New Entry Requirements for Australians Traveling to Bali Take Effect
Starting today, Australians planning a trip to Bali must adhere to updated entry procedures as Indonesian authorities implement a new streamlined process for international arrivals. The changes aim to centralize travel-related information to enhance border control efficiency and improve the travel experience.
Introduction of the ‘All Indonesia’ Declaration Card
The most significant alteration is the introduction of the ‘All Indonesia’ declaration card, a comprehensive digital form designed to consolidate traveler details related to health, customs, immigration, and quarantine into a single submission. Previously, travelers had to complete multiple distinct forms covering these aspects. The new declaration card simplifies this by gathering all necessary information in one place.
Completion and Submission Timeline
Travelers bound for Bali are required to complete the online declaration form at least three days prior to arrival. The form is available free of charge through a newly launched digital platform that replaces earlier paper and online forms used separately for health checks, customs declarations, and immigration requirements.
Upon successful submission and processing, travelers will receive a QR code to present upon arrival at Indonesian ports of entry. This QR code system is expected to expedite the arrivals process and reduce wait times at immigration checkpoints.
Applicability Across Indonesian Airports
This new entry procedure takes effect immediately for international flights arriving at Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali, Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta, and Juanda Airport in Surabaya. Starting October 1, the requirement will extend to all international airports across Indonesia.
Visa Requirements Remain Unchanged
Despite the change in the declaration card process, Australians must continue to obtain a visa before traveling to Indonesia. Visitors can apply for their visas via Indonesia’s official immigration website, with a recommendation to submit visa applications no later than 48 hours before arrival.
Visa fees remain at approximately $50, and applicants must provide valid passport information as part of their application. The Australian government’s travel advisory service, SmartTraveller, advises all travelers to thoroughly understand their visa conditions and Indonesia’s entry and exit requirements before commencing their journey.
Extending Stays Beyond 30 Days
For Australians wishing to extend their initial 30-day visa stay, a new regulation requires them to visit an Indonesian immigration office in person to process the extension application. This policy has been in place since May and aims to ensure compliance and accountability under the country’s visa system.
Travelers who neglect this in-person requirement risk being unable to board their departure flights until any applicable fines for overstaying are settled. Penalties for overstaying include fines up to the equivalent of $50,000 and possible imprisonment for up to five years.
Overall, these new rules represent Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to tighten border controls and improve the management of international arrivals while balancing traveler convenience. Australians planning a holiday in Bali should take note of these updated entry requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant visit.
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