Bali Streamlines Immigration for Tourists:
Embrace the e-Visa and Auto Gates for a Smoother Experience

14th December 2023
Bali, the enchanting island paradise, beckons travelers with its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. But for many, the initial hurdle of immigration can cast a shadow over the excitement of arrival.

Enter the electronic visa-on-arrival (e-VoA) system and the soon-to-be-implemented auto gates, Bali's innovative solutions for a smooth and efficient welcome.

Embracing e-VoA:

Your Digital Key to Paradise
Gone are the days of lengthy queues and frustrating paperwork. The e-VoA system empowers you to take control of your Bali entry. Apply online up to 48 hours before your flight, eliminating the need to wait in line at the airport. No more scrambling for forms or battling language barriers; the e-VoA process is simple, secure, and accessible.

Here's how it works:

  1. Log on to the official website: https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ - the only legitimate platform for e-VoA applications. Steer clear of scam websites and third-party agents who often charge exorbitant fees for a service you can easily obtain yourself.
  2. Fill in the online form: Provide basic information like passport details, travel dates, and intended stay duration. The process is intuitive and user-friendly, catering to tech-savvy travelers and those less familiar with online platforms.
  3. Pay the visa fee: The cost is a mere IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 34) plus any applicable banking charges. You can pay securely using various international credit and debit cards.
  4. Receive your e-Visa: Upon successful payment, your e-Visa will be sent to your registered email address. Print a copy or save it on your mobile device for easy access at the airport.

Arrival Simplified:

A Warm Welcome Awaits
With your e-Visa in hand, you can breeze through the immigration checkpoint. No more standing in long lines, grappling with paperwork, or facing the frustration of language barriers.

Simply approach the designated e-VoA lane, present your printed visa or mobile device, and let the immigration officer scan your passport and e-Visa.

The process is quick, efficient, and hassle-free, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your Bali adventure.

The Future Arrives:

Auto Gates for Seamless Entry
Bali's commitment to innovation doesn't stop there. The island is gearing up for the implementation of auto gates, a state-of-the-art technology that promises to revolutionize the immigration experience. These high-tech gates utilize facial recognition technology to verify your identity and visa information, eliminating the need for manual checks.

Here's what you can expect:

  1. Smoother Flow: Approach the auto gate and scan your passport. The system will capture your facial image and compare it to the data stored in your e-Visa.
  2. Enhanced Security: Facial recognition technology adds an extra layer of security, verifying your identity and preventing fraudulent entry.
  3. Reduced Wait Times: Auto gates operate efficiently, significantly reducing waiting times and minimizing congestion at the airport.
  4. Improved Experience: The focus shifts from paperwork and queues to a smooth, streamlined process, allowing you to start your Bali adventure on a positive note.
The use of the Autogate device will make the immigration inspection process faster, more accurate, effective, and efficient, without compromising aspects of supervision and security.

With this auto gate machine, we can streamline and speed up the immigration inspection process without interacting with immigration officers directly.
Suhendra
The Head of the TPI Ngurah Rai Special Class I Immigration Office

Beyond the Gates:

A Holistic Approach to a Better Bali Arrival

The e-VoA system and auto gates are just part of a larger effort to create a more welcoming and efficient arrival experience for all visitors. Immigration officials are actively working on initiatives like:


  • Multilingual support: Providing assistance and information in various languages to cater to a diverse range of travelers.
  • Improved signage: Making it easier for visitors to navigate the airport and locate immigration checkpoints.
  • Training staff: Ensuring immigration officers are courteous, helpful, and well-equipped to handle diverse traveler needs.

Together, these efforts paint a picture of a future where Bali's arrival is not just about formalities, but about a warm welcome and a seamless transition into the island's vibrant embrace.

Dive Deeper into Bali's Arrival Landscape:

Visas, Taxes, and Currency
Visa Requirements: Navigating the Gates to Paradise

While the e-Visa system offers a convenient option for many, some nationalities still require a visa on arrival (VOA) for Bali entry. As of now, citizens of 97 countries, including Australia and the UK, fall under this category. However, there are exciting developments on the horizon!

  • Potential Exemptions: Stay tuned for updates regarding potential visa exemptions for specific countries, including Australia and the UK. The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism has expressed interest in waiving VOA requirements for travelers from select countries, aiming to boost tourism and simplify the arrival process. Keep an eye on official channels for the latest news, and consider checking with your local Indonesian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
  • VOA Process: If your country is not on the e-Visa list, fret not! The VOA process is still relatively straightforward. Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport, simply proceed to the designated VOA counter, present your passport, and pay the IDR 500,000 fee (plus any additional banking charges). Be sure to have your onward travel documents and proof of sufficient funds readily available.
Bali Tourism Tax: Contributing to the Island's Charm

Starting in February 2024, Bali will introduce a new tourism tax of IDR 150,000 per person. This additional fee aims to support the island's infrastructure development and sustainability initiatives, ensuring Bali remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.

  • What to Expect: The tourism tax will be collected upon arrival at the airport, separate from the visa fee. Prepare to pay this amount in cash or ensure your credit card has sufficient funds.
  • Supporting Sustainable Tourism: This tax is a significant step towards responsible tourism. The funds collected will be used for environmental protection, cultural preservation, and infrastructure development, ultimately benefiting both visitors and locals.
Currency Exchange: Choosing Your Financial Flow

Landing in Bali with an empty wallet can dampen the excitement. But worry not, currency exchange options abound at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

  • Airport Booths: Convenience is key for many travelers. Numerous currency exchange booths are conveniently located within the airport, offering quick and efficient service. Compare rates before making a decision, as exchange rates may vary slightly between booths.
  • ATMs: For wider accessibility and potentially better rates, consider using ATMs. Ensure your bank card is enabled for international transactions and withdraw sufficient cash for your initial needs.
  • Credit Cards: International credit cards are widely accepted in Bali, especially at hotels, restaurants, and major tourist destinations. However, be aware of potential transaction fees, and consider using your credit card strategically for larger purchases.

Remember:


  • Carry some cash for immediate expenses, such as airport taxis or small purchases.
  • Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid potential blocks on your card.
  • Choose the currency exchange option that best suits your needs and budget.

Embrace the e-Visa and auto gates, understand the tourism tax, plan your currency exchange, and experience Bali like never before. Sail through the airport, shed the stress of arrival, and step into paradise with a smile. The Island of the Gods awaits, and its welcome is as smooth as the technology guiding you there.