Top Destinations
Travelers' Choice
Beyond Expeditions. Beyond Business.
Beyond Imagination.
Top Destinations
Travelers' Choice
Beyond Expeditions. Beyond Business.
Beyond Imagination.
Beyond Expeditions. Beyond Business.
Beyond Imagination.
Beyond Expeditions. Beyond Business.
Beyond Imagination.
Bhutan's approach to tourism is as unique as the kingdom itself, designed to preserve its cultural heritage and pristine environment while offering visitors an unparalleled experience. Two key elements of this approach are the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and the Tourist Visa system, both managed through a streamlined process. At Manifest Bhutan, we handle these requirements seamlessly, ensuring your journey begins with ease and confidence. This guide explains both the SDF—your direct contribution to Bhutan's sustainable future—and the visa process that our expert team will navigate for you, allowing you to focus on the anticipation of your extraordinary Bhutanese adventure.
What is the SDF? The Sustainable Development Fee is a daily levy paid by international visitors to Bhutan, representing the cornerstone of the kingdom's "High Value, Low Volume" tourism policy. Far more than a tourist tax, it is a direct investment in Bhutan's future and a reflection of the country's commitment to Gross National Happiness.
Current Rate: As of its latest revision, the SDF is set at USD $100 per person, per night for most international tourists. (Note: This rate is subject to change by the Royal Government of Bhutan; Manifest Bhutan will always confirm the current applicable rate during your booking process).
Special Provisions: Nationals of India pay a reduced SDF rate (currently 1,200 Ngultrum or approximately USD $15 per night), while nationals of Bangladesh and Maldives are currently exempt from the SDF.
Children & Discounts: Children aged 5 and under are exempt from the SDF. Those between 6-12 years typically qualify for a 50% discount on the applicable rate.
Your SDF contribution directly funds initiatives that benefit both Bhutan and your experience as a visitor:
Free Healthcare & Education: Supporting universal access to quality healthcare and education for all Bhutanese citizens.
Environmental Conservation: Funding national parks, wildlife protection, reforestation, and initiatives that maintain Bhutan's status as one of the world's few carbon-negative countries.
Cultural Preservation: Supporting the maintenance of ancient monasteries, dzongs (fortresses), traditional arts, and cultural programs that keep Bhutan's heritage vibrant and alive.
Infrastructure Development: Investing in sustainable infrastructure that benefits both locals and visitors, including roads, clean water systems, and renewable energy.
Community Development: Creating economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable tourism initiatives and traditional craft preservation.
Bhutan maintains a controlled tourism policy where all visitors (except nationals of India, Bangladesh, and Maldives) must obtain a visa prior to arrival. This process is managed entirely through licensed Bhutanese tour operators like Manifest Bhutan:
Visa Requirements:
A valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your intended departure date from Bhutan
Confirmed and paid tour arrangements with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator (Manifest Bhutan)
Payment of the applicable Sustainable Development Fee
Completed visa application (handled by Manifest Bhutan on your behalf)
The Process:
1. Itinerary Confirmation: Once you finalize your travel plans with Manifest Bhutan and make the required payment, we begin the visa application process.
2. Documentation: We require a clear, color scan of your passport's photo page and basic personal information.
3. Application Submission: Manifest Bhutan submits your visa application to the Department of Immigration, Royal Government of Bhutan.
4. Visa Clearance: Upon approval (typically processed within 5-7 working days), we receive a Visa Clearance Letter.
5. Pre-Travel Preparation: We provide you with the Visa Clearance Letter, which you must print and bring with you.
6. Arrival Formalities: Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, present your Visa Clearance Letter at immigration, where your passport will be stamped with the actual visa.
Visa Duration: Tourist visas are typically issued for the specific duration of your confirmed tour. Extensions may be possible in certain circumstances and must be arranged through your tour operator.
Visa Fee: The standard tourist visa fee (currently USD $40) is typically incorporated within the SDF framework and is included in your tour package.
Manifest Bhutan ensures the SDF payment and visa application process is entirely seamless for our guests:
All-Inclusive Quotation: When we provide you with a tour package quote, the applicable SDF for the duration of your stay and visa fees are calculated and included in the total price.
Official Remittance: Upon receiving your tour payment, Manifest Bhutan remits the SDF portion directly to the Royal Government of Bhutan as required for visa processing and tour confirmation.
Documentation Management: We handle all visa paperwork and communicate with immigration authorities on your behalf.
Clear Communication: Throughout the process, we keep you informed of your visa status and provide clear instructions for arrival.
Transparency: We clearly outline the components of your tour cost, ensuring you understand how the SDF and visa fees fit into the overall investment in your journey.
Q: Is the SDF separate from my tour cost?
A: While the SDF is a government levy separate from your specific tour services, Manifest Bhutan may include it in your total package price for seamless processing. Your tour package additionally covers accommodation, meals, guide services, transportation, and entrance fees.
Q: Can I apply for a Bhutanese visa independently?
A: Yes, tourist visas for Bhutan can be processed by you too but it is advisable to get visa advise through licensed Bhutanese tour operators like Manifest Bhutan.
Q: How far in advance should I arrange my visa?
A: We recommend finalizing your travel plans at least 1-2 months before your intended travel date, especially during peak seasons. However, the actual visa processing typically takes only 5-7 working days once payment is received. For urgent travels, we can arrange visa within a day too.
Q: Can I extend my stay once I'm in Bhutan?
A: Yes, visa extensions are possible but must be arranged through your tour operator and are subject to additional SDF payments for the extended duration.
Q: Are there any regions of Bhutan that require special permits beyond the tourist visa?
A: Yes, certain remote areas require additional permits. Manifest Bhutan will arrange these special permits as part of your itinerary planning if your journey includes restricted areas.
While the SDF represents a significant component of travel costs to Bhutan, it underpins the very qualities that make the kingdom such an extraordinary destination: its pristine environment, its vibrant living culture, its uncrowded sacred sites, its safe and welcoming atmosphere, and its commitment to sustainable, mindful development. Your contribution ensures that Bhutan can continue to protect these treasures for future generations while providing an unparalleled experience for discerning travelers like you.
Let Manifest Bhutan handle the complexities of SDF payments and visa processing, ensuring a smooth start to your extraordinary journey. Contact us to discuss your travel plans and begin the process.