VISA Information

VISA Information

Bhutan has a very specific and unique visa policy, designed to adhere to its “High Value, Low Volume” tourism strategy. Unlike most countries where you apply for a visa directly, in Bhutan, the process is largely intertwined with your tour arrangements.

Here’s a breakdown of the visa information for Bhutan, effective as of June 2025:

1. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – The Core of Bhutan’s Tourism Policy

• What it is: The SDF is a daily fee paid by tourists to the Royal Government of Bhutan. It’s not just a visa fee but a contribution towards Bhutan’s free healthcare and education, infrastructure development, environmental preservation, and cultural protection. It’s a key component of their Gross National Happiness philosophy.
• Current Rate (for most international tourists):
  • US$100 per person per night for adults (age 12 and above).
  • US$50 per person per night for children aged 6-12 years.
  • Children under 5 years old are exempt from the SDF.
• Duration of Rate: This US$100 per night rate is a discounted rate introduced in 2023 and is expected to remain in effect until August 31, 2027.
• What it DOES NOT cover: The SDF does not cover your accommodation, meals, transportation, guide services, or entry fees to attractions. These are all separate costs that you will arrange with your tour operator or hotel.
• Payment: The SDF is paid in advance, usually as part of your overall tour payment, to your licensed Bhutanese tour operator or directly online through the Bhutan Immigration Services Portal.

2. Visa Application Process (for most international tourists – excluding India, Bangladesh, Maldives)

• Visa Required: All foreign nationals, with the exception of those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, require a visa in advance to enter Bhutan.
• No Direct Embassy Application: You generally cannot apply for a Bhutanese visa directly at an embassy or consulate overseas.
• Managed by Tour Operators/Hotels: The standard and most common way to get your visa is through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or, if you’re booking your trip independently, your hotel.
  • You provide them with the necessary documents (digital copy of your valid passport, a recent digital passport-sized photo, and your arrival/departure dates).
  • They will process your visa application on your behalf after you have paid the full tour cost (or at least the SDF and visa fee).
• Online Application (Directly): It is now also possible to apply for a visa directly online through the official Bhutan Immigration Services Portal (visit.doi.gov.bt). You’ll need to create an account, provide your travel information, upload documents, and pay the SDF and visa fee.
• Visa Fee: A non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of US$40 is payable in addition to the SDF. This is often bundled into your tour package cost.
• e-Visa Clearance Letter: Once your application is approved and payments are confirmed, you will receive an e-Visa clearance letter (usually a PDF). You must print this letter and carry it with you.
• Visa Stamped on Arrival: Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport (or a land border crossing), you will present your e-Visa clearance letter, and the actual visa sticker will be stamped into your passport by immigration officials.
• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Bhutan.
• Pledge of Friendship: As part of the application, you’ll be asked to sign a “Pledge of Friendship” to commit to respecting Bhutan’s culture and environment.

3. Specific Visa/Permit Information for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals

• Indian Nationals:
  • Do not require a visa but need an Entry Permit.
  • Can apply for the permit online in advance or upon arrival at the port of entry (Paro Airport or land borders like Phuentsholing). Applying in advance is recommended to reduce wait times.
  • Required Documents: Valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity) OR a Voter Identity Card issued by the Election Commission of India. For children under 18, an original birth certificate can be used if no passport is available, and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
  • SDF: Indian nationals pay a significantly lower SDF of Nu. 1200 (approximately US$15) per person per night.
  • Route Permits: If traveling beyond Thimphu and Paro, Indian nationals need to obtain additional “route permits” from the Department of Immigration in Thimphu on working days.
• Bangladeshi and Maldivian Nationals:
  • Require a visa, but the process is similar to Indian nationals (permit application, rather than the full visa process for other international tourists).
  • Can apply online in advance or are often eligible for a visa on arrival at the port of entry.
  • SDF: They pay a specific SDF (e.g., US$16 per night for Bangladeshi and Maldivian nationals, though confirm the exact current rate as this can occasionally vary slightly).

4. Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)

• While the mandatory requirement for travel insurance was reportedly lifted in 2024, it is still highly recommended that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
  • Emergency medical coverage.
  • Emergency medical evacuation, as advanced medical facilities in Bhutan are limited, and serious conditions may require evacuation to India or Thailand.

Key Takeaways for Visa Application:

• Plan Ahead: Start planning your trip and visa application well in advance (at least 1-2 months, especially for peak season).
• Tour Operator is Your Best Bet: For most international tourists, using a licensed Bhutanese tour operator simplifies the visa process significantly as they handle most of the paperwork.
• Know Your SDF: Be aware of the applicable Sustainable Development Fee based on your nationality and age.
• Print Your Clearance: Always have a printed copy of your e-Visa clearance letter ready for check-in and immigration.

Understanding these procedures ensures a smooth and enjoyable entry into the Kingdom of Bhutan.