iDesireExplorations · Bhutan
Home/Bhutan guide/Visa and SDF

Bhutan entry guide

Visa, permits and the Sustainable Development Fee

Your nationality determines whether you need a visa or permit and which SDF rate may apply. Use this page as a planning guide, then confirm the final requirement during application.

Ask iDesire to assist

Current published rates

Which rate may apply?

These figures are planning information, not a payment demand. Confirm eligibility and the charge shown in the official application before paying.

Visa

International visitors other than India and qualifying Bangladesh visitors

USD 100per person, per night
Age 6 to under 12
USD 50.00
Under age 6
No SDF
Visa fee shown
USD 40.00

Child rate applies from age 6 until the 12th birthday. The visa application fee is one-off and non-refundable.

Official source: Bhutan Department of Tourism ↗Verified 2026-10-04 · current period ends 2027-08-31

Permit

Indian nationals

BTN/INR 1200per person, per night
Age 6 to under 12
BTN/INR 600.00
Under age 6
No SDF
Visa fee shown
See applicable process

A valid Indian passport or voter ID is required. Special document provisions apply to travellers under 18.

Official source: Bhutan Department of Tourism FAQ ↗Verified 2026-10-04

Visa

Qualifying Bangladeshi visitors

USD 15per person, per day
Age 6 to under 12
USD 7.50
Under age 6
No SDF
Visa fee shown
See applicable process

The reduced rate is limited to the first 15,000 eligible Bangladeshi guests. Eligibility must be confirmed at application.

Official source: Bhutan Department of Tourism FAQ ↗Verified 2026-10-04

Application process

How to apply

Most travellers can apply online or ask a certified Bhutanese tour operator or hotel to apply on their behalf. Prepare the required identity document, a recent photograph, travel dates and payment details.

  1. Confirm the passport or accepted identity document.
  2. Prepare a recent passport photograph.
  3. Confirm arrival and departure dates.
  4. Complete the official online application or authorise an eligible service provider.
  5. Check the displayed SDF and application fee before payment.
  6. Keep the approved visa or permit available for travel.

Limited 24-hour provision

Border-town SDF waiver

A limited waiver may apply for visits of up to 24 hours within designated zones of specified border towns. It does not apply when travelling beyond those zones. Confirm current validity before relying on it.

Do not build an onward Bhutan itinerary around this waiver. SDF applies when a visitor leaves the designated border zone.

Direct answers

Visa and SDF questions

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Most international visitors require a visa before travel. Indian nationals require a permit. Bangladesh and Maldives visitors follow separate visa procedures.

What is the current SDF for most international adults?

The published rate is USD 100 per person per night under the current incentive, scheduled through 31 August 2027, subject to government review.

Do children pay the full SDF?

Children from age 6 until their 12th birthday pay 50% of the applicable standard rate. Children under 6 do not pay SDF.

Can iDesire guarantee my visa?

No. iDesire can assist with preparation and submission, but approval is decided by the Department of Immigration.

Need help checking your case?

Tell us your nationality, ages and travel dates

We can explain the likely process and prepare an application checklist. Final approval remains with the Department of Immigration.

Request assistanceReturn to Bhutan guide →