Process for Converting a Tourist Visa to Residency in Bhutan
Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a captivating destination known for its pristine beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique Gross National Happiness philosophy. While it is relatively easy to obtain a tourist visa to visit Bhutan, the process of converting it to a residency permit is more complex and requires careful planning.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must have a valid tourist visa for Bhutan.
- The applicant must have stayed in Bhutan for at least 15 days.
- The applicant must have a valid reason for seeking residency, such as work, study, or retirement.
- The applicant must have sufficient financial means to support themselves in Bhutan.
Required Documents
- Application form
- Passport and visa copy
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements, employment letter, etc.)
- Letter of support from a Bhutanese sponsor (if applicable)
- Documents supporting the reason for seeking residency (e.g., work permit, admission letter, etc.)
- Medical certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Two passport-size photographs
Application Process
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Apply for a Tourist Visa: Obtain a tourist visa before entering Bhutan.
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Stay in Bhutan for 15 Days: Spend at least 15 days in Bhutan to familiarize yourself with the country and its customs.
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Identify a Residency Sponsor (Optional): If you intend to work or study in Bhutan, you will need a sponsor who is a Bhutanese citizen or a registered company.
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Prepare Required Documents: Gather all the necessary documents listed above.
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Submit Application: Submit your application to the Department of Immigration at the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs in Thimphu.
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Interview and Background Check: You may be required to attend an interview and undergo a background check as part of the application process.
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Approval: If your application is approved, you will be granted a residency permit for a specific period.
Types of Residency Permits
- Permanent Residency: Granted to individuals who have made a significant contribution to Bhutan or have exceptional skills.
- Work Permit: Granted to individuals who have a job offer in Bhutan.
- Study Permit: Granted to individuals who have been admitted to a Bhutanese educational institution.
- Retirement Permit: Granted to individuals who are retired and have sufficient financial means to support themselves.
Duration and Renewal
The duration of a residency permit varies depending on the type of permit granted. Work permits are typically issued for one to three years, while study permits are issued for the duration of the study program. Permanent residency permits are issued indefinitely.
All residency permits must be renewed before they expire. The renewal process is similar to the application process.
Additional Considerations
- Language Proficiency: While Bhutanese is the official language, English is widely spoken in urban areas. It is advisable to have some proficiency in English or Dzongkha (the Bhutanese national language).
- Cost of Living: Bhutan has a relatively high cost of living compared to neighboring countries. Applicants should ensure they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Bhutan is a culturally sensitive country. It is important to respect local customs and traditions.
Conclusion
Converting a tourist visa to residency in Bhutan is a complex process that requires careful planning and preparation. By understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process, you can increase your chances of obtaining residency in this beautiful and unique country.