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In Bhutan, a Bank App Widens the Door to Cashless Travel

10/22/25, 9:00 PM

With new email-based registration and global card support, GoBoB’s digital wallet aims to make shopping in Bhutan as easy as tapping a screen.

Earlier this month (October 2025), the Bank of Bhutan rolled out a major update to its goBoB digital wallet, adding features designed specifically to make financial transactions easier and more secure for international visitors. 


For the first time, tourists can now register and verify their goBoB wallet accounts using only an email-based one-time password (OTP), even before landing in Bhutan. This streamlined setup eliminates the earlier need for a local SIM card or an annoying visit to a bank branch, allowing visitors to activate and fund their wallets while still home or en route.


Once logged in, the revamped goBoB app enables users to add money directly via international Visa and MasterCard, instantly converting currencies into ngultrum for local spending. 


The new goBoB ecosystem lets travelers explore, dine, split the bill, and shop while staying fully cashless.


The app’s evolving feature set now includes:

  • QR-based merchant payments accepted widely in cafés, taxis, and handicraft shops

  • Offline payment mode for settlements in areas with limited network connectivity

  • In-app customer support in English and Dzongkha

Beyond convenience, the upgrade strengthens data security with end-to-end encryption and customizable spending alerts—protecting both locals and international users.


For visitors arriving and leaving through Paro International Airport, GoBoB counters and QR-enabled merchants are now becoming part of the broader Digital Bhutan cashless campaign, positioning the app as another innovative step toward smart tourism; it turns the challenge of exchanging and handling cash for purchases into a fluid, one-tap experience.


So how do you set it up? 


Here's the Step by Step: 


Step 1: Download the App

You can find the goBoB app on official stores:

Doublecheck to make sure it’s published by the Bank of Bhutan Limited.


Step 2: Choose Your Registration Method (***Email-Based OTP Reccomended***)

The latest version offers two registration modes:

  • Local SIM Registration: For Bhutanese users or travelers with a Bhutanese number.

  • Email-Based OTP Registration: For international visitors — you can register before arriving in Bhutan using your email ID to receive an OTP.

Step 3: Register and Verify

Once you open the app:

  1. Tap “Sign Up Now.”

  2. Choose your registration mode (mobile or email).

  3. Enter your details (name, ID/passport number, email, and date of birth).

  4. Agree to the terms and conditions.

  5. You’ll receive an OTP by SMS (for local SIM) or email (for tourist users).

  6. Enter the OTP to verify your identity.

Your digital wallet is now created!


Step 4: Secure Your Account

After verification:

  • Create your MPIN (login PIN).

  • Set a TPIN for authorizing transactions.

  • Never share your PINs or OTPs with anyone for security reasons.

Step 5: Add Money to Your Wallet

You can fund your goBoB wallet through:

  • International VISA/MasterCard (a 3.5% convenience fee applies).

  • mBoB bank transfer (for customers with a Bank of Bhutan account).

To add money:

  1. Tap Add Funds under the main menu.

  2. Select your preferred payment method.

  3. Enter the desired amount.

  4. Confirm with your TPIN.

Step 6: Start Using goBoB

You’re ready to explore and pay across Bhutan:

  • Scan merchant QR codes at restaurants, cafés, taxis, and handicraft shops.

  • Use Offline Payment Mode for small purchases even with low or no network.

  • View instant transaction receipts and manage spending categories.

Optional: Increase Your Wallet Limit

If you plan to spend more during your trip:

  1. Go to Settings → Request to Enhance Limit.

  2. Submit your passport details and photo ID.

  3. Approval usually takes 1–2 working days.

Need Help?

  • Within Bhutan: Call 1095 (toll-free)

  • Outside Bhutan: +975 2 349903

Tip for Travelers: You can now complete goBoB setup before your trip. Register with your passport and email, verify via email OTP, and load funds using your international card—making it easy to go cashless as soon as you arrive in Bhutan.

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