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Indonesian Visa 101: What You Need to Know Before Flying to Bali

Indonesian Visa 101: What You Need to Know Before Flying to Bali

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JOOi team
Published on 11 Sep 2025 at 0:37 PM
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You have picked the dates, booked your hotel, and started dreaming of sunsets in Uluwatu and seafood dinners by the beach. But before you get too carried away with vacation mode, there is one important thing to check off your list. Your visa.

Whether you are flying to Bali for a quick holiday, a long stay with your family, or even a workation, understanding Indonesia’s visa process can save you from unnecessary headaches. The last thing you want is to be turned away at immigration or get caught up in confusing rules while you are trying to enjoy paradise.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a visa for Bali, in simple and clear terms.

Who Needs a Visa to Enter Bali, Indonesia?

It all depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Indonesia currently offers visa-free entry, Visa on Arrival, and pre-arranged visit visas. If you are from a neighboring ASEAN country such as Singapore, Thailand, or the Philippines, you may be eligible for visa-free entry for up to 30 days. This option is strictly non-extendable and is suitable for short tourism trips.

However, if you are from countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, India, Australia, the United Kingdom, or many European nations, you will most likely need a Visa on Arrival or an electronic Visa on Arrival before landing.

The good news? Both of these options are easy and traveler-friendly.

What is a Visa on Arrival and Who Can Get It?

A Visa on Arrival, or VOA, allows tourists to stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days with the option to extend for another 30 days. It is designed for short visits and is available to passport holders from over 90 countries. The visa costs around 500,000 IDR which is approximately 35 US dollars.

You can get the VOA in two ways. You can apply online before your trip using the official immigration website, or you can pay and receive it when you land at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport. The online version is called the electronic Visa on Arrival or e-VOA and is highly recommended because it allows you to skip queues and save time on arrival.

To apply for an e-VOA, visit the official site imigrasi.go.id, upload your passport, submit your travel dates, pay the fee online, and receive your visa by email. Make sure to print it out or have it ready on your device when passing through immigration.

Can I Stay Longer Than 30 Days in Bali?

Yes, you can. If you arrive with a VOA or e-VOA, you can extend it once for another 30 days. This gives you a total of 60 days in Bali. The extension process can be done at an immigration office in Bali, or you can use a visa agent to help manage it smoothly.

If you already know you want to stay longer than 60 days, it is better to apply for a B211A Visit Visa. This visa is suitable for those taking long holidays, visiting family, or working remotely. It gives you a 60-day stay upfront and can be extended up to two times, giving you a total of 180 days in Indonesia. The application must be done before arrival, and you may need a local sponsor. Fortunately, trusted travel agents like JOOi can assist with the visa application from start to finish.

What You Need to Prepare

Regardless of which visa you apply for, there are a few things you will always need. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Have proof of your return or onward travel. For some visa types, you may also be asked to show hotel bookings, travel insurance, or proof of funds.

If you are applying for a B211A visa, you will need a passport photo, your personal details, and possibly a sponsorship letter from a registered company or travel agent.

Apply in Advance During Peak Season

Bali’s high season runs from June to August and again in December. During these times, the number of travelers increases, and so do the queues at immigration. Applying for your visa online before your trip is a smart move. It helps you avoid long waits and ensures you will not face unexpected issues on arrival.

In peak season, visa agents and immigration officers are often overwhelmed with requests. Starting early ensures you secure the support you need, especially if you plan to extend your visa or apply for a long-stay permit.

Need Help Navigating the Visa Process?

Traveling to Bali can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to visas. That is where JOOi steps in. As a trusted travel partner, we help travelers secure the right visas quickly and correctly, guiding you through every step whether your stay is a week or three months. If you fall in love with the island and want to stay longer, we can even assist with extensions.

Beyond visas, JOOi offers fast-track airport services to help you skip the crowds, plus hotel recommendations and babysitting assistance for families. With the right planning and support, you can breeze through immigration and start your holiday without stress. Whether you are visiting for a beach getaway, cultural exploration, or remote work retreat, JOOi ensures your journey begins smoothly.

Ready to travel smarter? Let JOOi take care of your visa today.


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