Bhutan Tourist Visa

Bhutan offers tourist visas under specific conditions due to its policy of high-value, low-impact tourism. Here's what you need to know:

Visa Process for International Tourist

1. Pre-Approval: Visitors to Bhutan must book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. The tour operator arranges the visa on behalf of the tourist. Independent travel without a pre-arranged tour package is not allowed.

2. Visa Application: After booking a trip, the tour operator will submit the visa application to the Department of Immrigation (DOI). You'll need to provide a scanned copy of your passport, which should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. A passport-sized photo may also be required.

3. Visa Fee:A standard visa fee of USD 40 is charged. This fee is typically included in the tour package cost.

4. Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): In addition to the visa fee, tourists must pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is currently set at USD 200 per person per night. This fee contributes to Bhutan's social services, infrastructure, and environmental preservation. Discounts or exemptions are available for children and students.

5. Visa Approval: Once the visa is approved (usually within a few days), a visa clearance letter is issued. This letter must be presented upon arrival in Bhutan. The actual visa is stamped on your passport upon arrival at Paro International Airport or any other designated point of entry.

6. Entry Points: The main entry point for international tourists is Paro International Airport. Overland entry is possible via Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar, bordering India.

7. Tour Packages: All tourists must pre-arrange their travel plans, including accommodation, transportation, guides, and a detailed itinerary, through a registered Bhutanese tour operator. The package typically includes the SDF, accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed tour guide.

Additional Information:

• Best Time to Visit: Bhutan's peak tourist seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) due to the pleasant weather and various festivals.

• Special Permits: For certain regions like the Haa Valley or restricted areas like the Lunana trek, special permits may be required.

Visa Process for Indian Tourist

For Indian tourists, Bhutan has a more relaxed visa and entry process compared to other international visitors. Here are the details:

Visa-Free Entry: Indian citizens do not require a visa to visit Bhutan.

Identification Documents: Indian tourists can enter Bhutan with either:

· A valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of six months, or

· A Voter Identity Card (VIC) issued by the Election Commission of India (Original not Xerox or Laminated)

· Either Documents should be in Origial while showing to DOI Counter at Terminal

Entry Permit: Upon arrival at designated entry points (such as Phuentsholing, Paro, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar), Indian tourists must obtain an entry permit. The permit is processed at the immigration offices at these entry points.

Online Permit (e-Permits): Indian tourists can also apply for an entry permit online through Bhutan's immigration website, making the process smoother upon arrival.

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Starting July 2020, the Bhutanese government introduced a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian tourists.

The fee is INR 1,200 per person per day for adults. However, there are discounts for children aged 5 to 12 years, and the fee is waived for children below 5 years.

The SDF is used for sustainable tourism development and environmental preservation in Bhutan.

Accommodation and Travel: Indian tourists can choose to book their accommodation and travel independently or through a registered Bhutanese tour operator. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Best Time to Visit:

As with other international tourists, the best times to visit Bhutan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is most favorable and various cultural festivals take place.

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