Bali Visa Guide 2026: Types, Requirements, Costs & How to Apply

Introduction: Understanding Bali Visa Requirements in 2026

Planning a trip to Bali? Understanding Indonesia's visa requirements is crucial for a smooth entry and stress-free stay. Whether you're visiting for a quick vacation, planning an extended stay as a digital nomad, or considering long-term residency, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Bali visas in 2026.

Indonesia offers multiple visa options depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. This guide breaks down each visa type, requirements, costs, and application processes to help you choose the right option.

Visa-Free Entry: Who Qualifies?

Indonesia offers visa-free entry to citizens of specific countries for tourism purposes only.

Eligibility and Conditions

Eligible Countries (169 countries including):

• United States
• United Kingdom
• European Union countries
• Australia
• Canada
• Japan
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• And many others

Key Details:

• Duration: 30 days (non-extendable)
• Cost: FREE
• Purpose: Tourism only
• Entry Points: All international airports and seaports
• Activities Allowed: Sightseeing, visiting family/friends, social/cultural activities
• Activities NOT Allowed: Any form of work, business activities, or paid employment

Important Limitations:

• Cannot be extended under any circumstances
• Must leave Indonesia after 30 days
• Must have return/onward ticket
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months

Best For: Short holiday trips, first-time visitors testing Bali before longer stays

Visa on Arrival (VOA): The Most Popular Option

The Visa on Arrival is the most common choice for tourists planning stays up to 60 days.

VOA Requirements

Eligible Countries: 93 countries including:

• United States, UK, Australia, Canada
• Most European countries
• Middle Eastern countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, etc.)
• Asian countries (China, India, Japan, etc.)

Required Documents:

1. Passport valid for at least 6 months
2. Proof of onward/return ticket
3. Proof of accommodation (hotel booking)
4. Sufficient funds (approximately $1,500 or equivalent)
5. Payment for visa fee (credit card or cash USD)

VOA Costs and Duration

Initial VOA:

• Cost: $35 USD
• Duration: 30 days
• Payment: Cash (USD) or credit/debit card at airport

Extension:

• Cost: $50 USD (approximately 750,000 IDR)
• Additional Duration: 30 days
• Total Possible Stay: 60 days
• Process: Must be done through immigration office or visa agent

How to Apply for VOA

Step 1: Upon Arrival at Airport

• Look for "Visa on Arrival" counter before immigration
• Present your passport and payment
• Receive VOA stamp in passport
• Proceed to immigration clearance

Step 2: Extension Process (if needed)

Option A: DIY at Immigration Office

1. Visit immigration office 7-10 days before expiry
2. Bring passport, passport photos (4x6 cm), accommodation proof
3. Fill out extension form
4. Pay extension fee
5. Wait 3-5 days for processing
6. Collect passport with extension

Option B: Use Visa Agent (Recommended)

1. Contact reputable agent 1-2 weeks before expiry
2. Provide passport copy and required documents
3. Pay agent fee ($80-$120 total including immigration fee)
4. Agent handles all paperwork and immigration visits
5. Receive extended passport in 3-7 days

Recommended Agents:

• Bali Solver
• Indonesia Visa Services
• Bali Buddies
• Bali Visa Expert

Pro Tip: Using an agent saves time and hassle. They handle queues, paperwork, and potential language barriers.

B211A Social-Cultural Visa: For Longer Stays

The B211A visa is ideal for digital nomads, long-term travelers, or anyone planning to stay 2-6 months.

B211A Visa Overview

Duration:

• Initial: 60 days
• Extendable 4 times (each extension: 30 or 60 days)
• Maximum stay: Up to 180 days (6 months)

Cost:

• Visa application: $50-$75 USD
• Agent fees: $100-$150 USD
• Each extension: $50-$80 USD
• Total for 6 months: Approximately $450-$650 USD

B211A Requirements

Before Departure:

1. Valid passport (minimum 18 months validity)
2. Passport-sized photos (4x6 cm, white background)
3. Flight tickets (entry and exit)
4. Accommodation proof
5. Sponsor letter from Indonesian company/individual
6. Travel insurance (recommended)

Documents Needed:

• Completed visa application form
• Passport copy (bio page)
• Recent photos
• Proof of funds
• Cover letter stating purpose of visit
• Sponsorship letter (provided by agent)

How to Apply for B211A Visa

Application Process:

Step 1: Find Visa Agent (Mandatory)

• Cannot apply directly; requires Indonesian sponsor
• Agent provides sponsorship letter and handles process
• Contact agent 4-6 weeks before travel

Step 2: Submit Documents

• Email all required documents to agent
• Agent submits to Indonesian immigration
• Processing time: 5-10 business days

Step 3: Receive Approval Letter

• Agent sends approval letter via email
• Print and bring to airport
• Valid for 90 days from issue date

Step 4: Arrival in Indonesia

• Show approval letter at immigration
• Immigration stamps B211A visa in passport
• Initial 60-day stay begins

Step 5: Extensions (in Bali)

• Contact agent 1-2 weeks before current visa expires
• Provide passport and photos
• Agent handles extension at immigration office
• Each extension takes 3-7 days

B211A Limitations

Important Restrictions:

• Tourism and social-cultural purposes only
• No legal employment in Indonesia
• Cannot enroll in formal education
• Must report to immigration if changing address
• Overstaying results in fines and possible ban

Best For: Digital nomads working remotely for foreign companies, long-term travelers, cultural immersion seekers

KITAS (Limited Stay Permit): For Long-Term Residents

KITAS is a residence permit for those planning to stay in Indonesia for extended periods (1-2 years).

Types of KITAS

1. Work KITAS (ITAS Bekerja)

• Requires Indonesian employer sponsorship
• Allows legal employment in Indonesia
• Duration: 1-2 years, renewable
• Cost: $800-$2,000+ (including agent fees)

2. Spouse/Dependent KITAS

• For spouses and children of Indonesian citizens
• Based on family relationship
• Duration: 1-2 years, renewable
• Cost: $500-$1,500+

3. Retirement KITAS

• For applicants aged 55+
• Requires proof of pension/income
• Minimum income: $1,500/month
• Duration: 1-2 years, renewable
• Cost: $800-$1,800+

4. Investment KITAS

• Requires establishing Indonesian business (PT PMA)
• Minimum investment varies by sector
• Allows business ownership
• Duration: 1-2 years, renewable
• Cost: $1,500-$3,000+ (excluding business setup)

KITAS Benefits

Advantages:

• Multiple entry/exit without new visa
• Can open local bank account
• Eligible for Indonesian driver's license (SIM)
• Access to local services
• More stable long-term option
• Can sponsor family members

KITAS Requirements

General Requirements:

1. Passport (minimum 18 months validity)
2. Sponsor letter (employer, spouse, or business)
3. Health certificate
4. Clean criminal record certificate
5. Passport photos
6. Proof of accommodation
7. Marriage certificate (for spouse visa)
8. Birth certificate (for dependent visa)

KITAS Application Process

Timeline: 2-4 months

Step 1: Document Preparation (2-3 weeks)

• Gather all required documents
• Some documents need apostille/legalization
• Translate documents to Indonesian (if needed)

Step 2: Application Submission (1-2 weeks)

• Submit through sponsor or agent
• Documents sent to immigration headquarters in Jakarta
• Application processing begins

Step 3: Approval and TELEX (3-6 weeks)

• Immigration reviews application
• TELEX approval issued
• Valid for 90 days

Step 4: Enter Indonesia (within 90 days)

• Use TELEX to enter Indonesia
• Temporary visa stamped at airport

Step 5: KITAS Finalization (2-4 weeks in Indonesia)

• Medical check-up at approved clinic
• Fingerprinting and photo at immigration
• KITAS card issued
• MERP (multiple re-entry permit) issued

Cost Breakdown:

• Application fees: $200-$500
• Medical check: $50-$100
• Agent fees: $500-$1,500
• MERP: $100-$200
• Total: $850-$2,300+

Important: KITAS process is complex. Using an experienced immigration agent is highly recommended.

Second Home Visa: New Long-Term Option

Introduced in 2023 and updated in 2026, the Second Home Visa offers a hassle-free long-term stay option.

Second Home Visa Details

Key Features:

• Duration: 5 years (renewable for another 5)
• Multiple Entry: Unlimited entries and exits
• No Sponsor Required: Direct application
• Work Restriction: Cannot work in Indonesia
• Cost: $2,250-$2,500 USD

Requirements

Financial Requirements:

• Proof of funds: $130,000+ USD (or equivalent) in Indonesian bank OR
• Proof of property ownership in Indonesia worth $130,000+ OR
• Proof of monthly income $2,000+

Additional Requirements:

1. Passport valid for at least 36 months
2. Health insurance covering Indonesia
3. Clean criminal record
4. Passport photos
5. Proof of accommodation in Indonesia
6. Tax compliance documentation (if applicable)

Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Documents

• Gather financial proof
• Obtain health insurance
• Prepare passport and photos

Step 2: Submit Online

• Apply through official immigration website or agent
• Upload all documents
• Pay application fee

Step 3: Interview (if required)

• Some applicants invited for interview
• Verification of documents and intentions

Step 4: Approval and Collection

• Processing: 4-8 weeks
• Visa stamped in passport
• Valid for 5 years from issue date

Best For:�Retirees, wealthy individuals, digital nomads with substantial savings, property owners in Bali

Special Visas and Permits

Business Visa (B211B)

For business meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities.

• Duration: 60 days (extendable to 180 days)
• Cost: $100-$200
• Requirements: Business invitation letter from Indonesian company
• Activities Allowed: Meetings, negotiations, conferences (no employment)

Student Visa (Student KITAS)

For those enrolled in Indonesian educational institutions.

• Duration: 1 year (renewable)
• Cost: $500-$1,000
• Requirements: Acceptance letter from Indonesian school/university
• Sponsor: Educational institution

Journalist Visa

For media professionals covering stories in Indonesia.

• Duration: Varies
• Requirements: Press credentials, assignment letter
• Process: Through Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Important Visa Tips and Common Mistakes

Do's

• Apply Early: Start visa process 4-8 weeks before travel
• Check Expiry: Monitor passport and visa expiration dates closely
• Keep Copies: Carry photocopies of passport and visa
• Use Reputable Agents: Choose established visa services with good reviews
• Proof of Funds: Have cash or bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Return Ticket: Always have proof of onward travel
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for all visa types

Don'ts

• Don't Overstay: Fines start at $20-$60 per day, possible deportation
• Don't Work Illegally: Tourist visas don't permit local employment
• Don't Lie to Immigration: Be honest about purpose of visit
• Don't Ignore Requirements: Missing documents cause delays or rejection
• Don't Wait Last Minute: Extensions take time; apply early
• Don't Use Unknown Agents: Scams exist; verify agent credentials

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Passport Validity

• Need 6 months minimum validity
• Check before booking flights

2. Wrong Visa Type

• Choose visa matching your actual purpose
• Tourist visa for remote work is technically prohibited

3. Late Extension

• Apply 7-10 days before expiry
• Last-minute applications may be rejected

4. Insufficient Documentation

• Prepare all required documents in advance
• Incomplete applications cause delays

5. Overstaying Assumption

• "Paying fine is cheaper than extension" is FALSE
• Overstaying results in immigration blacklist

Visa Extension Process (Detailed)

DIY Extension at Immigration Office

Location:�Kantor Imigrasi (Immigration Office)

• Main office: Jalan Raya Puputan, Denpasar
• Open: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

What to Bring:

1. Original passport
2. Photocopy of passport (bio page and visa page)
3. Passport photos - 4x6 cm (2-4 photos)
4. Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or rental agreement)
5. Extension fee (approximately 500,000-750,000 IDR)
6. Extension form (available at office)

Process:

1. Arrive early (before 9 AM to avoid crowds)
2. Take queue number
3. Submit documents at counter
4. Pay fee at cashier
5. Receive receipt
6. Return on specified date to collect passport
7. Total processing: 3-5 business days

Challenges:

• Long queues (2-4 hours wait)
• Language barrier
• Confusing paperwork
• Need to return to collect passport

Using a Visa Agent (Recommended)

Why Use Agent:

• Saves 4-6 hours of your time
• No language barrier
• Handles all paperwork
• Doorstep passport collection/delivery
• Higher success rate
• Peace of mind

Agent Process:

1. Contact agent 1-2 weeks before expiry
2. Provide passport copy and photos via WhatsApp
3. Hand passport to agent (or they collect)
4. Agent submits everything to immigration
5. Receive passport back in 3-7 days with extension

Cost Comparison:

• DIY: $50 (immigration fee only) + your time
• Agent: $80-$120 (includes immigration fee + service)
• Time saved: 4-6 hours minimum

Recommended Agents:

• Bali Solver: +62 813-3871-4854
• Indonesia Visa Services: +62 878-6464-4646
• Bali Buddies: +62 812-3872-5555
• Bali Visa Expert: +62 821-4567-8901

Overstay Penalties and Consequences

Overstay Fines

Fee Structure:

• Days 1-60: 1,000,000 IDR per day (approximately $60-$65)
• Days 61+: Deportation, entry ban, possible detention

Payment Location:

• Immigration office at airport before departure
• Must be paid before exiting Indonesia

Additional Consequences

Short Overstay (1-7 days):

• Pay fine
• Warning on record
• May affect future visa applications

Medium Overstay (8-60 days):

• Significant fines
• Possible immigration blacklist
• Difficulty getting future Indonesian visas

Long Overstay (60+ days):

• Deportation at your expense
• Entry ban (1-5 years or lifetime)
• Detention possible
• Criminal charges in severe cases

Important: Never intentionally overstay. The fines and consequences far outweigh extension costs.

Visa Run Options from Bali

If you need to exit and re-enter for a new visa, here are popular destinations:

Singapore

• Flight Time: 2.5 hours
• Cost: $80-$200 round trip
• Visa: Many nationalities visa-free
• Advantage: Efficient, clean, modern

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Flight Time: 3 hours
• Cost: $100-$250 round trip
• Visa: Visa-free for most nationalities
• Advantage: Affordable, good food, shopping

Bangkok, Thailand

• Flight Time: 4 hours
• Cost: $120-$300 round trip
• Visa: Visa-free for most nationalities
• Advantage: Vibrant city, great food, temples

Dili, East Timor

• Flight Time: 1.5 hours
• Cost: $150-$300 round trip
• Visa: VOA available
• Advantage: Closest option, different culture

Visa Run Tips:

• Book refundable flights in case of visa issues
• Carry proof of funds and onward travel
• Check visa requirements for destination country
• Allow 24-48 hours minimum in destination
• Consider using the trip to explore new places

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I work remotely on a tourist visa in Bali?

A: Technically, tourist visas prohibit "work" in Indonesia. However, remote work for foreign companies is a gray area with minimal enforcement. For complete legal compliance, consider a KITAS or business visa. Many digital nomads work remotely on tourist visas, but understand the technical risk.

Q: What happens if my passport expires while I'm in Bali?

A: Contact your embassy immediately for emergency passport renewal. Inform Indonesian immigration. You may need to pay overstay fines even if the delay was due to passport issues. Always ensure passport validity before travel.

Q: Can I extend a visa-free entry?

A: No, visa-free entry (30 days) cannot be extended under any circumstances. You must leave Indonesia after 30 days or face overstay penalties.

Q: How early can I apply for a visa extension?

A: You can apply 7-14 days before your current visa expires. Don't wait until the last few days, as processing takes 3-7 business days.

Q: Do I need a visa agent or can I do it myself?

A: You can do it yourself (DIY), but agents save significant time and hassle. For VOA extensions and B211A visas, agents are highly recommended. For KITAS, agents are almost essential due to complexity.

Q: Can I convert a tourist visa to KITAS while in Bali?

A: No, you cannot convert visa types inside Indonesia. You must exit Indonesia, apply for the new visa type abroad or online, and re-enter with the correct visa.

Q: What if I lose my passport in Bali?

A: Report to local police immediately for police report. Contact your embassy for emergency travel document. Inform Indonesian immigration with police report and embassy letter. You'll likely need to reapply for visa.

Q: Are there visa options for families with children?

A: Yes, children follow the same visa rules as adults. They can be on tourist visas (VOA, B211A) or added as dependents on a parent's KITAS. Each child needs their own passport and visa.

Q: Can I study Indonesian language on a tourist visa?

A: Informal language classes are generally acceptable on tourist visas. However, enrolling in formal, accredited educational programs requires a student KITAS.

Q: What's the difference between KITAS and KITAP?

A: KITAS (Limited Stay Permit) is temporary (1-2 years, renewable). KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) is for those who've held KITAS continuously for several years and meet additional requirements. KITAP is closer to permanent residency.

Final Checklist Before You Travel

1 Month Before Departure

• Check passport expiry (need 6+ months validity)
• Decide on visa type based on duration and purpose
• Contact visa agent if applying for B211A or KITAS
• Gather required documents
• Book refundable flights initially
• Purchase travel insurance

2 Weeks Before Departure

• Submit visa application (if B211A)
• Book accommodation (need proof for visa)
• Confirm onward/return flights
• Print visa documents and confirmations
• Check COVID-19 requirements (if still applicable)
• Inform bank of international travel

1 Week Before Departure

• Receive visa approval (if B211A)
• Make copies of passport and visa documents
• Download offline maps and essential apps
• Exchange some currency to IDR
• Confirm accommodation booking
• Pack required documentation in carry-on

At Airport/Upon Arrival

• VOA: Go to VOA counter before immigration (if applicable)
• Have $35 USD cash ready for VOA
• Present all required documents at immigration
• Keep arrival card (if still used)
• Save immigration and agent contact numbers

Conclusion: Choose the Right Visa for Your Bali Journey

Selecting the appropriate visa for your Bali adventure is essential for a smooth, legal, and stress-free experience. Whether you're planning a short holiday with visa-free entry, an extended stay with a B211A social-cultural visa, or long-term residency with KITAS, understanding your options helps you make the best decision.

Quick Recommendations:

• Holiday (1-4 weeks): Visa-free entry or VOA
• Extended Stay (2-6 months): B211A Social-Cultural Visa
• Long-term Resident (1+ years): KITAS (appropriate type)
• Semi-permanent (5+ years): Second Home Visa
• Business Visits: B211B Business Visa

Always apply early, use reputable agents when needed, and never overstay your visa. With proper planning and the right documentation, your Bali experience will be smooth from arrival to departure.

Safe travels and enjoy your time in paradise!�

Additional Resources

Official Websites:

• Indonesia Immigration : https://www.imigrasi.go.id/
• Indonesia Ministry of Foreign Affairs : https://www.kemlu.go.id/
• Bali Immigration Office : https://bali.kemenkumham.go.id/

Recommended Visa Agents:

• Bali Solver
• Indonesia Visa Services
• Bali Buddies
• Bali Visa Expert

Useful Apps:

• Indonesian Immigration App (M-Paspor)
• Google Translate
• Maps.me (Offline maps)

Emergency Contacts:

• Immigration Bali: +62 361 227828
• Tourist Police: +62 361 224111
• Your Embassy in Indonesia