Do South African Tourists Need a Visa for Indonesia?
Yes, a visa is mandatory for all South African citizens visiting Indonesia for tourism. Whether you are heading to the beaches of Bali, the cultural heart of Java, or for business meetings in Jakarta, you need a visa.
The Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) is the recommended choice. It allows South African citizens to apply and pay online, avoiding the need to carry cash for visa fees upon arrival.
How to Apply for an Indonesia Visa from South Africa
Our streamlined service makes the application process effortless for South African travellers:
Fill Online Form
Complete the simplified form with your South African passport details.
Upload Documents
Upload a clear scan of your passport bio page and a compliant photo/selfie.
Receive by Email
Get your approved e-VOA PDF via email. Print it out and keep a digital copy on your phone.
e-VOA Requirements for South African Applicants
To successfully apply, ensure you have:
- South African Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Indonesia.
- Digital Photo: A recent colour photo (white background). A clear selfie usually works.
- Return Flight Ticket: Proof of a flight leaving Indonesia (to South Africa or elsewhere).
- Email Address: To receive your visa PDF.
South Africa & Indonesia Relations
South Africa and Indonesia share strong historical and diplomatic ties. South African nationals are warmly welcomed across the archipelago. The South African Embassy in Jakarta provides consular support if needed.
Official Resources:
Travel Advice for South African Citizens
Flights from South Africa
There are currently no direct flights from South Africa to Indonesia.
- Common Routes: Singapore Airlines (via Singapore), Emirates (via Dubai), and Qatar Airways (via Doha) operate from Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT) to Denpasar (DPS) and Jakarta (CGK).
- Travel Time: Typically 14 to 20 hours depending on connection times.
Health and Safety
Standard vaccinations are recommended. Yellow Fever vaccination is required if arriving from an endemic zone (parts of Africa/South America).
Bali Survival Guide: Tech & Culture
Essential tips for South African travellers:
🔌 Plugs & Power
Important: Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs (2-pin round). South African 3-pin plugs (Type M) and 2-pin plugs (Type N) will not fit. Bring a universal travel adapter. Voltage is 230V.
📱 Essential Apps
Uber is not available. Download Gojek or Grab for taxis (bike/car) and food delivery. WhatsApp is widely used for communication.
💵 Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common. Many restaurants add a service charge.
💳 Currency (ZAR vs IDR)
ZAR is not accepted. Carry USD or EUR cash to exchange or use international debit/credit cards for ATM withdrawals. Notify your bank before travel.
Arriving in Bali: Customs and Tourist Levy
Upon arrival, complete these two steps:
1. Electronic Customs Declaration (ECD)
Paper forms are obsolete. Fill the ECD online 2 days before flying and save the QR code. Official site: ecd.beacukai.go.id.
2. Bali Tourist Levy
All foreign tourists must pay IDR 150,000 (approx. R180 ZAR). Pay online at "Love Bali" before you fly to avoid queues.
Trip Budget: Costs in ZAR
Indonesia offers great value for South African travellers. Rough estimates in South African Rand (R):
💸 Typical Costs (ZAR)
- Coffee / Cappuccino R35 - R55
- Nasi Goreng (Local) R45 - R80
- Western Meal (Cafe) R130 - R220
- Small Bintang Beer R55 - R90
- Scooter Rental (Day) R90 - R160
- Private Villa (Night) R1,100 - R2,200
- Massage (1 hour) R130 - R220
🇿🇦 South African Favourites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. The e-VOA (Visa on Arrival) is mandatory. It costs 500,000 IDR and allows a stay of 30 days.
The government fee is IDR 500,000, which is roughly R600 - R650 ZAR depending on the exchange rate. There is a small processing fee for online applications.
Yes. South African plugs (Type M/N) do not fit Indonesian sockets (Type C/F). You will need a universal travel adapter.
No. You must carry a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in South Africa along with your original license to drive or rent a scooter legally.