1. What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)?
From our reopening on 23 September 2022, visitors to Bhutan will make an active contribution to Bhutan’s economic, social and cultural development. The Sustainable Development Fee enables investment in transformative programs that preserve our cultural traditions, protect our heritage and environment, upgrade infrastructure, create opportunities for our young people, and build resilience.
2. How much is the SDF, and where do the funds go?
- Guests from India are levied SDF of Nu. 1,200 or an equivalent amount in INR per person per night, which will remain in effect for two years, then it may be reviewed and revised in keeping with the principle of the preferential rate after two years.
- Visitors from all other countries are levied SDF of USD 200 per person, per night.
- There will be a concessionary levy of 50% on the SDF for children between the ages of 6-12 years and exemptions of SDF for children aged 5 years and below.
- The SDF funds go to the national exchequer and are allocated to various projects that enhance facilities, services, and infrastructure for nationals and guests who visit Bhutan, as well as funding free healthcare and education.
3. How can the SDF payment be made?
- The SDF must be paid during the visa or permit application via wire transfer or using a credit card.
- The SDF must be paid in USD; however, Indians can also pay in INR.
- A guest who is eligible for a visa on arrival, should also pay the applicable SDF in USD at the port of entry.
4. Will day visitors be levied SDF?
- The SDF will be waived for visitors to the Bhutanese towns bordering India, until the first designated point identified by the Government. The SDF will be levied on visitors spending the night within border towns.