Bhutan Visa Policy

The Bhutan eVisa Policy is designed to facilitate travel to Bhutan for tourists, business people, and other visitors who want to experience the unique culture, traditions, and natural beauty of this small Himalayan kingdom. The eVisa is an electronic visa that can be obtained online, making it easier and more convenient for travelers to apply for a visa and enter Bhutan.

The Bhutanese government has established clear rules and regulations for the issuance of eVisas, and applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide the required documents and information. The eVisa is issued for a specific period of time and allows visitors to stay in Bhutan for up to 30 days. The visa can be used for multiple entries during its validity period, which is typically three months from the date of issue.

The eVisa application process is straightforward and can be completed online through the Bhutanese government's official website or through a reputable travel agency. Applicants must provide personal information, passport details, and travel plans, and they must upload a digital passport photo and a copy of their passport. The application fee must also be paid at the time of application, and the fee is non-refundable.

The processing time for the Bhutan eVisa is typically five working days, but rush processing options are available for an additional fee. Applicants should plan to submit their eVisa application well in advance of their intended travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing and any necessary follow-up or corrections.

The Bhutan eVisa Policy also includes provisions for visa extensions and other special circumstances, such as medical emergencies or unforeseen travel disruptions. Visitors should familiarize themselves with these policies and procedures before traveling to Bhutan to ensure that they are prepared for any possible situations that may arise during their stay.

Overall, the Bhutan eVisa Policy is a key component of the country's efforts to promote tourism and economic development while also ensuring the safety and security of visitors. By following the established rules and procedures, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free entry into Bhutan and make the most of their time in this beautiful and unique country.

Purpose of the Bhutan eVisa Policy

The Bhutan eVisa Policy was introduced to facilitate the visa application process for foreign visitors to Bhutan. It aims to simplify the process of obtaining a visa and promote tourism in the country while also ensuring the security of the country's borders.

Previously, visitors to Bhutan were required to apply for a visa through a Bhutanese tour operator, and the process was often time-consuming and complicated. With the introduction of the eVisa policy, visitors can now apply for a visa online and receive their visa approval before traveling to Bhutan.

The policy has also helped to streamline the visa application process by reducing the need for applicants to provide physical documents and reducing the processing time for visa applications.

In addition, the eVisa policy has helped to increase transparency and accountability in the visa application process, as all applications are processed through a centralized online system.

Overall, the purpose of the Bhutan eVisa Policy is to make the visa application process simpler, more efficient, and more secure for visitors to Bhutan. By doing so, the policy aims to increase tourism to Bhutan and promote the country's unique culture and traditions to the world.

Eligible Countries for Bhutan Visa

Currently, all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Bhutan. However, not all countries are eligible for the Bhutan eVisa, which is an online visa application system. The following countries are currently eligible for the Bhutan eVisa:-

Bhutan Visa is free Countries

There are no countries for which Bhutan visas are completely free. However, citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives do not have to pay the daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) that other tourists are required to pay when visiting Bhutan. These citizens still have to pay the visa application fee and other applicable fees. Additionally, citizens of India do not need a visa to enter Bhutan, but they still need a permit.

• Bangladesh
• India
• Maldives

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a mandatory fee that all tourists, except Indian nationals, must pay when visiting Bhutan. The fee is intended to support Bhutan's sustainable development efforts and contribute to the country's economic, social, and cultural development. The SDF was introduced in 2022 as a replacement for the previous government-mandated daily tariff.

The amount of the SDF is set at US $200 per person per night for tourists from all countries except for India. Indian tourists are charged a flat rate of 1,200 ngultrums (equivalent to approximately US $16) per person per night. However, the SDF is waived for children under the age of 6, and children between the ages of 6 and 12 receive a 50% discount.

The SDF is collected by the Bhutanese government and used to support various programs and initiatives in the country, such as the preservation of cultural heritage, the protection of the environment, and the development of infrastructure. The fee is also used to fund free healthcare and education for the Bhutanese people.

Tourists must pay the SDF when they apply for their visa or permit to visit Bhutan. Payment can be made via wire transfer or credit card, and the fee must be paid in US dollars. Visitors who are eligible for a visa on arrival can pay the SDF in US dollars at the port of entry.

If a tourist cancels their trip or shortens their stay, the SDF will be refunded by the Department of Immigration, with any bank charges deducted from the total refunded. Requests for SDF refunds should be submitted online using the visa portal, and the refund will be processed after the tourist leaves Bhutan.

What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) in Bhutan?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a mandatory daily fee that foreign visitors to Bhutan are required to pay. The fee was introduced in 1974 by the Royal Government of Bhutan to regulate and control tourism in order to preserve the country's natural and cultural heritage, and to promote sustainable development.

The SDF is calculated on a per day, per person basis and varies depending on the season and group size. The fee covers the cost of accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed guide for the duration of the stay. The SDF is also used to fund social and cultural projects throughout the country.

The minimum daily package for tourists in Bhutan includes the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed guide. The SDF rate for high season (March, April, May, September, October, and November) is US$250 per person per day, and for low season (December, January, February, June, July, and August) it is US$200 per person per day.

It is important to note that the SDF must be paid in advance to the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and only registered tour operators are authorized to apply for visas on behalf of foreign visitors. The SDF helps to ensure that Bhutan's tourism industry remains sustainable and responsible, while also contributing to the country's social and economic development.

How is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) calculated for tourists in Bhutan?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is calculated on a per day, per person basis for all foreign visitors to Bhutan, regardless of their nationality. The fee covers the cost of accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed guide for the duration of the stay. The SDF also helps to fund social and cultural projects throughout the country.

The SDF rate varies depending on the season and group size. For high season (March, April, May, September, October, and November), the SDF rate is US$250 per person per day, while for low season (December, January, February, June, July, and August), it is US$200 per person per day.

The SDF is a minimum daily package that is set by the Royal Government of Bhutan, and includes the following services:

• Accommodation in approved tourist standard hotels and resorts
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Licensed guide services
• All internal transportation (excluding airfare)
• Sightseeing and cultural activities

It is important to note that the SDF must be paid in advance to the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and only registered tour operators are authorized to apply for visas on behalf of foreign visitors. Additionally, the SDF is non-negotiable and non-refundable, even if the visitor decides to spend less time in Bhutan than originally planned.

What does the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) cover in Bhutan?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a mandatory fee that foreign visitors to Bhutan are required to pay. The SDF covers the cost of various services and amenities that visitors will receive during their stay in Bhutan. These include:

• Meals: The SDF also covers the cost of all meals during the stay, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visitors can enjoy a range of local and international cuisine, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request.
• Transportation: The SDF covers the cost of all internal transportation, including airport transfers, and transportation to and from tourist sites.
• Licensed guide: The SDF also covers the cost of a licensed guide who will accompany visitors throughout their stay in Bhutan. The guide will provide information on local culture, history, and traditions, and ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Sightseeing and cultural activities: The SDF covers the cost of sightseeing and cultural activities, such as visits to temples, museums, and other cultural sites. Visitors can also participate in outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and bird watching.

It is important to note that the SDF is a minimum daily package that is set by the Royal Government of Bhutan, and covers only basic services. Visitors may need to pay additional fees for certain activities, such as rafting or mountain biking, or for higher-end accommodations or services.

How and where can I pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Bhutan travel?

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Bhutan travel can only be paid through an authorized tour operator. The tour operator will make all the necessary arrangements for the payment of the SDF on behalf of the visitor.

Once the visitor confirms their travel plans with the tour operator, the tour operator will obtain the necessary visa clearance letter from the Tourism Council of Bhutan. This letter will be sent to the visitor, who can then use it to apply for a visa at a Bhutanese embassy or consulate.

Once the visa is approved, the tour operator will collect the SDF from the visitor and transfer it to the Tourism Council of Bhutan. The SDF must be paid in full before the visitor's arrival in Bhutan.

It is important to note that the SDF is a mandatory fee that all foreign visitors to Bhutan must pay, and it cannot be paid directly to the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Only registered tour operators are authorized to apply for visas and make SDF payments on behalf of foreign visitors.

The SDF is non-negotiable and non-refundable, even if the visitor decides to spend less time in Bhutan than originally planned. Therefore, it is important to plan the trip carefully and make sure that the desired length of stay is accurately reflected in the SDF payment.

Refund Policy for Bhutan eVisa Fees & Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

The refund policy for Bhutan eVisa fees and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) varies based on the type of fee paid.

For eVisa fees, refunds are only available if the visa application has not yet been processed by the Bhutanese authorities. If the application has already been processed, no refund will be provided.

For SDF, if a trip is cancelled or shortened, the SDF will be refunded by the Department of Immigration. However, any bank charges incurred during the refund process will be deducted from the total refunded amount. Requests for SDF refunds must be submitted online using the visa portal, and the refund will be processed after visitors leave Bhutan.

It is important to note that refund policies may change at any time, so it is best to check the current policy before submitting an application and paying any fees.

Extension of Bhutan eVisa

If you need to extend your Bhutan eVisa, you will need to contact the Immigration Department of Bhutan. The contact information for the department can be found on their official website.

Note that Bhutan eVisa can be extended only in exceptional cases like medical emergencies or unavoidable circumstances. In general, the eVisa cannot be extended beyond its original validity period, which is typically 30 days from the date of arrival.

If you are planning to stay in Bhutan beyond the validity of your eVisa, you will need to apply for a visa extension or a new visa through the nearest Bhutanese embassy or consulate before your current visa expires. The application requirements and process may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for, so it is important to contact the embassy or consulate directly for specific information.

Bhutan eVisa Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy for Bhutan eVisa depends on the specific terms and conditions set by the Bhutanese government and the eVisa processing agency. In general, once the eVisa application is submitted and approved, it may not be possible to cancel or obtain a refund for the eVisa fee.

However, in certain circumstances, such as a medical emergency or a change in travel plans, it may be possible to cancel the eVisa and receive a refund. The specific policy and procedure for cancellation and refund may vary depending on the eVisa processing agency.

It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions and cancellation policy before submitting your Bhutan eVisa application. If you need to cancel your eVisa for any reason, you should contact the eVisa processing agency or the Bhutanese Immigration Department as soon as possible to inquire about the cancellation policy and refund options.

Frequently asked questions