Customs & Immigration

Customs & Immigration

Customs and Immigration procedures in Bhutan are relatively straightforward, but they are designed to uphold the country’s unique “High Value, Low Volume” tourism policy and protect its culture and environment. It’s crucial to understand the requirements and restrictions before your trip.

Immigration (Visa and Entry)

For Most Tourists (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals):

1. Visa Required: All tourists (except those listed below) require a visa to enter Bhutan. You cannot apply for a visa at a Bhutanese embassy abroad; it is processed in Bhutan.
2. Processed by Tour Operators/Hotels: The visa application process is almost always handled by your licensed Bhutanese tour operator or, if you’re booking independently, your hotel. You provide them with the necessary documents (passport scan, passport-sized photo), and they apply on your behalf.
3. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): As part of the visa application, you will pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is currently US$100 per person per night for adults. There are concessionary rates for children (50% for 6-12 years old, free for under 5). This fee goes directly to the government to fund free healthcare, education, infrastructure, and environmental preservation.
4. Visa Application Fee: A non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of US$40 is also payable.
5. e-Visa Clearance: Once your visa is approved and the SDF and visa fee are paid, your tour operator/hotel will receive an e-Visa clearance letter. You must carry a printed copy of this letter (or a digital copy on your phone) as you will need to present it at check-in for your flight to Bhutan and upon arrival.
6. Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of departure from Bhutan.
7. Visa Stamping on Arrival: Upon arrival at Paro International Airport or a land border crossing, you will present your e-Visa clearance letter, and your actual visa will be stamped into your passport by immigration officials.
8. Pledge of Friendship: As part of the online visa application, you’ll be asked to sign a “Pledge of Friendship” committing to respecting Bhutan’s culture and environment.

For Nationals of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives:

• Permit Required (not a full visa for Indians):
  • Indian nationals require an “Entry Permit.” They can apply for this online in advance or upon arrival at the port of entry (Paro Airport or land borders like Phuentsholing).
  • Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals also require a visa, but the process is similar to Indian nationals, and they can often obtain it on arrival (though applying in advance is recommended to reduce wait times).
• Documents for Indian Nationals: A valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity) OR a Voter Identity Card issued by the Election Commission of India. For minor children (under 18) without a passport, an original birth certificate is required.
• SDF for Indian Nationals: Indian nationals pay a much smaller SDF of Nu. 1200 (approx. US$15) per person per day.
• Route Permit for Beyond Thimphu & Paro: Indian nationals visiting by road will initially receive an entry permit for Thimphu and Paro only. If they wish to travel beyond these two valleys, they need to acquire a “route permit” from the Royal Government of Bhutan Immigration Office in Thimphu on working days (Monday-Friday).

General Immigration Advice:

• Arrival Point: Most international tourists arrive by air at Paro International Airport (PBH). Land entry is primarily through Phuentsholing for those coming from India.
• Retain Documents: Keep your visa clearance letter (and route permits if applicable) safe throughout your trip, as immigration officials may ask to see them.
• Travel with the Correct ID: Ensure you travel with the exact passport or ID document against which your visa/permit clearance was issued.

Customs

Upon arrival in Bhutan, you will receive a Passenger Declaration Form to complete. You’ll present this form at the Customs Counter.

Channels:

• Green Channel: For passengers with nothing to declare.
• Red Channel: For passengers who have dutiable goods to declare.
• Random Inspections: Customs officials may conduct random baggage inspections regardless of the channel you choose. False declarations are subject to fines and penalties.

Duty-Free Allowances (for Tourists):

• Personal Effects: Used articles of personal effects and articles for day-to-day use.
• Alcohol: 1 liter of alcoholic beverage (spirit or wine).
• Tobacco Products: Sale of tobacco products is banned in Bhutan. However, tourists are permitted to import for personal consumption only:
  • 200 cigarettes OR
  • 3 tins (50 grams each) of pipe tobacco products OR
  • 50 cigars.
  • Crucially, these are subject to 100% customs duty. You must pay the duty upon arrival and carry the Customs Receipt with you at all times if you intend to smoke in public areas (only permitted in designated smoking areas).
• Photographic/Electronic Equipment: Photographic equipment, video cameras, and other electronic goods for personal use are generally allowed duty-free, but they must be declared on your customs form and re-exported upon departure. If you dispose of them in Bhutan (by sale or gift), they become liable for customs duty.
• Foreign Currency: You can bring foreign currency up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent) without declaring it. Amounts exceeding this limit must be declared at both entry and exit points.
• Drones: Drones are strictly prohibited for tourists. Do not bring them; they will be confiscated.

Prohibited and Restricted Items (Import & Export):

• Prohibited:
  • Narcotics, psychotropic drugs, and controlled substances.
  • Pornographic materials.
  • Antiques (cultural or religious artifacts). It is strictly forbidden to export antiques.
• Strictly Restricted (Require Permits):
  • Arms, ammunition, explosives, and military stores.
  • Wildlife products, especially from endangered species.
  • Live animals and their products/by-products.
  • Plants and plant materials (subject to quarantine regulations).
  • Gold and silver in excess of free baggage allowance.
  • Chemicals and fertilizers.
  • Telecommunication equipment (like satellite phones, often restricted).

Important Note on Antiques: Be extremely cautious about purchasing old items, especially those of religious or cultural significance. If you purchase any item that might be considered an antique, you must have your guide help you obtain a “non-antique items” clearance certificate from the Division of Cultural Properties (Department of Culture) before leaving the country. This is vital to avoid issues at customs upon departure.

By adhering to these customs and immigration regulations, your entry into and departure from Bhutan will be smooth and hassle-free.