Everyone except Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals needs a visa to enter Bhutan. Indian nationals receive a free entry permit instead. In both cases you will also pay the daily Sustainable Development Fee.
Entry permit for Indian nationals
Indian citizens do not need a visa. You need an entry permit, which is issued free of charge.
Documents required
- Original passport (valid for 6+ months) or original Voter ID card
- For children under 18: passport or original birth certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Confirmed hotel bookings and itinerary (we provide these)
- SDF payment for the number of nights you will stay
Where to get it
- Online in advance: permits can be applied for through Bhutan's official immigration portal before you travel. We do this for our guests so it is ready when you arrive.
- At the border: at the Regional Immigration Office in Phuentsholing (or at Gelephu / Samdrup Jongkhar), or on arrival at Paro International Airport.
The entry permit is valid for the entry town plus Thimphu and Paro. To visit other districts such as Punakha, Wangdue, Phobjikha, Bumthang or Haa, a route permit is issued in Thimphu. We arrange it for you.
Tourist visa for international visitors
International travellers must have visa approval before arriving in Bhutan. The visa itself is stamped into your passport at Paro Airport or the land border.
How it works
- Choose your itinerary and confirm your booking with us.
- Send us a clear scan of your passport's photo page and a recent photograph.
- We submit your visa application and SDF payment through the official system.
- You receive your visa approval letter by email. Show it when boarding your flight to Paro or at the land border.
- Your visa is stamped on arrival in Bhutan.
Bangladesh and Maldives: Nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives are regional visitors and receive a permit on arrival rather than a full visa. Their SDF rates differ from Indian rates, so contact us for current details.
Tips for smooth processing
- Plan to arrive on a working day if you need a permit processed at a border office. Offices close on Sundays and public holidays.
- Make sure the name on your bookings exactly matches your passport or Voter ID.
- Carry photocopies of your ID and permits. Checkpoints along the highways will ask for them.
- Keep your permit with you until you leave the country.
We handle permits every day. Share your documents with us and we will take care of your visa or entry permit, SDF and route permits, often before you even leave home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indians need a visa for Bhutan?
No. Indian nationals need a free entry permit, issued online or at the port of entry on presenting a valid passport or Voter ID card.
How much is the Bhutan visa fee?
For international visitors, the tourist visa fee is USD 40 per person (one-time), in addition to the daily Sustainable Development Fee.
Can I get a Bhutan permit at Phuentsholing?
Yes. Indian travellers can obtain an entry permit at the Regional Immigration Office in Phuentsholing during working hours. Applying online in advance saves time.
What is a route permit?
A route permit allows you to travel beyond Thimphu and Paro to other districts. It is issued by the Immigration Office in Thimphu, and we arrange it as part of your tour.
Last updated: 15 October 2026
