Bhutan Visa Policy

Here’s a detailed guide for Indian nationals applying for a Bhutan visa (Entry Permit), including SDF, fees, and permits:

• No traditional visa is required. Indians need an Entry Permit (free) for tourism.
• Validity: Once the permit is issued, tourists can travel anytime, but the number of days will depend upon the amount of SDF paid.

Option 1: Online Permit

• Visit the Bhutan Online Permit System: https://portal.moha.gov.bt.
• Upload:
  • Passport/Voter ID (valid for 6+ months).
  • Hotel bookings (from a Bhutanese hotel/tour operator).
  • Travel insurance.
• Pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) online.
• Receive an Entry Permit via email (print and carry).

Option 2: On Arrival

• Apply at entry points: Phuentsholing, Paro Airport, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar.
• Submit:
  • Passport/Voter ID + 2 passport-sized photos.
  • Hotel bookings and SDF payment proof.

Option 3: Let the Tour operator arrange the permit for you

• Submit Documents to Agent:
  • Passport/Voter ID + 2 passport-sized photos.
  • Hotel bookings and SDF payment proof.

• Fee: ₹1,200 per person per night (approx $15).
• Exemptions:

  • Children under 6: No SDF.
  • Children 6–12 years: 50% discount (₹600/night).

• Payment: Pay online via tour operator.

• • Entry Permit covers the whole of Bhutan except some Trekking routes:
    • Protected Areas (e.g., Sakteng, Merak): Apply through a tour operator.

• Valid passport or voter ID card (original + copy).
• Confirmed hotel bookings (Bhutanese-registered hotels).
• Travel insurance (covering Bhutan).
• Passport-sized photos (for on-arrival permits) should be with white background.