Moving to Bhutan

The Government of Bhutan actively supports sustainable development aimed at preserving the country's wealth for future generations. As part of this initiative, Bhutan offers a number of incentives to potential immigrants who wish to settle in the country. These include tax exemptions and free accommodation for children under the age of 16, creating an attractive environment for those considering permanent residency in this fascinating part of the world.

To move to Bhutan permanently, you need to apply for a residence permit from the Bhutanese authorities. The process of obtaining a permanent residence permit in Bhutan can be complex and involves several steps.

Entry visa: The first step is to obtain a visa to enter the country. This can be a tourist visa or any other type of visa that allows entry into Bhutan.

Application: After your arrival in Bhutan, if you intend to stay permanently, you will need to apply for a permit from the relevant authorities.

Examination of the application: Your application will be reviewed by the Bhutanese authorities. Among other things, they will check your qualifications, the circumstances of your relocation and your compliance with Bhutanese laws and regulations.

Decision and notification: Once the review process is complete, you will be notified of the decision. If the decision is positive, you will be granted permanent residency.

It is important to note that Bhutan supports sustainable development and strives to preserve its uniqueness. Therefore, the processes of emigration and permanent residency can be carefully managed in line with the country's national development strategy.

Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan. It is home to important cultural and administrative institutions as well as shopping centers and entertainment venues. The city is located in the picturesque valley of the Wangchu River.

Paro is a city in western Bhutan known for its many Buddhist temples and monasteries. It is ideal for those seeking a quiet life in a spiritual atmosphere.

Bumthang is a small town in the north of the country, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. Famous for the production of woolen fabrics and handicrafts. Suitable for lovers of the mountains and quiet provincial life.

Punakha - Located in a subtropical valley in western Bhutan. Famous for the ancient Punakha Dzong Palace. A great place for lovers of the warm climate and outdoor activities.

To obtain permanent residency in Bhutan, an application must be submitted in the prescribed form. Bhutanese citizenship is acquired through naturalization, which is subject to certain conditions.
Persons who have completed 21 years of age can apply for Bhutanese citizenship. In addition, the applicant must have been a legal resident of Bhutan for at least fifteen years. This requirement is intended to ensure long-term and legal residence in the country.
An important requirement is that the applicant has no criminal record either inside or outside the country. This measure is intended to ensure security and compliance with the country's laws.
Therefore, to obtain a permanent residence permit in Bhutan, a formal application must be made, the age and residency requirements must be met, and the applicant must not have a criminal record.

Housing in Bhutan for an expat - renting an apartment in Thimphu (the capital) costs from $300 per month, renting a house in the regions - from $500 per month, buying real estate is prohibited for foreigners.
Food - food in stores costs about the same as in Europe, lunch in a café or restaurant from $5 per person.
Transportation - public transportation in the cities costs about $0.5 per trip, cab - starting fare of $2, another $0.5 per km, a rental car costs from $30 per day.
Medicine and education - health insurance from 500 dollars per year, public schools - from 300 dollars per month and child.
So you can live in Bhutan from 1000-1500 dollars a month.

Bhutan has a single national health insurance scheme for citizens and residents, including expats. It is administered by the Ministry of Health and provides basic medical care.
According to regulations, expats must pay annual premiums of between 1% and 3% of their income. The insurance covers outpatient treatment, hospitalization, emergency treatment, tests and some operations.

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all legal residents in Bhutan, including expats. It is a prerequisite for obtaining a work permit.
Therefore, expats are automatically covered under the national health insurance scheme when they move to Bhutan. This guarantees them access to basic medical care in the country.

Yes, foreigners can work in Bhutan, but there are some restrictions and conditions. In order to be employed in the country, a foreigner must obtain a work visa. An employer in Bhutan is required to apply for a work visa for a particular foreign employee.
Since preference is given to local applicants, inviting a foreign skilled worker is only an option if no suitable candidate is found locally for the position in question.
However, it should be noted that Bhutan is committed to sustainable development and the preservation of its cultural and natural uniqueness. Therefore, the number of jobs for foreigners may be limited and the requirements for obtaining work visas may be carefully regulated to be in line with Bhutan's sustainable development strategy.

Advantages:

• Amazing nature - mountains, forests, clean air
• Rich culture and spiritual traditions
• Low crime rate, safety
• Opportunity to lead a moderate lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle and noise
• Affordable housing, food and services compared to Europe
• Good healthcare and education system
• Opportunities for yoga, meditation, tourism.

Disadvantages:

• Poorly developed infrastructure, especially in rural areas
• Limited entertainment and cultural offerings
• Difficulties in employing foreigners
• Language barrier, not everyone speaks English
• Relative isolation of the country
• Not very developed medicine compared to European standards
• Rather conservative society with many rules