You’ve probably seen those videos showcasing carefree life in Bali: surfing, long hikes, ocean swimming, and more. But how can you actually achieve this dream lifestyle? First and foremost, you need to secure a visa.
To avoid getting lost in the myriad visa options, here’s our guide. →
Visa for Living in Bali
The first thing to know: two primary factors determine the visa you need to enter Indonesia as a tourist — your citizenship and the length of your stay.
For instance, if you’re coming from Russia, you’ll likely need a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VoA), which can be applied for online or upon arrival.
How to get a Visa Online?
You can apply for a VoA online to avoid airport lines. We recommend submitting your application at least 48 hours before departure or, better yet, five business days before to be safe.
Check your email spam folder regularly while waiting for a response.
If you’d like to apply online, visit Indonesia’s official immigration site or reach out to us for the direct link.
Applying for a Visa on Arrival in the Airport/Port
If you didn’t purchase a visa online before arriving, you can still get it at VoA counters in international airports (or at seaports if you arrive by boat or cruise).
Required documents include:
- Passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry
- Return ticket (or onward travel ticket)
- Cash or credit card
If applying online, you’ll also need:
- A copy of your passport’s bio page
- Passport-style photo
- Email address
- Valid credit card (Mastercard, Visa, or JCB)
- Accommodation details in Bali/Indonesia
- Return or onward travel ticket
Visa Fees
The visa costs 500,000 Indonesian Rupiah (around $ 35 USD or $ 50 AUD). Payment can be made online with a credit card or upon arrival with cash or credit card.
Staying Longer Than 60 Days on a Visa on Arrival?
No, you cannot stay beyond 60 days on a VoA. To remain longer, you’ll need to apply for an offshore B211A visa (60 days), which allows a maximum stay of up to 180 days (with two 60-day extensions).
Want to Stay More Than 30 Days?
If your goal is to stay beyond 30 days, you have four options:
- Extend your 30-day Visa on Arrival by 30 days (online or through an agent)
- Apply for a 211A visa (60 days) before arrival
- D1 Multiple Entry Visa (valid for 1, 2, or 5 years, with a maximum stay of 60 days per visit)
- D12 Pre-Investment Visa (valid for 1 or 2 years, with a maximum stay of 180 days per visit)
How to Obtain a 211A Visa?
You can apply through a service provider or directly on Indonesia’s official immigration site.
Important points to note:
- Arrival and departure days count as full days
- The visa can be extended twice, each time for 60 days, allowing a maximum of 180 days in Indonesia without leaving
- Overstaying this visa incurs a fine of 1 million Rupiah per day.
Visa Restrictions
The types of activities permitted depend on the visa type:
- Tourist Visa C1: No business activities, including teaching yoga or life coaching.
- Business Visa C2: No business management or service provision.
Long-Term Visas: Multiple Entry Visit Visa for Indonesia (D1/D2)
If you’re someone who visits Indonesia/Bali multiple times a year, whether for tourism or business meetings, the Multiple Entry Visit Visa (D1/D2) may suit you best. This visa allows multiple entries over 1, 2, or 5 years, with a maximum stay of 60 days per visit.
Types of D1/D2 Visa by Purpose
- D1 (Tourism): This visa is suited for those who wish to visit Indonesia for tourism, to see friends or family, or simply to relax. It also allows participation in meetings, conventions, exhibitions, and similar events.
- D2 (Business): For those involved in business matters, such as establishing partnerships, conducting negotiations, and signing contracts.
Even though each visit is limited to 60 days, this visa can be extended:
- Each stay of up to 60 days can be renewed twice, each renewal extending the stay by another 60 days (with additional fees). Each renewal requires visiting the immigration office.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
- Financial proof (bank account with a minimum of $ 2,000 USD)
- Recent color photograph
- Letter of invitation or sponsorship letter from a government or private entity
How to Apply
- Apply online through a visa service or agency that specializes in Indonesian visas.
- Alternatively, go directly to the Indonesian Immigration Department’s official site, prepared with all the required documents.
Fees
The application fee is 3,000,000 Rupiah. If you choose to use an agent or consultant, additional fees may apply for sponsorship letters or submission services.
Entry Timing
Once the visa is issued, you have 90 days to enter Indonesia; otherwise, the visa will expire if not used within this timeframe.
Pre-Investment Visa D12
A unique option for those planning a business venture in Indonesia is the Pre-Investment Visa D12, which allows up to 180 days per visit and is available for 1 or 2 years. With this visa, you can carry out activities related to setting up a business, including feasibility studies, field research, and tourism activities like visiting friends or family.
Limitations
- You cannot sell goods or services.
- You cannot receive any payment, salary, or similar compensation from any individuals or companies in Indonesia.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (at least 6 months for regular passports, 12 months for other types of travel documents)
- Bank statement showing at least $ 5,000 USD for the last three months
- Recent color photograph
- Sponsorship or invitation letter from a government or private organization
Fees
- 6,000,000 Rupiah for a 2-year visa
- 3,000,000 Rupiah for a 1-year visa
This visa can be applied for online via the official immigration website or through a specialized visa service.
Moving to Bali offers a fantastic opportunity to begin a new life on a tropical island, but it also requires careful attention to choosing the right visa. Bali provides a variety of visas, each suited to specific purposes:
- Visa on Arrival (C1): Perfect for short-term tourists, valid for 30 days with a possible 30-day extension.
- Visa 211A: Allows stays of up to 60 days with two possible 60-day extensions, totaling 180 days.
- Multiple Entry Visit Visa (D1/D2): Allows multiple entries with a 60-day maximum stay per visit, ideal for those traveling for tourism or business multiple times a year.
- Pre-Investment Visa (D12): Ideal for those planning to establish a business, valid for 1−2 years with up to 180 days per visit and renewal options.
If you’d prefer to simplify the visa process, reach out to us!
We specialize in supporting our investors.
We specialize in supporting our investors.