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How to Apply for a Bhutan Tourist Visa or Entry Permit Online
Planning a trip to Bhutan in 2027 and prefer to apply for your own visa or Entry Permit? Our short video walks you through Bhutan’s online application process, with simple steps to help you prepare before you begin.
Watch: Apply for Your Bhutan Visa or Entry Permit
If you would like to complete the process yourself, watch our step-by-step video before you start. It shows the Bhutan online immigration application portal and explains the basic sequence of an application. You can apply independently or request assistance from a tour operator.
Video: How to Apply for Bhutan Tourist Visa / Entry Permit | Indian & International Tourists (approximately 2 minutes)
Do You Need a Visa or an Entry Permit?
Indian visitors
Indian citizens do not need a tourist visa, but they do need an Entry Permit. They can apply before travelling or obtain a permit at an eligible entry point, subject to immigration procedures.
Other international visitors
Most international tourists must obtain a tourist visa before arrival. Travellers from Bangladesh and the Maldives have separate visa-on-arrival arrangements.
For a fuller explanation of eligibility, documentation and fees, see our Bhutan Visa & Entry Permit Guide.
How to Apply Online for Your Bhutan Visa or Entry Permit
- Prepare your details. Have your travel dates, valid identity document, recent passport-style photograph and other required information ready.
- Use Bhutan's official immigration application system. Select the tourist visa or Entry Permit process appropriate to your nationality.
- Complete the application. Enter your details carefully and upload the documents requested by the system.
- Pay applicable charges and submit. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and any applicable visa charges are handled during the relevant application process.
- Check your application status and retain your approval. Follow the instructions provided after submission. Keep your visa or Entry Permit approval accessible during travel and on arrival.
Calculate the SDF Before You Apply
Before completing your application, it is useful to estimate the SDF for your planned stay. Rates vary by visitor category and concessions may apply to eligible children. Use our Bhutan SDF calculator to help plan your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Bhutan tourist visa myself?
Yes. Eligible visitors can submit their own application through Bhutan’s online immigration system. You do not need to book a tour with Lhayul to apply independently.
Is an Entry Permit the same as a tourist visa?
No. Indian citizens generally use the Entry Permit process, while most other international tourists use the tourist visa process. See our detailed Bhutan visa and Entry Permit guide for visitor-specific requirements.
Can Lhayul help if I have questions?
Yes. If you are unsure about the documents or how to plan your trip, you can contact our Bhutan-based team. We can also help arrange your visa or Entry Permit as part of a personalised tour package.
Need Help Planning Your Bhutan Visit?
You are welcome to apply for your visa or Entry Permit yourself. If you have questions about your travel arrangements or would prefer assistance as part of a tailored Bhutan holiday, our locally based team would be happy to help.
Last content review: 6 November 2026. This video is an independent travel tutorial, not an official government service. Requirements and application screens may change. For the detailed rules and visitor categories, read our Bhutan Visa Guide.