Work permit renewal in Bhutan
Renewing a work permit in Bhutan involves submitting an application through the Department of Labour's online portal or regional offices. The process requires endorsement from the current employer and verification of continued employment eligibility.
It is generally recommended to initiate the renewal process at least 30 to 60 days before the existing permit expires to account for processing times and potential administrative review periods.
Start 45 days ahead
Early application helps avoid gaps in legal status and prevents late renewal penalties.
The process
- 1Ensure the employer has updated the relevant employment records with the Department of Labour.
- 2Log into the official online work permit system or visit the nearest regional labour office.
- 3Submit the application form along with any required digital attachments or physical documents.
- 4Pay the applicable renewal fees as specified by the department.
- 5Collect the renewed permit once approval notification is received.
What to bring
- Current work permit card
- Valid passport or proof of identity
- Employment contract or renewal letter from the employer
- Proof of payment of applicable fees
Who handles it
Department of Labour (DoL) / ངལ་རིགས་ལས་ཁུངས།
Fees for work permits vary based on the industry and the duration of the permit; refer to the current Department of Labour schedule of fees for precise amounts.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure that the employer's labor quota remains valid for the duration of the renewal period.
- Discrepancies in personal details between the passport and the previous permit can cause processing delays.
- Failure to apply before the expiry date may result in penalties or the requirement to re-apply from outside the country.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Bhutan
Work permit renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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