Bali continues to attract millions of travelers each year with its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and rich cultural heritage. But before you can dive into its beauty, you need to understand the entry requirements — especially the Visa on Arrival (VOA) system. In 2025, the VOA remains one of the easiest ways for eligible tourists to enter Indonesia, offering a 30-day stay with the option to extend once for another 30 days.
However, recent rule updates mean travelers must follow specific steps to avoid delays, fines, or denied entry. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know, from eligibility and fees to extensions and insider tips, to ensure your Bali trip starts smoothly.
What Is the Visa on Arrival (VOA)?
The Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a short-term entry permit for foreign tourists visiting Indonesia, including Bali. It allows eligible travelers to stay for up to 30 days and can be extended once for an additional 30 days, giving a total maximum stay of 60 days. The VOA is designed for tourism, family visits, or certain business activities (non-working).
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Who Is Eligible?
As of 2025, 97 nationalities are eligible for the VOA. These include most major tourist source countries such as Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, Canada, New Zealand, and many others.
In addition, several ASEAN countries — such as Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste — enjoy visa-free entry for 30 days. However, visa-free entry cannot be extended, unlike the VOA.
Bali Visa on Arrival: Complete Guide for Tourists in 2025
Before you can immerse yourself in all that the Island of the Gods has to offer, you’ll need to ensure your travel documents are in order — and for most short-term visitors, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) is the simplest and fastest option. Whether you’re visiting for a holiday, meeting friends or family, or attending non-working business events, understanding the latest VOA rules is essential. This complete guide covers everything you need to know — from eligibility and fees to the new 2025 extension process and expert tips for a smooth entry into Bali.
1. Required Documents for VOA
When applying for a VOA at the airport or seaport, you must prepare:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity from the date of arrival, and at least 2 blank pages.
- Proof of onward or return flight showing you will leave Indonesia before your visa expires.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or address of stay) — sometimes requested.
- Sufficient funds to support your stay (rarely checked, but immigration may ask).
2. VOA Fees and Payment Options
- Fee: IDR 500,000 (around USD 30–35).
- Payment methods: Cash (IDR, USD, EUR, AUD) or credit/debit card at the VOA counter.
- Payment is made before going through immigration.
3. How to Obtain the VOA
- Arrival: Land at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (or another designated entry point).
- Go to VOA Counter: Before the immigration line, locate the VOA payment counter.
- Pay the Fee: Submit your passport and payment.
- Receive Visa Sticker: Immigration staff will place the VOA sticker in your passport.
- Proceed to Immigration: Present your passport, visa, and onward ticket for entry approval.
4. Extending Your VOA in 2025 — Important Changes
The VOA can still be extended once for another 30 days, but new rules apply in 2025:
- In-person visit required: As of mid-2025, VOA extensions (and e-VOA extensions) must be finalized at a local immigration office.
- Biometric process: You must attend in person for fingerprint scanning, a photo, and in some cases, a short interview.
- Processing time: It can take up to 14 working days after your in-person appointment, so plan ahead.
- Extension start time: Begin the extension process at least 7–10 days before your current VOA expires.
Failing to complete the in-person process can result in you being denied departure, even if your visa hasn’t technically expired.
5. Overstay Penalties
Overstaying your visa — even by one day — will result in fines. The fine is IDR 1,000,000 per day (around USD 65). Overstays longer than 60 days may lead to detention, deportation, and entry bans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too late for an extension: Leave enough time for the in-person process.
- Incorrect documents: Make sure your passport validity and return ticket meet requirements.
- Assuming online extensions are final: In 2025, online payment is not enough, you must visit immigration in person.
- Not carrying proof of onward travel: Immigration can deny entry if you can’t show it.
Tips for a Smooth VOA Process
- Have cash in multiple currencies in case card machines are down.
- Keep both printed and digital copies of your onward ticket and accommodation.
- Apply for an e-VOA before traveling if you want to skip VOA payment queues at the airport.
- If you plan to stay more than 60 days, apply for a different visa type before coming to Bali (such as B211A or the remote worker visa).
- Schedule your extension appointment as soon as possible after arrival if you know you will need it.
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VOA Summary Table
| Aspect | Details (2025) |
| Eligibility | 97 nationalities eligible; ASEAN members get visa-free (non-extendable) |
| Fee | IDR 500,000 (~USD 30–35) |
| Validity | 30 days |
| Extension | One-time extension to 60 days; in-person process required |
| Documents Needed | Passport (6 months+), onward ticket, accommodation details |
| Penalty for Overstay | IDR 1,000,000/day (~USD 65) |
Conclusion
Navigating Bali’s Visa on Arrival process in 2025 is straightforward if you understand the requirements, fees, and timelines before you travel. With a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and the right preparation, you can secure your VOA quickly upon arrival and focus on enjoying your trip. Remember that the VOA is valid for 30 days and can only be extended once for another 30 days — and as of this year, the extension requires an in-person visit to immigration.
By planning ahead, avoiding last-minute extensions, and keeping all necessary documents ready, you’ll ensure a smooth, stress-free arrival and departure from the Island of the Gods, allowing you to spend your time exploring Bali’s beauty rather than dealing with visa issues.
Rafini
Rafini is a seasoned marketing sales expert with over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, specializing in commercial renovation in Bali. Having honed her skills at renowned establishments like Accor and Anantara, she possesses a deep understanding of client needs and market dynamics.
Currently serving as a Regional Manager, Rafini excels in driving sales strategies and fostering strong relationships to enhance brand visibility and profitability across her region.
