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Bhutan Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

UK citizens must obtain a Tourist eVisa before travel by applying online at the official Bhutan MFA portal; the e-visa costs USD 40, is single-entry for up to 30 days, with a 3–5 working day processing time.

Guide last updated September 4, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry, and have at least 1 blank page.
  • Specific forms: No DS-160 or VAF1A. Complete the online e-visa application via the official Bhutan MFA portal accessible at https://www.mfa.gov.bt/; no separate visa form to print.
  • Financial proof: Not required specifically for the e-visa. You should have funds suitable to cover your stay or a confirmed tour package; the daily tariff is paid to a licensed operator.
  • Accommodation and return ticket requirements: You must have a confirmed itinerary through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator; on arrival you will be hosted under a pre-paid package. A return ticket is recommended.
  • Photo spec: Recent colour passport-style photo, 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), white background, no glasses or headgear unless for religious reasons.
  • Biometrics: Not required at application; the e-visa is issued electronically and linked to your passport. Present the e-visa approval printout at Paro on arrival.
  • Travel health insurance: Recommended but not mandatory.

Visa types

  • Tourist eVisa (official name: Tourist eVisa): validity 90 days from issue, max stay 30 days per visit, single-entry, visa fee USD 40.
  • Other categories: Bhutan currently issues e-visas primarily for tourism. There is no widely available e-visa category for Business, Student or Work for UK citizens via the official portal; such stays require separate permissions through DoI or other Bhutanese authorities.

How to apply online

  • How to apply online: Go to the official Bhutan MFA portal at https://www.mfa.gov.bt/ and look for the e-visa application. Create or log in to your account, fill in applicant data, upload a clear scanned copy of your passport bio page and a recent passport photo, pay the e-visa fee (USD 40) by credit or debit card, and submit.
  • Processing time: 3–5 working days for electronic approval.
  • Approval: You will receive the e-visa approval by email; print the approval and bring it with your passport to Bhutan. At Paro Airport, immigration will verify the e-visa with your passport.

Fees & processing time

  • e-visa fee: USD 40 per applicant.
  • Local service charges: none via the official online system; if booking through a licensed operator, you will incur the daily tariff separately with the operator.
  • Total cost estimate: USD 40 per person for the visa portion, plus the licensed operator daily tariff.
  • Standard processing time: 3–5 working days.
  • Express/priority option: not offered for the e-visa application.

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • How far in advance to apply: Best to apply at least 2–3 weeks before travel; apply earlier in peak seasons.
  • Common rejection reasons for UK applicants: passport validity under 6 months at entry, mismatch in name between passport and e-visa application, photo not meeting specifications, missing or incorrect operator itinerary, or failure to demonstrate a licensed tour operator reservation.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: Bhutan uses the online e-visa system; there is no separate VFS/BLS submission for UK passport holders.
  • Travel advisories or bilateral notes: Check the UK government's travel advice for Bhutan before travel; follow local laws and respect cultural practices.
  • Extension options inside Bhutan: Visa extensions can be processed by the Department of Immigration in Thimphu or Paro; extensions are subject to approval and fees; typical extensions range up to 30 days with applicable charges.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United Kingdom passport holders

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.