Visa to Bhutan

Bhutan Visa Policy

Bhutan values its unique cultural heritage and pristine environment by regulating tourism with a High Value, Low Impact policy. As of August 2023, the Royal Government has introduced new incentives and policies to enhance the tourism sector, recognizing its vital role in creating jobs, earning foreign exchange, and driving economic growth in related industries.

1. Visa Requirements: Visitors from all nationalities, except India, need a visa to enter Bhutan, with most required to obtain it in advance. Travelers from Bangladesh and the Maldives can apply either beforehand or upon arrival. Indian visitors may apply for a permit using an Indian passport or voter ID, while those under 18 can enter with a passport or birth certificate, provided they are accompanied by a legal guardian.

2. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): A 50% discount on the standard SDF of USD 200 is available for US dollar-paying tourists, reducing the fee to USD 100 per adult per day. This discount also applies to US dollar-paying children aged 6 to 12. Additionally, the 24-hour SDF waiver for tourists staying in border towns remain in effect.

3. Applying for a Visa: Visitors can apply for a visa clearance or permit online via the Department of Immigration’s website, or they can work with tourism service providers like Ventara Tours to manage their travel documents and trip planning.

4. Effective Period: These incentives are valid from 1st September 2023 to 31stAugust 2027, with periodic assessments to be carried out by the Royal Government.

Applying for a Visa

Before you apply for your visa, make sure you have following documents:

1. A digital copy (JPEG or PNG) of your passport with minimum of 6 months validity from the intended date of departure from Bhutan. 

2. Recent digital passport size photograph in white background.

3. Intended travel dates.

4. A one-off visa application fee of USD40. (If traveling with VenTara Tours; you don't have to pay separate visa fee)

5. The payment of Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) i.e. USD 100 per night for adults and USD 50 per night for children aged 5 to under 12. The SDF is waived for children under 5 years old.