Entering Bali: A Guide to Visas and Entry Requirements
Visa Options:
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available to citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most European nations. It grants a 30-day stay and can be extended for an additional 30 days. You can obtain the VOA upon arrival at the airport or apply for an e-VOA online in advance for faster processing.
B211A Visa: This 60-day tourist visa can be extended twice, allowing for a total stay of up to 180 days. It requires applying through a visa agency and may take several days to process.
C1 Visa: This 60-day tourist visa does not offer extension options. It is also obtained through a visa agency.
KITAS: For longer stays or work purposes, consider a KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit). Several types of KITAS are available, each with specific requirements and application processes.
Entry Requirements:
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Return/Onward Ticket: Have a confirmed return or onward ticket departing from Indonesia within the validity period of your visa.
Customs Declaration: Complete the customs declaration form, available online or upon arrival.
Accommodation: Be prepared to provide the address of your intended accommodation in Bali.
Financial Proof: While not always required, it's advisable to have proof of sufficient funds to support your stay.
Health Requirements: Check for any specific health requirements or vaccinations needed for entry.
Additional Considerations:
Visa Extensions: Plan and apply for extensions well in advance of your visa's expiry date to avoid overstay penalties.
Visa Runs: While visa runs (brief trips to neighboring countries to renew visas) were once common, they are now discouraged and may raise suspicion at immigration.
Electronic Gates: Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport has introduced electronic gates for passport control. These gates are currently available for Indonesian citizens and foreigners with e-VOAs and biometric passports.
Tourist Tax: As of February 14, 2024, a tourist tax of 150,000 IDR (approximately $10 USD) has been implemented for foreign tourists visiting Bali. Payment methods and enforcement details are still being finalized.
Mobile Phone Registration: If staying for an extended period, consider registering your phone's IMEI number to ensure continued use of local SIM cards.
Recommendations:
Plan Ahead: Research and choose the appropriate visa based on your travel purpose and duration.
Apply Early: Allow ample time for visa processing, especially for visas requiring agency assistance.
Have Documentation Ready: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including your passport, visa, return ticket, and customs declaration, readily available upon arrival.
Be Informed: Stay updated on any changes in visa regulations or entry requirements.
Disclaimer:
Visa regulations and entry requirements can change, so it's essential to verify the latest information with official sources or a reputable visa agency before your trip.