So, you’re thinking about heading to Bali. Amazing choice. But before you start dreaming about beaches and Bintangs, let’s clear up something that confuses a lot of travelers: the Visa on Arrival (VOA).
Don’t worry, it’s not complicated. In fact, Bali makes it pretty easy. Here’s the lowdown, in simple, no-stress language.
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Bali?
If you’re coming from the US, most European countries, Australia, the UK, or a long list of others, the answer is: yes — but it’s super easy.
You can get a Visa on Arrival once you land at Bali’s airport. You don’t need to apply in advance unless you prefer to do it online. The VOA is good for 30 days and, if you want to stay longer, it can be extended once for another 30 days.
So if your Bali trip is under 30 days, just grab the VOA when you arrive and you’re good to go.
What’s the Difference Between Visa Exemption and Visa on Arrival?
People often get these mixed up.
Visa Exemption means you don’t pay anything, but you can’t extend it. So once your 30 days are up, you’ve gotta leave.
Visa on Arrival costs about IDR 500,000 (roughly USD 35), but you can extend it. That gives you a full 60 days in Bali without leaving the country.
If you think you might want to stay longer than a month, go with the Visa on Arrival. Trust me — it’ll save you a headache later.
Where Do I Get the Visa on Arrival?
Once you land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (that’s the main Bali airport), follow the signs for “Visa on Arrival.” There’s a dedicated counter right before immigration. You pay there, then move on to passport control.
They accept cash (rupiah or a few major foreign currencies) and cards. But sometimes card machines don’t work, so having cash as backup is smart.
Can I Apply Online Before I Fly?
Yes. If you don’t like queues or just want one less thing to worry about after a long flight, you can apply online.
It’s called the e-VOA and it’s done through the official immigration website (just search for “e-VOA Bali” — don’t fall for fake sites). You’ll fill out a short form, upload a copy of your passport, and pay online. Easy stuff.
After that, you’ll get an email confirmation and a QR code. Just show that when you arrive and skip the VOA counter.
How Do I Extend the Visa on Arrival?
Let’s say you love Bali so much (happens to the best of us) and want to stay another month. Good news — you can extend your VOA.
Here’s how it works:
- Start the extension process at least 7 days before your visa expires
- You can do it yourself at an immigration office or, honestly, just pay a visa agent to handle it. Most people go with an agent because it’s way easier
- You’ll need your passport, a copy of your entry stamp, and the fee (around IDR 800,000 to IDR 1,000,000 if using an agent)
You’ll usually have to go in for fingerprints and a photo at the immigration office, but that’s pretty much it.
What Happens If I Overstay?
Don’t. Seriously — don’t overstay.
If you stay past your visa without extending, you’ll be fined IDR 1,000,000 per day (about USD 65), and that adds up fast. Worse, overstaying can mess with future travel plans, especially if you want to return to Indonesia.
So set a reminder on your phone and make sure your visa is squared away.
What If I Want to Stay More Than 60 Days?
If you’re planning a long-term stay, a Visa on Arrival won’t cut it. You’ll need a different kind of visa — like a social visa, business visa, or retirement visa, depending on your situation.
These require applying in advance (usually before entering Indonesia) and often need a local sponsor. Most people use visa agents to help with the process. If you’re serious about staying long-term, it’s worth looking into.
A Few Quick Tips Before You Fly
Check your passport — it should be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date
Have a return or onward ticket — immigration might ask for it
Bring cash — in case the card machines at the VOA counter don’t work
Download your e-VOA QR code — if you apply online, have it saved and printed, just in case
In Short: What You Need to Remember
The Visa on Arrival system in Bali is one of the most traveler-friendly out there. As long as you know the basics, it’s smooth sailing. Get your VOA when you land, or apply online before your trip. If you think Bali might steal your heart and you’ll want to stay longer, don’t forget to extend it.
Still unsure? That’s what local visa agents are for — they can walk you through it. But for most travelers, it’s as easy as show up, pay, stamp, and go enjoy your trip.
