Unraveling the Entry Requirements for Bhutan: Your Gateway to the Kingdom
The Visa Process: Your Passport to Bhutan
Embarking on a journey to Bhutan is a thrilling prospect. The visa application process is a crucial step that brings you closer to this unique kingdom. All travelers, with the exception of those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, must secure a visa before setting foot in Bhutan. The specific procedures and fees for these exempt countries are detailed further in this article.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): An Investment in Bhutan’s Future
The visa application process necessitates the payment of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), a contribution of US$200 per day for each adult, with discounted rates available for children. The SDF is a significant aspect of Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism, and further details can be found here.
On June 1, 2023, Bhutan introduced SDF incentives for extended stays, making the kingdom more accessible to guests planning to stay longer than four nights. You can learn more about these new SDF incentives here. Additionally, a non-refundable visa application fee of US$40 is required.
Online Visa Application: Your Digital Pathway to Bhutan
The visa application can be conveniently completed online, or Our team can handle the process on your behalf. The application can cover all members of your travel party, provided you have the necessary information for each individual.
The online visa application requires the following:
- A digital copy of a valid passport
- A recent digital passport photo
- Confirmed arrival and departure dates
- Valid travel insurance for the duration of your stay
- Payment details
The visa application process is straightforward:
- Sign the Pledge of Friendship, committing to protect, preserve, and positively contribute to Bhutan
- Create an account
- Enter your travel information
- Pay for your visa application and the SDF fee for your intended stay
You can save your application at any point and complete it later. Once submitted, it will be processed within five working days. For any queries, feel free to reach out to our team.
Special Provisions for Visitors from India, Bangladesh, & the Maldives
Indian visitors need a permit, which can be applied for prior to travel or through us or hotel. There are no upfront fees. You can also apply upon arrival, but be prepared for potential delays due to the volume of applicants. If you choose to apply for a permit on arrival, you will need a passport-size photograph and insurance for the duration of your visit, which can be arranged beforehand or purchased upon arrival. The SDF is payable when applying for your permit, either online or in person.
Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also need a visa. However, the process mirrors that for Indian nationals: you can apply and pay the relevant SDF online and arrange your travel insurance before traveling, or handle these matters upon arrival. We strongly recommend arranging your permit or visa in advance to ensure a smooth journey to Bhutan.
Exclusive SDF incentives for extended stays
Depending on their planned itinerary, visitors can choose any of the following options with effect from June 01, 2023:
- 4 + 4: Pay the SDF of USD 200 per night, per person, for four nights, and receive up to four additional nights without the daily levy.
- 7 + 7: Pay the SDF of USD 200 per night, per person, for seven nights, and receive up to seven additional nights without the daily levy.
- 12 + 18: Pay the SDF USD 200 per night per person, for twelve nights, and receive up to eighteen nights without the daily levy.
These incentives are only available for USD 200 per day SDF paying guests.
Visitors are also being given another opportunity to meaningfully contribute to Bhutan’s progress. Each visitor to Bhutan will be offered the chance to plant a tree towards Bhutan’s goal of one million new trees, helping to maintain the kingdom’s carbon-negative status and exceptional forest cover. Tree saplings will be provided to guests who wish to plant them during their stay in Bhutan, before being maintained by Bhutan’s De-suung national service project.
*After the SDF incentive ends, the standard SDF will apply once again.
**These temporary offers may be retracted or extended at any time.