Out of America

At a glance

Cost of living: 40; US = 100
Safety: 82; 0–100
Healthcare: 52; 0–100
English: Moderate

Official languages

Dzongkha

Climate

Bhutan has a varied climate from subtropical in the south to alpine in the north. Thimphu at 2,300m has a cool, temperate climate. Bhutan measures national success by Gross National Happiness, has near-total forest cover, and contains some of the Himalayas' most pristine landscapes. Tourism is strictly controlled with a Sustainable Development Fee — long-term residency options are very limited and highly selective.

Path to citizenship

Permanent residency: 10 years; earliest after legal residency
Citizenship: 15 years; earliest after legal residency

Americans abroad here

Estimated US population: ~200
Overall expat scene: Minimal

International schools

None

Getting there

From NYC: ~16.0h
From LAX: ~17.0h

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