---
title: Bhutan visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Bhutan and can apply online for an eVisa. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: $100. Processing: 5–15 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/bhutan/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Bhutan visa for citizens of South Africa

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Bhutan and can apply online for an eVisa.

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

Official application site: https://visit.doi.gov.bt/

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** eVisa · Tourist (up to 90 days, with SDF)
- **How to apply:** Fully online — no office visit
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Visa validity:** 90 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** 5–15 days
- **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:** Bank statement showing sufficient funds

## How to apply

1. **Prepare required documents** — Gather all documents listed: valid passport, photo, accommodation proof, flight itinerary, bank statement, passport copy, and SDF fee.
2. **Complete online application** — Visit https://visit.doi.gov.bt/ and fill out the eVisa application form accurately.
3. **Pay SDF and visa fee** — Pay the visa fee (40 USD) and SDF (100 USD per night) via the portal using a credit card.
4. **Upload documents** — Upload all required documents in the specified formats (JPEG/PDF).
5. **Submit application** — Review and submit the application. Keep the application reference number.
6. **Wait for processing** — Processing takes 5 to 15 working days. Check status on the portal using reference number.
7. **Receive eVisa approval** — Download the eVisa approval letter from the portal once approved.
8. **Print eVisa and travel** — Carry a printed copy of the eVisa approval letter and passport when traveling to Bhutan.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport with at least 6 months validity** (Identity): Must have at least two blank pages.
- **Digital passport photo (recent, white background)** (Identity): JPEG format, max 1 MB.
- **Completed online visa application form** (Supporting): Fill out via the official eVisa portal.
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or tour itinerary)** (Travel): Must show full stay in Bhutan.
- **Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket)** (Travel): Must show entry and exit from Bhutan.
- **Travel insurance (optional but recommended)** (Travel, optional): Cover medical emergencies and repatriation.
- **Bank statement (last 3 months)** (Financial): Show sufficient funds for the trip.
- **Passport data page scan** (Identity): Clear color copy.
- **Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) payment receipt** (Financial): 100 USD per night if paid in USD until Aug 31, 2027.

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** Sufficient funds for the entire stay (typically $200 per day)
- Bank statement (last 3 months)

Also required to pay SDF of 100 USD per night (if paid in USD until Aug 31, 2027).

## Good to know

- Entry through land borders (Phuentsholing) also requires the same eVisa.
- SDF is mandatory and must be paid per night before arrival.
- Failure to provide accurate documents may result in rejection.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Incomplete or incorrect application form** — Double-check all fields before submission and fill in English.
- **Invalid passport or missing blank pages** — Ensure passport valid for at least 6 months and has two blank pages.
- **Insufficient funds in bank statement** — Provide a recent statement showing enough money for the trip.
- **Missing SDF payment** — Pay the full SDF amount for the intended stay days upfront.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Bhutan?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Bhutan and can apply online for an eVisa. Visa type: eVisa · Tourist (up to 90 days, with SDF).

### How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Bhutan?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: $100.

### How long does Bhutan visa processing take?

Typically 5–15 days.

### What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Bhutan?

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity; Digital passport photo (recent, white background); Completed online visa application form; Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or tour itinerary); Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket); Bank statement (last 3 months); and 3 more.

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

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://visit.doi.gov.bt/

## Sources

- [visit.doi.gov.bt](https://visit.doi.gov.bt/)

## More

- [Bhutan visa for every passport](/visa/bhutan)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)