The Bhutan eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter and travel within Bhutan for tourism, business, or other purposes. It is an easy and convenient way to obtain a visa for Bhutan without having to physically visit a Bhutanese embassy or consulate.
When applying for a Bhutan eVisa, applicants are required to pay a non-refundable visa fee of US$40 per person. This fee can be paid online using a valid credit or debit card, or through other accepted payment methods such as PayPal.
The processing time for a Bhutan eVisa application is typically 3-5 working days, but may take longer in some cases. It is recommended that applicants apply for their eVisa well in advance of their intended travel date to allow sufficient processing time.
In some cases, applications may be delayed or rejected due to incomplete or incorrect information, or due to issues with payment or supporting documents. It is therefore important to ensure that all the required information and documentation is submitted correctly and in accordance with the Bhutanese government's requirements.
In the event that an application is rejected, the visa fee will not be refunded. It is therefore important to ensure that all the information and documentation provided is accurate and up-to-date.
The Bhutan eVisa is a convenient and efficient way to obtain a visa for Bhutan. The visa fee is reasonable and the processing time is generally quick, making it a popular choice for foreign nationals planning to travel to Bhutan. However, applicants should ensure that they provide all the required information and documentation correctly, in order to avoid any delays or issues with their application.
Bhutan evisa fee
The fee for a Bhutan eVisa is generally USD 40 per person. However, the fee may vary depending on the applicant's nationality. It is important to note that this fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is approved or not.
In addition, there may be additional charges for online payment processing, depending on the payment method chosen. It is advisable to check with the payment provider for any additional charges.
It is important to ensure that the correct fee is paid when submitting the application, as incorrect payments may result in delays or rejection of the application.
It is also recommended to apply for the eVisa well in advance of the intended travel dates, as processing time can take up to five working days. Expedited or rush processing options may be available for an additional fee.
Overall, it is important to carefully review the fees and payment methods before submitting the eVisa application to avoid any issues or complications during the process.
Visa Service Fee
In addition to the visa fee charged by the Bhutanese government, applicants may also be required to pay a visa service fee when applying for a Bhutan visa through an agency.
The visa service fee is a separate fee charged by the embassy or consulate for processing the visa application. The amount of the visa service fee can vary depending on the embassy or consulate, and may also depend on the type of visa being applied for.
It is important to check the website of the embassy or consulate where the visa application will be submitted for information on the visa service fee, as well as any additional fees or charges that may apply.
It is also important to note that the visa service fee is typically non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied or rejected.
Overall, it is recommended to carefully review all fees and charges associated with the visa application process before submitting the application to avoid any surprises or unexpected expenses.
What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?
The Bhutan eVisa policy includes the implementation of a Sustainable Development Fee, which is a contribution made by visitors to support Bhutan's sustainable development goals. The fee is part of the government's commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
Starting from the reopening of Bhutan's borders on September 23rd, 2022, all visitors will be required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee in addition to the visa fee. The fee amount varies depending on the duration of stay, with a daily rate of US$16 for stays of up to 15 days, and US$6.40 per day for stays of more than 15 days.
The Sustainable Development Fee is a critical source of funding for Bhutan's development efforts. The revenue generated from the fee is invested in programs that support the country's sustainable development goals, including the preservation of cultural heritage, environmental protection, and infrastructure development. Additionally, the fee is used to create opportunities for young people and to build resilience in the face of economic and environmental challenges.
The Bhutan eVisa policy requires visitors to pay the Sustainable Development Fee at the time of their visa application. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable, and failure to pay the fee will result in the visa application being rejected.
The Bhutan eVisa policy demonstrates the government's commitment to sustainable development and the preservation of Bhutan's unique culture and environment. By contributing to the Sustainable Development Fee, visitors can play an active role in supporting Bhutan's development goals and ensure that the country's natural and cultural resources are protected for generations to come.
How much is the SDF and where do the funds go?
The SDF or Sustainable Development Fee is an important aspect of tourism in Bhutan. The fee is used to fund various projects aimed at preserving the country’s environment, culture, and infrastructure. The SDF is mandatory for all visitors, except those from India, who are required to pay 1,200 ngultrum per person, per night. Visitors from all other countries are required to pay US$200 per person, per night.
The funds collected through the SDF are utilized for the development of the country, including investment in transformative programs that help preserve the cultural traditions and protect the environment. Additionally, the funds go towards upgrading infrastructure, creating opportunities for young people, and building resilience.
The Bhutanese government allocates funds from the SDF for various projects, including improving transportation, education, and healthcare. The fee is also used to support the local communities by funding various social programs that help improve the quality of life for Bhutanese citizens.
Children aged 6 to 12 receive a 50% concessionary discount on the SDF, while those aged 5 or younger are exempt from the fee. Additionally, day visitors to Bhutanese towns bordering India are also exempt from paying the SDF until they reach a designated point.
Overall, the SDF is an essential aspect of tourism in Bhutan and helps ensure sustainable development of the country while preserving its unique culture and environment.
How do I pay the SDF?
To pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), visitors can choose to pay via wire transfer or credit card during the visa or permit application process. The SDF is paid in US dollars, and Indian nationals applying for a permit can pay in Indian rupees. For visitors eligible for a visa on arrival, the SDF can be paid in US dollars at the port of entry. It's important to note that the SDF must be paid before arrival in Bhutan, and the payment should be made in full to avoid any delays or complications in the visa or permit application process.
If I cancel my trip, will my SDF be refunded?
Yes, visitors who cancel or shorten their trip to Bhutan are eligible for a refund of the SDF. However, any bank charges or fees associated with the refund will be deducted from the total amount refunded. To request a refund, visitors should submit a request through the visa portal online. The Department of Immigration will process the refund after the visitor has left Bhutan. It is important to note that the refund process may take several weeks to complete.
Payment methods for Bhutan evisa
When applying for a Bhutan eVisa online, there are several accepted methods of payment that can be used to pay the visa fee. These payment methods may vary depending on the website used to apply for the visa, but some common methods include:
- Credit or debit card: Most eVisa websites accept payment by credit or debit card, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. It is important to ensure that the card being used is valid and has sufficient funds to cover the visa fee.
- Online payment platforms: Some eVisa websites may also accept payment through online payment platforms, such as PayPal or Skrill. These platforms typically require users to create an account and link a bank account or credit card.
- Bank transfer: In some cases, applicants may be able to pay the visa fee through a bank transfer. This method may require additional time to process the payment and may involve additional fees or charges from the bank.
It is important to note that the accepted payment methods may vary depending on the website used to apply for the visa, and it is recommended to check the website for specific information on payment methods.
When applying for a Bhutan visa through an embassy or consulate, the accepted payment methods may also vary depending on the location. Some common methods include:
- Cash: Some embassies or consulates may accept payment in cash, either in local currency or US dollars. It is important to check the specific requirements for the embassy or consulate being used.
- Bank draft or cashier's check: In some cases, applicants may be required to pay the visa fee using a bank draft or cashier's check. These methods typically involve additional fees or charges from the bank.
- Credit or debit card: Some embassies or consulates may accept payment by credit or debit card, but this method may not be available at all locations.
It is recommended to check the specific payment methods accepted by the embassy or consulate being used and to ensure that all fees and charges are paid in full to avoid delays or complications in the visa processing.
Processing time for Bhutan evisa
The processing time for a Bhutan eVisa varies depending on the type of application and the volume of applications received at the time of submission. Generally, it takes up to 72 hours to process a Bhutan eVisa application. However, it can take up to 5 working days to process a visa application if the documents submitted are not complete or if there are any discrepancies found in the application.
It is recommended that applicants submit their Bhutan eVisa application at least 7 days before their intended travel date to allow for sufficient processing time. It is also important to note that the Bhutanese government does not process visa applications on weekends or public holidays.
For urgent travel, applicants can request expedited processing of their visa application, which may be approved on a case-by-case basis and is subject to an additional fee. In such cases, it is best to contact the Bhutanese embassy or consulate directly to inquire about expedited processing options.
Overall, it is important to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for processing when applying for a Bhutan eVisa to avoid any last-minute complications or delays.
Embassy visa processing time
The processing time for a Bhutan embassy visa may vary depending on the embassy and the volume of applications they receive. Generally, the processing time for a Bhutan embassy visa is around 7-10 working days. However, it is advisable to contact the embassy directly to confirm the processing time as it may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant and the embassy's workload.
It is recommended that applicants submit their visa application well in advance of their intended travel date to allow sufficient time for processing. In some cases, the embassy may offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Applicants should contact the embassy directly to inquire about this option and the associated fees.
It is important to note that the processing time for a Bhutan embassy visa may be longer than that of an eVisa as the application must be submitted and processed manually rather than online. Therefore, applicants should plan accordingly and allow sufficient time for the application process.
Refund policy for Bhutan evisa fees
The Bhutan eVisa fee is non-refundable, meaning that once the payment is made, it cannot be refunded even if the visa application is rejected or cancelled for any reason. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that all the information provided during the application process is accurate and complete. Any errors or inconsistencies can lead to delays or rejections, and the visa fee will not be refunded.
In some cases, if the visa application is rejected due to a mistake on the part of the Bhutanese government, the fee may be refunded. However, this is rare and requires evidence that the mistake was not the fault of the applicant.
It is important to note that the Bhutan eVisa fee is separate from any other fees that may be associated with the visa application process, such as service fees charged by visa processing companies or fees for additional services, such as rush processing or document translation.
Overall, applicants for the Bhutan eVisa should carefully consider all the requirements and fees associated with the application process before submitting their application to avoid any potential issues or additional costs.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of a Bhutan evisa is USD 40 per person.
Yes, there may be additional fees for rush processing or other services. The fees for these services vary depending on the service provider and the type of service requested.
The accepted methods of payment for a Bhutan evisa may include credit or debit cards, PayPal, or other online payment platforms, depending on the service provider.
The processing time for a Bhutan evisa is typically up to 72 hours (3 business days), but it may take longer depending on the volume of applications and other factors.
Yes, some service providers may offer a rush processing option for an additional fee. This may expedite the processing time and result in the visa being issued faster.
The Bhutan evisa fee is generally non-refundable, but some service providers may offer a refund or partial refund in certain circumstances, such as if the application is rejected due to an error on their end. It is important to carefully review the refund policy before submitting an application.
The fee for a Bhutan eVisa is US$40 per person, in addition to any applicable visa service fees.
The accepted payment methods for a Bhutan eVisa may vary depending on the specific website or agency used to submit the application. However, common methods include credit or debit card, PayPal, and bank transfer.
The processing time for a Bhutan eVisa is typically 3-5 business days, although it may take longer in some cases. Rush processing options may be available for an additional fee.
The visa service fee for a Bhutan eVisa may vary depending on the specific website or agency used to submit the application. Some agencies may charge a flat fee, while others may charge a percentage of the visa fee or a combination of both.
No, the visa fee for a Bhutan eVisa is non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is approved or rejected.
Yes, applying for a Bhutan embassy visa may provide a faster processing time than applying for an eVisa. However, it is important to note that embassy visa processing times may still vary and rush processing options may not be available in all cases.