Samlha Tours & Travels

Bhutan Visa

Bhutan Visa Requirements and Fees 2025

Bhutan has a unique visa policy, requiring all tourists to obtain a visa before entering the country, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the visa application process:

Who Needs a Visa?

– All visitors, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, require a visa to enter Bhutan.

Visa Application Process:

– Apply online through the Bhutan Immigration Services Portal or through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
– Submit required documents, including:
– *Valid Passport*: With at least six months’ validity
– *Passport-Sized Photograph*: Recent photo required
– *Travel Insurance*: Mandatory for the duration of your visit

Visa Fees and SDF:

– *Visa Application Fee*: $40 per person (one-time, non-refundable)
– *Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)*:
– *International Tourists*: $100 per person per night
– *Indian Nationals*: ₹1,200 per person per night
– *Children*:
– *Under 5 years*: Exempt from SDF
– *6-12 years*: 50% of SDF (International Tourists: $50 per night, Indian Nationals: ₹600 per night)

Visa Requirements for Different Nationalities:

– *Nationals of Countries Other Than India, Bangladesh, and Maldives*:

– Mandatory visa requirement
– Apply online or through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator
– *Indian Nationals*:
– Permit required
– Apply online or through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or hotel
– Required documents: valid passport or voter ID card, recent passport-sized photograph, and travel insurance
– *Bangladeshi and Maldivian Nationals*:
– Similar requirements as Indian nationals (permit application, rather than full visa process for other international tourists)

Application Timeline:

– Apply for your visa at least 30 days before your planned travel date.
– Processing time usually takes up to five working days.