Planning your dream trip to Bali? Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back to soak in the tropical charm, getting prepared is key to an amazing experience. From travel tips to cultural insights, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before you set foot on this stunning island. Let’s dive into the ultimate Bali travel guide!
1. Getting Your Travel Documents in Order
Planning a trip to Bali? Great choice! Before you pack your bags, let’s talk about visas—because a smooth arrival starts with knowing what you need. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from your arrival date and contains at least one blank page for that coveted Bali immigration stamp.
A Friendly Guide to Bali Visa Options
Bali offers several visa options depending on your nationality and the length of your stay:
1. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
The Visa on Arrival is the most popular option for travelers from countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia (among others). Here’s the lowdown:
- Cost: 500,000 IDR (around $30 USD).
- Payment: Pay in cash or by card upon arrival.
- Validity: 30 days.
- Extensions: Yes, extendable for an additional 30 days if you decide to stay longer!
If you’re unsure whether your country is on the list, you can double-check https://www.imigrasi.go.id/faq/visa/negara-mana-saja-yang-terdaftar-dalam-daftar-electronic-visa-on-arrival-e-voa.
Pro Tip: The VOA is super convenient, but be prepared for possible queues at the airport. If you want to skip the lines, keep reading about eVisa!
2. eVisa:
For those planning a longer stay or wanting to avoid the hassle of airport queues, the eVisa is your go-to.
- Application: Do it online through the official eVisa portal, https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/.
- Processing Time: 3-7 business days (so plan ahead!).
- Ideal For: Stays longer than 30 days or travelers who prefer having everything sorted before they arrive.
Why Choose eVisa?
Not only does it let you skip the VOA counter at the airport, but it’s also valid for longer stays, depending on the type of visa you choose.
3. Visa-Free Entry:
If you’re a citizen of an ASEAN country, congratulations! You can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days.
- Countries: Includes Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, and others in Southeast Asia.
- Stay Duration: 30 days, but note—this one cannot be extended.
Good to Know: Visa-free travelers can head straight to immigration without worrying about payments or extra paperwork.
Quick Recap
To make things easier, here’s a snapshot of the options:
- Visa on Arrival: Quick, easy, and extendable for many travelers.
- eVisa: Best for longer stays or to avoid queues.
- Visa-Free: Hassle-free entry for ASEAN countries, but non-extendable.
2. Other Things to Prepare Before Traveling to Bali
Besides sorting out your visa, there are a few additional requirements and preparations to keep in mind before heading to Bali.
1. Tourist Tax (Love Bali Tax)
The Bali government has introduced a tourist tax of 150,000 IDR (~$10 USD) per person to support environmental and cultural preservation.
- Where to Pay: You can pay this tax online via Love Bali https://www.love-bali.org/en/.
- The tax will be valid for 60 days per entry and must be paid online before arrival. Upon payment, you will receive an official receipt via SMS and email, which must be presented upon arrival.
2. eHAC (Electronic Health Alert Card)
While it’s not always required, it’s wise to fill out the eHAC health declaration form to avoid surprises.
- Where to Register: Complete the form online at https://sshp.kemkes.go.id/register?travel_mode=Air.
- Purpose: This is a COVID-era measure to track travelers’ health status.
- Cost: Free.
- When to Show: Keep the QR code handy, as it may be checked before immigration (though it’s not always enforced).
3. Customs Declaration
Customs Declaration (BC 2.2) refers to a specific customs declaration form that travelers to Indonesia may need to fill out if they are carrying certain items that need to be declared to Indonesian customs.
- Where to Fill Out: Complete the form online at https://ecd.beacukai.go.id/.
- When to Show: After collecting your baggage, present the QR code at the customs checkpoint.
Quick Tips for Customs Declaration:
- Be Honest: Always declare anything you’re carrying that might exceed the allowed limits.
- Know Your Limits: Before traveling, check Indonesia’s customs regulations to understand what is allowed and what may need to be declared.
- Large Amounts of Currency: If you’re carrying more than USD 10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, you must declare it.
- Keep Receipts: If you’re carrying high-value items like electronics, having receipts may help clarify the value of the items you declare.
3. Managing Money in Bali – Currency & Payment Tips
Bali uses Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), so understanding your financial options is crucial. It’s recommended to exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs and the rest at authorized money changers for better rates. Be mindful of high fees by using trusted exchange centers to get the most value for your money.
In terms of payment methods, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, while mobile payments through popular apps like GoPay and OVO make transactions easier. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash in IDR for small vendors and local purchases.
4. Pro Tips for Navigating Ngurah Rai Airport
Once you land in Bali, here’s what to expect:
- Arrival Hall: Follow the signs to immigration.
- Visa Counters:
- If you need a VOA, head to the payment counters first.
- If you have an eVisa, skip this step and proceed directly to immigration.
- Visa-free travelers can go straight to immigration too.
- Immigration: Join the appropriate line based on your visa type.
- Baggage Claim: After clearing immigration, collect your luggage.
- Customs: Present your customs declaration QR code before exiting the airport.
For eVisa and ASEAN travelers: You can bypass the VOA payment counters and proceed directly to the immigration gates—no need to queue twice!
5. What to Pack for Your Bali Trip
To make your journey seamless, here’s a quick checklist:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- Visa: Depending on your nationality, have your VOA payment or eVisa ready.
- Tourist Tax Receipt: If paid online, keep the QR code handy.
- eHAC Registration: Optional but helpful in case it’s required.
- Customs QR Code: To present at customs.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for emergencies.
- Local Currency: Bring some IDR cash for small expenses like taxis or tips.
- Power Adapter: Bali uses Type C and Type F plugs with 220V voltage.
- Beachwear: Bali is all about beach vibes, so don’t forget your swimsuits, flip-flops, and sunscreen!
Final Words
To make your Bali arrival a breeze, follow these useful tips. Stay updated by regularly checking official websites for any new entry requirements. Download offline maps to avoid getting lost without internet access. Respect local customs by wearing modest clothing when visiting temples and being mindful of cultural practices. Lastly, save local emergency numbers for the police and medical assistance in case of any unexpected situations.
A little preparation goes a long way when traveling to Bali. With the right documents, health precautions, and packing essentials, your trip will be nothing short of magical.
Are you ready to experience Bali’s magic?
