Most visitors need a Bhutan visa before they fly. Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals use an entry permit instead. Silverpine, a licensed Thimphu operator, submits the application after your tour is confirmed. The visa fee is USD 40. Processing is typically five to seven working days once your documents and deposit are in.
Who needs a visa
All other nationalities, including Singapore, the Philippines, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Europe, need visa clearance before travel. You receive an approval letter and present it with your passport at Paro or a land border.
Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian visitors do not use that visa. They still arrange the Sustainable Development Fee and the trip through a licensed operator. Indian nationals pay about ₹1,200 per person per night for the SDF. International visitors pay USD 100 per person per night. The SDF is a government fee, separate from the USD 40 visa fee.
What we need from you
- A passport valid at least six months from entry
- A digital passport photo
- Travel dates and who is traveling
- Travel insurance that covers medical care
What happens next
- You choose a tour or ask for a custom itinerary.
- We send an SDF-inclusive quote.
- After you confirm, we submit the visa or permit.
- You receive the clearance letter before you travel.
The longer walkthrough is in the Bhutan visa guide. Ready to start: Plan My Trip or WhatsApp +975 1764 9720.
Official policy stays with the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Flight times stay with Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. See how to fly in.
