Bhutan entry requirements for Senegal passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 29, 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
Senegalese passport holders need an eVisa to enter Bhutan. You must arrange it before you travel — there is no visa on arrival for Senegalese citizens. Plan ahead, as the application process requires a tour operator and a daily tariff payment.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| eVisa application Bhutan e-Permit | Apply for a Bhutan e-Permit at bhutan.travel/e-permit before travel. The permit is tied to a pre-booked tour package — you cannot apply independently. Processing takes 3–5 working days after your tour operator submits the application.Apply for e-Permit | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Bhutan. Bhutan does not enforce a 6-month validity rule beyond your departure date. Airlines may still ask for 6 months — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Outbound travel proof | Immigration at Paro Airport checks for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Bhutan is a closed country for independent travel — your tour operator books all flights and accommodation, so this is handled automatically. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking confirmation | Bhutan requires all visitors to book accommodation through a licensed tour operator. Your tour package includes hotel vouchers — carry printed copies for immigration at Paro Airport. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Minimum daily spend | Bhutan enforces a minimum daily package rate of $200–$250 per person per night (depending on season), which covers accommodation, meals, guide, and transport. Your tour operator handles this — carry proof of payment or a credit card for any additional expenses. | Recommended |
eVisa must be arranged before travel
There is no visa on arrival for Senegalese passport holders. Do not book flights until you have your eVisa approval in hand. Without it, you will be denied boarding.
Daily tariff covers most costs
The $200–250 per night fee includes accommodation, meals, transport, and a guide. It's not optional — it's part of Bhutan's 'high value, low impact' tourism policy. Your tour operator will explain what's covered.
What happens at the border
1
Arrange a tour operator
Bhutan requires all foreign tourists (except Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians) to book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The operator handles your visa application and the mandatory daily tariff payment. You can find operators online or through travel agencies.
2
Submit eVisa application via tour operator
Your tour operator will submit your eVisa application to the Department of Immigration in Thimphu. You'll need to provide your passport details, travel dates, and accommodation info. The operator will also collect the daily tariff (currently $200 per person per night in low season, $250 in high season).
3
Receive eVisa approval
Once approved, you'll receive an eVisa approval letter by email. This usually takes 3–5 working days. Print a copy and save it on your phone. You must show this at check-in and on arrival in Bhutan.
4
Arrive at Paro International Airport
Paro is Bhutan's only international airport. After landing, proceed to immigration. Present your passport, eVisa approval letter, and return ticket. The officer will stamp you in. The process is straightforward — expect a short queue.
5
Collect baggage and exit
After immigration, collect your luggage from the carousel. There are no customs checks for personal items. Your tour operator's representative will be waiting outside the arrivals hall to take you to your hotel.
Download Bhutan Entry Checklist
PDF · Senegal Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 29, 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. 24,000 BTN)
Standard option for most visitors.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable 7 days
Validity6 months from issue
Cost$100 USD (approx. 60,000 BTN)
For frequent travellers; requires justification.
Long-stay visa (work/study)
Max stayUp to 1 year
Validity1 year from issue
Cost$200 USD (approx. 120,000 BTN)
Requires employer or educational institution sponsorship.
work visa
Work Permit Visa
Up to 1 year, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 120,000 BTN) plus employer fees
For foreign nationals employed by a Bhutanese company. Requires employer sponsorship and a valid job offer.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of study, renewable annually
~$100 USD (approx. 60,000 BTN) plus tuition
For those enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Bhutan. Requires admission letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Visa
Up to 2 years, renewable
~$500 USD (approx. 300,000 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 processing feeNon-refundable, paid online before travel. | $40 USD (approx. 24,000 BTN) |
| Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)Mandatory for all tourists, paid in advance. | $100 USD per person per night (approx. 8,300 BTN) |
| Tourist visa (single entry)Included in eVisa application. | $40 USD (approx. 24,000 BTN) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo maximum cap specified; avoid overstaying. | $10 USD per day (approx. 830 BTN) |
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
Senegal passport holders transiting through Paro International Airport do not require a transit visa if staying airside and not passing through immigration.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid visa for India, Bangladesh, or Maldives may transit without visa for up to 72 hours.
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)EssentialRabiesConsiderJapanese EncephalitisConsider
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 lower-altitude areas; use repellent.
Malaria risk: low
Risk is low in most tourist areas; prophylaxis not routinely recommended but consider for rural 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
Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu, Bhutan
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Main office for visa extensions and permits.
Paro
Paro Immigration Office
Paro International Airport, Paro, Bhutan
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Handles entry/exit and basic inquiries.
Practical information for SN 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 = 95.78 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
No. Bhutan does not offer visa on arrival for Senegalese citizens. You must obtain an eVisa before you travel. The eVisa is processed by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
Processing typically takes 3–5 working days after your tour operator submits the application. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your planned travel date to be safe.
The eVisa itself costs $40 per person. However, you must also pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $200 per person per night (low season) or $250 (high season). This fee is collected by your tour operator as part of the daily tariff.
Yes. All foreign tourists (except Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians) must book through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The operator handles your visa, accommodation, transport, and itinerary. Independent travel is not allowed.
Rejections are rare but can happen if your passport is invalid, your application is incomplete, or you have a criminal record. If rejected, your tour operator will inform you and you can reapply after fixing the issue. The $40 visa fee is non-refundable.
Extensions are not available for eVisa holders. You must leave Bhutan by the date specified on your visa. If you need more time, you'd need to apply for a new visa from outside the country.
You'll need your passport (valid 6+ months), your eVisa approval letter (printed or on your phone), and your return or onward ticket. Immigration officers may also ask for your accommodation confirmation. Keep everything easily accessible.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 29, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.