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Who Needs a Bhutan Visa?
All visitors require a visa before traveling to Bhutan (except those from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, for whom the relevant processes and fees are outlined separately below).
Bhutan Visa/Permits for Indians
Visitors from India will need a permit to enter Bhutan and are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. You may apply for this before visiting Bhutan, or if you’re traveling with a tour operator or staying at a hotel, they can apply on your behalf.
You can also apply for a permit on arrival, but please be aware that there may be a long wait depending on the number of applicants at the time.
Indian nationals under the age of 18 may enter with a birth certificate or passport and must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Bhutan Visa on Arrival
Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives require a visa. You may apply and pay the relevant SDF online and prearrange your travel insurance before traveling, or you can do this in person upon arrival.
Nationals of Switzerland and Thailand who hold diplomatic or government-official passports are also eligible for a visa on arrival at their port of entry.
Bhutan Visa for Other Tourists
Visitors from other countries require a visa. You need to apply and pay the SDF online and prearrange your travel insurance before traveling. If you're traveling with a tour operator or staying at a hotel, they can apply on your behalf.
What are the Bhutan Visa Requirements?
You can apply online for a visa or permit, or if you're traveling with a tour operator, they can apply on your behalf. To apply for a Bhutan visa or permit you will need the following things.
Passport Copy: Submit a clear copy of your passport bio-page. A valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity from the date of entry into Bhutan.
Passport-Sized Photos: You will need to provide a few passport-sized photographs as per the specifications outlined by your tour operator. Typically, two passport-sized photos are required.
Valid travel insurance for the duration of your travel: You must have travel insurance that is valid for the entire duration of your trip and covers medical evacuation, repatriation, and personal liability.
Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form provided by your tour operator. Include all the required information accurately.
Payment details for Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and Visa: To obtain a Bhutanese visa, you need to make the payment for the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and visa fees.
Arrival and departure dates: You need to provide your arrival and departure dates. This is because Bhutan's visa is typically granted for specific entry and exit dates.
Bhutan Visa Price/Cost
Whether applying for a Bhutan visa individually online, or through a Bhutanese travel agency or hotel, both the visa fee and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) must be paid. Visitors eligible for visa on arrival can pay these fees upon entry, while other travelers need to settle these payments before entering Bhutan.
1. Visa Fee
This is a non-refundable government fee of US$40 per person, regardless of your nationality or length of stay.
2. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
What is SDF?
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a key component of Bhutan's unique "High Value, Low Volume" tourism policy. It's a daily levy paid by all visitors on a tourist visa and plays a crucial role in supporting the country's sustainable development goals.
How much is the SDF?
From 1 September 2023 till 31 August 2027, the SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night.
| Adult | Child between 6-12 | Child under 6 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visitors except Indians | USD 100 per night | USD 50 per night | Free |
| Indians | Nu. 1200 per night | Nu. 600 per night | Free |
How to Apply for a Bhutan Visa?
Visitors can apply for their visa or permit online, or you can engage tourism service providers to process a visa or permit.
Although visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives can process visas on arrival at the port of entry and visitors from India can process permits on arrival, it is recommended that these be applied for online instead in order to reduce the wait time at the port of entry.
Option 1: Bhutan Visa Online Application - Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Create an account on the Bhutan Tourism website. You will need an email address to activate your account.
Step 2: Create a new application and fill out the application form. You will need to provide your personal information and travel information, including your name, passport number, date of birth, contact information, arrival and departure dates, and itinerary.
Step 3: Upload the required documents. You will need to upload the following documents: A copy of your passport information page; A passport-sized photograph; Proof of valid travel insurance.
Step 4: Pay the application fee. Calculate the total fee based on the number of nights you will spend in Bhutan at a rate of $100 per night for the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), plus the $40 visa fee. Payments can be made through online payment options provided on the website or via wire transfer. The payment must cover both the SDF and the visa fee.
Once you have paid the application fee, you can submit your application.
Once approved, you will receive your visa electronically, which you must print out and present upon arrival in Bhutan.
Option 2: Through a Travel Agency - Most Convenient for Travelers
Traveling to Bhutan with a reputable travel agency is a convenient and stress-free way to experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of this unique country. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Bhutan visa through a travel agency:
- Choose a Registered Bhutanese Travel Agency: International travel agencies partnering with local Bhutanese companies can also assist with the process.
- Work with the agency to plan your travel itinerary. The itinerary must be finalized before applying for the visa, as it impacts the visa duration and the calculation of the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).
- Submit the necessary personal information and required documents to the travel agency.
- Pay the cost of your trip, which includes the SDF, the visa fee, and all other trip expenses. Payment is usually made through bank transfer, credit card, or other agreed-upon methods with the agency.
- Once we has received your details and payment, we will process the visa application on your behalf.
- After your visa is approved, the travel agency will send you a visa clearance letter. You must print this document and carry it with you, as it will be required to board your flight to Bhutan and to obtain the actual visa stamp in your passport upon arrival.
Online Bhutan Visa Application Form
Data in submission...Frequently Asked Questions about Bhutan Visa
1 Can I apply for a Bhutan visa on my own?
Yes, you can apply for a Bhutan visa on your own online. Considering that many tourists may encounter some issues during the payment process to the designated account, you can entrust your visa application entirely to a travel agency. They are more familiar with the transfer procedures. For example, Asia Odyssey Travel can handle your Bhutan visa application if you book one of our packages, and we will take care of the rest.
2 How long does it take to issue a Bhutan visa?
It may take up to five working days to process a correctly input visa application.
3 How far in advance should I apply for a Bhutan visa?
It's recommended to start the visa application process at least a few months before your intended travel date to ensure all arrangements are made in time.
4 Is my Bhutan visa fee refundable if my travel plans change?
The visa fee is non-refundable. Policies regarding refunds of the SDF and tour costs depend on the terms set by the individual travel agency.
5 Can I travel independently with a Bhutan visa?
Yes, independent visitors are only allowed to travel in Paro and Thimphu. Moreover, when you enter monuments and Dzongs in Bhutan, a guide is still required.
6 What other documents do I need if I plan to trek in Bhutan?
Trekking in Bhutan must be undertaken with an accredited tour operator or guide. We will assist you with all the necessary documents, logistics and safety precautions.
Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel
Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Gangtey.
Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.
Embark on a memorable journey through Bhutan with Asia Odyssey Travel and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and traditions of this unique Himalayan kingdom.
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