This is an independent guide, not an official government website. Visa rules change often; always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before you apply or book.
Bhutan visa for Indian passport holders
Visa-free
- Stay allowed
- 15 days
- Fee
- FreeSDF is INR/Nu 1,200 per person per night. Children under 6 are exempt. Children aged 6–12 get 50% off. The SDF is paid when you apply for the permit. It is refunded for cancelled or shortened trips. A 5% GST applies from 1 Jan 2026.
- Validity
- Not required
Last verified .
Indian passport holders do not need a visa for Bhutan for a short tourist stay of up to 15 days.
Indian Passport holders do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. Looking at this, you will want a free entry permission, which you can for online at ImmI.Gov.Bt or at the land molding of Phuentsholing or at Paro Airport. This study reveals that When you need some help, assume a valid Indian passport or voter ID card, plus a passport size photo. The permit is usually valid for 7 to 15 days and covers Thimphu and Paro. This matters because if you want to continue your journeying, you will need a Permit road from The Thimphu Immigration Office, maintaining simplicity and clarity. What’s exciting is that travel insurance is not mandatory, but it’s a good idea.
In simple terms, the main cost are the Sustainable Development Fee(SDF) tolls of INR 1200 per person per night, paid when you apply for the permit. Children Under 6 Years are exempt and children aged 6 to 12 pay half. To clarify, When you need some help, the fee will be refunded if you cancel or shorten your trip. The process involves to avoid queues, you can apply online at Least 5 working Days before your travel and carry printed copies of your authorization for hotels and checkpoints.In basic terms, rules and fees can change, so check immI.Gov.Bt before booking.
How to apply for a Bhutan visa from India
- Go to immi.gov.bt and create an account (or apply at Phuentsholing or Paro on arrival)
- Fill in the Entry Permit form and upload your passport or voter ID scan and a passport photo
- Pay the SDF online (INR 1,200 per person per night)
- Download the approved permit and carry printed copies
- Show the permit at Immigration at Phuentsholing (land) or Paro Airport (air)
- For travel beyond Thimphu and Paro, get a Route Permit from the Thimphu Immigration Office (weekdays)
Entry requirements for Bhutan
- Valid Indian passport or Indian voter ID card (Aadhaar and driving licence are not accepted)
- Passport-size photograph
- Entry Permit (mandatory by air and by land)
- SDF paid for every night of stay
- Route Permit for any area beyond Thimphu and Paro
- Hotel booking for the stay
- Children under 18: birth certificate or passport, travelling with a legal guardian
- Own vehicle: registration, insurance, pollution certificate and vehicle permit
Bhutan visa document checklist
Choose your profile to see exactly what to carry. Tick items as you collect them, then print or save as PDF.
Embassies can ask for more documents. Always match this list with the official checklist before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for Bhutan?
Indian passport holders do not need a visa for Bhutan for a short tourist stay of up to 15 days.
How long can Indians stay in Bhutan?
Up to 15 days (Not required).
Is travel insurance mandatory for Bhutan?
It is not listed as mandatory, but medical cover for the whole trip is strongly recommended.
Where do Indians apply for a Bhutan visa?
Apply only on the official website (Bhutan Department of Immigration (Online Permit System)). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra fees.
Do Indians need a visa for Bhutan?
No. You need an Entry Permit, which is free. The SDF is charged separately.
Can I use Aadhaar?
No. Only an Indian passport or voter ID is accepted. [
Can I go beyond Paro and Thimphu?
Yes, with a Route Permit from the Thimphu Immigration Office.
Is the SDF refundable?
Yes, for cancelled or shortened trips.
Recent changes
- Page created. Permit rules and SDF checked against secondary sources