Navigating Your Bali Visa: A Comprehensive Guide for a Seamless Trip

Planning a trip to Bali, the Island of Gods, is exciting. But before you can relax on a sun-drenched beach, you need to make sure your entry documents are in order. The visa regulations for Indonesia can be confusing, but don’t worry—this guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting a visa for your Bali adventure.

Getting your visa sorted before you fly is the first step toward a smooth arrival. For insider tips on clearing immigration and customs quickly, check out our guide on Fast-Track Your Arrival: Insider Tips for Clearing Bali Immigration and Customs.

First Things First: Passport Requirements

Before even thinking about a visa, you must have a valid passport. Indonesian immigration rules are strict: your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from your date of arrival and at least one blank page. If your passport has less than six months of validity, you will be denied boarding at your departure point.

Common Bali Visa Types for Tourists

Most international travelers to Bali will use one of three visa options:

1. Visa-Free Entry (Visa Exemption)

A select number of countries (primarily those in the ASEAN region) are eligible for visa-free entry for a stay of up to 30 days. This visa is non-extendable.

• Who is it for? Visitors from visa-exempt countries staying for 30 days or less for tourism.
• Key detail: If you think you might want to extend your stay, you should choose a Visa on Arrival instead.

2. Visa on Arrival (VoA) & e-VoA

This is the most popular option for tourists from a wide range of countries. It allows you to enter Indonesia for tourism purposes.

• Duration: Up to 30 days.
• Cost: Approximately IDR 500,000 (roughly US$35, A$50).
• Extension: The VoA is extendable once for an additional 30 days, bringing your total stay to a maximum of 60 days. You can apply for this extension at an immigration office in Bali.
• How to get it:
  • On Arrival: You can purchase the Visa on Arrival at a dedicated counter at Denpasar’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) before the immigration line.
  • Online (e-VoA): For a faster process, it is highly recommended that you apply for the electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) online before you travel. This allows you to bypass the visa payment queues upon arrival. Simply present your e-VoA at the immigration counter.

3. B211A Single-Entry Visa (Tourist & Social Visa)

This visa is for those who plan to stay in Bali for longer than 60 days or for visitors from countries not eligible for a VoA. It is a more complex application process but offers greater flexibility.

• Duration: Up to 60 days initially.
• Extension: This visa can be extended twice for an additional 60 days each, allowing for a total stay of up to 180 days (approximately 6 months).
• How to get it: You must apply for this visa before you arrive in Indonesia, either through the official Indonesian immigration website or via an accredited visa agent. This visa often requires a sponsor.

Quick Comparison: Which Bali Visa is Right for You?

Essential Documents for All Visitors

Regardless of your visa type, you must have the following documents ready for immigration:

• A passport with at least 6 months of validity from your arrival date.
• A return or onward flight ticket to prove you will be leaving Indonesia.
• A completed Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD). This is a crucial step to speed up your arrival.

By understanding the different visa options and preparing your documents in advance, you can ensure your journey to Bali is as smooth as your island holiday will be.