Bali Simplifies Tourist Entry with New Consolidated Online Form
Starting September 1, 2025, tourists traveling to Bali and select Indonesian entry points will benefit from a streamlined digital entry process. The Indonesian government has introduced the “All Indonesia Online Declaration Card,” a single online form that replaces multiple previous entry requirements, aiming to simplify arrivals for travelers and reduce congestion at airports.
A One-Stop Digital Requirement
Previously, travelers to Bali faced a complex set of digital paperwork before arrival, including separate online forms for visa applications, customs declarations, health passes, and tourism tax payments. For instance, visitors were required to apply for an e-visa to access fast-track e-gates at immigration; complete an online customs declaration form; fill out the SATUSEHAT Health Pass, introduced in response to health concerns since 2024; and pay the Bali tourism tax. Many travelers stumbled upon the process, particularly the customs declaration form which had to be completed online before arrival. Passengers who failed to do this often struggled with poor airport Wi-Fi, causing delays.
With the new All Indonesia Online Declaration Card, travelers must complete a single form up to 72 hours before arriving at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport, Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, or Surabaya’s Juanda International Airport. From October 1, this form will be mandatory for entry at all international airports and ferry terminals across Indonesia.
Impact on Australian Tourists
For Australian travelers—the largest visiting group to Bali, with over 832,000 arrivals recorded in the first half of 2025—this change is expected to significantly ease the journey. The simplified process will reduce waiting times and prevent the bottlenecks commonly caused by incomplete paperwork. Families and groups will particularly benefit from having one centralized digital form rather than juggling multiple submissions.
Travel experts advise Australians to continue applying for their visas in advance. While a visa on arrival remains an option, obtaining an electronic visa beforehand facilitates quicker immigration processing via e-gates, which are available for travelers aged six and older. This approach helped some visitors reach baggage claim within 15 minutes during recent visits.
Bali’s Ongoing Tourism Transformation
Despite recent challenges in Bali’s tourism landscape, including the controversial demolition of decades-old local beach warungs in surf hubs like Bingin and Balangan, Australian tourists continue to flock to the island in record numbers. The Indonesian government’s actions reflect broader efforts to manage overtourism, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance cultural respect on the island.
These efforts include official guidelines published in 2023 outlining acceptable tourist behavior to protect Bali’s cultural and natural heritage. Authorities have also cracked down on unauthorized accommodations and businesses, such as the closure of a Russian-owned luxury villa complex in Ubud earlier this year.
Looking Ahead
The Indonesian government’s implementation of the All Indonesia Online Declaration Card represents part of a wider initiative to improve the travel experience and modernize border control processes. Tourists can expect a more straightforward entry procedure in the coming months, removing some of the frustration that previously accompanied travel planning and arrivals in Bali.
For those planning visits, staying informed on entry requirements and completing the new consolidated form ahead of time will ensure a smooth start to their Bali holiday.
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