Duratum

Guides · Bhutan

Travel visa renewal in Bhutan

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Department of Immigration (DoI).

Renewing a travel visa in Bhutan requires submitting an application to the Department of Immigration for an extension of stay. Applicants must demonstrate a valid reason for the extension and ensure their current visa remains active at the time of the request.

Your timing

It is generally recommended to initiate an extension request at least 3 to 5 business days before the current visa expires. This allows sufficient time to account for administrative processing periods and potential office closures.

Start 5 days ahead

Processing times can vary based on the volume of applications and the specific visa category, so applying well before the expiry date is advised.

The process

  1. 1Visit the Department of Immigration office or access the official online portal.
  2. 2Complete the visa extension application form provided by the immigration authorities.
  3. 3Submit the required supporting documentation, including the applicant's passport and a letter justifying the need for an extension.
  4. 4Pay the applicable extension fees as determined by the immigration department.
  5. 5Collect the endorsed passport or receive electronic confirmation once the extension is granted.

What to bring

  • Original passport with sufficient validity
  • Completed visa extension application form
  • Letter explaining the reason for the requested extension
  • Evidence of financial means to cover the extended stay

Who handles it

Department of Immigration (DoI)

https://www.doi.gov.bt/

Fees for visa extensions are set by the Department of Immigration; applicants should confirm the current rates in Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) directly through the official website or at an immigration office.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Overstaying a visa without an official extension can lead to significant daily fines and potential legal consequences.
  • Ensure that the purpose of the stay remains consistent with the original visa category.
  • Double-check that the passport has sufficient remaining validity beyond the intended new departure date.

Sources

This guide is based on one official source.

Other documents in Bhutan

Travel visa renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

Don't rely on remembering

Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.

Track my Travel visa