Bhutan, the last great Himalayan kingdom, measures success by Gross National Happiness rather than GDP. This unique country offers ancient Buddhist monasteries, dramatic mountain landscapes, vibrant festivals, and a commitment to sustainability found nowhere else on Earth.
The Bhutan e-Visa system makes applying simpler than before, though visitors must pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting the Land of the Thunder Dragon with DoVisa.
What is the Bhutan e-Visa?
The Bhutan e-Visa is an electronic visa that allows international tourists to visit Bhutan. Since 2023, Bhutan has implemented a new tourism policy that allows independent travel (previously you needed a tour package) while maintaining the Sustainable Development Fee.
The visa is applied for online and linked to your passport electronically. This digital system has made visiting Bhutan more accessible while preserving the country's commitment to high-value, low-impact tourism.
Bhutan e-Visa at a Glance
Validity: 30 days from entry
Stay duration: Up to 30 days (extendable)
Processing: 5-7 business days
Visa fee: $40 USD
SDF: $100 USD per night
Entry: By air (Paro) or land (India borders)
Understanding the SDF (Sustainable Development Fee)
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is Bhutan's unique approach to tourism. This mandatory fee funds free healthcare, free education, poverty alleviation, and environmental protection. It's how Bhutan maintains its 'high value, low impact' tourism model while remaining carbon negative.
Think of the SDF as your contribution to preserving Bhutan's pristine environment and unique culture for future generations. Every dollar supports local communities and sustainable initiatives.
SDF Rates (2026)
| Traveler Type | SDF per Night |
|---|---|
| International Tourists | $100 USD |
| Indian/Bangladeshi/Maldivian Citizens | 1,200 INR (~$14 USD) |
| Children under 6 | Free |
| Children 6-12 | 50% discount |
SDF Discount for Longer Stays
Bhutan offers SDF discounts for extended stays: 50% off after the 8th night. If you stay 2+ weeks, the effective daily rate drops significantly. Consider a longer trip to maximize value!
Who Can Apply for the e-Visa?
The Bhutan e-Visa is available to citizens of most countries worldwide. Understanding eligibility requirements helps ensure a smooth application process.
- Eligible nationalities: Citizens of over 100 countries including USA, UK, EU members, Canada, Australia, Japan, and most Asian countries
- Purpose of travel: Tourism, cultural visits, religious pilgrimages, trekking expeditions
- Age requirements: All ages eligible; minors need parental consent and accompanying adult
- Passport validity: Must have 6+ months validity from arrival date
- Indian citizens: Can visit visa-free with Indian passport or Voter ID (only pay reduced SDF)
e-Visa Requirements
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity beyond your stay
- Digital passport photo (white background, recent)
- Passport bio-data page scan (clear, color)
- Confirmed flight or land border crossing details
- Accommodation bookings in Bhutan (hotel confirmations)
- Credit/debit card for visa and SDF fees
- Travel insurance with medical coverage (highly recommended)
- Full payment of SDF for entire stay upfront
- Valid email address for visa delivery
- Completed online application form
How to Apply
- Plan your trip — Decide duration, entry point, and book accommodation in advance
- Create account — Register on Bhutan visa portal or use DoVisa for guided assistance
- Enter trip details — Dates, entry point (Paro Airport or land border), accommodation
- Upload documents — Passport scan, passport-style photo meeting specifications
- Review information — Double-check all details match your passport exactly
- Pay visa fee — $40 USD processing fee
- Pay SDF — $100 USD × number of nights (50% off after night 8)
- Wait for approval — Standard processing takes 5-7 business days
- Receive e-Visa — Download approval letter and print for travel
- Travel to Bhutan — Present visa and passport at border/airport immigration
Total Costs
Sample Trip Costs
| Stay Duration | Visa Fee | SDF | Total Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 nights | $40 | $500 | $540 |
| 7 nights | $40 | $700 | $740 |
| 10 nights (8th+ night 50% off) | $40 | $850 | $890 |
| 14 nights (8th+ night 50% off) | $40 | $1,050 | $1,090 |
SDF is Separate from Accommodation
The SDF does NOT include hotels, food, or transport. You'll pay for these separately. Budget $50-300/night for accommodation depending on comfort level, plus $30-50/day for food and activities.
Apply for Your Bhutan e-Visa
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't Make These Application Errors
Bhutan e-Visa applications can be delayed or rejected due to simple mistakes. Here's what to watch out for to ensure smooth processing:
- Passport expiry: Ensure 6+ months validity from your arrival date — this is strictly enforced
- Name mismatches: Your name must match your passport exactly, including middle names and spelling
- Insufficient SDF funds: You must pay the full SDF upfront before visa approval
- Unclear photo: Use a recent, clear passport photo with white background and proper dimensions
- Wrong travel dates: SDF is non-refundable if you shorten your trip unexpectedly
- Missing accommodation: You need confirmed hotel bookings for your entire stay
- Last-minute applications: Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to allow processing time
DoVisa Prevents Errors
Our application system validates your information in real-time and our experts review every submission before processing. This catches errors before they cause delays or rejections.
Travel Tips for Bhutan
- Best time to visit: March-May (spring) for rhododendrons and clear skies, September-November (fall) for festivals
- Altitude awareness: Paro is at 2,300m; Thimphu at 2,320m — take it easy the first day to acclimatize
- Currency: Ngultrum (BTN) equals Indian Rupee; USD accepted at hotels but carry local currency
- Language: Dzongkha is official; English widely spoken in tourism areas
- Must-see highlights: Tiger's Nest, Punakha Dzong, Thimphu, Dochula Pass, Phobjikha Valley
- Festivals (tshechus): Plan around these for incredible masked dances and cultural celebrations
- Dress code: Dress modestly at monasteries; remove shoes before entering temples
- Internet: WiFi available in hotels; buy local SIM (TashiCell or B-Mobile) for data
Why Apply with DoVisa?
SDF calculation assistance
Document verification before submission
Application tracking dashboard
24/7 customer support
Itinerary planning tips
Trusted by thousands of Bhutan travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel independently in Bhutan now?
Is the SDF refundable if I shorten my trip?
How do I get to Bhutan?
What about the famous Tiger's Nest hike?
Can Indians visit Bhutan without visa/SDF?
What's the best festival to attend?
Is Bhutan expensive?
How's the internet and phone connectivity?
What if my e-Visa application is rejected?
Can I extend my stay once in Bhutan?
Ready for the Journey of a Lifetime?
Bhutan is unlike anywhere else on Earth — a place where happiness is a national priority, where ancient traditions thrive, and where the Himalayas create a breathtaking backdrop for every moment. The costs are significant, but the experience is transformative.
Apply for your e-Visa with DoVisa and discover why travelers call Bhutan one of the world's most magical destinations!
Bhutan
Capital: Thimphu
Currency: Ngultrum (BTN) = Indian Rupee
Language: Dzongkha, English
Timezone: UTC+6
Processing: 5-7 business days
Quick Facts
- Best time to visit: March-May, September-November
- Only country with negative carbon emissions
- Power: 230V, Type D/F/G plugs
- Country code: +975
Get the DoVisa App
Apply for your Bhutan e-Visa and track your application.
Comments(12)
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Bhutan changed my life. Yes, it's expensive, but worth every penny. Tiger's Nest was the most spiritual experience I've ever had. The SDF felt like a contribution, not a fee.
Is it really possible to travel independently now without a guide?
The Paro Tsechu festival was INCREDIBLE. Masked dancers, thousand-year-old traditions, the whole community participating. Time your visit for a festival if you can!
The Tiger's Nest hike is challenging but doable. Start early (7am), take breaks, and bring lots of water. The monastery at the top is beyond words. Absolutely unmissable.
Budget tip: Stay longer! After night 8, the SDF is 50% off. We did 12 nights and the per-night cost dropped significantly. Plus more time to really absorb this amazing country.
How difficult is the flight into Paro? I heard it's one of the world's most dangerous airports.
The food in Bhutan is delicious! Ema datshi (chili cheese) became an obsession. Everything is fresh and the red rice is so nutritious. Don't be afraid of spice!
Punakha Dzong is the most beautiful building I've ever seen. The setting at the confluence of two rivers... just incredible. Bhutan exceeded every expectation.
Applied through DoVisa and everything went smoothly. They helped me calculate the SDF correctly and reminded me about the longer stay discount. Excellent service!
Is there good WiFi in Bhutan? I need to work remotely a few hours each day.
The Dochula Pass with 108 stupas overlooking the Himalayas was breathtaking. On a clear day you can see snow-capped peaks stretching forever. Don't miss it!
Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world. Being there, you really feel the commitment to sustainability. Trees everywhere, clean air, no litter. A model for the world.