China Visa RequirementsFor Bhutan passport holders
Bhutanese citizens require a Chinese visa to enter China. Note that Bhutan and China do not have formal diplomatic relations, adding complexity to the application process.
Bhutan passport holders require a visa to enter China.
Apply at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi, India. Required documents include a valid passport (at least 6 months validity), completed visa application form, recent photos, confirmed round-trip flight and accommodation, bank statements, and a detailed itinerary. The visa fee is approximately USD 140. Processing is typically 4 business days for standard service.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Bhutan to China: What You Need to Know
The relationship between Bhutan and China is unique: as of the time of writing, the two countries do not have formal diplomatic relations and there is no Chinese embassy in Bhutan, nor a Bhutanese embassy in China. Border disputes between the two countries have historically complicated travel. Bhutanese applicants must apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi, India. China has been a limited but possible destination for Bhutanese travelers with legitimate travel purposes such as tourism, business, or transit.
Practical Tips
Because Bhutan and China lack diplomatic relations, be prepared for additional scrutiny at the consulate. Clearly state your travel purpose and provide detailed documentation. Tibet is administered by China and requires a separate Tibet Travel Permit in addition to the Chinese visa. Check current entry restrictions before applying as policies can change. The Paro to Chengdu or Paro to Kunming flight routes are common for Bhutanese travelers heading to China.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bhutanese citizens need a visa to enter China?
Yes. Bhutanese passport holders must obtain a Chinese visa before travel. The standard tourist visa is the L visa.
Where do Bhutanese citizens apply for a Chinese visa?
Since there is no Chinese embassy in Bhutan, Bhutanese applicants must apply at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi, India.
Can Bhutanese citizens visit Tibet?
Tibet requires a separate Tibet Travel Permit in addition to a standard Chinese visa. This permit must be arranged through a licensed tour operator in China and is rarely issued independently. Independent travel to Tibet is not permitted.
Do Bhutan and China have diplomatic relations?
No. As of 2026, Bhutan and China do not have formal diplomatic relations, though negotiations over their disputed border have been ongoing. This means there is no Bhutanese embassy in China and no Chinese embassy in Bhutan.