---
title: Bhutan visa for citizens of the Maldives
description: "Citizens of the Maldives can get a visa on arrival in Bhutan. Fee: $100. Processing: On arrival. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/bhutan/maldives
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Bhutan visa for citizens of the Maldives

Citizens of the Maldives can get a visa on arrival in Bhutan.

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Visa on Arrival · Tourist
- **How to apply:** Get your visa at the border
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** On arrival
- **Government fee:** $100
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Sufficient funds for stay

## How to apply

1. **Prepare required documents** — Collect passport (valid 6+ months), onward ticket, hotel booking, SDF payment proof, and funds proof.
2. **Pre-pay Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) online (recommended)** — Pay 100 USD per night via official Bhutan online portal to speed up arrival process.
3. **Arrive at Paro International Airport (or land border)** — Proceed to immigration counters for visa on arrival processing.
4. **Fill out arrival/visa application form** — Complete form provided at the counter with personal details and trip info.
5. **Submit documents and pay visa fee (if not prepaid)** — Hand over passport, photo, tickets, and SDF receipt; pay 100 USD SDF per night (if not prepaid).
6. **Receive visa stamp** — Immigration officer issues visa on arrival stamp in passport.
7. **Collect luggage and exit** — Proceed through customs and enter Bhutan.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival.
- **Return or onward ticket** (Travel): Proof of departure from Bhutan.
- **Hotel booking confirmation** (Travel): Must show accommodation for entire stay.
- **Passport-size photograph** (Identity): Recent color photo (2×2 inches).
- **Visa approval letter (if obtained online)** (Supporting, optional): Not required for VOA but may expedite processing.
- **Proof of payment of Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)** (Financial): 100 USD per night (reduced rate until August 2027).
- **Travel insurance** (Supporting, optional): Recommended but not mandatory.
- **Proof of funds** (Financial): Bank statements or cash showing sufficient means.
- **Completed arrival form** (Supporting): Provided at immigration counter.

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** 200 USD per night (SDF) plus accommodation costs
- Bank statements
- Cash
- Credit card

SDF is mandatory for all tourists; reduced to 100 USD per night until August 31, 2027 when paid in USD.

## Good to know

- SDF of 100 USD per night applies for payments in USD from September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2027.
- Visa on arrival may be denied if documents are incomplete.
- Entry is typically for tourism only; other purposes require prior visa.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient passport validity (less than 6 months)** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months from arrival.
- **Unpaid or incomplete SDF payment** — Pre-pay the SDF online or have exact cash ready for the full amount.
- **Lack of onward/return ticket** — Book a confirmed return or onward ticket before travel.
- **Suspected overstay or illegal work intent** — Provide proof of sufficient funds and hotel bookings for entire stay.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of the Maldives need a visa for Bhutan?

Citizens of the Maldives can get a visa on arrival in Bhutan. Visa type: Visa on Arrival · Tourist.

### How much does the Bhutan visa cost for citizens of the Maldives?

Government fee: $100.

### What documents do citizens of the Maldives need for Bhutan?

Valid passport; Return or onward ticket; Hotel booking confirmation; Passport-size photograph; Proof of payment of Sustainable Development Fee (SDF); Proof of funds; and 3 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for Bhutan?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [Bhutan visa for every passport](/visa/bhutan)
- [Every destination for Maldives passport holders](/visa/passport/maldives)