Bali Visa: A Comprehensive Guide To Obtaining A Visa As A Foreigner

Bali, with its tropical climate, cultural heritage, and world-renowned beaches, is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re planning a short holiday, a long-term stay, or considering remote work from this Indonesian paradise, understanding the Bali visa options is crucial. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the types of visas available, application processes, costs, and essential tips for foreigners interested in living or traveling to Bali.

Types of Bali Visas for Foreigners

1. Visa-Free Entry (Short-Term Stay)

Citizens of certain countries can enter Indonesia, including Bali, without a visa for up to 30 days. This Bali visa is strictly for tourism purposes and cannot be extended or converted into another visa type.

Eligible activities:

• Tourism
• Family visits
• Cultural events

Requirements:

• Passport valid for at least six months
• Proof of onward travel
• No visa fee

Note: This option is non-extendable and if you wish to stay longer, consider applying for a Visa on Arrival (VoA).

Check Visa-Free Entry Countries

2. Visa on Arrival (VoA)

For those wanting a more flexible option, the Bali Visa on Arrival allows a 30-day stay, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.

Requirements:

• Passport valid for at least six months
• Return flight ticket
• VoA fee of approximately $35 USD (payable at the airport)

Extension:
The VoA can be extended once, granting a total stay of 60 days. Extensions can be done at local immigration offices or through visa agents.

Official Immigration Website for VoA

3. B211A Visit Visa (Social, Business, and Tourism)

The B211A Bali visa is ideal for those planning to stay longer than 60 days for tourism, business meetings, or social activities. This visa grants an initial 60-day stay and can be extended twice, each for an additional 60 days, allowing a total stay of up to 180 days.

Who is it for?

• Digital nomads
• Entrepreneurs
• Long-term tourists
• Individuals attending workshops or cultural events

Requirements:

• Passport valid for at least six months
• Sponsor letter (often provided by a local visa agent)
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Health insurance covering COVID-19 (if required)
• Visa fee: approximately $150-$300 USD

Tip: It’s recommended to use a local visa agent to streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Bali Digital Nomad Visa (Second Home Visa)

Indonesia recently introduced the Second Home Visa, targeting digital nomads and remote workers. While there isn’t a Bali-specific digital nomad visa yet, this visa offers a 5-year stay for foreigners who meet financial requirements.

Requirements:

• Proof of assets amounting to at least 2 billion IDR (~$130,000 USD)
• A clean criminal record
• Valid health insurance

This visa does not permit formal employment within Indonesia but allows remote work for foreign companies.

More on Indonesia’s Second Home Visa

5. KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit)

For foreigners planning long-term stays or employment in Bali, the KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is the go-to visa. It’s typically valid for 6-12 months and can be renewed.

Types of KITAS:

• Work KITAS: For individuals employed by Indonesian companies
• Investor KITAS: For foreign investors
• Retirement KITAS: For retirees aged 55+
• Family KITAS: For family members of KITAS holders

Requirements:

• Indonesian sponsor (employer or agent)
• Health insurance
• Financial proof

6. Bali Retirement Visa

Bali is a top choice for retirees worldwide, and the Retirement KITAS allows foreigners aged 55 or older to live in Bali long-term.

Requirements:

• Proof of pension income of at least $1,500 USD per month
• Rental agreement for accommodation in Bali
• Health insurance
• Clean criminal record

This visa is renewable annually and allows you to open a local bank account and obtain a driver’s license.

Learn More About Bali Retirement KITAS

Visa Extension and Overstay Penalties

Bali visas must be carefully managed to avoid overstays. Overstaying a visa incurs a fine of 1,000,000 IDR (~$65 USD) per day. If you overstay for more than 60 days, it’s considered a criminal offense and may result in deportation or blacklisting.

Where to Extend Your Visa in Bali:

• Denpasar Immigration Office
• Jimbaran Immigration Office
• Singaraja Immigration Office

Visa extensions can be time-consuming, so it’s advisable to use a trusted visa agent to handle paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bali Visas

Can I work in Bali with a tourist visa?
No, you cannot legally work in Bali on a tourist visa. You’ll need a Work KITAS or Investor KITAS.

How long can I stay in Bali without a visa?
If your country is eligible for visa-free entry, you can stay for up to 30 days. Otherwise, a Visa on Arrival can provide 60 days.

Can I apply for a Bali visa online?
Yes, many visa types, including the B211A and Visa on Arrival (eVoA), can be applied for online through the Indonesian Immigration Portal.

Does Bali offer a dedicated digital nomad visa?
While there is no official Bali Digital Nomad Visa yet, the B211A and Second Home Visa provide alternatives for remote workers.

Helpful Resources for Bali Visas

• Official Indonesian Immigration Website
• eVoA Application Portal
• Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism

Whether you’re planning a short getaway or looking to make Bali your long-term home, understanding the right Bali visa is essential to avoid fines and legal issues. Always check the latest regulations before you travel and consider consulting with local visa agents for complex applications.

Quick Tip: Bali’s visa regulations are subject to change, especially post-pandemic. Always confirm details with official sources or embassies before traveling.

Explore More About Bali Travel Requirements

Use our database to find visa facilitators, real estate agents, and recommended professionals. You will also have the ability to book a time to meet with our expats on the ground. These are individuals just like you who have gone through the immigration process and have been living in your desired country or city.

During these sessions, you can discuss every small detail related to the moving process. It’s like having a trusted friend everywhere you go. Whether you want to plan a short trip, need help finding an apartment, or you want some advice on moving to a particular city, they can help. This is a great way to meet someone with a similar background to help you achieve any of your goals.