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Browse the full Bhutan library →All visitors except citizens of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives need a visa before travel. You can apply online yourself, or a certified tour operator or hotel can apply on your behalf. The official reference is USD 100 SDF per adult per night plus a non-refundable USD 40 visa application fee.
Who needs what
All visitors require a visa before travelling except citizens of India, Bangladesh and the Maldives. Indian visitors require a permit. Bangladesh and Maldives citizens require visas but follow the separate process described on Bhutan's official visitor portal.
How to apply
A traveller can create an account and apply online for themselves and companions. A certified tour operator or hotel may also submit the application. Prepare a valid passport copy, recent passport photograph, arrival and departure dates and payment details.
Fees and timing
The official visitor portal lists USD 100 SDF per adult per night, with concessionary rates for children, and a non-refundable USD 40 visa application fee. It says submitted applications are reviewed within five working days, but applying earlier gives time to fix errors.
Passport and arrival check
The Immigration Services Portal states that a tourist passport must be valid for six months from the intended departure date from Bhutan. Carry the visa or permit approval, operator or hotel contact, insurance details and onward travel record offline.
Useful answers
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a Bhutan visa myself?
Yes. Bhutan's official visitor portal provides an online application. A certified tour operator or hotel can also apply on your behalf.
How much are the current visa and SDF charges?
The official reference is a non-refundable USD 40 visa application fee plus USD 100 SDF per adult per night; children have concessionary SDF rates.
How long must my passport be valid?
The immigration portal states six months from your intended departure date from Bhutan.
How long does approval take?
The official visitor site states that a submitted application is reviewed within five working days. Apply earlier because incomplete information can add time.
Can Indian visitors get a permit on arrival?
The official site says Indian visitors may apply beforehand or at the point of entry, but on-arrival processing can involve a long wait.
Sources and fact-checking
Rules, prices, access, weather and local procedures can change. Reconfirm current conditions before travel.
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