Bhutan follows a prior-approval, electronic visa system for almost all foreign visitors. This means that travelers must obtain their visa before entering Bhutan, as the country does not offer a standard visa-on-arrival option for tourists. All approved visas are issued as an e-Visa Clearance, which is sent electronically and must be presented at the airport or land border, where immigration officers verify the clearance and stamp the visa.

For tourists, the required document is an e-Visa or Entry-Permit (For Indian nationals) applied for online by submitting a valid passport, a recent photo, and basic travel details. Applicants must ensure that their passports have at least six months of validity. Once approved, the e-Visa Clearance allows travelers to board their flight and receive their visa upon arrival in Bhutan. This prior electronic approval is mandatory for all international tourists, and Bhutan does not allow entry without it. You can visit Bhutan as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days. In addition to visa fee (if applicable), a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) shall be applicable.

For non-tourist visitors, such as those coming for work, business, studies, research, volunteering, media assignments, official duties, or religious activities, a prior visa is also required. Non-tourist applicants must meet the conditions listed in the Revised Non-Tourist Categories and the Immigration Act and Rules. They must apply in advance and cannot enter Bhutan without pre-approval, unless exempted under specific bilateral arrangements.

Certain nationalities receive special exemptions. Nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives do not need a prior visa to enter Bhutan for either tourist or non-tourist purposes. Additionally, holders of Diplomatic passports from Switzerland, and Diplomatic or Official passports from Thailand, are exempt from obtaining a prior visa. Indian nationals continue to enter Bhutan with a passport or voter ID and receive an entry permit instead of a visa. Although Bangladeshi and the Maldivian tourist can process their visas on arrival at the port of entry and Indian tourist can process their permits on arrival, it is recommended that these be applied in advance to reduce the wait time at the port of entry.

Overall, Bhutan’s visa policy is built on a pre-arranged, digital system that ensures controlled and secure entry into the country. Whether traveling for tourism or non-tourism purposes, most foreign nationals must apply online and receive e-Visa Clearance before traveling, making e-Visa and prior visa effectively the same process.