1. What is the current stance of Bhutan on immigration policies?

Bhutan has a strict immigration policy and maintains limited control over its borders. The country follows a unique “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy, which restricts the number of tourists allowed to enter the country. Bhutan also implements a “high fee, low volume” visa policy for all foreigners visiting the country.

1. Visa Requirements:

All foreign nationals, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and Maldives, are required to obtain a visa to enter Bhutan. Tourist visas can only be obtained through an authorized tour operator or travel agency.

2. Tourist Visas:

Tourist visas are issued for a period of 7-14 days upon payment of a daily tariff. This tariff includes all meals, accommodation, transportation within Bhutan and services of a licensed guide.

3. Work Permits:

Foreigners who want to work in Bhutan require an employment permit from the Department of Immigration in Bhutan before they can start working. These permits are granted only if no qualified Bhutanese citizens are available for the job.

4. Residence Permits:

Foreigners who intend on staying in Bhutan for longer periods must apply for residence permits at the Department of Immigration in Thimphu.

5. Dual Citizenship:

Bhutan does not allow dual citizenship; anyone wishing to become a naturalized citizen of another country is automatically stripped of their Bhutanese nationality.

6. Border Controls:

Bhutan maintains strict border controls and requires all visitors to show valid travel documents and passports upon entry into the country.

7. Religious Restrictions:

The government regulates access to certain religious sites and may deny visas for those seeking to engage in religious activities that may harm Buddhist culture or traditions.

8. Restrictions on Journalists:

Journalists require special permission from the government before entering the country to report on any events or issues related to Bhutan.

9. Illegal Immigrants:

Bhutan has a relatively low number of illegal immigrants due to its mountainous terrain and strict border controls. However, those who are found to be residing illegally in the country are subject to deportation.

Overall, Bhutan maintains strict control over its immigration policies to preserve its culture, environment, and way of life. It also aims to promote sustainable tourism and maintain a balance between economic development and environmental conservation.

2. How has Bhutan’s immigration policies changed in the past 10 years?

There have been several changes to Bhutan’s immigration policies in the past 10 years:

1. Gradual relaxation of strict visa requirements:
Previously, Bhutan had very strict visa requirements and only allowed tourists to enter on organized tours with approved guides. However, in recent years, there has been a gradual relaxation of these restrictions. Tourists from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives are now exempted from needing a visa for entry.

2. Introduction of online visa application system:
In 2016, Bhutan launched an online visa application system which made it easier for tourists to obtain visas. This move also helped reduce the waiting time and made the process more efficient.

3. Increase in tourist fees:
Bhutan has increased its daily minimum tariff for visitors in order to control the number of tourists and preserve its culture and environment. The minimum tariff was raised from $200 per day to $250 per day in 2012.

4. Implementation of regional travel restrictions:
In 2020, Bhutan implemented regional travel restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This included closing its borders to all foreign nationals except for those coming from India who hold valid work permits.

5. Stricter requirements for obtaining work permits:
Bhutan has tightened its regulations for obtaining work permits for foreigners in recent years. This is aimed at protecting jobs for local citizens and limiting foreign influence on the economy.

6. Introduction of ‘Friends of Bhutan’ program:
In 2011, Bhutan launched the ‘Friends of Bhutan’ program which allows foreigners who have made significant contributions to the country or have close relations with Bhutanese individuals or organizations to apply for long-term residence permits.

7. Limitations on non-Bhutanese land ownership:
In 2016, Bhutan revised its Land Act to restrict non-Bhutanese individuals or entities from owning land in certain parts of the country deemed sensitive or strategic for national security and cultural preservation.

Overall, Bhutan’s immigration policies have become more flexible in terms of allowing tourists to enter the country, but there are still limitations and regulations in place to protect the country’s culture, environment, and economy.

3. Does Bhutan have a merit-based or family-based immigration system?

Bhutan does not have a traditional immigration system like most other countries. As it is a small and isolated country, it tightly controls entry and residence for foreigners. Most foreign residents in Bhutan are there for work or diplomatic purposes, and their entry and stay in the country are strictly regulated by the government.

4. Are refugees and asylum seekers welcome in Bhutan under the current immigration policies?

Bhutan has a strict citizenship law that only recognizes those who can prove their ancestral ties to the country as citizens. This means that refugees and asylum seekers, who do not have ties to Bhutan, are not recognized as citizens and therefore may not be welcome under the current immigration policies.

However, Bhutan is a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and has accepted refugees in the past, particularly from neighboring countries such as Nepal. The government also works with international organizations such as UNHCR to support and assist refugees living in Bhutan.

In recent years, there have been efforts to address the issue of stateless persons in Bhutan, including those who were forced out of the country during political unrest in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The government has implemented a resettlement program for some of these individuals, providing them with citizenship or legal residency in other countries.

Overall, while Bhutan’s strict citizenship laws may make it difficult for refugees and asylum seekers to gain official recognition and rights within the country, there are some avenues for support through international organizations. However, it is ultimately up to each individual case and decision by the government.

5. What are the requirements for obtaining a permanent resident status in Bhutan?

To obtain a permanent resident status in Bhutan, an individual must meet the following requirements:
1. Must have lived in Bhutan for at least 15 years continuously and legally.
2. Must be of good character and not have any criminal record.
3. Must have respect for the culture, customs, and traditions of Bhutan.
4. Must have basic knowledge of Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language).
5. Must have a sustainable source of income or employment in Bhutan.
6. Must not pose a threat to the national security or sovereignty of Bhutan.
7. Must be recommended by the local government administration or royal court.
8. Must be financially self-sufficient and able to support oneself.
9. Must pass a medical examination to prove good health.
10. In exceptional cases, special permission from His Majesty King of Bhutan may be required.

Note: The above requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and are subject to change at the discretion of the Government of Bhutan.

6. How does Bhutan handle undocumented immigrants?

Bhutan does not have a significant issue with undocumented immigrants as they have strict immigration policies in place. Foreigners wanting to visit or live in Bhutan must obtain a visa, and those who overstay their visa are subject to fines or imprisonment. The country also has a system of checkpoints and permits for visitors traveling outside the main cities, making it difficult for undocumented immigrants to remain undetected. Bhutan also has a citizenship law that specifies strict criteria for becoming a citizen, including having at least one Bhutanese parent and proficiency in the national language, Dzongkha. This means that it is challenging for undocumented immigrants to gain citizenship in Bhutan. However, UNHCR estimates that there may be small numbers of undocumented Nepali-speaking residents living in remote pockets of southern Bhutan who were not recognized as citizens during the 1985 census and subsequent registration processes. These cases are being addressed through ongoing discussions between the governments of Nepal and Bhutan.

7. Are there any special provisions for skilled workers in Bhutan’s immigration policies?

There are no specific provisions for skilled workers in Bhutan’s immigration policies. However, foreign nationals seeking employment in Bhutan must obtain a valid work permit and meet the necessary job qualifications as stated by the Department of Employment under the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources. The work permit is generally granted for a period of 1 year and can be renewed upon application. Foreign workers are also required to obtain a visa before entering Bhutan, which can be obtained through a local sponsor or employer.

8. Is there a quota system for different types of immigrants in Bhutan?

Yes, there is a quota system for different types of immigrants in Bhutan. The government of Bhutan has specific quotas for different categories of immigrants, including skilled workers, investors, refugees and family members of citizens. The quota system is designed to control the number and types of immigrants entering the country and to ensure that these individuals can contribute positively to the country’s economy and society.

9. Are foreign students allowed to work and stay after graduation in Bhutan under the immigration policies?

According to the Department of Immigration, Bhutan does not currently have policies in place for foreign students to work and stay after graduation. However, it is possible for foreign students to obtain employment through the issuance of a work permit, which must be sponsored by a Bhutanese employer. To be eligible for a work permit, applicants must have specific skills or expertise that are not readily available in Bhutan. The duration of the work permit is typically one year and can be renewed annually, but expatriate employees are required to leave the country after their employment contract expires.

10. What measures does Bhutan have in place to prevent illegal migration?

1. Strong border control: Bhutan has strict border control measures in place to prevent illegal migration. The borders are closely monitored by security personnel and any unauthorized entry is intercepted and apprehended.

2. Visa requirements: All foreigners, except for citizens of India, need a valid visa to enter Bhutan. The visa application process involves thorough background checks to ensure that the person has legitimate reasons for visiting the country.

3. Employment restrictions: Bhutan has strict laws governing the employment of foreigners. Only a limited number of foreign workers with specialized skills are allowed to work in Bhutan, and they must obtain the necessary work permit and visa.

4. Nationality laws: Bhutan’s citizenship laws are designed to prevent illegal immigration. Only people who have at least one parent who is a citizen of Bhutan are eligible for citizenship.

5. Regular census and population monitoring: The government of Bhutan conducts regular censuses and population surveys to keep track of the number of inhabitants in the country. This helps in identifying any unusual increase in the population, which could indicate illegal migration.

6. Biometric ID cards: Every citizen above 5 years of age is issued a biometric identity card with unique identification numbers, which helps authorities keep track of residents and identify any unauthorized individuals.

7. Collaboration with neighboring countries: Bhutan has strong collaborations with neighboring countries like India, Nepal, and China to share information on suspicious activities or individuals attempting to enter or leave Bhutan illegally.

8. Tightened security at airports and entry points: Immigration officers at major airports and entry points are trained to identify fraudulent documents and other signs of illegal migration.

9.Risk assessment programs: The government regularly conducts risk assessments to identify potential threats to national security such as human trafficking or organized crime syndicates that facilitate illegal immigration.

10.Bhutanese Citizenship Act (1958): This act outlines the eligibility criteria for obtaining citizenship through naturalization or adoption. It also has provisions for revoking citizenship in case of fraud or misrepresentation, which helps prevent illegal immigration.

11. Does Bhutan’s immigration policy prioritize certain countries or regions over others?

Bhutan’s immigration policy does not prioritize certain countries or regions over others. All foreigners are required to obtain a visa prior to entering Bhutan, regardless of their country of origin. However, the visa application process may be slightly easier for citizens of neighboring countries such as India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Additionally, citizens of India do not need a visa to enter Bhutan as long as they have a valid passport and are traveling for tourism purposes.

12. Are there any age restrictions for immigrants coming to Bhutan?

There are no specific age restrictions for immigrants coming to Bhutan. However, all immigration policies and regulations must be followed, which may vary depending on the purpose of immigration and the type of visa being sought.

13. Is it possible to appeal a decision made by the immigration authorities in Bhutan?

Yes, it is possible to appeal a decision made by the immigration authorities in Bhutan. If your visa or permit application has been rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision within 15 days of receiving the rejection notice.

To appeal, you will need to submit a written request to the Chief Immigration Officer at the nearest Regional Immigration Office or at the Department of Immigration in Thimphu. You must state the reasons for your appeal and provide any additional documents or evidence that supports your case.

The decision on your appeal will be made by a higher authority within 30 days of receiving your request. If your appeal is rejected again, you may be able to request a review from an appellate body such as the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs.

It is important to note that while appeals are possible, they are not guaranteed to be successful. It is best to ensure that all necessary documents and requirements are met when submitting your initial application to avoid potential rejections and appeals.

14. How long does the process of obtaining citizenship take under Bhutan’s immigration policies?

The process of obtaining citizenship under Bhutan’s immigration policies can take several years. The exact timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances, but on average it takes around 5-7 years for an individual to obtain citizenship in Bhutan.

15. ¿Existen requisitos de integración lingüística o cultural para los inmigrantes?

Yes, many countries have certain language and cultural integration requirements for immigrants. These may include:

1. Language proficiency tests: Some countries require immigrants to pass a language proficiency test in the official language(s) of the country. This is to ensure that they are able to communicate effectively and integrate into society.

2. Integration or citizenship courses: Immigrants may be required to participate in integration or citizenship courses which provide education on the culture, values, laws, and customs of the country.

3. Cultural knowledge tests: Some countries may also require immigrants to pass a cultural knowledge test to demonstrate their understanding of the country’s history, traditions, and values.

4. Sponsorship programs: In some cases, immigrants may be required to have a sponsor (such as a family member or employer) who can help them adjust to their new home country and provide support with language or cultural barriers.

5. Community involvement: Some countries may encourage immigrants to get involved in community activities and organizations as a way of integrating into society.

It’s important for immigrants to familiarize themselves with the specific requirements set by the country they wish to immigrate to in order to ensure a successful integration process.

16. Can an immigrant bring their immediate family members with them when moving to Bhutan?

Yes, an immigrant can bring their immediate family members with them when moving to Bhutan. However, they will need to go through the necessary immigration procedures and obtain the appropriate visas for their family members.

17. Are there any incentives or benefits offered to attract foreign investors under the immigration policies of Bhutan?

There are no specific incentives or benefits offered to attract foreign investors under the immigration policies of Bhutan. However, the country’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and its unique Gross National Happiness philosophy may be attractive to certain foreign investors who value such principles.

Additionally, the government has a fast-track system in place for visas and work permits for foreign investors and their employees, making it easier for them to establish their businesses in Bhutan.

Furthermore, as part of Bhutan’s Five-Year Plans and initiatives aimed at economic development, the government has implemented various policies and projects that may indirectly benefit foreign investors, such as infrastructure development and investment-friendly policies.

Overall, while there may not be specific incentives or benefits offered directly to foreign investors, the overall business environment in Bhutan is conducive to attracting foreign investment.

18. Does Bhutan offer any type of temporary work visas for foreigners? If yes, what are the requirements and validity period?

Yes, Bhutan offers temporary work visas for foreigners. The requirements and validity period may vary depending on the type of work visa.

For employment in the private sector, foreigners must have a job offer from a registered Bhutanese company and apply for an Employment Visa. This visa is valid for one year and can be extended upon request.

For employment in the government sector, foreigners must go through a competitive recruitment process and obtain a Work Permit along with their visa. The validity of this visa depends on the duration of the job contract.

Foreigners who wish to volunteer or work on short-term assignments in Bhutan can apply for a Short-Term Work Visa. This visa is valid for up to three months and requires a letter of invitation from a recognized organization in Bhutan.

In all cases, applicants must also provide proof of financial stability and good health, as well as undergo a background check. More information about the different types of work visas and their requirements can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bhutan.

19. How are international marriages and partnerships recognized and supported under the immigration policies of Bhutan?

Bhutan does not have a specific policy for recognizing and supporting international marriages and partnerships under its immigration policies. However, Bhutan allows foreign nationals to enter the country for tourism, business, or work purposes provided they obtain the necessary visa or travel permit. Spouses and children of Bhutanese citizens are also eligible for visas to enter the country.

In cases where a Bhutanese citizen wishes to marry a foreign national, they may apply for a spouse visa on the basis of their marriage. This requires proof of marriage, such as a marriage certificate, and other supporting documents. The spouse can then enter Bhutan with this visa and apply for a residence permit once in the country.

Additionally, Bhutan has provisions for family reunification under its immigration policies. This allows family members of Bhutanese citizens who are living abroad to apply for permanent residence in Bhutan. However, this is subject to certain conditions and requirements set by the immigration authorities.

Overall, while there is no specific policy aimed at recognizing and supporting international marriages and partnerships, foreign nationals who are legally married to Bhutanese citizens or have children with them may be able to enter and reside in Bhutan through existing immigration procedures.

20.Is dual citizenship allowed inBhutan according to its immigration laws?

Dual citizenship is generally not allowed in Bhutan according to its immigration laws. The country has a strict policy of maintaining the cultural and ethnic integrity of its citizenship and does not recognize dual nationality. Foreign nationals who wish to become citizens of Bhutan must renounce their previous nationality before being granted citizenship. However, there are exceptions made for children born to Bhutanese citizens and foreign nationals or for individuals with special skills or contributions to the country who may be granted dual citizenship on a case by case basis. Ultimately, the decision on whether to allow dual citizenship lies with the King of Bhutan.