Planning a trip to Indonesia can be exciting, but understanding the country’s entry requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth arrival. From visa procedures to passport validity, onward travel proof, and new digital declarations, every traveller must comply with Indonesia’s regulations before and upon arrival. In this article, we will discuss the entry requirements you should be mindful of when entering Indonesia.

1. Valid passport

Kindly ensure that your passport has more than 6 months' validity from the date of your departure from Indonesia to ensure a smooth travel experience. Immigration authorities in Bali do not grant entry to any tourist whose passport is valid for a period shorter than six months. 

Ensure your passport is in perfect condition before travelling to Indonesia. Indonesian authorities maintain strict rules and may deny entry for damage, even minimal water exposure, minor tears, or rips to the pages. Matters related to immigration, customs, and quarantine fall under the jurisdiction of the host country.

2. Valid Visa

A valid visa is a key requirement for entering Indonesia, depending on your nationality and purpose of visit. Immigration officers will verify your visa upon arrival by checking your passport, visa details (sticker or electronic record), and travel documents at the immigration checkpoint. Travellers without the appropriate visa may be denied entry or required to obtain one before proceeding. Ensure that your point of entry is the same as mentioned in your visa. For example, you cannot enter Indonesia by landing in Bali if your visa lists Jakarta as your point of entry.

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Note: If a visa is available on arrival at Bali airport for your passport, it is better to apply for and take an e-visa beforehand to avoid any complications.

3. Round-trip flight ticket

According to the official Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi (Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration), a “transportation ticket outbound Indonesia” (i.e., proof that you will leave Indonesia) is required. This is to ensure you will return to your home country and that the aeroplane ticket is dated to your allotted stay in Indonesia.

4. Tourist Levy

Foreign tourists visiting Bali are subject to a Rp 150,000 per-person levy. This fee is paid only once during a trip to Bali, before the traveller leaves the territory of the Republic of Indonesia.

The payment must be made electronically. It can be completed by accessing the Love Bali system before entering Bali, or at payment counters available at airports and ports in Bali.

Alternatively, payments can also be made while travelling in Bali through registered endpoints such as hotels, travel agents, and tourist attractions connected to the Love Bali system.

To make the arrival process at the airport or port smoother, foreign tourists are strongly encouraged to pay online before departing for Bali.

The tourist levy can be paid online here.

5. Arrival card

All travellers entering Indonesia must complete a mandatory digital entry declaration that covers immigration, customs, and health information. This requirement applies to every incoming passenger, regardless of nationality or visa type, and does not replace any visa requirements that may apply.

Travellers are required to submit the arrival card within three (3) days prior to their arrival in Indonesia.

The declaration can be completed online here.

6. International Driving Permit

You cannot drive on your home country’s licence alone; you must use an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive rental scooters/bikes in Bali. This is crucial, as in the event of an accident, you may face issues with the local police and your health insurance company.

7. Health Insurance

Health insurance is not mandatory, but it is recommended to take it before your trip to Indonesia, as the cost of medical treatment is on the higher side. Contaminated food or water can give you Bali-belly or diarrhoea, even malaria and dengue in extreme cases. A proper health insurance policy ensures your bills are covered, so you can receive medical attention without compromise. 

8. Proof of sufficient funds 

Although not mandatory, it is essential that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Indonesia. Proof of funds is not always collected proactively, but officers can ask for it as part of admissibility checks. Carry a simple proof (e.g., recent bank statement balance page) to avoid delays.

9. Proof of accommodation

While proof of accommodation is not mandatory, it is always advisable to keep your hotel bookings handy, especially upon arrival in Indonesia. Immigration Officials may ask for it to ensure you are a tourist and not here for other purposes.

10. Comply with laws and regulations: Respect local customs and culture

Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country with numerous traditional customs and holidays. It is absolutely important that you respect the cultural differences and traditions. For example, Indonesians celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, and same-sex and extramarital activities are prohibited in some parts of the country in accordance with the Sharia law. Being mindful beforehand will ensure you have a safe trip without any added hassles.

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