How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update)

How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update): The Complete Guide for Travelers

The mere mention of Bali conjures images of emerald rice terraces, spiritual temples, and sun-kissed beaches. It’s a top destination on countless bucket lists for a reason. But before you can immerse yourself in its magic, there’s a crucial first step: understanding the entry requirements. Navigating immigration rules can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. This comprehensive guide is your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update).

As a frequent traveler to Indonesia, I’ve navigated these processes multiple times. The rules have evolved significantly in recent years, with new digital systems making it easier than ever for tourists to visit. This guide will break down all the options available to you—from the simple Visa on Arrival to the longer-term social visa—with clear, step-by-step instructions based on the latest 2025 regulations. We’ll cover costs, processing times, required documents, and common pitfalls to avoid. Our goal is to equip you with accurate, up-to-date information so you can secure your visa with confidence and focus on what really matters: planning an unforgettable Balinese adventure.

Let’s demystify the process and get you one step closer to your paradise getaway.

Understanding Your Options: Which Bali Visa is Right for You?

The first step in learning How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update) is identifying which type of visa aligns with your nationality, travel purpose, and length of stay. Indonesia offers a tiered system for tourists, and choosing the correct one is essential for a hassle-free entry.

Here’s a quick overview of the most common visa types for tourists:

• Visa-Free Entry (Visa Waiver): Available to citizens of only 10 countries as of 2025 (ASEAN members). Most travelers will not qualify for this.

• Visa on Arrival (VOA) / Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA): The most popular option for short-term tourism. Available to citizens of 97 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, India, and most of Europe.

• Visit Visa B211A (Social/Cultural Visa): For longer stays or for those whose nationality is not on the VOA list. This must be applied for online before travel.

• Other Visas (Business, etc.): For purposes like business meetings, journalism, or employment. These require sponsorship and are beyond the scope of this tourist-focused guide.

For the vast majority of readers, the VOA/e-VOA or the B211A Visit Visa will be the relevant paths. The following flowchart will help you quickly determine the right visa for your trip to Bali:

Option 1: Visa on Arrival (VOA) & Electronic VOA (e-VOA) – The Tourist’s Best Friend

This is the standard and most convenient process for most tourists planning a short to medium-length holiday. Understanding the How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update) process means knowing both the traditional VOA and the newer, recommended e-VOA.

A. The Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) – Highly Recommended

The e-VOA allows you to apply online before you travel, saving you significant time at the airport.

Key Features:

• Validity: 30 days from date of issue.

• Stay Period: Up to 30 days in Indonesia.

• Extension: Can be extended once for an additional 30 days at an immigration office in Indonesia (total 60 days).

• Cost: IDR 500,000 (approximately USD $35).

Eligible Countries: Citizens from 97 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India, France, Germany, Spain, and South Africa. A full list is available on the official Indonesian Immigration website.

Step-by-Step Application Guide for the e-VOA:

1. Access the Official Portal: Go to the official e-VOA website. Beware of third-party sites that charge extra fees.

2. Create an Account: Register with a valid email address.

3. Fill Out the Application Form: You will need to enter:

   • Personal details (name, DOB, nationality as in passport).

   • Passport details (number, issue and expiry date).

   • Intended date of arrival.

   • Address in Indonesia (your first hotel or villa is fine).

4. Upload Required Documents:

   • A color scan of your passport’s biodata page. It must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.

   • A recent color passport-style photograph.

   • A scan of your return flight ticket or ticket to another country.

   • A scan of your hotel booking or proof of accommodation (for the entire stay is not necessary, just the first one).

5. Pay the Visa Fee: Use a major credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard). The payment gateway is secure.

6. Receive and Download Your e-VOA: Once approved (which can be within minutes or a few hours), you will receive a PDF of your e-VOA via email. Download this and print a physical copy to present upon arrival.

Benefits of the e-VOA:

• Skip the VOA Queue: Upon landing in Bali (DPS), proceed directly to the immigration counter labeled “e-VOA” or “All Passports,” which is typically much shorter than the VOA payment line.

• Peace of Mind: Your visa is secured before you travel, avoiding any unexpected issues.

B. The Traditional Visa on Arrival (VOA)

If you forget to get the e-VOA, you can still get a VOA directly at the airport.

Process:

1. Upon arrival at Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS), follow the signs to “Visa on Arrival.”

2. Join the line at the VOA Payment Counter. Have your passport and cash ready.

3. Pay the fee of IDR 500,000 (USD ~$35). Indonesian Rupiah is preferred, but major foreign currencies (USD, AUD, EUR, etc.) are often accepted at a less favorable exchange rate.

4. You will receive a visa sticker and a payment receipt.

5. Proceed to the immigration counter with your passport, completed customs declaration, and the VOA sticker/receipt.

Option 2: B211A Visit Visa (for Tourism) – For Longer Stays or Non-VOA Nationals

If you are not from a VOA-eligible country or you wish to stay for longer than 60 days (with extensions), the B211A is your solution for How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update).

Key Features:

• Validity: 60 days from date of issue.

• Stay Period: Up to 60 days in Indonesia.

• Extension: Can be extended twice, each for an additional 30 days (total potential stay of 120 days).

• Cost: Approximately USD $100 – $200+, depending on the agent’s service fee.

• Processing Time: 5 to 10 business days.

Who is it for?

• Travelers from countries not on the VOA list (check the official list).

• Travelers who know they want to stay between 60 and 120 days.

How to Apply for the B211A Visa:
Unlike the e-VOA, the B211A is typically applied for through a registered Indonesian visa agent or sponsorship service. This agent acts as your local sponsor, a requirement for this visa type.

1. Choose a Reputable Visa Agent: Do your research online. Read reviews on platforms like Facebook expat groups or Tripadvisor forums.

2. Provide Documents to the Agent: You will typically need to send scanned copies of:

   • Passport biodata page (valid >12 months is recommended).

   • Passport-size photograph.

   • Return flight ticket.

   • Proof of accommodation in Indonesia.

   • Bank statement showing sufficient funds (usually ~$2,000 USD).

3. Complete the Online Application: The agent will handle the application on the official immigration portal on your behalf.

4. Pay the Fees: You will pay the agent their service fee and the government visa fee.

5. Receive Your e-Visa: Once approved, the agent will send you the electronic B211A visa. Print multiple copies.

Essential Requirements for All Bali Visas

Regardless of which visa you choose, you MUST have the following documents ready to present to immigration officers:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. Ensure it has blank pages.

2. Return or Onward Flight Ticket: Proof that you will be leaving Indonesia before your visa expires.

3. Proof of Accommodation: Booking confirmation for your first night(s) in Bali.

4. Completed Customs Declaration: You can complete this electronically via the e-CD (Electronic Customs Declaration) app or website before you fly, or fill out a paper form on the plane. You will receive a QR code to present at customs.

Common Questions and Pitfalls to Avoid (2025 Update)

Q: Can I extend the Visa on Arrival (VOA)?
A: Yes, you can extend it once for 30 days. You must do this at an immigration office in Indonesia (e.g., Denpasar). Most people use a visa agent to handle the extension process, which involves paperwork, a photo, and a visit to the office. Start the process about 2 weeks before your first visa expires.

Q: What happens if I overstay my visa?
A: Do not overstay. Overstaying results in a fine of IDR 1,000,000 per day (approx. $65 USD). Even one day of overstay will result in a fine and potential delays, questioning, and future immigration issues. Set reminders for your visa expiry date.

Q: Is the e-VOA website secure?
A: Yes, the official imigrasi.go.id website is secure. Only use this official government site to avoid scams and overpaying.

Q: Do I need vaccines to enter Bali?
A: As of 2025, there are no mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements for entry to Indonesia. Standard travel vaccinations (Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid) are always recommended. Always check the latest health advisories from your government before travel.

Conclusion: Your Visa Journey Made Simple

Understanding How to Get a Visa for Bali, Indonesia (2025 Update) is the first and most important step in planning your journey. The process has been streamlined with the introduction of the e-VOA, making it more accessible than ever for the world to enjoy Bali’s incredible culture and landscapes.

To recap:

• For most short trips, the e-VOA is the fastest, most efficient option.

• For longer stays or if your nationality isn’t VOA-eligible, the B211A Visit Visa through an agent is the way to go.

• Always ensure your passport has 6 months’ validity and you have your return ticket and accommodation details ready.

By following this guide, you can navigate the Indonesian immigration system with ease and confidence. Now that your visa questions are answered, you can focus on the exciting part: exploring ancient temples, learning to surf, savoring incredible food, and creating memories that will last a lifetime in the beautiful island of Bali.

Selamat Jalan! (Have a good trip!)