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Bhutan Visa Guide: Application, Fees, and Requirements

Bhutan or Drukyul, known as the land of Thunder Dragon nestled in the Eastern Himalayas is known for its captivating landscapes, rich culture, and its unique approach to tourism. To maintain its pristine environment and cultural heritage, Bhutan imposes specific travel guidelines, including a well-defined visa policy in the year 1970s. For travellers planning a trip to Bhutan, understanding the Bhutan visa application process, fees, and requirements is crucial for a smooth journey.

Overview of the Bhutan Visa Policy

Bhutan operates tourism based on a “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy, requiring most visitors to secure a Bhutan visa in advance. This policy ensures that the country’s natural beauty and cultural assets are preserved while providing an exceptional experience for each traveller.

Who Needs a Bhutan Visa?

  • All international tourists, except for Indian, Maldivian, and Bangladesh nationals, are required to obtain a Bhutan visa before entering the country.
  • Indian, Maldivian and Bangladeshi citizens can even process visas on arrival, by paying a specific fee like the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) or one-time Visa Fee.

Types of Visas Available in Bhutan

  1. Tourist Visa: The most common visa, issued to travellers visiting Bhutan for tourism and leisure.
  2. Student Visa: Available for students pursuing educational courses in Bhutan.
  3. Business Visa: For those visiting on business-related matters.
  4. Diplomatic Visa: Granted to diplomats and official representatives.
  5. Official Visa: For individuals with official passports and government delegations.
  6. Employment visa: Allows a foreign national to work in Bhutan for up to one year.
  7. Dependent visa: For the spouse and children of an official of an international organization, overseas employee, hydropower projects, and Professional Work Permit holders.

Note: Each type of visa has distinct requirements, processing times, and associated fees.

Bhutan Visa Application Process for Tourists (Step-by-Step Guide)

The Bhutan visa process is simple but requires some initial preparation. Once your trip is confirmed with us, we require the following details for processing your Bhutan Visa:

Step 1: Full Payment for Visa Fee and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

  • Upon submission, you will need to pay the one-time non-refundable visa fee of US $40 and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US $100 per person per night.
  • For making a full payment, we request you to refer to our payment details page, please.

Step 2: Documents Require to Apply a Bhutan e-Visa

To apply for a Bhutan visa, the following documents are required:

1. Valid Passport: Requirements

  • Your scanned passport copy, which is clear and in JPEG or PNG format image.
  • The passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months from your intended departure date from Bhutan.

2. Digital Passport Size Photograph:

  • Should not be older than 6 months
  • Should be on white background without a border, and
  • Should be a colour copy, portrait style with eyes open and forehead and ears visible.

3. Travel Dates: Specify your arrival and departure dates for your Bhutan visit.
4. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): This daily fee, is payable during the application process, along with the visa fee. The current rate is US $100 per person per night (discounted rate till 31st August 2027).
5. Visa Application Fee: A separate, one-time non-refundable visa fee of US $40 per person needs to be paid.
6. Travel Insurance: Though it’s not mandatory, however, we recommend all clients possess travel insurance as a precaution in case of any emergency associated with any international travel.

Note: Once we collect your above documents, we will submit them to the Department of Immigration for processing.

Step 3: Visa Approval and Entry Permit

  • Visa processing typically takes 5 working hours. Once approved, you will receive a visa clearance letter, which you must present upon arrival in Bhutan.
  • Upon arrival, your passport will be stamped, granting you official entry into Bhutan.

Step 4: Processing Time, Visa Validity and Entry Permit

  • The Department of Immigration aims to process e-visa applications within 5 working days.
  • Upon approval, your e-visa will be sent to you by our concerned person in the office. Once you receive an e-visa clearance letter, we request you to print a copy, which you must present upon arrival in Bhutan or during your travels.
  • Upon arrival, your passport will be stamped, granting you official entry into Bhutan.
  • The validity of your e-visa typically corresponds to your specified travel dates. However, it’s best to double-check the validity period mentioned on your approved e-visa document.

Bhutan Visa Fees and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Visa Fees

  • The visa fee for Bhutan is US $40 for all tourists, except Indian tourists.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a unique aspect of Bhutan’s tourism policy:

  • International Tourists: Discounted SDF is US $100 per person per night, which is a discounted rate till 31st August 2027.
  • Indian Tourists: SDF is INR 1,200 (approximately US $15) per person per night.
  • Bangladesh Tourists: Discounted SDF is US $15.

The SDF is part of Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable tourism, contributing to environmental conservation, free healthcare, and education for Bhutanese citizens. Travelers can consider this fee as a direct investment in preserving the country’s cultural and natural beauty.

Discounts and Exemptions on the SDF

  • Children (6 ~12): 50% discounted price from full SDF.
  • Children (below 5): No SDF, or exempt.
  • MICE groups: SDF exempt

Bhutan Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

While most visitors require a visa to enter Bhutan, Indian nationals have a different process:

  • Entry Permit: Indian citizens can enter Bhutan with a valid passport or Voter ID card. Upon arrival, they need to obtain an entry permit at the immigration checkpoint.
  • Payment of SDF, which is INR 1,200 per person per night.

Indian citizens travelling by air can obtain the entry permit at Paro International Airport, while those arriving by land can get it at designated border checkpoints, such as Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Bhutan Visa on Arrival vs. Pre-Approved Visa

All international tourists have to arrange a pre-approved e-visa to enter Bhutan. However, nationalities of Bangladeshi and Maldivian citizens can process a visa on arrival, but we recommend arranging your visa, before entering into Bhutan, to reduce waiting times upon arrival, making the journey to Bhutan both easy and enjoyable.

Bhutan Visa Extensions

For travellers wishing to extend their stay, Bhutan offers visa extensions for certain cases, such as extended vacations or educational pursuits.

Eligibility for Visa Extension

  • Extensions are granted for valid reasons, such as travel delays, study programs, or extended tours.
  • However, extending your stay in Bhutan requires applying for a visa extension beforehand.
  • If the visa extension is granted, we have to pay a one-time visa fee of Nu.2000 (approximately US $ 25).

How to Apply for an Extension

  • Our office will assist in applying for a visa extension through the Department of Immigration. However, additional fees are applicable including an extended SDF payment.

Additional Fees

  • Travellers have to pay the SDF for each additional night stayed per person, alongside a nominal extension processing fee.

Bhutan with Open Arms: Awaits Your Arrival

By securing the necessary e-visa, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the captivating kingdom of Bhutan. Remember, responsible tourism is paramount. Respect Bhutan’s customs, preserve its pristine environment and embrace the unique cultural experiences that await you.

With this comprehensive guide and a touch of preparation, your Bhutanese adventure is just around the corner.