Bhutan entry requirements for Netherlands passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 19, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Dutch passport holders need an eVisa to enter Bhutan in 2026. The eVisa is linked to your passport and must be arranged before you travel — there's no visa on arrival at Paro International Airport.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application e-Permit required | Apply for a Bhutan e-Permit at bhutan.travel/e-permit before you travel. The process requires a confirmed tour package booked through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator — independent travel is not allowed. Processing takes 2–5 business days, and you'll need to upload your passport scan and a passport-sized photo.Apply for e-Permit | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for entire stay | Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Bhutan. Airlines check this at check-in, and immigration at Paro Airport enforces it strictly. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration at Paro Airport asks for a confirmed return or onward ticket before they stamp you in. Budget airlines flying into Bhutan also check this at departure. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Tour operator handles this | Your licensed tour operator books all hotels and submits the itinerary as part of your e-Permit application. Have a copy of your confirmed tour voucher handy — immigration may ask to see it. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Not formally checked | Bhutan doesn't have a set minimum cash requirement for tourists, but your tour package already covers daily costs (accommodation, meals, guide). Carry a credit card or some USD for souvenirs — ATMs are scarce outside Thimphu. | Recommended |
eVisa is linked to your passport
Your eVisa is electronically linked to your passport number. When you arrive, immigration will scan your passport and see the approval. Still, carry a printed copy as backup.
No visa on arrival
Bhutan does not offer visa on arrival for Dutch passport holders. You must have the eVisa approved before you fly. Airlines will check this at check-in.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your eVisa online
Go to the official Bhutan eVisa website and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. Processing usually takes a few business days. You'll receive the approved eVisa by email — print it or save a copy on your phone.
2
Book your flights and accommodation
Book a return flight to Paro International Airport and your first night's hotel. Keep the booking confirmations handy — you'll need them for the eVisa application and at immigration.
3
Pack your documents
Before you leave, gather: your passport (valid 6+ months), printed eVisa, return flight confirmation, hotel booking, and travel insurance documents. Store digital copies on your phone as backup.
4
Arrive at Paro International Airport
After landing, follow signs to immigration. Present your passport and eVisa. The officer may ask for your return ticket and hotel confirmation. The process is straightforward — expect a short queue. Once stamped, you're free to enter.
Download Bhutan Entry Checklist
PDF · Netherlands Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 19, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stayUp to 90 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$40 USD (approx. €37)
Standard eVisa for tourism; must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
Long-stay visa
Max stayUp to 1 year
Validity1 year
CostVaries; contact Bhutan Immigration
For specific purposes like volunteering or research; requires sponsorship and approval.
work visa
Work Permit
Up to 1 year, renewable
Varies; employer-sponsored
For foreign nationals employed by a Bhutanese company. Requires a job offer and approval from the Ministry of Labour.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of study program
Varies; institution-sponsored
For enrollment in a recognized educational institution in Bhutan. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa processing feeNon-refundable, paid online during application. | $40 USD (approx. €37) |
| Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per dayMandatory for all tourists, paid before arrival. | $200 USD per night (approx. €185) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Included in eVisa fee; covers entire stay. | $40 USD (approx. €37) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo maximum cap; avoid overstaying. | $120 USD per day (approx. €111) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documentation20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Bhutan
No transit visa needed
Netherlands passport holders transiting through Bhutan's only international airport (Paro) do not need a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsParo International Airport (PBH)
Health & vaccines for Bhutan
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
Altitude sicknessModerate risk
Bhutan's high altitude (e.g., Paro at 2,250m) can cause acute mountain sickness; acclimatize gradually.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea; drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food.
Mosquito-borne diseasesLow risk
Low risk of dengue and malaria, especially in lower altitudes; use repellent.
Malaria risk: low
Risk is low in most tourist areas; prophylaxis not routinely recommended but consider for rural lowland travel.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Thimphu
Department of Immigration, Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs
Kawajangsa, Thimphu, Bhutan
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Main office for visa extensions and inquiries.
Paro
Paro Immigration Office
Paro International Airport, Paro
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Handles entry/exit and basic visa issues.
Practical information for NL travellers
Country basics
CapitalThimphu
LanguageDzongkha
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to one year, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyBhutanese ngultrum (BTN)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 96.38 BTN
Time zone
Local timeUTC+6
vs New York+11h
vs Los Angeles+14h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,D,GTypes C (Europlug), D (old British), and G (British three-pin) are used.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days. Apply at least a week before your flight to be safe. There's no rush service.
The eVisa fee is typically around $40 USD, but check the official website for the latest amount. You pay online during the application.
No, the eVisa is not extendable. You must leave Bhutan before your visa expires. If you need more time, you'd have to apply for a new visa from outside the country.
If you're transiting through Paro Airport and not leaving the international transit area, you don't need a visa. But if you plan to enter Bhutan for any reason, you need the eVisa.
You won't be allowed to board your flight or enter Bhutan. Renew your passport first, then apply for the eVisa with the new passport.
Yes, a screenshot or PDF on your phone is usually accepted. But printing a copy is safer in case your phone dies or has no signal.
No, it's not mandatory for entry. But it's strongly recommended because medical costs can be high. Some tour operators may require it as part of their package.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 19, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.