Bali Reactivates Visa on Arrival for 23 Countries This March

Exciting news for travelers—Bali has eliminated self-quarantine regulations, and now the Visa on Arrival (VoA) program is back! This reopening was officially announced by the Directorate-General for Immigration, effective from March 7, 2022.

If you’ve been eagerly anticipating this moment, you’re in luck! Traveling to Bali has never been easier, as you can now skip the lengthy quarantine procedures. As long as your PCR test upon arrival is positive, you’re all set to explore your favorite spots without delay. Plus, with the VoA option, arranging your entry permit is quick and straightforward. But what exactly does Visa on Arrival mean, and why has it become the talk of the town in Bali’s tourism scene?

What is Visa on Arrival?

Visa on Arrival is an initiative by the Indonesian government designed to encourage international visitors to explore the beautiful archipelago. This entry permit allows foreigners to enter Indonesia for various purposes, including tourism, business, and social visits, without the hassle typically associated with visa applications. Let’s dive deeper into what you need to know about this convenient option available in Bali.

Read more: Types of Visas before Travelling to Indonesia

Eligible Countries for Visa on Arrival

Currently, only 23 countries are eligible for the specific tourism Visa on Arrival. These nations include:

• Australia
• United States
• Netherlands
• Brunei Darussalam
• Philippines
• England
• Italy
• Japan
• Germany
• Cambodia
• Canada
• South Korea
• Laos
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• France
• Qatar
• New Zealand
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Vietnam

At this time, tourists can only apply for the VoA upon entering Indonesia through the Immigration Checkpoint at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali. However, holding a VoA doesn’t restrict you from traveling to other parts of Indonesia. Jamaruli Manihuruk, Head of the Bali Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, confirmed that there are 16 visa counters at the airport, with two officers stationed at each one. This efficient setup enables rapid processing—handling up to 32 travelers per minute!

Requirements for Obtaining a Visa on Arrival

To qualify for the VoA, there are a few essential requirements you need to meet:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
• You must possess a return ticket or an onward travel itinerary.
• Complete any necessary documentation as laid out by the COVID-19 Task Force.

The VoA fee, in accordance with Government Regulation No. 28/2019, is IDR 500,000. You can extend this visa once for an additional 30 days at the immigration office. Keep in mind that the VoA status is non-transferable, and any violations of the permit or health protocols during your stay may result in penalties as per the existing laws and regulations.

Important Limitations of the Visa on Arrival

While the VoA initiative is incredibly beneficial, it currently caters only to specific tourism visas. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of the visa application process and the requirements involved.