Bali Visa for US Citizens: Your Complete 2025 Guide
Planning your dream trip from the United States to the enchanting island of Bali? One of the first questions on your mind is likely, "Do US citizens need a visa for Indonesia?" The answer is a clear yes. This guide provides everything American travelers need to know about getting a visa for Bali.
Guide for US Citizens:
Visa Options for US Passport Holders
For tourism purposes, the vast majority of US citizens traveling to Bali will use the Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA), also known as the B1 Tourism Visa. This is the most convenient and popular option for a typical vacation.
The Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA)
- Purpose: Tourism, family visits, or attending business meetings/conferences.
- Initial Validity: 30 days.
- Extendable: Yes, it can be extended once for an additional 30 days, for a total stay of 60 days.
- Application: Must be completed online before you travel to Indonesia.
While a traditional Visa on Arrival can be obtained at the airport, applying for the e-VOA online is strongly recommended to save significant time and avoid potential payment issues upon arrival.
The e-VOA Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Securing your visa for Bali from the US is a straightforward online process. Here’s how you can do it efficiently:
- Prepare Your Documents: Before starting, make sure you have everything you need. This includes your valid US passport, a recent digital photo, and a credit card for payment. For a detailed checklist, please review our comprehensive page on Indonesia visa requirements for US citizens.
- Complete the Online Application Form: Fill in your personal information, passport details, and travel dates accurately. Double-check all entries to avoid any delays.
- Upload and Pay: Upload the required documents and complete the secure online payment for the visa fee.
- Receive Your e-VOA: Your approved e-VOA will be sent to your email as a PDF document. Print a copy and save a digital version on your phone to present upon arrival in Bali.
Arriving in Bali: What to Expect at the Airport
Once you land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali, here is what US citizens can expect:
- Immigration: Proceed to the immigration counters. If you have your e-VOA, you can often use the dedicated (and much faster) lanes. Present your passport and your printed or digital e-VOA QR code to the officer.
- Bali Tourist Tax: Remember, all foreign arrivals must pay the mandatory IDR 150,000 Bali Tourist Tax. It's best to pay this online before you fly.
- Customs: You must also complete an Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) before arrival. Fill this out online within 3 days of your flight and show the QR code to the customs officer after you collect your baggage.
Key Tips for American Travelers
U.S. Consular Agency in Bali
For emergencies or consular assistance, it's wise to have the contact information for the U.S. Consular Agency in Bali.
Address: Jl. Hayam Wuruk No. 310, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 361 233 605
Website: id.usembassy.gov
- Passport Validity: Your US passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Indonesia. You must also have at least two blank pages.
- Currency: The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, you will need cash for local markets, taxis, and smaller shops. It's best to exchange money at authorized changers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Using the standard e-VOA (B1 Visa), a US citizen can stay in Bali for 30 days. This visa can be extended one time for an additional 30 days, allowing for a total stay of up to 60 days.
No, it is illegal for US citizens to work in Indonesia on a tourist visa like the e-VOA. This visa is strictly for tourism, visiting family/friends, and attending meetings or conferences. Working can lead to severe penalties, including fines and deportation.
Overstaying your visa is a serious offense. You will be charged a daily penalty fee (currently IDR 1,000,000 per day) and may face detention, deportation, and a ban on re-entering Indonesia for a period of time. It is crucial to be aware of your visa's expiry date.
Yes, it is a mandatory requirement for US citizens. You must be able to show proof of a confirmed return ticket or an onward ticket to another country to be granted entry into Indonesia.