Welcome to your go to guide for traveling to Indonesia now that things are getting back to normal after COVID-19. The world is ready to explore again and there’s no place like the stunning islands of Indonesia. If you’re thinking about visiting, it’s important to know about a few changes like how to get your visa when you arrive and a new fee for visiting Bali. This guide is here to help you understand all that, making your trip as easy and fun as possible. Whether it’s your first time going to Indonesia or you’ve been before, we’ve got all the info you need to make your trip smooth and memorable. For a comprehensive guide to making your first time in Bali unforgettable, consider these essential tips. Let’s get started on your adventure to this beautiful part of the world!

Head Straight to Passport Control

When you get off the plane, just follow the crowd. This will take you to the area where officials check passports. It’s straightforward because everyone is going the same way. Before you start packing for Bali, make sure to check your passport. It needs to be valid for at least 6 months from when you arrive. Bali is strict about this and won’t let you in if your passport is about to expire.

Keep your onward or return ticket ready. At the passport desk, they might ask to see it. This is to confirm that you plan to leave Bali eventually. Bali is a wonderful place, but they need to make sure everyone follows the rules and doesn’t stay too long.

Understanding the Visa on Arrival (VoA) System

Indonesia’s primary method for tourists to enter the country is now through a Visa on Arrival (VoA). This system facilitates the visa acquisition process directly upon landing and is available at Bali or any major Indonesian airport. For 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah, approximately €30, travelers are granted a stay of up to 30 days, with the option for a one-time extension of an additional 30 days, totaling a maximum stay of 60 days.

Whether it’s your first time in Bali or you’re a returning visitor, understanding the Visa on Arrival system is crucial

Exploring the Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVoA) Option

For those seeking to expedite their entry or planning longer stays, Indonesia offers an Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVoA). Obtainable online before travel, the eVoA streamlines the entry process, making it a convenient choice for many travelers.

The Convenience of Ordering an E-Visa Online

Further enhancing the convenience for extended visits, the e-Visa can be ordered through the Indonesian Immigration website. This option is particularly suited for stays exceeding 30 days, offering a tailored approach to longer durations in Indonesia.

Eligibility for VoA and eVoA: A Global Perspective

The VoA and eVoA cater to a wide array of nationalities, including but not limited to, tourists from South Africa, the USA, Saudi Arabia, Australia, several European, Asian countries and more. Recent expansions in eligibility show Indonesia’s welcoming stance to a broader spectrum of global tourists. See here for Full list of countries.

New Bali Tourism Policy: The Foreign Tourist Fee

From February 14, 2024, the Bali Provincial Government will enforce a new policy requiring all international tourists to pay a foreign tourist fee of 150,000 Indonesian Rupiah, approximately €9. This initiative aims to fund environmental conservation efforts, ensuring Bali remains a pristine destination for all.

Payment Methods for the Bali Tourist Fee

Tourists can fulfill this obligation either online through the dedicated portal or directly upon arrival at Bali’s international airport and seaport, facilitating a smooth entry process.

The Importance of the Foreign Tourist Fee

The money collected goes to help keep Bali green and beautiful. This shows how much Bali cares about being a place that’s good for the planet and keeping its special culture and nature safe for everyone in the future. This plan is all about making sure Bali stays a wonderful place to visit for a long time.

Consulting Indonesian Immigration for Extended Stays

Travelers considering an extended stay beyond the initial 30 days are advised to consult with Indonesian immigration. This ensures a worry-free visit, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the Indonesian experience without the hassle of visa complications.

Indonesia’s post-COVID travel adjustments including the VoA, eVoA and the new tourist fee highlight the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. These efforts ensure that Indonesia remains a welcoming and vibrant destination for international visitors who are eager to explore its rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders.

Using ATMs in Bali

Getting cash in Bali is easy because ATMs are everywhere, especially in places where lots of tourists go like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua. You can find them in shopping areas, near big attractions, outside banks, and sometimes in convenience stores.

Finding an ATM

• ATMs in Bali work with most international debit and credit cards. Look for symbols like Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, and Maestro on your card and the ATM.
• Before you fly out, make sure your card is set up for taking out money overseas to avoid any trouble.

Limits and Charges

• How much money you can take out at once can change depending on the bank, but it’s usually between IDR 1,250,000 and IDR 3,000,000. If you need more, you might have to check with your own bank.
• Remember, taking out money might cost you extra in fees, like a set charge for each time you use the ATM or a percentage of the amount. It’s a good idea to ask your bank about this so you know what to expect.

Staying Safe

• Pick ATMs in places where lots of people are around, preferably during the day or inside a bank if you can. This is safer.
• Always hide your PIN when you type it in, and before you use an ATM, check it doesn’t look weird or like it’s been messed with.
• Try to take out money during the day or when the bank is open, just in case the ATM keeps your card so you can ask for help right away.

If Something Goes Wrong

• If the ATM doesn’t give you money or keeps your card, call your bank right away. They can help any time, day or night. If the ATM is at a bank and it’s open, you might be able to get help on the spot.

Other Ways to Pay

• Even though it’s good to have cash in Bali, using your credit card or a mobile payment app is also a good idea when you can. Lots of places accept these, and it means you don’t have to carry a lot of cash around.

Adding ATMs to your travel plans in Bali means you’ll always have cash when you need it. Just make sure to be careful and check with your bank about any fees or setup for overseas use so you’re all set for a great time in Bali.

Grab a Local SIM Card or Go for an e-SIM

After you land in Bali and grab your luggage, the next step is to make sure you can use your phone. You’ll want to be able to look up places, book rides, and share photos of your trip. You have two good choices for this: getting a regular SIM card or an e-SIM.

Getting a Regular SIM Card at the Telkomsel Booth

Right after you get your bags, look for the Telkomsel booth. It’s easy to find. Telkomsel is a popular phone service in Indonesia because it works well almost everywhere,. Getting a SIM card there is really quick. I got mine in just a few minutes when I was there in October 2023. The staff are friendly and will help you pick the best plan for how long you’re staying and how much you plan to use the internet. They’ll even put the SIM card in your phone and make sure it works before you go.

Or You Can Choose an e-SIM

An e-SIM is a digital SIM that you don’t have to put in your phone. You can buy it online and download it right to your phone before you even get to Bali. It’s cool because you don’t have to switch out SIM cards, and you can have two phone numbers at the same time, like your home number and a Bali number.

Why It’s Best to Do This at the Airport

Whether you go for a SIM card or an e-SIM, it’s a good idea to sort it out at the airport. It might cost a little more than in local stores, but it saves you the trouble of finding a store and waiting for them to set you up. Getting it done at the airport means you can start your Bali adventure right away without any waiting.

Just make sure your phone can use a new SIM card or an e-SIM before you leave home. Some phones are locked or might not support e-SIMs. This way, you can start enjoying Bali as soon as you arrive, from finding cool places on maps to posting pictures online.

Getting to Your Stay

After landing, heading to your accommodation is straightforward. Inside the airport, locate the official taxi stand. Simply tell them your destination, pay in advance, and you’re all set to go. This prepaid approach removes the need to negotiate fares, offering a hassle-free start to your visit.

For a different route, consider using the SIM card you’ve acquired to call a ride from Grab or Gojek, which operate similarly to Uber. However, please remember that these services typically meet passengers outside the airport, not directly at the terminal. You’ll need to walk about 200 meters outside to where they are allowed to pick up passengers. This minor extra step is worth considering for the convenience and often lower prices these ride sharing services can offer.

This info provides a smooth transition from the airport to your accommodation, letting you focus on enjoying Bali’s beauty without transportation worries.

Ready, Set, Explore Bali!

You’re all ready to go! You know how to get through the airport, grab a SIM card for your phone, get cash and find a ride to where you’re staying. Now, Bali’s beautiful beaches, amazing temples and tasty food are waiting for you. With these tips, getting through Bali’s airport is just the beginning of your fun trip.

Bali is a special place not just because it looks nice, but because it’s easy for you to get around and see everything. This guide is meant to help make your arrival smooth, so you can start enjoying your vacation right away. Now that you know what to do at the start, the rest of your adventure should be easy and fun!

If you’ve got questions or need some travel tips, just drop them in the comments! Wondering about cool spots to check out or places to unwind? We’re here to offer guidance. If you’re still sorting out travel plans, consider checking out our private car and guide service for an easy, informative way to explore Bali. You can see our options and make bookings by clicking on our Book Now page. Enjoy your Bali adventure!