Visa Requirements for Indian Passport Holders Staying in Bali for Tourism
Traveling to Bali, Indonesia, as a tourist from an Indian passport can seem straightforward, but there are specific visa requirements you need to be aware of. This article outlines everything you need to know about obtaining and using a Visa on Arrival (VOA) when visiting Bali, especially when you plan to stay for 4 nights or more.
Visa Free Entry for Bali
It's important to note that there is no Visa-free entry to Bali for Indian passport holders. While there is a Visa-free entry to other parts of Indonesia, this does not apply to Bali. For those visiting Bali, there are specific fees and procedures that must be followed. The Indonesian government charges a tourism tax on all foreign visitors entering Bali, which is mandatory for Indians holding an Indian passport.
Tourism Tax for All Foreign Visitors in Bali
All foreign visitors entering Bali are required to pay a tourism tax upon arrival. The current charge as of my last update is either US $10 or Rp 150,000 (Indonesian Rupiah). This levy is non-negotiable and applies to everyone, regardless of the number of nights they plan to stay in the island.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indian Passport Holders
As an Indian passport holder, you will need to secure a Visa on Arrival (VOA) if you plan to stay in Bali for 4 nights or more. The VOA process can be handled in a few ways:
Online before arrival: It is recommended to purchase your VOA online before your arrival in Indonesia. The process is straightforward and can be completed on the official Indonesian government website. For Indian passport holders, the cost is $35 per person, valid for a 30-day stay. In-person at the airport: If you prefer to obtain your VOA upon arrival, you can purchase it at the VOA counters located in the arrival halls of international airports in Bali. The cost for VOA at the airport is the same as for online purchase, and it is valid for a 30-day stay.Extending Your Visa
For those who need to stay beyond the initial 30-day period, you have the option to extend your visa at the immigration office. The extension process is relatively simple, but it does come with additional costs. You can extend your stay for an additional 30 days, provided you do so within the 30-day validity period of your first visa. This extension costs $15 or approximately 200,000 IDR, and it is also valid for an additional 30 days.
Conclusion
For Indian passport holders planning to stay in Bali for tourism, securing a Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a mandatory step. The VOA can be obtained online or in-person at the airport, and it is valid for a 30-day stay. If you need to stay beyond this period, there are options to extend your visa, albeit with additional costs.
Understanding and applying these requirements can help you plan your trip to Bali more efficiently and avoid any unforeseen expenses. As a responsible traveler, being well-prepared for visa requirements ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip to this beautiful island.