Bhutanese will be able to process British Visas in the country from mid May onward. At the moment, Bhutanese have to travel to Indian cities like New Delhi and Kolkata to apply for Visas.
The announcement to open New Visa Application Centre in the country was made during a reception held for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, last evening.
“I am so pleased we are able to build on the strong relationship between our two countries by opening the UK’s first Visa Application Centre in Bhutan. I hope it encourages more Bhutanese to visit the UK, where they are sure to receive a warm welcome,” said British High Commissioner, Sir Dominic Asquith.
UK Visas and Immigration Regional Director for South Asia, Nick Crouch said they are committed to improve its service and make it easier for customers across the world to apply for UK visas.
“We hope that by offering this new service we will see more Bhutanese applying for their visas and coming to the UK to visit or study,” said Nick Crouch.
The centre, which will be located in Thimphu will be open five days a week.
A press release from British High Commission in India’s capital, New Delhi says the visa process will not be altered as a result of this new service.
It says applicants will continue to apply for their visa and book their visa appointment through their website.
“However there will be an extra charge to use this user-pay VAC which is £54 on top of the cost of the visa.”
This charge, along with the visa fee, will need to be paid for when the application is submitted online, according to the release.
The release also says all visa decisions will be made in Delhi and will be processed within 15 working days.
