Almost all visitors to Bhutan require a visa arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator — independent travel is not permitted for most nationalities. Here's everything you need to know before you go.
Who needs a visa
All foreign nationals except Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian citizens require a visa to enter Bhutan. Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals require only a valid passport (or voter ID for Indians) and a permit, which IVH Bhutan also arranges on your behalf.
How the visa process works
- Book your trip with a licensed operator like IVH Bhutan — this is a legal requirement for visa issuance.
- Submit your documents: a scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months from your travel date) and a passport-size photo.
- We apply on your behalf through the Department of Immigration's online system.
- Visa clearance letter issued: you'll receive an approval letter before departure — this is required to board your flight to Paro.
- Visa stamped on arrival: the actual visa sticker is stamped into your passport on arrival at Paro International Airport (or land border).
Processing time and fees
Visa processing typically takes 5-7 working days once full payment for your trip is received. The visa fee is included in your package cost when booked through IVH Bhutan.
Land border entry
Travellers entering via the land borders at Phuentsholing, Gelephu or Samdrup Jongkhar follow the same advance-arrangement process. We'll provide your visa clearance letter and SDF receipt for immigration checks at the border.
Documents to carry while travelling
- Original passport (valid 6+ months)
- Printed visa clearance letter
- SDF payment receipt (provided by IVH Bhutan)
If you have any questions about your specific nationality's requirements, contact our team — we handle the paperwork so you can focus on planning your itinerary.