Delegates
Delegate
Dechen Tshomo
Alternate 1
Tenzin Choden Dorji
Alternate 2
Tshering Yangdon
Working in Bhutan
General Information
Number of occupational therapists in Bhutan
4
Terminology
In
Bhutan
, the term "occupational therapist" is also referred to as No
Main language(s) spoken in Bhutan
Dzongkha, English
Other languages commonly spoken in Bhutan
Dzongkha
Registration
Occupational therapists are required to register with a federal/national organisation to practice
Required
Occupational Therapy practitioners should register with Bhutan Medical and Health council which is a composite body created under statutory order of the Royal Government of Bhutan to regulate Medical and Health Profession in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
https://www.bmhc.gov.bt/ (External) ↗
https://www.bmhc.gov.bt/ (External) ↗
Occupational therapists are required to register with a state/regional organisation to practice
Required
The registration is mandatory for practicing in the country and the registration license is to be renewed every 5 years.
It is compulsory to join the Bhutan Association of Occupational Therapists in order to practice as an occupational therapist
No
Practicing Requirements
Graduation from a WFOT approved programme is required to register to practice
No
Prefered but not required, the practitioner should pass the Royal Civil Service Examination.
Language(s) that are required for occupational therapists to practice
Dzongkha, English
Being fluent in local dialects like sharchop and lotsam is a bonus.
Additional requirements for occupational therapists to practice
Fulfill the criteria of Bhutan Medical and Health council.
Employment Opportunities
Occupational therapy is recognised as a shortage occupation
Yes
With just 4 Occupational Therapists in the country and without the degree program within the country, the profession is in high demand.
Sources of information for occupational therapist employment opportunities
Employment is strictly through government agencies( Ministry of Health), Private practices are not allowed. Occupational Therapist Volunteers overseas are allowed practices under the government agencies and NGos.
Immigration
Immigration regulations or visa requirements to practice
To work in Bhutan as a foreign professional, you’ll need both an Employment Visa and a Work Permit
https://www.doi.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IRRs_11_Nov_2023.pdf (External) ↗
https://www.doi.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IRRs_11_Nov_2023.pdf (External) ↗
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapy assistants exist in Bhutan
No
Disclaimer: This information was provided by Bhutan Association of Occupational Therapists and was last updated on 2nd April 2026. WFOT is not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or changes in the information provided. This information is intended as a guide and should be independently verified before making any decisions.
Education Programmes
There are no WFOT Approved Programmes in Bhutan at this time.