Applying for a visa (or permit) is simple and straightforward – and brings your journey to Bhutan one step closer.
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).
As part of the visa application process, you will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per day for US Dollar paying tourists. A non-refundable, one-off visa application fee of USD 40 is also payable.
Children below the age of 5 years are exempted from the SDF. However, the visa application fee of USD 40 is still applicable. Children between the age of 5 to 12 years old, are required to pay USD 50 per person per night as the SDF.
SDF does not include accommodation, meals, transport and guides.
To apply for a visa online you will need:
- A digital copy of a valid passport
- A recent digital passport photo
- Arrival and departure dates
- Passport must have minimum validity of six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan
- Valid travel insurance for the duration of your travel
VISITORS FROM INDIA, BANGLADESH AND THE MALDIVES
Visitors from India require a permit. Your SDF is payable when applying for your permit, either online or in person. India tourists are required to pay Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200/- per person per night. Children aged 5 years and below are exempted of SDF and children between the age of 6-12 years are given 50% concession on SDF.
You can also apply at your point of entry, but please be aware that there may be a long wait depending on the number of applicants at the time. If you are applying for a permit on arrival, you will need a passport-size photograph. You must also have insurance for the duration of your visit, which you can prearrange or purchase upon arrival.
Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives require a visa, but the process is the same as the one outlined above for Indian nationals.
We recommend arranging your permit or visa beforehand.