Immigration in Bhutan

Immigration in Bhutan is managed and regulated by the Department of Immigration, which operates under the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs. The process for entering and residing in Bhutan is strictly controlled, particularly due to Bhutan’s goal of preserving its unique culture, environment, and way of life. Below is an overview of the key immigration aspects in Bhutan:

1. Visa Requirements for Tourists

• Tourist Visa: Bhutan requires all foreign tourists, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, to obtain a visa before entering the country.

• Application Process: Tourists must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, or one of their international partners. The tour operator will handle the visa application on behalf of the traveler.

  • After confirming the trip and making full payment (including the daily Sustainable Development Fee), the tour operator will apply for the visa with the Department of Immigration.
  • The visa approval typically takes around 3–5 working days.

• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Bhutan charges tourists a daily SDF of USD 200. This fee contributes to the preservation of the country’s environment, culture, and tourism infrastructure. The daily rate covers accommodation, meals, a licensed guide, and internal transportation.

• Visa Fee: In addition to the SDF, there is a visa fee of USD 40.

• Duration: Tourist visas are generally valid for the duration of the pre-arranged tour, and tourists are not allowed to stay beyond the approved duration unless a visa extension is obtained.

2. Visa-Free Entry for Citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives

• Indian Citizens: Indian nationals do not require a visa to enter Bhutan. However, they must carry valid identification such as a passport or a voter identification card.

  • Indian citizens can stay in Bhutan for up to 14 days without a visa but are required to obtain an entry permit from the Immigration Office in Phuentsholing (the border town) or at Paro Airport upon arrival.

• Bangladeshi and Maldivian Citizens: Nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives are also exempt from visa requirements but must obtain an entry permit upon arrival.

• Sustainable Development Fee for Regional Tourists: As of recent changes in Bhutan’s tourism policy, regional tourists (from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must pay a reduced Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is currently 1,200 Ngultrum (BTN) or USD 15 per day.

3. Work Permits for Foreigners

Foreigners who wish to work in Bhutan must obtain a work permit. The procedure and eligibility depend on the type of employment.

• Application Process: The employer in Bhutan must submit a request to the Department of Immigration, providing details about the position and why a foreign worker is required. Generally, Bhutan prioritizes employing its own citizens, so work permits are only granted in cases where local expertise is unavailable.

• Requirements:

  • A valid job offer from a Bhutanese employer.
  • Submission of personal documents, including a passport, medical clearance, and other relevant documentation.

• Sectors Hiring Foreign Workers: The country occasionally hires skilled workers from outside Bhutan for sectors such as education, construction, information technology, and healthcare.

4. Long-Term Residency

Bhutan does not offer long-term residency or permanent residency to most foreigners. However, there are exceptions for certain individuals, such as foreign spouses of Bhutanese citizens.

• Marriage to a Bhutanese Citizen: Foreigners married to Bhutanese nationals may obtain long-term residency, although the process is stringent and requires proof of the legitimacy of the marriage. The residency permit is subject to periodic renewals.

5. Business Visas

Entrepreneurs and business people who wish to conduct business in Bhutan must apply for a business visa. This is typically arranged through the Department of Trade or the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

• Application Process: Business visas can be issued for short visits to meet potential business partners, attend meetings, or explore business opportunities. Applicants must provide a letter of invitation from a Bhutanese business partner or government entity.

• Business Investment: Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bhutan is permitted in selected industries. Investors must follow the FDI regulations and obtain necessary approvals from the government to start a business in Bhutan.

6. Student Visas

Students who wish to study in Bhutan must apply for a student visa. The visa is usually arranged by the educational institution in Bhutan.

• Eligibility: A confirmed offer of admission from a recognized educational institution in Bhutan is required. The institution will handle the visa application process.

• Duration: The visa is typically valid for the duration of the course of study and is renewable.

7. Immigration Checkpoints and Entry Points

There are a few designated entry points into Bhutan:

• Paro International Airport: The main international airport in Bhutan, located in Paro, is where most tourists and visitors enter the country.

• Phuentsholing Border: Located on the southern border with India, this is a major land entry point, especially for Indian nationals and other regional travelers. Visitors arriving by road from India typically cross the border here.

• Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar: These are additional land entry points along the border with India, offering access to different regions of Bhutan.

8. Immigration Offices

The Department of Immigration has several regional and branch offices located throughout Bhutan, particularly in key cities and border areas. These offices handle visa applications, work permits, entry permits, and other immigration-related services.

Major Immigration Offices:

• Thimphu: The main office of the Department of Immigration.
• Phuentsholing: A crucial immigration checkpoint and office at the southern border.
• Paro: Immigration services available at the Paro International Airport.
• Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar: Immigration offices at these southern entry points.

9. Immigration Rules and Restrictions

• Bhutan enforces strict immigration rules to control the number of foreign visitors and workers in the country. The country has a low-volume, high-value tourism policy to prevent over-tourism and preserve its culture and environment.

• Deportation: Any foreigner found in violation of immigration laws, including overstaying visas or engaging in illegal work, is subject to deportation.

10. Bhutanese Citizenship

• Naturalization: Bhutan has stringent requirements for obtaining Bhutanese citizenship through naturalization. Applicants must have lived in Bhutan for 20 years (for non-Bhutanese) or 15 years (for foreign spouses of Bhutanese citizens). They must also pass a language test in Dzongkha, Bhutan’s official language, and demonstrate knowledge of Bhutanese culture and history.

Conclusion

Bhutan’s immigration policies are shaped by its need to protect its culture, environment, and national identity. The country maintains strict control over who can enter, work, and reside within its borders, with distinct policies for tourists, foreign workers, business visitors, and residents.