Bhutan visa and Sustainable Development Fee
How the visa works, what the SDF costs and what is included in our prices.
How the visa works
All visitors need a visa except Indian nationals, who need a permit instead. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives apply for a visa in the same way as everyone else.
You can apply online through the government portal, or your tour operator can apply for you. When you book with us, we handle the application. You will need a digital copy of your passport, a recent digital passport photo and your travel dates. Applications are reviewed within five working days.
The visa application fee is a one-off, non-refundable US$40.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Bhutan charges a daily fee that funds conservation, free health care, education and infrastructure. The current rates are:
- US$100 per adult per night
- US$50 per night for children aged 6 to 11
- No fee for children under 6
- Nu. 1,200 per adult per night for Indian nationals
The Department of Tourism has said the US$100 rate applies until 31 August 2027. From 2 June 2026 until August 2027, visitors staying no more than 24 hours in the border towns of Phuentsholing, Gelephu, Samdrup Jongkhar and Samtse do not pay the SDF.
Our prices include the SDF, so the quote you receive shows the full cost of your journey.
Guides and insurance
Visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide, and a guide is required to enter dzongs and monuments. Travel insurance has not been compulsory since April 2024, but we strongly recommend it, especially for trekking.
Last reviewed: 15 October 2026. Rules and fees can change; check the Department of Tourism and Department of Immigration for the latest information.
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