Do Russian Citizens Need a Visa for Indonesia?
Yes, a visa is mandatory for all Russian citizens traveling to Indonesia for tourism. Whether you plan to visit Bali for a holiday or spend the winter ("Zimovka") in Asia, you must secure a visa.
The Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) is the recommended choice. It allows you to skip the queues at the airport. However, due to current banking restrictions, paying for the visa online can be challenging with Russian cards.
How to Apply for an Indonesia Visa from Russia
Navigating the application process requires specific payment steps. Here is the streamlined process:
Fill Online Form
Complete the simplified form with your Russian passport details (Latin characters).
Upload Documents
Upload a clear scan of your passport bio page and a compliant photo/selfie.
Receive & Print
Get your approved e-VOA PDF via email. Print it out to show at immigration.
Crucial Financial Advice for Russian Travelers
Due to sanctions, financial logistics in Indonesia are different for Russian citizens. Be prepared:
- Cards: Russian Visa/Mastercard/MIR do not work in Indonesia (ATMs or Terminals).
- UnionPay: Cards from non-sanctioned Russian banks (e.g., Gazprombank, Russian Standard) often work at ATMs (look for Mandiri or BNI logos) but acceptance in shops is limited.
- Cash is King: Bring USD or EUR cash. Important: USD bills must be "fresh" (blue stripe, new design, pristine condition). Old or marked bills are often rejected or exchanged at a very low rate.
- Crypto: Many exchangers in Bali (Ubud/Canggu) accept USDT for Rupiah cash, widely used by the Russian community.
e-VOA Requirements for Russian Applicants
To successfully apply, ensure you have:
- Russian Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- Digital Photo: A recent color photo (white background).
- Return Flight Ticket: Proof of a flight leaving Indonesia is mandatory.
- Email Address: To receive the visa PDF.
Russia & Indonesia Relations
Russia and Indonesia maintain strong diplomatic ties. Russians are among the top visitors to Bali. In case of emergency, consular assistance is available.
Official Resources:
Travel Advice for Russians
Flights from Russia
Flight options vary by season. Be sure to check the latest schedules.
- Direct Flights: Aeroflot operates direct flights from Moscow (SVO) to Denpasar (DPS) and Jakarta (CGK) seasonally. Check Aeroflot's website for current availability.
- Connecting Flights: Most travelers fly via Dubai (Emirates), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Bangkok. Flight time is typically 15-20 hours.
Community & Lifestyle
Bali has a vibrant Russian-speaking community, particularly in Canggu, Ubud, and Bukit. You will find many Russian restaurants, saunas ("banya"), and meetups.
Bali Survival Guide: Tech & Daily Life
🔌 Plugs & Power
Good News: Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs (standard European 2-pin, 230V), exactly the same as in Russia. You do not need an adapter for your devices.
📱 Essential Apps
Yandex Taxi does not work here. Download Gojek or Grab for bike/car taxis and food delivery. WhatsApp is essential for communication (more than Telegram for locals).
🏠 "Zimovka" (Wintering)
Planning to stay for the winter? The e-VOA is valid for 30 days and extendable once for 30 more (60 total). For longer stays, look into the B211A Visit Visa.
🏥 Insurance
Healthcare is expensive for tourists. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers Indonesia. Do not drink tap water; stick to bottled water.
Arriving in Bali: Customs and Tourist Levy
Upon landing, you must complete two steps:
1. Electronic Customs Declaration (ECD)
Paper forms are gone. Complete the ECD online 2 days before flying and save the QR code on your phone. Official site: ecd.beacukai.go.id.
2. Bali Tourist Levy
All foreign tourists must pay IDR 150,000 (approx. $10 USD). We recommend paying this online at "Love Bali" before departure to avoid queues.
Trip Budget: Costs in USD
Due to Ruble volatility, costs are estimated in USD. Bali offers options for every budget.
💸 Typical Costs (USD)
- Coffee / Cappuccino $2.00 - $3.00
- Nasi Goreng (Local Food) $2.50 - $4.00
- Western Meal (Cafe) $8.00 - $15.00
- Scooter Rental (Day) $5.00 - $9.00
- Mid-range Hotel (Night) $35.00 - $70.00
- Massage (1 hour) $6.00 - $10.00
- Gym Membership (Month) $30.00 - $100.00
🇷🇺 Russian Favorites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. The e-VOA (Visa on Arrival) is the standard choice. It costs 500,000 IDR and is valid for 30 days.
You cannot use Russian cards online. You must use a foreign card (Kazakhstan, etc.) or pay cash (USD/EUR/IDR) at the airport counter upon arrival.
Yes, the e-VOA can be extended once for another 30 days (total 60 days). This can be done online if you have an account, or at an immigration office.
UnionPay cards from non-sanctioned Russian banks work at many ATMs (look for the logo), but acceptance in shops and restaurants is limited. Cash is still essential.