How to Obtain a Bhutan Work Visa

Bhutan, renowned for its commitment to Gross National Happiness, is increasingly opening its doors to foreign expertise to bolster its developing sectors. For employers aiming to hire international talent, understanding the intricacies of Bhutan's work visa process is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to assist employers in navigating the procedures and requirements for obtaining work visas and authorizations in Bhutan.

Understanding work visas and authorizations in Bhutan

In Bhutan, foreign nationals intending to work must secure both a work permit and a visa. The work permit grants the individual the right to be employed, while the visa allows entry and stay in the country. The Department of Immigration, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, oversees the issuance of these documents. Employers play a pivotal role in initiating and facilitating this process.

Importance for employers

Hiring foreign workers can address skill shortages and bring in specialized knowledge, particularly in sectors like construction, education, and healthcare. However, employers must ensure compliance with Bhutanese laws to avoid legal complications and to support the country's efforts in sustainable development.

Application process for Bhutan work visa

Employers must first obtain approval from the Department of Labour. This involves demonstrating the necessity of hiring a foreign worker due to the unavailability of local expertise.
Upon receiving pre-approval, employers submit the necessary documents to the Department of Immigration for visa processing.
If all criteria are met, the Department of Immigration issues the work permit and visa, allowing the foreign national to commence employment in Bhutan.

Necessary documents and requirements

Employers need to prepare and submit:

A valid job offer letter and employment contract
Proof of the company's registration and compliance with Bhutanese laws
A completed visa application form
A copy of the foreign worker's passport with at least six months' validity
Medical clearance certificates
Any additional documents as requested by the authorities

Visa and work authorization requirements

The Immigration Act of Bhutan mandates that foreign workers obtain proper authorization before commencing employment. The Department of Immigration ensures that all foreign nationals comply with visa and work permit regulations, maintaining the integrity of Bhutan's labor market.

Role of Bhutan's Department of Immigration

The Department of Immigration is responsible for:

Processing visa and work permit applications
Monitoring the stay and activities of foreign nationals
Ensuring compliance with immigration laws and regulations

Guiding employers through the employment visa process

Steps before submitting an application

Conduct a thorough assessment to confirm the necessity of hiring a foreign worker
Ensure all job descriptions and requirements are clearly defined
Prepare all necessary documentation meticulously to avoid delays

Common challenges

Delays in processing due to incomplete documentation
Misunderstanding of legal requirements

These challenges can be addressed by working with experts in global expansion like Velocity Global.

Addressing employment regulations and compliance

Bhutanese employment regulations for foreign workers

Employers must adhere to the Labour and Employment Act, which stipulates fair treatment, proper compensation, and safe working conditions for all employees, including foreign nationals.

Ensuring compliance with ministry guidelines

Regularly update employment contracts to reflect current laws and regulations
Maintain open communication with the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources to stay informed about policy changes

Tips for a successful application

To ensure a smooth visa and work permit process, employers should:

Consult early with Bhutan’s Department of Labour to align with current labor market policies
Organize documentation carefully to avoid submission delays or rejections
Monitor updates from Bhutan’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Department of Immigration for policy changes

Utilizing Employer of Record (EOR) providers

An Employer of Record is a third-party organization that hires and pays employees on behalf of another company, handling payroll, taxes, benefits, and compliance with local labor laws. EORs like Velocity Global allow employers to onboard international talent without setting up a legal entity in Bhutan, reducing administrative burden and risk.

Securing permanent residency and beyond

Pathways to permanent residency in Bhutan

While Bhutan does not have a straightforward path to permanent residency for foreign workers, long-term employment and significant contributions to the country may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Long-term employment and residency opportunities

Foreign nationals seeking long-term residency should:

Demonstrate consistent employment and contribution to Bhutan's development
Maintain a clean legal record and comply with all immigration laws

How Velocity Global can help

Navigating the complexities of international employment can be daunting. Velocity Global offers comprehensive solutions to assist employers in hiring and managing foreign talent in Bhutan. Our Employer of Record solution includes expert guidance on visa and work permit processes, compliance assurance with local labor laws, and streamlined onboarding and payroll management for foreign employees.

By partnering with Velocity Global, employers can focus on their core business activities while ensuring that their international hiring practices are efficient and compliant.

This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free.

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Immigration + Relocation