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Nepalpassport Bhutandestination
Single entry ApprovalHigh Transit visaNo

Data verified

At a glance

Nepal passport holders: Single entry for Bhutan. Fee: USD 40–100 (~USD 40–100). Processing: 5-10 working days. Indicative only — always verify with the official mission before applying.

Overview

SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT for Nepalese: Nepal-Bhutan have NO bilateral visa-free agreement (unlike India). Nepalese REQUIRE Bhutan visa + permit. Tourist visa via Bhutanese Embassy Kathmandu OR registered tour operator. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100/day. Visa fee: USD 40.

Visa types: Tourist Visa (must be booked via registered Bhutanese tour operator with daily SDF); Business Visa; Diplomatic; Official; Transit. Cannot self-book independent tourist visa — operator-led only.

Fees & funds

Visa fee (local)USD 40 + SDF USD 100/day
In USDUSD 40 (visa) + SDF
In NPRNPR 6,040 (visa only)
Minimum bank balanceDocumented proof required (amount unspecified)

Stay & validity

Validity: As per tour. Max Stay: tour duration. SDF makes Bhutan very expensive (USD 100/day on top of all costs).

Extension possibleConditional

Overstay penalty: Per-day fine USD 3-5; deportation; future visa scrutiny

How to apply

MethodVia licensed Bhutanese tour operator
Application centreOther
Processing time5-10 working days
AppointmentN/A
InterviewConditional
Urgent processingNo

Requirements

Bank Statement Yes Yes (operator handles)
Return Ticket Yes Yes (Drukair/Bhutan Airlines)
Hotel Booking Yes Yes (via operator)
Sponsor Doc Yes Yes (Operator sponsor)
Invitation Letter No No (operator handles)
Vaccination No None typically required
Travel Insurance Recommended
Biometrics No
Police Clearance No
Employment Letter No

Passport & photo

Passport validity6+ months
Photo size35 × 45 mm · White bg

Required documents: Valid passport (6+ months); Visa application; Photo; Confirmed tour itinerary with licensed Bhutanese operator; Full pre-payment of tour package + SDF (USD 100/day); Hotel bookings via operator; Return ticket (Drukair/Bhutan Airlines); Travel insurance recommended; Citizenship cert.

Visa types (1)

Tourist
Single USD 40–100 (~USD 40–100) 5-10 working days

SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT for Nepalese: Nepal-Bhutan have NO bilateral visa-free agreement (unlike India). Nepalese REQUIRE Bhutan visa + permit. Tourist visa via Bhutanese Embassy Kathmandu OR registered tour operator. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100/day. Visa fee: USD 40.

Common rejection reasons

Common NP rejections (VERY LOW rate but high cost barrier): (1) Cannot self-apply — must go via operator; (2) SDF of USD 100/day is the real barrier (USD 700 for a week); (3) Nepalese seen positively as cultural-friendly tourists; (4) Permit may be denied for restricted regions without justification; (5) No tour operator booking = no visa.

Good to know

Bhutan visa FAQ for Nepal passport holders

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan with a Nepal passport?
Yes — Nepal passport holders need a visa for Bhutan (Single entry). Apply via Via licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
How much does a Bhutan visa cost for Nepal passport holders?
The Bhutan visa fee is USD 40 (visa) + SDF (about NPR 6,040 (visa only)). Additional service, biometric or courier charges may apply on top.
How long does it take to get a Bhutan visa?
Typical processing for a Bhutan visa is 5-10 working days. Apply well ahead of your travel date and allow for appointment availability.
How long can I stay in Bhutan on this visa?
A Bhutan visa for Nepal passport holders typically allows a stay of Validity: As per tour. Max Stay: tour duration. SDF makes Bhutan very expensive (USD 100/day on top of all costs).. Extensions may be possible (Conditional).
How do I apply for a Bhutan visa from Nepal?
Apply for your Bhutan visa via Via licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Your passport should be valid 6+ months.