Entry Requirements for Bhutan

Passport & Identification

• Validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date with at least one blank page for immigration stamps.

• Indian Nationals: Can enter using either a valid passport or an original Voter ID card (EPIC).

Visa & Entry Permits

• International Travelers: Must obtain an e-Visa clearance before travel via the official Department of Immigration portal or an authorized tour operator. The application fee is $40 USD, usually included within the trip cost.

• Regional Tourists (India, Bangladesh, Maldives): Do not require a traditional visa but must obtain an Entry Permit prior to arrival or at border checkpoints.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

• International Visitors: $100 USD per adult per night ($50 per night for children aged 6–11; free for children under 6), valid until August 31, 2027. The fee is likely to increase to $200 USD per adult per night thereafter.

• Regional Visitors (India): 1,200 INR per person per night (50% concession for children aged 6–11; exempt under 6).

Mandatory Travel Documents

• Travel Insurance: Active medical travel insurance covering emergency evacuation and medical expenses for the duration of the trip.

• Accommodation Proof: Confirmed reservations at Department of Tourism-certified hotels.

• Licensed Guide: Required for all international visitors traveling outside the Thimphu and Paro valleys.

• Flight/Entry Clearance: A printed copy of your Visa Clearance Letter or approved Entry Permit, which is required to board inbound flights to Paro.

Customs & Health Regulations

• Tobacco & Alcohol: Tobacco products face heavy customs duties (up to 200%) upon import, and public smoking is strictly regulated. Alcohol import is limited to 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine duty-free.

• Currency: Cash amounts exceeding $10,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared at customs.