🇧🇹 Bhutan for 🌍 GB-OVERSEAS_TERRITORIES_CITIZEN citizens

The Department of Immigration’s e‑Visa requirements specify a copy of the passport and at least six months validity from the intended date of departure from Bhutan. Tourism operators recommend clear scans with all four corners visible and no reflections or obstructions. Traditional visa-clearance applications submitted via tour operators require a copy of the passport; Bhutanese authorities require at least six months validity from intended departure. Operators emphasize clear, unobstructed scans with all corners visible.

The e‑Visa portal and tour operators require a recent passport-size photo; Bhutanese photo standards for official documents use 35x45 mm with 70–80% face coverage and white background.

The e‑Visa application requires intended travel dates; many operators also submit a simple day‑by‑day outline of the visit. Changes to dates after visa issuance may require amendment or re‑application depending on the system rules at the time.

In practice, most tourists apply via a licensed tour operator that provides a confirmed itinerary including hotels; independent travellers booking directly are expected to show confirmed accommodation as part of their application or at entry. Exact format is not rigidly specified; booking confirmations or a tour contract are typically accepted.

The official tourism FAQ states that travel insurance is no longer mandatory as of April 23, 2024, but strongly recommends that all guests have coverage. Some tour operators and airlines may still require proof of insurance as a condition of service. Some tour operators and legacy guidance still describe insurance as mandatory for visa processing; requirements may vary by operator even if not enforced by the state. Although the national requirement for mandatory travel insurance was lifted in April 2024, many tour operators still require clients to hold valid insurance as a condition of booking. Travellers should verify with their operator whether proof of insurance is needed for visa processing under the traditional clearance route.

Some tour operators request flight details to align visa validity with travel; airlines and border officers may also ask for proof of onward or return travel. Official e‑Visa requirements do not always list tickets explicitly, but carrying confirmations is strongly recommended.

The e‑Visa process requires payment of visa fee and SDF during application; proof of payment or sufficient funds may be requested if there are concerns. No fixed minimum balance is published; full prepayment of tour and SDF is commonly used as de‑facto proof of funds.