Bhutan entry requirements for New Zealand passport holders
Verified May 14, 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
New Zealand passport holders need an eVisa to visit Bhutan. The eVisa is mandatory for all tourists and must be arranged before travel. As of 2026, the process is straightforward but requires a few key documents.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Bhutan e-Permit | Apply for your Bhutan e-Permit at bhutan.travel/e-permit before travel. This is a mandatory online application — you need a confirmed tour booking with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator first. Processing takes 2–5 working days, and you'll receive a PDF permit to print and carry.Apply for e-Permit | Required |
| Valid passport New Zealand passport | Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Bhutan. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration at Paro Airport will ask to see a confirmed return or onward flight ticket. Have a printed copy or show it on your phone — they check this every time. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking confirmation | Carry a printed copy of your hotel or tour package confirmation showing your full itinerary. Bhutan requires you to book through a licensed tour operator, so your accommodation is part of that package. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Financial evidence | Have a bank statement or credit card showing you can cover the daily minimum tariff (currently $200–$250 USD per person per night during peak season). Immigration rarely asks, but tour operators may request proof before issuing your permit. | Recommended |
eVisa is mandatory
You cannot enter Bhutan without an approved eVisa. Apply well in advance and keep a copy with you at all times.
Passport validity counts from entry date
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you land in Bhutan, not from your departure date. Check your passport now.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for eVisa Online
Go to the official Bhutan eVisa website and complete the application. You'll need your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. Pay the visa fee online. Processing usually takes 3-5 working days.
2
Receive eVisa Approval
Once approved, you'll get an email with your eVisa. Print a copy or save it on your phone. Keep it with your passport.
3
Arrive at Paro International Airport
At Paro Airport, proceed to immigration. Have your passport, eVisa, return ticket, and accommodation confirmation ready. The officer will stamp your passport and let you through.
4
Collect Baggage and Exit
After immigration, collect your luggage from the carousel. Then head to the arrivals hall. If you arranged a transfer, your driver will be waiting.
Download Bhutan Entry Checklist
PDF · New Zealand Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 14, 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
CostIncluded in SDF and tour package
Standard for all tourists; must book through licensed operator.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stayUp to 90 days per entry
Validity6 months
CostIncluded in SDF and tour package
Available for frequent visitors; requires justification.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa processing feeBhutan requires all tourists to book through a licensed tour operator; visa fee is part of the package. | $40 USD (included in tour package) |
| Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)Mandatory daily fee for all international tourists, includes visa processing. | $100 USD per person per night |
| Tourist visa (single entry)No separate visa fee; processed by tour operator. | Included in SDF and tour package |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day beyond authorized stay; no maximum cap specified. | $50 USD per day |
Common reasons for entry denial
Incomplete visa application35%
Insufficient funds proof25%
No confirmed accommodation20%
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
New Zealand passport holders transiting through Paro International Airport do not require a visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Transit hubsParo International Airport (PBH)
Health & vaccines for Bhutan
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, varicella)EssentialYellow FeverConsider
Health risks
Altitude sicknessHigh risk
Bhutan's high altitude (over 2,400m in many areas) can cause acute mountain sickness; acclimatize gradually.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of traveler's diarrhea from contaminated food/water; drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food.
Mosquito-borne diseasesLow risk
Low risk of dengue and malaria in southern lowlands; use repellent if visiting those areas.
Malaria risk: low
Risk exists only in southern districts (e.g., Samtse, Sarpang) below 1,700m; prophylaxis recommended for those areas.
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 permits; bring passport and tour operator letter.
Paro
Paro Immigration Office
Paro International Airport, Paro
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Handles entry/exit formalities; limited extension services.
Practical information for NZ 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 = 95.67 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 typically takes 3-5 working days. Apply at least a week before your departure to be safe.
The eVisa fee varies depending on your nationality and the duration of stay. For New Zealand passport holders, it's usually around USD 40-50. Check the official website for the exact amount.
Extensions are not available for eVisa holders. You must leave before your visa expires. If you need a longer stay, apply for a different visa type before travel.
No, if you're transiting and don't leave the airport, you don't need a visa. But if you plan to enter the country, you need an eVisa.
Rejections are rare but can happen if your documents are incomplete or incorrect. You'll receive a reason and can reapply. Contact the Bhutan immigration office for guidance.
Yes, you can enter by road from India at Phuentsholing. You still need an eVisa. The process is the same as for air arrivals.
No, proof of funds is not required for New Zealand passport holders entering Bhutan.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 14, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.