New ‘All Indonesia’ App Sparks Confusion Among Tourists Arriving in Bali
September 3, 2025 — The recent launch of Indonesia’s new “All Indonesia” application, designed to streamline the pre-arrival process for international travelers, has unintentionally caused confusion among tourists arriving in Bali.
Purpose of the New App
Indonesia’s immigration authorities introduced the All Indonesia app to simplify and consolidate the completion of Arrivals Card documents—including customs and health declarations—into one digital platform. According to the Directorate General of Immigration, the app aims to make the arrival experience "easier, faster, and safer" by integrating immigration, customs, excise, health, and quarantine arrival cards into a single online system.
This initiative officially took effect on September 1, 2025, with a trial rollout at several key points of entry including Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta Tangerang Airport, and Juanda-Surabaya Airport. Starting October 1, the system is expected to be implemented at all international airports and ports across Indonesia.
Sources of Visitor Confusion
Despite the app’s name suggesting a comprehensive solution, the All Indonesia app only manages the arrivals card process. It does not replace other necessary travel requirements, such as obtaining a visa or paying the Bali Tourism Tax Levy, which remain separate obligations for visitors.
Many tourists arriving in Bali have found this distinction unclear, leading to misunderstandings and delays during the arrival process. Some reported difficulties in completing the app’s digital forms, even requiring assistance from immigration officials.
Official Statements and Responses
Acting Director General of Immigration, Yuldi Yusman, described the app as “a step forward in realizing efficient public services,” emphasizing that the system is designed to be user-friendly for all passengers, including the elderly, disabled, and children.
“Indonesia aims to provide the best experience for foreign tourists and Indonesian citizens starting from the very first step they take when arriving in the country,” Yusman added.
However, feedback from travelers highlights the initial challenges of adapting to the new system. Some long-term residents and tourists expressed frustration with consistently changing procedures and a preference for traditional methods. Others questioned certain app requirements, such as the need to provide transportation details.
Steps for Tourists Traveling to Bali
Travelers planning a trip to Bali should be aware of the three key online requirements now in place before arrival:
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Visa Application: Most tourists need to apply for the eVisa on Arrival, typically for 30 days. Though it remains possible to obtain a visa on arrival at Bali Airport, authorities encourage applying online beforehand to minimize queue times. The official Indonesia eVisa website supports applications for up to five people simultaneously and functions best on desktop browsers without VPNs or ad-blockers.
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Complete the All Indonesia Arrivals Card: This should be done within three days before travel. Tourists must download the All Indonesia app, sign in, and fill out detailed declarations and travel questionnaires. Upon completion, a QR code is generated for presentation at immigration checkpoints.
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Pay the Bali Tourism Tax Levy: This mandatory IDR 150,000 fee per person can be paid via the LoveBali website or app prior to departure from Bali Province. Upon payment, travelers receive a QR code voucher to carry during their stay, which may be checked by Tourism Task Force Officers. The levy can also be paid at travel agencies or at a dedicated counter in Bali Airport’s international arrivals hall, though online payment is considered most convenient.
Traveler Experiences and Outlook
The transition to the new system has not been seamless. Comments gathered from recent arrivals indicate that some tourists experienced significant difficulties, with reports of needing repeated assistance from officials to complete the digital forms.
Critics urge Indonesian authorities to improve communication and further socialize the new process to prevent ongoing confusion. Tourist advocates also call for the system to be promptly refined to ensure a smoother entry experience that matches Bali’s reputation as a welcoming destination.
As Indonesia continues to modernize its immigration processes, the integration of technology like the All Indonesia app represents both promise and challenge. With full rollout expected next month, authorities face pressure to promptly address concerns and enhance user support.
Travelers interested in visiting Bali are advised to carefully follow all pre-arrival steps and verify official government sites to avoid delays upon arrival.
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