Bali is calling you with its beautiful beaches, lush rice paddies, and ancient temples! But before you can fully experience the magic of this famous island, let’s make sure that your arrival goes without a hitch. This guide covers everything you need for a hassle-free entry to Bali in 2025. That way you can spend more time soaking up those Instagram-worthy moments instead of worrying about paperwork.
Pre-Flight Prep: All You Need to Know Before Leaving for Bali
Get Travel Insurance
Indonesia is a beautiful and safe place to travel but as always with travel, things can happen. You need to come prepared and protect yourself with comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses (including hospitalization), adventure and sport activities, trip delays, and lost luggage. If you don’t already have an existing policy, we strongly recommend you find one for your holiday. Consider providers like World Nomads or Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, which are known for their comprehensive coverage.
Do Your Research
Make sure you do your research before you go to Bali by checking out our blog. All our posts are written by locals who know the island inside out. You’ll find loads of top tips for places to visit and things to do. Want to know the best beaches for surfing or where to find the yummiest nasi goreng? It’s all covered in our Bali guide!
Check Your Passport
Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Indonesia. Make sure it’s in pristine condition—no rips, tears, or missing pages! And make sure there are enough blank pages to be stamped when you arrive. Those immigration officials will be checking!
Secure a Visa Prior to Arrival
Visas are required to enter Indonesia for many passport holders. Avoid airport queues by applying for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) online before you depart. Head to the official Indonesian immigration website to submit your application – usually, this takes just a few minutes and saves you a significant time at the airport.
Make Sure to Pay Your Tourist Tax
Bali introduced a tourist tax in February 2024. This fee applies to everyone, regardless of age (yes, this includes children), and must be paid online in advance. The exact amount and payment method may change, so ensure you check the official Indonesian tourism website for the most up-to-date information.
Arrival in Bali: How to Navigate the Airport with Ease
Make Sure You Have a Return Ticket
Ensure you have a confirmed return or onward ticket. Immigration officers may ask to see this. If you don’t have one, the immigration officer might ask you to book one on the spot before you will be allowed entry.
Keep a Digital e-VOA
Keep a digital copy of your e-VOA readily accessible on your phone if you applied online. If you’re travelling with kids and other members of the family, make sure you have theirs too. You’ll need to show it to immigration officials. Screenshots are fine, but a saved PDF is even better for a clearer presentation.
Registration with Local Authorities
Indonesian law requires every visitor arriving in Indonesia to register with the local authorities. But don’t worry! The villa staff will take care of this formality for you. All you will need to provide is your passport and to fill in the registration form.
Complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass
Effective September 2024, following the recent Mpox Public Health Emergency declaration, Indonesia now requires all international travellers to complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass upon arrival to help prevent the virus’s spread. Make sure to complete the form beforehand for a super-smooth entry.
Make Use of the E-Gates
If you’re over 14, have a biometric passport, and have already obtained your e-VOA, make use of the e-gates for a super-speedy immigration process.
Customs Declaration Hack
Save even more time at customs by filling out your customs declaration online the day before your flight. Visit this site to complete the form and save the QR code to your phone. Present this code upon arrival.
Prepare Mosquito Repellent
Bali is a tropical island so insects in your villa are inevitable. While most accommodations will have ways to deter them, it’s best that you pack your own bottle of insect repellent for extra protection.
Ready for Your Balinese Getaway?
Now that you’re armed with all the essential info to get into Bali smoothly and efficiently, all you have to do is get pumped and excited for your trip to the Island of the Gods! Enjoy the breathtaking rice paddies, the world-class surf, the vibrant culture, and the unforgettable experiences that await you. Selamat jalan! (Safe travels!)
