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Bhutan Visa for Indians: Requirements, Costs, and Entry Permits

Last Update: 26-11-2024

Cliffside monastery surrounded by greenery

If you're planning a visit to the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, you might be wondering about the Bhutan visa for Indians and whether you need a visa to enter. Fortunately, Bhutan offers a unique entry process for Indian nationals that makes it easier for you to explore this beautiful country.


It's important to understand that the entry permit granted to Indian citizens is not the same as a visa. Additionally, it is valid only for a single entry. If you leave Bhutan and plan to re-enter, you will need to apply for a new entry permit.

Table of Contents


  1. Do I Need a Visa for Bhutan?
  2. Do Indians Need a Visa for Bhutan?
  3. Is Bhutan Visa-Free for Indians?
  4. Bhutan Visa Requirements for Indians
  5. Bhutan Visa Fees for Indians
  6. How to apply for a Bhutan entry permit online?
  7. Requirements for Entering Bhutan from India via Private Vehicle
  8. FAQs About Bhutan Visa for Indians

Do I Need a Visa for Bhutan?

If you’re an Indian, no you do not need a visa for Bhutan, but you are required to carry a valid entry permit and pay the SDF which is INR 1,200.

Do Indians Need a Visa for Bhutan?

No, Indians do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. Instead of a traditional visa, Indian travelers are granted an entry permit. This permit can be obtained either on arrival at the port of entry or online before departure.

Is Bhutan Visa-Free for Indians?

Yes, Bhutan is essentially visa-free for Indian citizens. However, there are certain entry requirements you must meet, such as presenting a valid passport or Voter ID card for identity verification. Additionally, Indian travelers must obtain an entry permit and pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is INR 1,200 per person per night. Children may receive discounts or exemptions on the SDF. Entry rules may also vary based on the length of stay and specific locations within Bhutan.

Bhutan Visa Requirements for Indians

Although Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan, they must still meet a few basic requirements. 


  • Proof of Identity: A valid passport or Voter ID.
  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Indian nationals are required to pay an SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night, which is charged to promote sustainable tourism.
  • Entry Permits: The entry permit is typically issued at the Paro International Airport for air travelers and at the Phuentsholing border for those entering by road. If you're traveling by road, make sure your vehicle is registered and you have the necessary documents.

Bhutan Visa Fees for Indians

There is no Bhutan visa cost for Indians. However, as an Indian visiting Bhutan, the visa cost per day is a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per person per day. This fee is waived for children below the age of 5, while children between 6 and 12 years old pay 50% of the SDF. The SDF is a key part of Bhutan's low-impact tourism strategy, designed to preserve the country's unique environment and culture.

How to apply for a Bhutan entry permit online?

Though Indians are eligible to get the Bhutan Entry Permit upon arrival, it is advisable to obtain the entry permit in advance to avoid any unnecessary wait time at the border.

Apply Bhutan Entry Permit through the Official Website

  • Step 1: Visit the Official Website: Go to visit.doi.gov.bt.
  • Step 2: Create an Account: Enter your basic details, including your name and email address.
  • Step 3: Fill in the Application: Complete the application form with all necessary information.
  • Step 4: Add Guest Information: If applying for others, include their details as well.
  • Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees: Complete the payment using the available payment options.
  • Step 6: Submit Your Application: Review and submit your application once everything is filled in.

Bhutan entry permit

Apply Bhutan Entry Permit through Teleport

  • Step 1: Visit the Teleport Bhutan Entry Permit page.
  • Step 2: Click on the ‘Start Application’ button.
  • Step 3: Upload clear digital copies of both the front and back pages of your passport. Step 4: Teleport’s system will extract your personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, and passport information from these documents. You can also fill them in manually if needed.
  • Step 5: Fill in your entry and exit details in the “Visit Details” section. Enter your entry port, date of entry, and return details.
  • Step 6: Pay the entry permit fees to complete your application.

Requirements for Entering Bhutan from India via Private Vehicle

If you're planning to drive your private vehicle from India to Bhutan, there are a few important requirements and regulations to follow. Indian-registered vehicles are allowed to enter Bhutan via designated border posts, including the Rinchending Check Post in Phuentsholing, without any additional charges. However, if you plan to travel beyond Phuentsholing, a Green Tax of 4,500 Bhutanese Ngultrum per day will be applicable.


To ensure a smooth entry process, you should register your vehicle with the Bhutan Check Post Management System (CPMS) for hassle-free crossing at Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) checkpoints.


Here’s a list of essential documents you’ll need to enter Bhutan using an Indian-registered vehicle:

  1. Driver’s Original Indian Driving License: The driver must possess a valid Indian driving license.
  2. Registration Certificate of the Car: Ensure that the vehicle’s registration is up to date. Note that vehicles over 10 years old are not permitted to enter Bhutan.
  3. Insurance Papers for the Car: You must have valid insurance for the vehicle.
  4. Recent Pollution Certificate: A valid pollution certificate for the vehicle is required.
  5. Car Fitness Check: The vehicle should pass a fitness check to ensure it is roadworthy.
  6. Authorization Letter: If you're not the owner of the car, an authorization letter from the vehicle owner is mandatory.

Note:

The primary driver should be the car's owner. If the car owner is not driving, an authorization letter from the owner is required to ensure legal entry into Bhutan.

Final Thought

For Indian citizens, traveling to Bhutan is an easy and cost-effective process. No visa is required, but you will need an entry permit and be prepared to pay the SDF. With this simple process, Bhutan remains a popular destination for travelers seeking culture, nature, and serenity. If you're planning your trip, make sure to plan ahead for permits and the SDF to ensure a smooth journey.

FAQs

Is a Visa Required for Bhutan for Indian Nationals?

No, Indian nationals do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. Instead of a visa, you need to obtain an entry permit. The entry permit is valid for 7-14 days, depending on your travel plans, and can be extended at the Department of Immigration if necessary.

What is the Bhutan Visa Cost for Indians?

There is no direct visa fee for Indian travelers. However, you are required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is INR 1,200 per person per night. This fee is part of Bhutan's strategy to promote low-impact tourism and preserve its environment and culture.

How Much is the Bhutan Visa Cost Per Day for Indian Tourists?

The daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian tourists is INR 1,200 per person. If you're traveling with children between 6 and 12 years, the SDF is reduced by 50%. For children under the age of 5, the fee is waived completely.

Is Bhutan Visa-Free for Indian Nationals?

Yes, Bhutan is visa-free for Indian citizens. However, Indian travelers are still required to obtain an entry permit and pay the SDF of INR 1,200 per person per night. The entry permit can be obtained at the port of entry, whether by land or air.

What Are the Bhutan Visa Requirements for Indian Travelers?

Indian nationals do not require a visa to visit Bhutan. However, they must obtain an entry permit, which can be done at the border or airport. A valid passport or voter ID is necessary for identity verification, and a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per person per night applies to all visitors.

How Long Can a Foreigner Stay in Bhutan as a Tourist?

Foreigners can stay in Bhutan as tourists for a maximum of 90 days. However, Indian citizens are only required to obtain an entry permit, which is typically valid for 7-14 days and can be extended if necessary.

How Do I Apply for a Visa or Permit for Bhutan?

Indian travelers do not require a visa to visit Bhutan but must obtain an entry permit. Although permits can be processed upon arrival at the border or airport, it is recommended to apply online to reduce wait times at the port of entry.

If I Cancel My Bhutan Trip, Will My SDF Be Refunded?

Yes, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) will be refunded for canceled trips. However, any applicable bank charges will be deducted from the total amount refunded. Refund requests should be submitted to the Department of Immigration.

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