Do British Citizens Need a Visa for Indonesia?
Yes, a visa is mandatory for all British citizens (holding a full UK passport) visiting Indonesia for tourism. Whether you are heading to the beaches of Bali, the culture of Yogyakarta, or business in Jakarta, you need a visa.
The Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) is the recommended choice. It allows you to apply and pay online before you fly, saving you from queuing to pay for a visa on arrival at the airport.
How to Apply for an Indonesia Visa from the UK
Our streamlined service makes the application process effortless for British travellers:
Fill Online Form
Complete the simplified form with your British 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. Print it out and keep a digital copy on your phone.
e-VOA Requirements for British Applicants
To successfully apply, ensure you have:
- British 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 the UK or elsewhere).
- Email Address: To receive your visa PDF.
UK & Indonesia Relations
The UK and Indonesia have strong diplomatic and trade ties, celebrating over 75 years of relations. British nationals are warmly welcomed across the archipelago. The British Embassy in Jakarta provides consular support if needed.
Official Resources:
Travel Advice for British Citizens
Flights from the UK
There are no direct flights from the UK to Bali. Most itineraries involve a stopover in the Middle East or Asia.
- From London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN): Popular routes via Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), Singapore (Singapore Airlines), or Istanbul (Turkish Airlines).
- Travel Time: Typically 16 to 22 hours depending on connection times.
Health and Safety
Always consult official UK government advice before flying.
Bali Survival Guide: Tech & Culture
A few essential things to know before you land:
🔌 Plugs & Power
Warning: Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs (2-pin round), different from the UK's Type G (3-pin rectangular). You must bring a travel adapter. Voltage is 230V, so your UK devices are safe.
📱 Essential Apps
Uber is not available. Download Gojek or Grab for taxis (bike/car) and food delivery. WhatsApp is the main way to communicate with drivers and businesses.
💷 Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, unlike the US. Rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for good service is common. Many restaurants add a service charge.
💧 Don't Drink Tap Water
Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid "Bali Belly". Ice in tourist bars/restaurants is generally safe.
Arriving in Bali: Customs and Tourist Levy
Upon arrival, you need to 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. Official site: ecd.beacukai.go.id.
2. Bali Tourist Levy
All foreign tourists must pay IDR 150,000 (approx. £8 GBP). Pay online at "Love Bali" before you fly to beat the queues.
Trip Budget: Costs in GBP
Indonesia offers great value for British travellers. Here is a rough guide to costs in Pounds Sterling (£).
💸 Typical Costs (GBP)
- Coffee / Flat White £2.00 - £3.00
- Nasi Goreng (Local) £2.50 - £4.00
- Western Meal (Cafe) £8.00 - £15.00
- Small Bintang Beer £2.00 - £3.00
- Scooter Rental (Day) £4.00 - £8.00
- Private Villa (Night) £60.00 - £120.00
- Massage (1 hour) £6.00 - £12.00
🇬🇧 British Favourites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. The e-VOA (Visa on Arrival) is the standard tourist visa. It costs 500,000 IDR and allows a stay of 30 days.
The government fee is IDR 500,000, which is roughly £25 - £28 GBP depending on the exchange rate. There is a small processing fee for online applications.
Yes. UK 3-pin plugs (Type G) do not fit in Indonesian sockets (Type C/F). You must bring a travel adapter.
Yes, the e-VOA can be extended once for another 30 days (giving you 60 days total). This can be done online if you have created an account.