Bhutan

Singaporeans are required to obtain a visa before travelling to Bhutan.  Visas are only issued to tourists booked with a local license tour operator, either directly or through a foreign travel agent.  Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the tour operator. The Bhutanese government sets minimum selling prices for tour packages, which must be paid in US dollars prior to arrival.  The package includes all accommodation, all meals, transportation, cultural programmes, and the services of licensed guides and porters.  Tourists travelling alone or in a group of two are also subject to a surcharge, in addition to the minimum package rates.  Holiday travellers going to Bhutan can refer to the Tourism Council of Bhutan for more information and for a list of authorised Bhutan tour operators.

Business travellers or those travelling for non-tourist reasons should arrange their visa through their sponsoring organisations.  

There should be at least six months' validity on your passport on the expected date of departure from Bhutan. As visa requirements often change at short notice, we advise you to contact your travel agency, or the nearest Bhutanese Embassy for up-to-date information.

If your passport is lost or stolen in Bhutan, you will need to do the following:

1. Lodge a police report with the Bhutan authorities.
2. Contact the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi. Our Consular officer will e-mail you a fingerprint verification form, which you will have to fill up, scan and email back.
3. Upon verification, the Singapore High Commission will inform ICA and you will have to arrange for a NOK to submit the application for a new passport on your behalf. Your NOK will also have to make arrangements to mail your new passport to you once it is ready.
4. If you have lost your passport and need to return to Singapore urgently, the High Commission will issue you a Document of Identity (DOI) after verification. To process your DOI, you must provide one passport-sized colour photograph and a fee of Rs 750 (subject to change) to the High Commission. The DOI can be couriered to you at your own expense.

Replacement of Bhutan Visa:

1. A Singapore Citizen who is issued with a replacement passport in Bhutan after a passport has been lost or stolen must bring the replacement passport to the Bhutan Department of Immigration to receive an exit visa. This exit visa allows the traveller a specified period of time (as stated by the Bhutanese authorities) in which to leave the county legally.
2. The same requirement applies if you are issued a DOI, which also needs to be endorsed by an exit permit.
3. The contact number of the Department of Immigration in Bhutan is +975 02-322301/322015/325173.

The crime rate in Bhutan is low. Violent crime is uncommon, but there are occasional burglaries, thefts and petty crime. Travellers should still remain vigilant. The Tourism Council of Bhutan warns against foreigners booking their travel with unregistered tour operators. Use only licensed tour operators. 

Tobacco:  It is illegal to sell or buy tobacco in Bhutan.  Travellers may import a limited number of tobacco products for personal use, subject to import duty.  

Trekking:  Trekking can be dangerous, and travellers should plan their trips carefully.  Before departing, ensure that your travel insurance covers all your activities, including emergency evacuation.  Travellers should also seek an update on the climate in the specific area of travel.  

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 14 October 2021]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website (www.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrests or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas.  These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance.  The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport nos., address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.