been revised — verify the current FDI Policy figures and the responsible ministry/portal before publishing.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Bhutan government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
- Route type
- Business / investor establishment framework
- Foreign equity cap
- Up to 49% (small-scale production/manufacturing) or up to 74% (other activities)
- Per FDI Policy — verify current limits
- Minimum project cost
- From Nu. 5 million (small-scale) up to Nu. 25–50 million (services/manufacturing)
- Per FDI Policy — verify current thresholds
- Localisation
- Progressively phase to a 1:5 expatriate-to-Bhutanese ratio
- Verify current requirement
Who it is for
- Foreign investors establishing a company in permitted sectors in Bhutan
- Investors who will sponsor expatriate management and specialist staff
Requirements
- Approval for the proposed business activity and an FDI Registration Certificate
- Incorporation under the Companies Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan
- A business licence before commencing operations
- Investment in convertible currency (Indian investors may invest in Indian currency in some cases)
What you can do
- Own and operate a company within the permitted equity limits
- Sponsor employment and dependent visas for eligible expatriate staff
How to apply
- Apply through the FDI Division of the economic affairs ministry
- Incorporate the company and obtain the FDI Registration Certificate and business licence
- Arrange employment/work permits and visas for expatriate staff via the Department of Immigration
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.