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Some Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a visa to enter Bhutan?
All foreign nationals, except citizens of India, are required to obtain a visa to enter Bhutan. For most travelers—excluding nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives—the visa must be secured prior to arrival. Citizens of Bangladesh and the Maldives may obtain a visa either in advance or upon arrival.
Indian nationals require an entry permit and must present a valid Indian passport or voter ID card. Minors under 18 may enter with a passport or birth certificate, accompanied by a legal guardian.
Holders of diplomatic or official passports from Switzerland and Thailand are eligible for a visa on arrival.
What is the process for applying for a tourist visa?
Applications for tourist visas are submitted by the tour operator. Visa clearance from Thimphu must be obtained before coming to Bhutan.
How much does the visa cost ?
A non-refundable processing fee of US$40 applies to each visa application. This fee is payable alongside the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) at the time of submission.
What is SDF fee & How is it used ?
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is levied on all visitors to Bhutan to support the nation’s sustainable development.
The SDF is USD 100 per adult per night for all nationalities except India. Children aged 6 to below 12 years are charged USD 50 per night, while children below 6 years are exempt.
For Indian nationals (holding a valid Indian passport or voter ID card), the SDF is Nu./INR 1,200 per adult per night. Children aged 6 to below 12 years are charged Nu./INR 600 per night, and those under 6 years are exempt.
The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and contributes to Bhutan’s long-term, sustainable growth through funding for free healthcare and education, skills development, infrastructure enhancement, environmental and cultural preservation, and support for local communities and businesses. It also plays a vital role in maintaining Bhutan’s forest cover, carbon neutrality, and the serene, high-quality experience offered to visitors.
How can visitors travel around Bhutan?
The most convenient means of travel within Bhutan is to hire a vehicle with a driver through a car rental agency or licensed tourism service provider, as self-drive rentals are not permitted.
Local drivers, transport services, airline tickets, and tour operators can also be booked via the Druk Ride app, or arranged through your hotel. For travelers booking through a tour operator, all transportation will be organized as part of the itinerary.
Domestic flights provide the fastest travel option over long distances, with services operating between Paro and Yonphula (east), Bumthang (central), and Gelephu (south-central). Helicopter services may be arranged for special itineraries. For details, visit the Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services website or consult your travel partner.
For detialed FAQ, please visit the official Depart,emt of Tourism page by clicking here.