The year 2020 dealt a harsh blow to Bali’s tourism-dependent economy. The Indonesian government’s decision to revoke the Visa on Arrival (VOA) program to curb the spread of COVID-19 left the island reeling. Countless jobs disappeared, livelihoods were destroyed, and a sense of despair engulfed the once-thriving paradise.
Fast forward to early 2022, and a glimmer of hope emerged as authorities cautiously began reopening the gates. Gradually, authorities reinstated this visa for selected nationalities. Today, approximately 97 countries can once again experience the magic of Bali with the convenience of a visa upon arrival.
While Bali’s recovery has been gradual, the island is undoubtedly coming back to life. To help you navigate this exciting new chapter, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the current state of the Bali visa.
What is the Visa on Arrival?
A Visa on Arrival is a type of visa that you can obtain upon your arrival in Indonesia, typically at the airport or other ports of entry. It eliminates the need to apply for a visa in advance through an embassy or consulate.
Foreign nationals from many countries can utilize the VOA in Indonesia for tourism or government visits, as it is valid for 30 days and the possibility of a 30-day extension. The VOA is open to citizens of many countries who can utilise it for tourism, government visits, business trips, purchasing goods, and transit.
Visa on Arrival in Bali
As of today, citizens of 97 countries are eligible for the Bali VOA. This extensive list includes major tourist markets such as Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, India, China, and many European countries.
To confirm if your nationality is eligible, you can refer to the official Indonesian immigration website or consult with your nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate.
Is the Bali Visa on Arrival Free?
No, the Bali Visa on Arrival (VOA) is not free for most nationalities. As of July 2024, the cost of the VOA is IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 35) per person.
However, there are a few exceptions:
- Free VOA: Citizens of Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor Leste can enter Bali with a free VOA. This is valid for a maximum of 30 days and cannot be extended.
For all other nationalities, the VOA is a paid visa. It’s important to note that individuals can extend this visa once for an additional 30 days, allowing for a total stay of 60 days.
You can find more information about the Bali VOA, including eligible nationalities and extension procedures on Lets Move Indonesia website or fill out the form to get a free consultation!
Which nationalities may enter Indonesia using the Bali Visa on Arrival?
Presently, 97 nationalities may enter Bali using this entry permit. They are as follows:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Argentina
- Australia
- Armenia (Sep 2023)
- Austria
- Bahrain
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Cambodia
- Canada
- Chile
- China
- Columbia
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Ecuador
- Egypt
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hong Kong
- Hungary
- Iceland
- India
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Jordan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Malta
- Mexico
- Monaco
- Morocco
- Myanmar
- Mozambique (Sep 2023)
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Oman
- Palestine
- Papua New Guinea (2023)
- Peru
- Philippines
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Russia
- San Marino
- Saudi Arabia
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Suriname
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Tanzania (Sep 2023)
- Thailand
- United Arab Emirates
- The United Kingdom
- The United States of America
- Timor Leste
- Tunisia
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- Uzbekistan
- Vatican
- Vietnam, and;
- Kazakhstan (2023)
- Rwanda (2023)
- Kenya (2023)
- Guatemala (2023)
- Panama (2023)
- Macau (2023)
Also read: Kazakhstan Can Now Enter Indonesia with Visa on Arrival
Is there an Electronic Visa on Arrival for tourists in Bali?
Yes, there is an Electronic Visa on Arrival available for tourists visiting Bali and other parts of Indonesia.
This convenient option allows eligible travellers to apply and pay for their visas online before their arrival, streamlining the immigration process upon landing.
How to get a Visa on Arrival
If you want to obtain the Bali Visa on Arrival, make sure you fulfil the following requirements.
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond your intended stay in Bali.
- A return or onward ticket.
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay (equivalent to at least USD 1,000).
- A completed arrival/departure card, will be provided during your flight or at the port of entry.
Visa extension process
In case you want to prolong your stay in Bali for another 30 days granted by the Bali Visa on Arrival, you can pay a visit to the immigration office in the area. Ensure compliance with the immigration authorities by submitting the required travel documents, paying the visa fee, and following the provided instructions. Starting the visa extension process well before it expires is crucial to avoid any complications.
You can also rely on Lets Move Indonesia’s Indonesia Visa on Arrival Extension Service. Our experienced consultant team will help make your visa extension process seamless.
Visa on Arrival Updates in Indonesia Through 2023
Indonesia has kicked off the year 2023 with a series of welcoming updates to its Visa on Arrival (VoA) program, making travel to this vibrant archipelago even more accessible and enticing. Let’s take a closer look at the notable expansions:
Welcoming Kazakhstan (January 18, 2023):
Indonesia extended a warm welcome to citizens of Kazakhstan, marking the 87th country eligible for Visa on Arrival. Adding to the convenience, Kazakhstan nationals can now make use of the e-VOA scheme, streamlining the application process. Read more about this update.
Inclusion of Kenya and Rwanda (February 27, 2023):
Indonesia continued its quest for broader horizons by including Kenya and Rwanda in the list of countries eligible for Visa on Arrival. This strategic expansion increased the tally of nationalities qualified for on Arrival entry permit to Indonesia. Curious to know more? Read here for further details.
Embracing Panama, Guatemala, and Macau (April 2023):
Supported by Circular Letter Number IMI-0133.GR.01.01 Year 2023, Indonesia extended its hospitality to citizens of Panama, Guatemala, and Macau, now part of the Visa on Arrival (VoA) program. These new additions have unlocked fresh opportunities for travellers from these regions. To delve deeper, access the complete Circular Letter here.
Papua New Guinea Joins the Ranks (September 2023):
In a recent announcement, the Local Immigration Office unveiled ambitious plans to expand the Visa on Arrival and e-VOA programs. Papua New Guinea proudly joins this esteemed list, following in the footsteps of Armenia, Mozambique, and Tanzania. This update reaffirms Indonesia’s dedication to nurturing international relationships and boosting tourism.
For a comprehensive insight, learn more about this exciting development.
The Addition of Armenia, Mozambique and Tanzania:
As of September 2023, Immigration has expanded its Visa on Arrival and e-visa program by including Armenia, Mozambique, and Tanzania in the list of countries eligible for these travel options. This move aims to further promote tourism and facilitate entry into Indonesia for citizens of these nations. Travellers from Armenia, Mozambique, and Tanzania can now conveniently obtain their visas upon arrival or through the online e-visa application system, making their visits to Indonesia smoother and more accessible.
How much does a Visa on Arrival cost?
The cost of a Visa on Arrival to Indonesia is $35 USD or 500,000 IDR.
Is there a Visa Exemption for any nationalities?
Presently, only a small amount of nationalities have the option of a free visa, they are Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor Leste.
Please note, that these nationalities only have a maximum validity of 30 days which is non-extendable. You cannot apply for any visa type onshore if you are using this visa.
Can I stay longer than 60 days using Visa on Arrival?
You cannot stay longer than 60 days in Bali, and this applies when you apply for the same visa across Indonesia. You also are unable to apply for any other visit visa type whilst using this visa, therefore, if you want to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visitor visa. A Single Entry Tourist Visa lets you stay in Indonesia for a total of 180 days.
To find out more about the Single Entry Visa, check out this article: The Single Entry Tourist Visa – Everything you need to know
If I overstay my Visa on Arrival, is there any penalty?
Yes, there is a penalty. Currently, the penalties for overstaying have increased from 300,000 to 1,000,000 IDR per day.
Is it okay to leave Bali and come back and use the same visa again?
Yes, this is okay, but for multiple times this is not recommended. Immigration authorities may stop and detain you. Additionally, countries like Singapore are making it harder for travellers from Indonesia to go forward and backwards frequently, so if you do choose to do this method, ensure you spend time wherever it is you go to avoid potential issues with immigration.
If you do want to spend more time in Indonesia, we would simply recommend using a Single Entry visa. That way you save the headache of travelling forwards and backwards frequently and save on multiple flight costs.
What are the essential requirements to process a Visa in Indonesia?
The essential requirements for processing a visa in Indonesia vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. However, some general entry requirements usually include:
- Two blank pages of your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Indonesia.
- You need to complete and submit the appropriate visa application form, which you can usually obtain from the embassy or consulate in your country, or through the online e-visa system.
- You typically need two recent passport-sized photos with a white background.
- This could be a return flight ticket or proof of onward travel to another destination.
- This could be a hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from a sponsor in Indonesia.
- You need to show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Indonesia. This could be bank statements, payslips, or a letter from your sponsor.
How can I get a Bali VoA extension?
There are 2 choices you can opt for; do it yourself, which would rather be time-consuming involving 3 trips to immigration offices or you can get Lets Move Indonesia to do it for you.
Check out the link to see how it works: Visa Extension Bali
How much is the Visa on Arrival Extension
Extending your VoA yourself in Indonesia costs around $35 USD, but involves multiple immigration office visits, paperwork, and potential language barriers. A visa consultant simplifies the process, handling everything for you for a fee. Consultants offer expertise, reduced stress, faster processing, and peace of mind.
Which Option is Right for You to Stay in Bali?
If you’re comfortable navigating the immigration bureaucracy, have ample time, and are confident in your ability to understand and complete the process, self-processing might be a suitable option.
However, if you value your time, want to avoid stress, and prefer a hassle-free experience with expert guidance, using a visa consultant like Lets Move Indonesia is the recommended choice.
Have more questions about your Visa?
If you have any more questions about visas for Indonesia, kindly contact our team for a free consultation. WA: +62 812 9260 0590, T: +62 21 300 297 27 (Jakarta) T: +62 361 934 8343 (Seminyak) T: +62 361 939 9406 (Canggu), T: +62 361 280 789 (Sanur), E: [email protected]
To know the most complete and updated news about Bali Visa, check out our Bali Visa page!
Why get your Visa extension from Lets Move Indonesia?
As the leading agency in Bali, we process more visas than anyone else. Our ethical values and transparent pricing have set us apart from our Bali predecessors and our dedication to improving our industry has revolutionized the way visas are dealt with in Bali.
Our founder, Gary Joy a British expatriate, is a problem solver and is set about improving expatriate services across the country. Furthermore, his passion honestly isn’t in visas, but in improving service levels and making Indonesia a safer place for foreigners to live, travel and work. Without his dedication to promoting fair and honest behaviour, agencies would still be taking advantage of foreigners.
With transparent price settings, other agencies can no longer get away with charging people different prices based on how rich they perceive you to be or their sales targets. Whilst the competition is now copying our prices and trying to follow our lead, the truth is simple, they wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t for Gary Joy’s vision to improve the industry.
Lets Move Indonesia is proud to be the leader of Bali Visa services and was awarded the title “Best Visa & Business Consultancy in Indonesia” by the National Awards Foundation for our tireless dedication to promoting ethical values.
Lets Move Indonesia is ready to assist you with your VoA extension process. We offer a range of services tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a smooth and successful experience. Contact us today to learn more about how we can simplify your visa journey in Indonesia.