13 Visa Updates That Could Derail Your 2025 Travel Plans

10. Bhutan’s New Daily Fee Reshapes Entry Strategy

In 2025, Bhutan cut its Sustainable Development Fee from $200 to $100 per day, making the country more accessible—but the visa application process is still complex. Tourists must book through licensed operators, submit detailed itineraries, and pay upfront fees before approval. Bhutan’s low-volume, high-value tourism model remains in place, and conservation is non-negotiable. The new fee structure is part of a broader strategy to attract culturally respectful visitors without overwhelming local resources. Travelers hoping to “drop in” will be disappointed. Bhutan rewards those who prepare thoughtfully, not those seeking spontaneous adventure.