Destination

ASIA
BEIJING
CHANGSHA
CHENGDU
China
China
Guangzhou
HONGKONG
NANNING
SHANGHAI
Shaoxing
SHENZHEN
TIANJIN
Wenzhou

๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡น Bhutan Visa on Arrival: Eligibility, Requirements, Documents & Application

Application form

๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡น Bhutan Visa on Arrival: Eligibility, Requirements, Documents & Application

Last Updated: 1 September 2026

Bhutan has a different visa system from many Asian countries. Most foreign tourists must obtain an eVisa before travelling, but certain nationalities and passport holders are eligible for Visa on Arrival or Entry Permit on Arrival.

According to Bhutan’s Department of Immigration, Bangladesh and Maldives nationals are eligible for Visa on Arrival, while Thailand and Switzerland diplomatic/official passport holders are also eligible. Indian nationals can obtain an Entry Permit on Arrival.

Quick Facts About Bhutan Visa on Arrival

RequirementDetails
CountryBhutan ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡น
Visa on ArrivalYes, for specific nationalities
Visa-on-arrival nationalitiesBangladesh & Maldives
Special VOA categoryThailand & Switzerland diplomatic/official passports
Indian citizensEntry Permit on Arrival
Other foreign nationalseVisa generally required before entry
Standard visa validityUp to 90 days from entry, subject to applicable visa conditions
Visa processing feeUS$40 for standard tourist visa
Sustainable Development FeeUS$100 per adult per day
Passport validityMinimum 6 months from intended departure
Online applicationAvailable
Final entry decisionBhutan Immigration

Bhutan’s official tourism portal confirms that most visitors need a visa before travel, while India, Bangladesh and Maldives have separate procedures.

Who Can Get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Bhutan’s current immigration information identifies the following categories.

๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฉ Bangladesh Citizens

Bangladeshi passport holders are eligible to obtain a Visa on Arrival at Bhutan’s port of entry.

They can also apply for the visa online before travelling. Bhutan recommends applying in advance to reduce waiting time at the border or airport.

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ป Maldives Citizens

Maldivian passport holders are also eligible for Visa on Arrival.

They may either:

  • Apply online before travelling, or
  • Apply at the point of entry.

Bhutan recommends obtaining the visa in advance where possible to avoid delays.

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ญ Thailand โ€“ Diplomatic/Official Passports

Thai citizens holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for Visa on Arrival under the applicable bilateral arrangement.

This does not mean that ordinary Thai tourist passport holders automatically receive Visa on Arrival.

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ญ Switzerland โ€“ Diplomatic/Official Passports

Swiss citizens holding diplomatic or official passports are eligible for Visa on Arrival under the applicable bilateral arrangement.

Ordinary Swiss tourist passport holders generally need to obtain an eVisa before travelling.

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ Bhutan Entry Permit on Arrival for Indian Citizens

Indian citizens have a special entry arrangement.

Indian nationals can obtain an Entry Permit at the port of entry.

For adults, Bhutan accepts:

  • Indian passport, or
  • Indian Voter Identity Card

For Indian nationals under 18, a passport or birth certificate can be used, and the minor must be accompanied by a legal guardian.

This is technically an Entry Permit, not a Visa on Arrival.

What About Other Nationalities?

For ordinary tourist passports, all other foreign nationals generally need an eVisa before entering Bhutan, unless they qualify for an exemption under a bilateral agreement or another special arrangement.

Examples include:

  • ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ช UAE
  • ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Saudi Arabia
  • ๐Ÿ‡ถ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Qatar
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ผ Kuwait
  • ๐Ÿ‡ด๐Ÿ‡ฒ Oman
  • ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ญ Bahrain
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง United Kingdom
  • ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ United States
  • ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Canada
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia
  • ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฟ New Zealand
  • ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Singapore
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡พ Malaysia
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต Japan
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea
  • ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ต Nepal
  • ๐Ÿ‡ฑ๐Ÿ‡ฐ Sri Lanka
  • ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ญ Philippines
  • ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฐ Pakistan

These nationalities should generally arrange the required Bhutan eVisa before travelling rather than assuming they can obtain a tourist Visa on Arrival.

Bhutan Visa on Arrival Requirements

Eligible Visa-on-Arrival travellers should be prepared with:

  • Valid passport
  • Passport copy
  • Recent passport-size photograph
  • Completed visa application information
  • Travel dates
  • Accommodation information
  • Payment method
  • Sustainable Development Fee payment
  • Supporting documents, where applicable

Bhutan’s official immigration portal specifies a digital copy of the passport and a recent digital passport-size photograph as key tourist visa documents.

Bhutan Passport Requirements

The passport must have at least six months’ validity from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.

Travellers should ensure that their passport:

  • Is valid for the entire trip
  • Has sufficient validity
  • Is not damaged
  • Has available pages for immigration processing where required

Bhutan Visa Photo Requirements

Applicants should prepare a recent passport-style photograph.

For online applications, Bhutan’s immigration system requires a recent digital passport-size photograph.

Bhutan Visa Application Before Travel

Even when Visa on Arrival is available, travellers from Bangladesh and Maldives can complete the process before travelling.

The official Bhutan Tourism website recommends applying beforehand because applying at the point of entry may involve a longer waiting period.

Bhutan Online Visa Application

The Bhutan immigration system allows eligible visitors to apply online.

The general process is:

Step 1 โ€“ Create an Account

Create an account through the Bhutan Immigration online system.

Step 2 โ€“ Enter Travel Information

Provide:

  • Personal details
  • Passport details
  • Travel dates
  • Arrival information
  • Departure information

Step 3 โ€“ Upload Documents

Upload:

  • Passport copy
  • Passport photograph
  • Other required documents

Step 4 โ€“ Pay Applicable Fees

Pay the applicable visa fee and Sustainable Development Fee where required.

Step 5 โ€“ Submit Application

Submit the application for processing.

Bhutan states that a correctly completed visa application can take up to five working days to process.

Bhutan Visa Fee

The standard Bhutan tourist visa application has a one-time US$40 visa processing fee.

This is separate from the Sustainable Development Fee.

Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The Sustainable Development Fee is separate from the visa fee.

The current standard tourist SDF is:

US$100 per adult per day

Concessionary rates apply to children under the applicable Bhutan rules.

The SDF supports Bhutan’s tourism and sustainable development objectives.

How Long Can You Stay in Bhutan?

Bhutan’s official tourism FAQ states that the visa allows a visitor to remain in Bhutan for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry, subject to the applicable visa conditions.

Bhutan Visa on Arrival Process

For an eligible Bangladesh or Maldives passport holder:

1. Check Eligibility

Confirm that your passport qualifies for Bhutan VOA.

2. Prepare Your Passport

Make sure your passport meets the six-month validity requirement.

3. Prepare Photograph

Carry a recent passport-size photograph.

4. Complete the Application

You may apply online before travelling or use the applicable arrival procedure.

5. Pay Required Fees

Pay the visa fee and applicable SDF.

6. Arrive in Bhutan

Proceed to the designated immigration/entry point.

7. Immigration Verification

Present your passport and required documents.

8. Visa Issuance

If approved, the Bhutan Visa on Arrival is issued.

Can I Get Bhutan Visa on Arrival Without Applying Online?

For Bangladesh and Maldives nationals, yes, Bhutan’s official information confirms that the visa can be processed upon arrival.

However, Bhutan recommends applying before travelling because there may be a long wait at the point of entry.

For most other nationalities, prior eVisa approval is required.

Bhutan Visa on Arrival for UAE Residents

UAE residency does not automatically provide Bhutan Visa on Arrival eligibility.


The important factor is generally the traveller’s passport nationality.



For example:



Indian passport + UAE residence:
Entry Permit arrangement applies.



Bangladeshi passport + UAE residence:
Eligible for Bhutan Visa on Arrival.



Maldivian passport + UAE residence:
Eligible for Bhutan Visa on Arrival.



Pakistani passport + UAE residence:
Generally requires prior eVisa rather than standard tourist VOA.



Filipino passport + UAE residence:
Generally requires prior eVisa.



Therefore, a UAE residence visa should not be treated as a substitute for nationality-based Bhutan visa eligibility.

Bhutan Visa on Arrival vs eVisa

FeatureVisa on ArrivaleVisa
Available toBangladesh, Maldives; special diplomatic/official categoriesMost other foreign tourists
Application before travelOptional for eligible VOA nationalsRequired
Online applicationAvailableAvailable
Passport requiredYesYes
PhotographRequiredRequired
ProcessingAt port of entryBefore travel
Processing timeMay involve waitingUp to 5 working days
Visa feeApplicableUS$40 standard processing fee
SDFApplicable where requiredApplicable
Final admissionImmigration officerImmigration officer

Bhutan Visa on Arrival vs India Entry Permit

FeatureBangladesh / MaldivesIndia
DocumentVisaEntry Permit
Arrival optionYesYes
Online applicationYesYes
PassportRequiredPassport or Voter ID
Tourist SDFApplicableApplicable
Visa feeApplicableDifferent permit process
Special nationality arrangementYesYes

Indian nationals are not considered ordinary Bhutan tourist visa applicants; they use the country’s Entry Permit system.

Bhutan Visa Exemption

Certain travellers may be exempt from the normal eVisa/permit requirement under applicable bilateral arrangements.

Bhutan’s Department of Immigration also states that foreigners holding a valid SAARC Visa Exemption Sticker do not require prior eVisa/entry permit clearance.

Does Bhutan Visa Guarantee Entry?

No.

Having a visa or eVisa does not automatically guarantee admission.

Bhutan’s immigration rules state that an eVisa alone does not guarantee the right to enter or stay; admission is determined by an immigration officer at the port of entry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bhutan Visa on Arrival available?

Yes, but only for specific nationalities and categories.

Which countries can get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

For ordinary tourist passports, Bangladesh and Maldives are currently eligible for Visa on Arrival.

Thai and Swiss nationals holding diplomatic or official passports are also eligible under applicable bilateral arrangements.

Can Indian citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Indian citizens can obtain an Entry Permit on Arrival. This is different from a tourist Visa on Arrival.

Can UAE residents get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

UAE residency alone does not create VOA eligibility. The traveller’s passport nationality determines the applicable procedure.

Can Bangladeshi citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Yes. Bangladeshi citizens are eligible for Bhutan Visa on Arrival.

Can Maldivian citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Yes. Maldivian citizens are eligible for Visa on Arrival.

Can Pakistani citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Ordinary Pakistani passport holders generally need to obtain a Bhutan eVisa before travelling.

Can Nepalese citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Ordinary Nepalese passport holders generally need to obtain an eVisa before entering Bhutan.

Can Thai citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Only Thai citizens holding diplomatic or government-official passports qualify for the special Visa-on-Arrival arrangement.

Can Swiss citizens get Bhutan Visa on Arrival?

Only Swiss citizens holding diplomatic or official passports qualify for the special VOA arrangement.

How much is the Bhutan visa fee?

The standard tourist visa processing fee is US$40, separate from the Sustainable Development Fee.

What is Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee?

The standard tourist SDF is currently US$100 per adult per day, with concessionary rates for children.

How long does Bhutan visa processing take?

A correctly completed application can take up to five working days to process.

How long can I stay in Bhutan?

The tourist visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days from the date of entry, subject to the applicable conditions.

Official Bhutan Visa Information

For the most accurate and current information, travellers should use the official Bhutan Government and Tourism websites.



Bhutan Department of Immigration:
Official Bhutan Department of Immigration



Bhutan Immigration Online Services:
Bhutan Immigration Services Portal



Official Bhutan Tourism Visa Information:
Bhutan Travel โ€“ Visa Information



Official Bhutan Tourism FAQs:
Bhutan Travel โ€“ FAQs

 

Travellers should verify the requirements immediately before travel because visa eligibility, fees and entry procedures can change.

# Bhutan Visa Requirements, Eligibility, Fees & Application Guide 2026This guide explains the **Bhutan Visa on Arrival 2026** process, documentation, fees, eligibility, online applications, and important travel requirements so you can prepare before departure.## Who Can Get a Bhutan Visa ?The first step is understanding **Bhutan visa eligibility** based primarily on nationality and passport type. According to Bhutan's Department of Immigration, nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives may obtain a visa on arrival. Thailand and Switzerland are included when travelers hold diplomatic or official passports. Indian nationals are eligible for an entry permit at the port of entry instead of a visa.Therefore, the **Bhutan Visa on Arrival eligible countries** are limited. Travelers from other countries generally need to obtain an e-visa before entering Bhutan unless a specific exemption or bilateral arrangement applies.Understanding the **Bhutan entry requirements** helps travelers prepare the necessary documents before starting their journey. Checking the latest **Bhutan travel requirements** can also help ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.The Department of Immigration also states that travelers holding a valid SAARC Visa Exemption Sticker do not require prior visa or entry-permit clearance.## Bhutan Visa Requirements for TouristsUnderstanding the **Bhutan visa requirements** before booking flights can help prevent delays at immigration. For tourists applying for a visa or permit, the Department of Immigration lists a passport copy and recent passport-size photograph among the required documents. The passport should remain valid for at least six months from the intended departure date from Bhutan.The current **Bhutan visa requirements 2026** also involve following the online immigration process where applicable. Travelers should make sure that names, passport numbers, dates, and other personal details match their travel documents exactly.For most foreign visitors, the **Bhutan tourist visa** is processed through Bhutan's immigration system before arrival. The tourist visa fee is currently USD 40 under the Immigration Rules and Regulations.The **Bhutan tourist visa 2026** process can be completed through the official immigration platform, allowing applicants to submit their information and supporting documents digitally.## Documents Needed for a Bhutan Tourist VisaThe **Bhutan Visa on Arrival requirements** depend on the traveler's nationality and applicable entry category. Travelers eligible for arrival processing should carry a valid passport and any documents required by immigration authorities.Typical **Bhutan Visa on Arrival documents** include a valid passport and recent passport-size photograph. Travelers should also keep their confirmed travel details and supporting documents accessible during immigration checks.For other visitors, the **Bhutan tourist visa requirements** include submitting the required passport information and photograph through the immigration system. The Department may request additional documentation during assessment when necessary.The main **Bhutan tourist visa documents** generally include:* Passport copy * Recent passport-size photograph * Valid travel insurance where required * Additional documents requested by immigration authoritiesA passport must have at least six months of validity from the intended departure date.## How to Apply for Visa OnlineTravelers who need prior approval can complete the **Bhutan visa application online** through the official immigration portal. The online system allows applicants to create an account, complete the application, upload the required information, pay applicable charges, and submit the request.The **Bhutan eVisa** system is used for eligible foreign tourists who require prior authorization. The **Bhutan eVisa application** should contain accurate passport and personal information because errors can cause delays or require corrections.The **Bhutan online visa** process is particularly useful for travelers who want to arrange immigration formalities before leaving their home country. The Department of Immigration recommends applying online rather than waiting until arrival when advance authorization is required.The official **Bhutan visa application online** system also allows travelers to manage applications electronically. In 2026, Bhutan has continued moving immigration services toward digital processing, including a stamp-less visa regime for certain services.## Is Bhutan Visa-Free Some Travelers?Travelers often search for **Bhutan visa eligible countries** because entry rules differ by nationality. It is important not to assume that residency in another country automatically provides visa-free access.The list of **Bhutan visa-free countries** is not the same as the list of travelers who can obtain a visa on arrival. Some categories may qualify for a **Bhutan visa exemption** under bilateral agreements or specific immigration arrangements.For example, the Department of Immigration confirms that travelers with a valid SAARC Visa Exemption Sticker can enter without prior visa or entry-permit clearance.## Entry Permit for Indian TravelersIndian nationals follow a different process. **Bhutan visa for Indian citizens** is not normally handled as a tourist visa because Indian travelers are eligible for an entry permit.The **Bhutan entry permit** can be obtained at a port of entry, although Bhutan's immigration system recommends applying in advance where possible to reduce waiting time. Indian travelers may use an Indian passport or voter identity card, while additional documentation can apply to minors.The **Bhutan entry permit on arrival** is therefore different from a visa on arrival. Travelers should select the correct immigration category when preparing their trip.## Visa Rules for South Asian TravelersTravelers from neighboring South Asian countries should check their individual nationality rules rather than relying on general regional assumptions.For **Bhutan visa for Bangladeshi citizens**, Bangladesh nationals are eligible for visa on arrival, although applying in advance may help reduce processing time at the port of entry.Similarly, **Bhutan visa for Maldivian citizens** can be obtained on arrival, while advance processing is also available through the immigration system.Travelers searching for **Bhutan visa for Pakistani citizens**, **Bhutan visa for Nepalese citizens**, or **Bhutan visa for Sri Lankan citizens** should check the current immigration category applicable to their nationality before booking travel, as these nationalities generally fall under the prior-visa process rather than the standard visa-on-arrival categories.Likewise, travelers researching **Bhutan visa for Filipino citizens** should prepare for the applicable prior-authorization process unless they qualify for a specific exemption.## Bhutan Visa UAE and GCC ResidentsLiving in the Gulf does not automatically determine whether a traveler can obtain a Bhutan visa on arrival. Immigration eligibility is primarily connected to nationality and passport status.For this reason, **Bhutan visa for UAE residents** should be checked according to the passport the traveler holds. A UAE residence permit alone does not create a general visa-on-arrival entitlement.Travelers searching for a **Bhutan visa from UAE** can use Bhutan's official online immigration system when their nationality requires advance authorization.The same applies to a **Bhutan tourist visa from Dubai**. Applicants living in Dubai can complete the applicable immigration procedure online rather than assuming that their UAE residency changes their nationality-based visa requirements.Travelers may also search for **Bhutan visa for Saudi citizens**, **Bhutan visa for Qatar residents**, **Bhutan visa for Oman residents**, **Bhutan visa for Bahrain residents**, or **Bhutan visa for Kuwait residents**. In each case, the passport nationality should be checked against Bhutan's current immigration rules.The same principle applies to **Bhutan visa for GCC residents** generally. GCC residency and citizenship are different, so travelers should use their passport nationality when determining whether they need an e-visa, qualify for arrival processing, or can enter under another exemption.## Airport Arrival ProcessFor travelers arriving by air, immigration processing takes place at the relevant port of entry. The **Bhutan airport Visa on Arrival** facility is available only to travelers whose nationality or passport category qualifies for arrival issuance.At the **Bhutan visa on arrival airport**, immigration officials verify the traveler's documents and determine admissibility. Possessing eligibility does not remove the normal immigration checks at the border.Travelers who already hold prior authorization can present their approved documentation for verification. Bhutan's Department of Immigration states that admission is ultimately determined by immigration officers at the port of entry.## Processing Time and Pre-ApprovalIf you need advance authorization, the **Bhutan visa online application** should be submitted before your journey. The standard immigration rules provide a minimum processing period of five working days for visa clearance after the required documents are received.The **Bhutan visa pre approval** process allows eligible travelers to arrange clearance before departure. Bhutan also offers a fast-track tourist service, under which the Department says an outcome is conveyed within 24 hours after confirmation of receipt of applicable fees; a separate fast-track fee applies.The exact **Bhutan visa processing time** can depend on whether the application is complete and whether immigration authorities request additional information.## Visa Fees and Sustainable Development FeeThe standard tourist **Bhutan visa fee** is USD 40 under the current immigration regulations.The **Bhutan Visa on Arrival fee** should be confirmed according to the traveler's applicable immigration category and current official instructions because visa and permit procedures can differ.Travelers should also budget for the **Bhutan SDF fee**, which is separate from the immigration visa charge. The **Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee** is a tourism levy paid according to the applicable rules and length of stay. Rates and concessions can differ by traveler category, so applicants should verify the current amount through official Bhutanese tourism and immigration channels before payment.## Final Checklist Before TravelingBefore departure, review your passport validity, photograph, visa or permit status, travel insurance, and payment confirmations. If you are eligible for arrival processing, keep your documents easily accessible instead of relying only on digital copies.Most importantly, do not confuse a visa on arrival with an entry permit. Bhutan's system is nationality-specific, and the requirements can change according to passport type, exemption status, and current immigration rules.For travelers planning a **Bhutan tourist visa from UAE**, the same principle applies: check the passport nationality first, complete the correct online procedure where required, and confirm current fees before traveling.Bhutan's Department of Immigration provides the official immigration portal and current entry guidance, making it the most appropriate source to verify requirements immediately before departure.## Plan Your Bhutan Trip With ConfidenceA trip to Bhutan requires a little preparation before you leave. Start by checking that your passport has sufficient validity and that all personal details match across your travel documents. Keep digital and printed copies of important paperwork, including accommodation confirmations, flight details, photographs, and payment receipts.Travelers should also check the latest information issued by Bhutanese authorities before departure because entry procedures, charges, and documentation can change. Completing the required formalities early gives you more time to correct missing information or resolve unexpected issues.When preparing for your journey, consider the season, weather conditions, transportation options, and planned activities. Bhutan has mountainous terrain and changing weather, so suitable clothing and comfortable footwear can make sightseeing easier.It is also useful to keep emergency contact details and travel insurance information accessible throughout your trip. If you are traveling with children, elderly family members, or people who require additional assistance, check whether any extra documentation or arrangements are needed.Finally, review your booking details shortly before departure and arrive at the airport with enough time for airline and immigration procedures. A well-organized document folder can make the start of your Bhutan journey smoother and less stressful. Travelers should also check the latest information issued by Bhutanese authorities before departure because entry procedures, charges, and documentation can change

footer-vactor

Adsonz Go specializes in business tours to China, offering complete support for exhibitions, sourcing trips, and corporate travel. We help professionals plan, execute, and succeed in their international business journeys with confidence.

Working Day : Monday - Friday (9AM - 5PM)

Follow Us On :

Quick Links

Tour Type

Contact Us

+91 62 38 57 8880 +971 54 349 5990

ๅนฟๅทžๅธ‚่ถŠ็ง€ๅŒบไธœ้ฃŽ่ฅฟ่ทฏ207-213ๅท๏ผˆๅ•๏ผ‰1401ไน‹B167ๆˆฟๅท Room B167 of 1401, No. 207-213 (Odd Number), Dongfeng West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou City

Copyright ยฉ 2026 ADSONZ