Bhutan Visa & Fees
Every visitor except Indian passport holders needs a visa, and most pay a nightly Sustainable Development Fee. We arrange both for you when you book.
Visa fee
US$40
Once per person, any age
SDF, adults
US$100
Per night in Bhutan
Processing
Up to 5 days
Book about a month ahead
Who needs a visa
| Passport | What you need |
|---|---|
| Most countries | Visa arranged before arrival, stamped at entry |
| India | No visa; a travel permit instead |
| Bangladesh, Maldives | Visa on arrival |
| Swiss or Thai diplomatic/official | Visa at the entry point |
Bhutan's embassies abroad do not issue tourist visas; the application goes through a licensed operator like us.
Sustainable Development Fee
| Per night | Most visitors | Indian nationals |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | US$100 | Nu. 1,200 |
| Children 6–12 | US$50 | Nu. 600 |
| Under 6 | Free | Free |
The SDF funds healthcare, education, infrastructure and conservation. Day visitors staying under 24 hours in the Samtse, Phuentsholing, Gelephu or Samdrup Jongkhar zones are exempt. Rates can change; we confirm yours when you book.
How we get your visa
- Book your trip
Confirm your dates with us, ideally a month or more ahead. - Send your documents
A colour passport scan and a recent photo. - We apply and pay
We submit the application with the visa fee and SDF. It takes up to five days. - Fly in
We send your visa clearance; it is stamped on arrival in Paro or at the border.
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Colour scan of the passport photo page
- Recent passport photograph
- Arrival and departure dates
Validity and extensions
Your visa covers the nights you have paid SDF for, up to 90 days. You can extend it inside Bhutan before it expires.
Monument entrance fees are listed on each attraction page.
We handle the paperwork
The visa and SDF are arranged as part of every Wind Horse trip.
Travel with us
Bhutan trips
Bhutan Festival Tour
View trip →
Highlights of Bhutan Tour
View trip →
Bhutan Country Walks
View trip →
Druk Path Trek – A Scenic Highland Trek Journey Between Paro and Thimphu
View trip →
Find a trip by style: Culture Festivals Walking Trekking Village Wildlife & Birding Cycling Multi-activity Pilgrimage