India
BhutanDo India citizens need a visa for Bhutan?
Visa-free
For an ordinary India passport visiting Bhutan for tourism, business, or transit (short stay up to 30 days).
Reviewed and cross-checked· Last verified 10 May 2026
Short-stay rules at a glance
- Visa requirement
- Visa-free
- Passport validity
- Passport must have minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.
- Notes
- Tourism Council of Bhutan states "All visitors require a visa before travelling to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives)". The exact in-Bhutan stay length and process for each of these three nationalities differ and should be verified separately.
Special rules & exceptions
- Different entry processes apply to each of these three nationalities — verify with the Department of Immigration before travel.
- Indian nationals' freedom of movement has been restricted to the border towns of Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar since 23 September 2022 (per public reports; verify against the Bhutanese government decree).
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Frequently asked questions
Do India citizens need a visa to travel to Bhutan?
Based on GoMate's data verified against official and consular sources, the short-stay rule for an ordinary India passport entering Bhutan is "Visa-free". This covers short visits for tourism, business, or transit. Entry requirements can change, so always confirm with the Bhutan embassy before traveling.
How long can India citizens stay in Bhutan?
The permitted length of stay is determined at the border or set by the visa you obtain. See the requirements above and confirm with the Bhutan embassy before traveling.
How do India citizens apply for a Bhutan visa, step by step?
No advance application is required. India passport holders can travel to Bhutan and present a valid passport at the border for short stays covering tourism, business, or transit. Always confirm the current requirements with the Bhutan embassy before traveling.
What documents do India citizens need to enter Bhutan?
Passport must have minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan. Carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds, as these may be checked at the border.
Can India citizens work in Bhutan on this entry?
No. Short-stay entry to Bhutan is intended for tourism, business meetings, and transit — it does not permit paid employment. To work in Bhutan, India citizens need a separate work visa or permit arranged in advance.
Can India citizens extend their stay in Bhutan?
Extensions are sometimes possible by applying to the Bhutan immigration authorities before your permitted stay ends. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so do not rely on it.
Is this Bhutan visa rule for India citizens up to date?
This rule was last reviewed on 10 May 2026. Visa policies change frequently — always confirm the final requirements with the Bhutan embassy or government before you travel.
Visa policies change without notice. Always confirm the final requirements directly with the Bhutan embassy or government before travel.