How to Extend a Tourist Visa for Adventure Tourism in Bhutan
Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas, is a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its pristine mountains, lush valleys, and ancient monasteries, Bhutan offers an unparalleled adventure tourism experience. However, tourists visiting Bhutan on a tourist visa may need to extend their stay to fully immerse themselves in the country’s wonders.
Eligibility for Visa Extension
- Tourists who hold a valid tourist visa issued by the Royal Bhutanese Embassy or Consulate.
- The initial visa duration must be less than 90 days.
- The extension must be sought for adventure tourism activities.
Adventure Tourism Activities Covered
- Trekking
- Hiking
- Mountaineering
- White-water rafting
- Mountain biking
- Kayaking
- Rock climbing
Requirements for Visa Extension
- Completed Visa Extension Form: Obtain the form from the Department of Immigration or your tour operator.
- Original Passport: Submit your original passport with at least six months validity.
- Visa Copy: Provide a copy of your current tourist visa.
- Itinerary: Submit a detailed itinerary of your adventure tourism activities, including the names of tour operators and dates.
- Proof of Adventure Tourism Booking: Provide confirmation letters or receipts from registered tour operators for the planned activities.
- Financial Proof: Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the extended period.
- Medical Insurance: Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that covers adventure tourism activities.
Procedure for Visa Extension
- Submit Application: Submit the completed visa extension form and supporting documents to the Department of Immigration in Thimphu.
- Pay Fees: The visa extension fee is BTN 200 per day (approximately USD 2.80).
- Processing Time: The processing time typically takes 2-3 business days.
- Extension Approval: Upon approval, you will receive an extended visa with the new expiry date.
Additional Information
- Maximum Extension Period: The maximum visa extension period is 30 days.
- Multiple Extensions: Multiple visa extensions are not permitted.
- Overstay Penalties: Overstaying your visa can result in fines and deportation.
- Registered Tour Operators: Only registered tour operators can provide proof of adventure tourism bookings.
- Medical Examination: A medical examination may be required if the extension period exceeds 30 days.
- Entry and Exit Points: You can enter and exit Bhutan through any authorized entry point.
Tips for a Successful Visa Extension
- Apply for the extension well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Ensure that all documents are complete and accurate.
- Provide a comprehensive itinerary that demonstrates your planned adventure tourism activities.
- Book your adventure tours with reputable and registered tour operators.
- Carry sufficient funds to cover your expenses.
- Respect the laws and regulations of Bhutan.
Extending your tourist visa for adventure tourism in Bhutan allows you to explore this enchanting country’s natural and cultural wonders at your own pace. By following the outlined procedure and providing the necessary documentation, you can seamlessly extend your stay and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.