Bali Entry Requirements for Tourists: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bali, the "Island of the Gods," beckons with its emerald rice terraces, vibrant cultural traditions, and sun-kissed beaches. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping coconut water in Seminyak, exploring Ubud’s monkey forest, or catching a sunrise at Mount Batur, a seamless entry into Bali is the first step to an unforgettable adventure. For those considering a longer-term stay, the allure of homes for sale in Bali adds an extra layer of excitement, offering the chance to own a slice of paradise. However, with evolving regulations, preparing for your trip requires a bit of planning. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide to Bali’s entry requirements for tourists in 2025 is packed with the latest information to ensure you breeze through immigration and start your tropical escape—or property hunt—stress-free.

Why Preparation Matters

Bali welcomed over 5 million international tourists in 2024, and with an ambitious target of 6.5 million in 2025, the Indonesian government has streamlined entry processes while prioritizing sustainable tourism and public health. From visa options to health protocols, understanding the requirements ahead of time saves you from last-minute hassles at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Plus, with new autogates and digital forms, a little prep can have you out of the airport and into paradise—or exploring property for sale in Canggu—in under 30 minutes!

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to ensure your Bali adventure starts on the right foot.

Step 1: Check Your Passport Validity

Your passport is your golden ticket to Bali, but it needs to meet strict criteria:

• Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Indonesia. For example, if you arrive on July 1, 2025, your passport should be valid until at least January 1, 2026.
• Condition: Ensure your passport is in good condition. Indonesian authorities are strict about damaged passports—water damage, tears, or even minor pen marks can lead to denied entry.
• Blank Pages: You’ll need at least one blank page for visa stamps.

Pro Tip: If your passport is nearing expiration or has wear and tear, renew it well before your trip. Some travelers have been turned away at check-in counters for damaged passports, so double-check to avoid surprises.

Step 2: Determine Your Visa Requirements

Most tourists require a visa to enter Bali, but options vary based on your nationality and length of stay. For those eyeing property for sale in North Bali, a longer-term visa may be worth considering for extended visits to scout investments. Here’s a breakdown of the main visa types for 2025:

1. Visa-Free Entry

• Who’s Eligible: Citizens of 9 ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and Timor-Leste.
• Details: Allows a 30-day stay for tourism, non-extendable.
• Cost: Free.
• Process: Simply present your passport at immigration. If you plan to use autogates (more on this later), pre-register your visa exemption online via the Indonesian Immigration Portal.

2. Visa on Arrival (VoA)

• Who’s Eligible: Citizens of 97 countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the UK, and most European nations. Check the full list on the official Indonesian Immigration website.
• Details: Valid for a 30-day stay, extendable once for an additional 30 days (total 60 days) at a local immigration office or through a visa agency.
• Cost: IDR 500,000 (~USD 35).
• Process:
  
  • Option 1: Purchase at the VoA counter upon arrival at Bali’s airport. Payment can be made by credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard) or cash in IDR, USD, EUR, GBP, or SGD.
  • Option 2: Apply for an e-VoA online up to 90 days before travel via the Indonesian Immigration Portal. This allows you to use autogates for faster entry.
• Requirements:
  
  • Valid passport (6+ months).
  • Proof of onward or return ticket within 60 days.
  • Sufficient funds (rarely checked but recommended).

3. Visit Visa B211A (e-Visa)

• Who’s Eligible: Travelers from countries not eligible for VoA or those planning a longer stay.
• Details: Valid for 60 days, extendable twice for 60 days each (total 180 days).
• Cost: Varies, typically ~USD 150, depending on the visa agency or direct application.
• Process: Apply online via the Indonesian Immigration Portal or through a trusted visa agency. Requires a sponsor letter from an Indonesian entity (agencies often provide this).
• Requirements:
  
  • Valid passport (6+ months).
  • Proof of onward travel.
  • Financial proof (e.g., bank statement).
  • Accommodation details.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your visa eligibility, use the Indonesian Immigration website’s visa checker tool. Avoid third-party websites that charge inflated fees or pose as official portals. For e-VoA or B211A, apply at least a week in advance to account for processing time.

Step 3: Pay the Bali Tourism Levy

Since February 14, 2024, all international tourists (except ASEAN nationals and Timor-Leste citizens) must pay a Bali Tourism Levy of IDR 150,000 (~USD 10). This one-time fee supports environmental preservation, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism initiatives, which is especially important for those looking to buy land in Bali to contribute to the island’s eco-conscious future.

How to Pay:

• Online (Recommended): Visit the official Love Bali website or download the Love Bali app (available on App Store and Google Play). Enter your passport details, name, email, and arrival date, then pay via credit/debit card. You’ll receive a levy voucher via email with a QR code to scan at airport checkpoints.
• On Arrival: Pay at designated counters near the airport’s exit using a credit/debit card (no cash accepted).

Key Notes:

• Keep your levy voucher (digital or printed) handy, as immigration may request it.
• The fee applies to all travelers, including children.
• Pay only through official channels to avoid scams. Some fraudulent websites mimic the Love Bali platform.

Pro Tip: Pay the levy before your trip to save time at the airport. Double-check your email for the voucher, as some travelers have reported delays in receiving it.

Step 4: Complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass

Following the World Health Organization’s classification of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency in August 2024, Indonesia introduced a mandatory SATUSEHAT Health Pass for all international travelers, effective August 29, 2024. This digital health declaration helps track infectious diseases, including Mpox and Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

How to Complete:

• When: Fill out the form no earlier than 3 days before arrival (you’ll need your flight seat number).
• Where: Use the SATUSEHAT website (https://sshp.kemkes.go.id), not the app, which is primarily for Indonesian residents.
• Process:
  
  • Enter your passport details, flight information, and health status.
  • Answer questions about recent symptoms or exposure to infectious diseases.
  • Receive a confirmation via email or WhatsApp (check both, as delivery can vary).
• At the Airport: Present the confirmation if requested. Thermal screening cameras may check your temperature, and health officials may review your Health Pass, especially if arriving from high-risk countries like China or Malaysia.

Key Notes:

• No fee is required for the Health Pass.
• COVID-19 vaccination certificates are no longer mandatory as of June 9, 2023, but it’s wise to carry proof of vaccination for other diseases (e.g., yellow fever if arriving from a transmission-risk country).
• Medical travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended.

Pro Tip: Complete the Health Pass before boarding your flight to avoid delays. Save a screenshot of the confirmation, as internet access at the airport can be spotty.

Step 5: Fill Out the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD)

All international travelers must complete an Electronic Customs Declaration to declare goods brought into Indonesia. This step is mandatory, even if you’re not carrying dutiable items.

How to Complete:

• When: Up to 3 days before arrival or at the airport.
• Where: Access the form via the Indonesian Customs Service website or complete it at airport kiosks.
• Process:
  
  • Provide your passport details, flight information, and accommodation address in Bali.
  • Declare items like animals, plants, drugs, weapons, or cash exceeding IDR 100 million (~USD 6,500).
  • Families can submit one form for the group.
• Output: You’ll receive a QR code to save on your phone or print for scanning at customs.

Pro Tip: Complete the e-CD online before your trip to speed up the process. Ensure accuracy, as false declarations can lead to fines or confiscation of goods.

Step 6: Prepare Proof of Onward Travel

Immigration officers may request proof of a return or onward ticket showing your departure from Indonesia within the validity of your visa (30 days for visa-free/VoA, 60 days for B211A). This ensures you don’t plan to overstay.

Acceptable Proof:

• A confirmed flight ticket out of Indonesia (doesn’t need to be back to your home country).
• A ferry or bus ticket to another country (e.g., Singapore or Malaysia).

Pro Tip: Book a flexible or refundable ticket if your plans are uncertain. Some airlines may check this at check-in, so have a digital or printed copy ready.

Step 7: Pre-Register for Autogates (Optional but Recommended)

Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport introduced autogates to expedite immigration for eligible travelers. These e-gates use facial recognition to process arrivals in seconds, but pre-registration is required.

How to Register:

• Who’s Eligible: Travelers with e-VoA, visa-free entry (if pre-registered), or B211A visas.
• Process: Visit the Indonesian Immigration Portal before arrival and upload your passport details. You’ll receive a confirmation to use the autogates.
• At the Airport: Scan your passport and face at the autogate—no need to queue at manual counters.

Pro Tip: Autogates are a game-changer for quick entry, but you must pre-register. Travelers who skip this step have reported delays, as manual counters can be crowded during peak season (July–August).

Step 8: Additional Considerations

To ensure a smooth entry and stay in Bali, keep these in mind:

• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required if arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk (check TravelHealthPro’s Indonesia guide). Carry a certificate.
• Damaged Passport Risks: Indonesian authorities are strict—replace worn passports before travel.
• Overstay Penalties: Overstaying your visa incurs a fine of IDR 1 million per day (~USD 65). Extend your VoA or B211A in advance if needed.
• Cultural Respect: Bali’s Provincial Government advises respecting local customs, especially at temples. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and follow the “Do’s and Don’ts” on the Bali government website to avoid fines or deportation.
• Drink Safety: Be cautious of drink spiking in nightlife areas like Kuta or Canggu. Only consume drinks prepared in your sight, as methanol poisoning cases have been reported.

Step 9: Plan Your Arrival

Ngurah Rai International Airport is Bali’s main hub, and preparation makes arrival a breeze:

• Pre-Book Airport Transfers: Avoid taxi haggling by booking a reliable transfer through platforms like Klook. Prices are affordable, and drivers meet you at arrivals.
• Stay Connected: Purchase an eSIM online before arrival for instant internet access. This helps with navigation, ride-hailing apps, and accessing digital forms.
• Cash and Cards: ATMs are available at the airport, but carry some USD or EUR for VoA payment as a backup. Credit/debit cards are widely accepted for the tourism levy and VoA.

Pro Tip: Arrive with all digital forms (Health Pass, e-CD, levy voucher) saved as screenshots or printed copies. Airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable, and you’ll want quick access.

Step 10: Enjoy Bali Responsibly

Once you’ve cleared immigration and customs, you’re ready to soak in Bali’s magic! Here are a few tips to enhance your trip:

• Best Times to Visit:
  
  • Dry Season (April–October): Ideal for beaches and outdoor activities, but July–August is peak season with higher prices.
  • Wet Season (November–March): Lush greenery, fewer crowds, and cheaper accommodations. March offers Nyepi, Bali’s unique Day of Silence.
• Must-Try Experiences: Savor Balinese dishes like babi guling (suckling pig) or sate lilit (minced seafood satay). Visit Uluwatu Temple, snorkel in Nusa Penida, or join a yoga retreat in Ubud.
• Sustainable Tourism: Support local businesses, avoid single-use plastics, and respect sacred sites to preserve Bali’s beauty.

Final Checklist Before You Go

To make your preparation foolproof, here’s a quick checklist:

• Passport valid for 6+ months with no damage.
• Visa arranged (visa-free, e-VoA, or B211A).
• Bali Tourism Levy paid (IDR 150,000, ~USD 10).
• SATUSEHAT Health Pass completed (within 3 days of arrival).
• Electronic Customs Declaration submitted with QR code saved.
• Proof of onward/return ticket.
• Autogate pre-registration (if using e-VoA or visa-free).
• Travel insurance (optional but recommended).
• Airport transfer booked and eSIM purchased for connectivity.

Why Bali is Worth the Prep

Bali’s allure lies in its ability to captivate every traveler—whether you’re chasing adventure, serenity, cultural immersion, or even exploring property for sale in North Bali, property for sale in Canggu, homes for sale in Bali, or opportunities to buy land in Bali. The entry requirements may seem like a few hoops to jump through, but they’re a small price to pay for exploring an island where ancient temples meet modern beach clubs, and every sunset feels like a gift. By following this guide, you’ll navigate Bali’s 2025 entry process with ease, leaving you free to focus on creating memories—or building a future—that last a lifetime.

For the latest updates, always cross-check with official sources like the Indonesian Immigration Portal, Love Bali website, or your country’s travel advisory (e.g., SmartTraveller for Australians, GOV.UK for Brits, or travel.state.gov for Americans). Safe travels, and see you under Bali’s swaying palms!

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Sources: This guide draws on information from official Indonesian government websites, Bali Provincial Government advisories, and trusted travel resources like Klook, Welcome Back to Bali, and The Bali Sun, updated as of May 1, 2025. Always verify details with primary sources, as regulations can change.