Mandatory Travel Insurance No Longer Required To Visit Bhutan

In a move to further enhance the travel experience for tourists, Bhutan has officially revoked its mandatory travel insurance policy, effective immediately. Previously, visitors had to obtain travel insurance covering various contingencies, including medical emergencies and accidents, per Bhutan’s Tourism Rules and Regulations of 2022. However, this requirement has been lifted in a recent announcement by the Department of Tourism Bhutan, dated April 23, 2024.

The mandatory travel insurance policy was initially implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic to safeguard tourists against unforeseen emergencies, particularly medical expenses related to the virus. However, Bhutan has decided to eliminate this requirement to promote seamless travel and facilitate smoother visa processing for visitors.

While travel insurance is no longer mandatory for visa processing, Bhutan advises tourists to consider obtaining it as a precautionary measure, especially for medical emergencies during international trips. Previously, proof of travel insurance coverage in English was a prerequisite for visa applications. However, with this recent development, tourists now have the option to forego travel insurance when visiting the kingdom of Bhutan.

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is home to several cultural wonders, architectural marvels, and stunning landscapes. Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery clinging to a Paro cliffside (for a full Paro itinerary, click here), or explore the magnificent fortress-monasteries (dzongs) like Punakha Dzong, the winter palace, and Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, the capital city. Thimpu also boasts the gigantic Buddha Dordenma statue. You can also immerse yourself in local life at Thimphu’s bustling market or delve into nature’s paradise at Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan’s largest. Here, trekkers can traverse the Himalayan scenery and spot the national animal, the takin. Finally, witness the majesty of black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley, nicknamed the “Crane Valley.”