A whopping 1.1 million Australians visit Bali each year. It’s possibly Australia’s favourite tourist destination, and for good reason—it offers an amazing cultural experience at an extremely affordable price and it’s right next door.
In recent years, obtaining a Bali Visa from Australia has thankfully become a highly streamlined process, with the Indonesian government allowing Australian nationals to opt for a handy 30-day free entry option.
But even with these streamlined systems in place, if you’re traveling to Bali, you should take the time to learn the ins and outs of arranging your visa. Thankfully this article is here to give you a quick rundown on the process.
Who Needs A Bali Visa On Arrival?
If your trip to Bali is for tourist purposes and has the possibility of extending beyond 30 days, then it is advised that you opt for the Bali Visa on Arrival (VOA).
If you’re sure that you’re not going to stay longer than 30 days, you can skip paying for a visa altogether. You’ll be given a Visa Exemption Stamp which will notify government officials of your stay within the country.
The main difference between a short stay and a visa on arrival is that your short stay cannot be extended! You are obligated to leave the country within 30 days.
You should also take note that they will count your stay per day, not per night, and that your first and last day are included in that 30-day calculation. So, if you enter the country at 11:55pm, the last five minutes before midnight will be considered a full day.
What Are The Bali Visa Requirements?
The requirements for a Visa on Arrival for Australian citizens are as follows:
- Valid passport for at least 6 months, counted from the date that you enter Indonesia
- At least one complete blank visa page on passport
- Proof of a return/outward flight from Indonesia
- Fees of $35 USD for Bali visa costs, to be given in cash in either USD or INR
Depending on the Bali immigration officer, you may be asked to present proof of sufficient funds for your stay in Indonesia.
How Can I Extend My Travel Visa?
It is advised that you consult a visa agent to make the process of extending your visa as smooth as possible. You should also make sure to allocate enough time for this process by starting it—at the very least—a whole week before of your visa’s expiry date, and make sure to prepare $35 USD for renewal.
Keep in mind that your travel visa can only be extended by an additional 30 days at any one point in time.
What About Work Or Business Visas?
If you plan on entering Indonesia to find work, you need to be sponsored by the company that is hiring you. They should provide you with a KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Sementara) which functions as your working visa in the country.
If you need to enter Indonesia for business purposes, you may be eligible for a Multiple Entry Business Visa. It does not entitle you to work in the country or obtain a salary in any form, but you can perform other business activities such as networking and meet and greets with business partners. This visa is collected in an embassy or consulate outside of Indonesia.
Due to the complexity of the process as well as the additional documents involved for the Multiple Entry Visa, it is highly recommended that you contact a visa agent for your needs.
What Are Common Mistakes I Should Watch Out For?
Spelling/typos
It’s all too common for applicants to fill out their forms in a hurry and accidentally misspell vital personal information. If there is any discrepancy in your personal details, you will be denied entry at the departure airport, so make sure that you answer all the questions clearly and legibly.
Lack of time allocated for visa extension
We always recommend getting your visa extension in order at least a week before your visa is due, ideally with the help of a visa agent by your side. It can be a costly and time-consuming process, so make sure that you allocate an ample amount of time to cover all the bases.
Miscalculated duration of stay
Count the days correctly! Your stay in Indonesia is counted by day, not by night. Your arrival day counts as a whole day, and your departure day also counts as a whole day. Count your days in Indonesia properly, because you may incur fines of up to INR 300,000 per day if you overstay.
Not bringing the right currency
It’s a good idea to have some money exchanged before you visit. You must pay in cash in either USD or the local currency, and if you’re thinking of getting your money exchanged at the airport, bear in mind that it’s going to be a bit more expensive.
Do You Need A Visa For Bali?
Still not sure about what visa to get? With these kinds of issues, it’s never a bad idea to get a second opinion. While the internet is a good place to get a general overview. If you’re still unsure it’s important that you get a legitimate visa agent to help guide you throughout the process. Mistakes can cost time and money, so it’s important to get it right the first time.
RELATED: 5 things you must do in Seminyak, Bali