Bhutan entry requirements for Russia passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 21, 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
Russian passport holders need an eVisa to enter Bhutan. You must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or a pre-approved hotel, who will handle the visa application. As of 2026, the eVisa is the standard entry method for tourism.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Bhutan e-Permit | Apply for the Bhutan e-Permit at bhutan.travel/e-permit before travel. This is mandatory for all foreign visitors — you cannot enter without it. Processing takes 3–5 business days, and you must upload a passport photo and flight itinerary.Apply for eVisa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for entire stay | 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 will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration at Paro Airport checks for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Without one, you will be refused entry. This applies to all nationalities, including Russian passport holders. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or tour confirmation | Bhutan requires all tourists to book through a licensed tour operator or have a confirmed hotel reservation. Have a printed copy of your booking or tour confirmation ready to show at immigration. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Minimum $200 per day | Bhutan enforces a minimum daily spend of $200 per person (including accommodation, meals, and guide fees). Carry proof of sufficient funds — a bank statement or credit card works. Immigration may ask to see it. | Recommended |
eVisa is tied to your tour operator
You cannot apply for a Bhutan eVisa independently. Your tour operator or pre-approved hotel submits the application. Make sure you book with a licensed operator — check the official Bhutan Tourism website for a list.
Passport validity is strictly enforced
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter Bhutan. Airlines check this before boarding. If your passport expires sooner, renew it first.
What happens at the border
1
Book through a licensed tour operator or pre-approved hotel
You can't apply for a Bhutan eVisa on your own. Contact a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or book a room at a pre-approved hotel. They will submit the visa application on your behalf.
2
Receive your eVisa approval letter
Once approved, you'll get an approval letter via email. Print a copy and also save it on your phone. The letter contains your visa reference number.
3
Arrive at Paro International Airport
Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan. At immigration, present your passport, eVisa approval letter, and return ticket. The officer will stamp you in. The process is straightforward — expect a short queue.
4
Show your first night accommodation
Immigration may ask for proof of where you're staying. Have your hotel booking confirmation ready on your phone or as a printout.
Download Bhutan Entry Checklist
PDF · Russia Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 21, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay30 days, extendable 7 days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost$40 USD (approx. 3,000 BTN)
Standard option for tourism.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable 7 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. 7,500 BTN)
For multiple visits within validity.
Long-stay visa (business/volunteer)
Max stayUp to 1 year
Validity1 year from issue
Cost$200 USD (approx. 15,000 BTN)
Requires sponsorship from a Bhutanese organization.
work visa
Work Permit Visa
1 year, renewable
$200 USD (approx. 15,000 BTN) plus processing
For foreign nationals employed by a Bhutanese company. Requires a job offer and sponsorship. Allows long-term stay.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of study, renewable annually
$100 USD (approx. 7,500 BTN) per year
For those enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Bhutan. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa
1 year, renewable
$500 USD (approx. 37,500 BTN) plus investment
For individuals investing a minimum of $100,000 USD in a Bhutanese business. Requires business plan and approval.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| eVisa fee (single entry)Standard fee for Russian passport holders. | $40 USD (approx. 3,000 BTN) |
| Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per dayMandatory for all tourists, paid before arrival. | $100 USD per person per night (approx. 7,500 BTN) |
| Overstay fine per dayCharged for each day over the authorized stay. | $50 USD per day (approx. 3,750 BTN) |
| Visa extension feeFor extensions beyond initial eVisa validity, if permitted. | $20 USD (approx. 1,500 BTN) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
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
Transit visa is not required for Russian passport holders transiting through Bhutan if staying airside and not passing immigration. However, a visa is needed if leaving the airport.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for India, Bangladesh, or Nepal may transit without visa for up to 24 hours.
Transit hubsParo International Airport (PBH)
Health & vaccines for Bhutan
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedTetanus-diphtheriaEssentialMeasles-mumps-rubella (MMR)EssentialRabiesConsider
Health risks
Altitude sicknessHigh risk
Many areas are above 2,500m; acclimatize gradually and consider medication.
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food.
Mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, chikungunya)Low risk
Risk is low but present in southern lowlands; use repellent.
Malaria risk: low
Risk is low in most tourist areas; prophylaxis not routinely recommended but consider for southern regions.
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.
Paro
Paro Immigration Office
Paro International Airport, Paro
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Handles entry/exit and some visa issues.
Practical information for RU 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 = 96.24 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
Yes. Independent eVisa applications are not accepted. You must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or a pre-approved hotel. They handle the visa submission for you.
Processing usually takes 3–5 working days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to be safe. Your tour operator will track the status.
The visa fee is included in the mandatory daily tariff (around $200–$250 per person per day during peak season). The tariff covers your visa, accommodation, meals, and a guide. You pay the tour operator, not the embassy.
Extensions are not available for eVisa holders. You must leave by the date on your visa. If you need more time, discuss it with your tour operator before you arrive.
You'll be denied boarding or entry. Renew your passport before applying for the eVisa. The 6-month validity is strictly enforced.
If you're transiting through Paro Airport and staying airside (not entering the country), you do not need a visa. But if you plan to leave the airport, you need the eVisa.
No. There is no visa on arrival for Russian passport holders. You must have an approved eVisa before you fly.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 21, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.