Bhutan Visa for US citizens: Apply for the Bhutan eVisa now

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking untouched natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage. For US citizens, the journey to Bhutan has become more accessible and convenient than ever, thanks to the introduction of the Bhutan eVisa.

In this article, we'll break down this travel document, highlighting the application process for US travelers, visa fees, and processing times. And for an even more effortless experience, check out the iVisa app.

Let’s dive in!

What is the Bhutan eVisa for US citizens?

Are you a citizen of the United States with dreams of exploring the enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan for tourism? Good news! The Bhutan eVisa is your key to unlocking this Himalayan paradise.

The hassle-free online visa application system has made it easier than ever to embark on your Bhutanese adventure.

It’s important to note that your entry and exit points are limited to select towns like Phuntsoling, Samdrup Jongkhar, Gelephug (accessible by road), and Paro International Airport (reachable by air with Bhutan airlines). In the following sections, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of applying for the Bhutan eVisa!

Do citizens from the United States need a Bhutan Visa?

Yes, if you're a US citizen planning to explore the beauty of Bhutan for tourism, you will need a Bhutan eVisa.

The good news is that you can complete your entire application online, right from the comfort of your own home! That means no more trips to a Bhutan Embassy or Consulate. We've got you covered.

Bhutan Visa fees: Cost of the eVisa for US citizens

Let's break down the expenses associated with applying for the Bhutan eVisa into three parts in the sections below.

Bhutan Visa cost: iVisa service fee

We offer three processing options tailored to your individual requirements:

Standard: Perfect for travelers who've planned their trip well in advance.

Rush: Geared towards those who need their eVisa processed quickly.

Super Rush: Designed for travelers with urgent eVisa needs.

To find out the precise processing times and associated iVisa fees, simply start your application now!

Government Visa fee

There are two distinct costs related to government requirements:

• The Bhutan Visa fee of US$40 imposed by the government.

• In addition to the visa charges, travelers are obligated to contribute to the daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).

This daily fee is crucial in supporting the Tourism Council of Bhutan to preserve the nation's culture and environment, bolster infrastructure development, and enhance overall resilience.

The standard SDF rate is US$200 per person per night. However, there are exceptions: children under 6 years old are exempt from this fee, while children aged 6 to 12 are charged a reduced rate of US$50 per night.

It's worth noting that until August 31, 2027, there is a 50% discount on the SDF, applicable exclusively to travelers who make their payments in US dollars.

Important: Please be aware that these fees are separate from our service costs. Throughout your Bhutan Visa application process, we will provide precise instructions on how to securely transfer these fees directly to the Bhutanese government.

How long is the Bhutan eVisa valid for US citizens?

With this visa, you have the privilege of staying in the country for a maximum duration of 90 days per entry. Should you desire to extend your visit beyond this period, you can request a visa extension via the Bhutan government website.

Please keep in mind that this travel document is valid for one entry into Bhutan only.

What is the Bhutan eVisa processing time?

The precise processing time varies based on your specific circumstances and the current workload of the government. Typically, though, you can expect a processing time ranging from 5 to 10 days for your Bhutan eVisa.

Bhutan eVisa application: How to apply in the United States

To kickstart your online application with us, just follow these straightforward steps:

Step 1: Begin by filling out your personal information on our dedicated Bhutan eVisa page or through our iVisa app. Take a moment to double-check all your details.

Step 2: Next, select your preferred processing speed and complete the payment for the iVisa service fee using your credit card or PayPal.

For government fees, follow our specific payment instructions – these must be transferred directly. If you require any assistance, our team is always ready to help!

Step 3: Upload the necessary documents and click the submit button.

Once your eVisa is approved, we'll promptly send it by email. Don't forget to keep both an electronic and printed copy with you for your arrival – you'll need to present it to the immigration authorities to enter Bhutan.

Bhutan Visa requirements for citizens from the United States

Here are the Bhutanese Visa requirements for United States citizens:

• Copy of your valid passport: It must be valid for at least six months from your departure date and have two blank pages.

• Passport photo: Get a passport photo that meets all government requirements through our handy and affordable online photo service.

• Travel insurance: It must cover medical costs during your entire trip in Bhutan.

Bhutan eVisa requirements for children from the United States

When it comes to children traveling to Bhutan, there are a few additional requirements to keep in mind:

• Each child must have their own passport, which should be valid for at least six months from the date of departure from Bhutan.

• Parents or legal guardians must complete a separate visa application for each child, providing their personal details. On our platform, you can conveniently apply as a family by selecting 'Add another person' during the online process.

• In cases where a child is traveling without the presence of both parents or legal guardians, it is often necessary to have a notarized consent letter from the absent parent or guardian. This letter should clearly state that the child has permission to travel to Bhutan.

Bhutan eVisa passport requirements

Here are the essential passport requirements for obtaining a Bhutan eVisa:

1. Validity: Your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Bhutan.

2. Blank pages: Your passport should have at least two blank pages designated for visa stamps.

3. Passport copy: As part of the eVisa application process, you must provide a scanned copy of your passport's bio-data page, which contains your personal information.

Bhutan eVisa photo requirements

The photo guidelines for a Bhutan eVisa typically include the following:

Background: Choose a background that is plain and light-colored, preferably in white or off-white shades.

Facial expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression, with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera.

Head position: Ensure your head is centrally positioned within the frame, facing directly toward the camera. Your face should cover approximately 70-80% of the photo.

Head coverings: If you have religious or medical reasons to wear a head covering, it is usually permitted. However, it's essential that your face remains fully visible.

Glasses: For individuals wearing eyeglasses, make sure they do not create glare or reflections that obscure your eyes, and that they are not tinted.

If you don't have a suitable passport photo, you can conveniently get one through our online photo service at an affordable cost. Our experts will ensure that it meets all the necessary requirements for your Bhutan Visa application!

Contact us for more info about the Bhutan eVisa application

Have a question about the Bhutan eVisa application process? Our customer service team is ready to assist and give you further information. Contact them directly via online chat or by email at [email protected]!