Bali Visa Exempt Countries – Everything You Need to Know About Visa-Free Entry to Indonesia
Planning to visit Bali? Whether you’re a beach-loving traveler, a short-term visitor, or a business guest, knowing your visa options is essential. One of the most common questions we receive at The Bali Lawyer, a trusted law service based in Bali, is: “Do I need a visa to enter Bali?” For many nationalities, the answer is no — thanks to Indonesia’s visa exemption policy.
This page provides a comprehensive guide to visa-exempt countries for Bali, updated regulations, conditions of stay, and the legal assistance you may need. If you’re planning to travel to Bali and want to ensure smooth entry and compliance with immigration rules, read on.
What Does Visa Exemption Mean?
Visa exemption means that certain nationalities can enter Indonesia — including Bali — without obtaining a visa in advance. This privilege is offered by the Indonesian government to promote tourism, business, and diplomatic relations. However, it comes with limitations regarding the length of stay and the type of activities allowed during the visit.
Under this policy, eligible visitors can enjoy short-term stays in Bali without going through any visa application process, but only for specific purposes such as:
Tourism
Cultural visits
Attending meetings or exhibitions (non-paid)
Visiting friends or family
It does not allow for employment, paid activities, or long-term stays.
Duration of Stay for Visa-Exempt Visitors
Travelers entering Bali under visa exemption are permitted to stay for a maximum of 30 days. This duration:
Cannot be extended
Cannot be converted into another type of stay permit (e.g., KITAS)
Starts counting on the day of arrival
If you plan to stay longer or perform activities not allowed under the visa exemption, you must apply for the appropriate visa before arriving in Indonesia or through proper legal channels while in the country.
List of Bali Visa Exempt Countries
Indonesia has granted visa exemption to a number of countries. Citizens of these countries are allowed to enter Bali through specific international airports or seaports. While the list is subject to change based on immigration policy, generally, the visa exemption applies to travelers from countries such as:
Singapore
Malaysia
Thailand
Vietnam
Philippines
Brunei
Cambodia
Laos
Myanmar
Timor-Leste
Chile
Morocco
Peru
This list may expand or reduce based on government policy, diplomatic agreements, or global events. Always check with an official legal advisor or immigration service like The Bali Lawyer before traveling.
Requirements for Visa-Free Entry to Bali
Even if your nationality is on the visa exemption list, you must still meet the following entry requirements:
A passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry
A confirmed return ticket or ticket for onward travel
Entry only via official immigration checkpoints such as Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar)
Proof of accommodation in Bali or Indonesia
No criminal record that may be flagged by immigration systems
Failure to meet these conditions may result in denial of entry, even if your country is on the exempt list.
Common Misunderstandings About Visa Exemption
1. Visa-Free Means No Rules
Many travelers wrongly believe that being exempt from a visa means they can do anything during their stay. This is false. Visa-free entry is limited strictly to non-paid activities, and overstaying your 30-day period can lead to fines, detention, or even deportation.
2. I Can Work on a Visa-Free Entry
You cannot work, earn money, or engage in any business activity under a visa exemption. Doing so is a violation of immigration law and carries serious penalties. If you plan to work in Bali, we can help you apply for a Work KITAS or Investor KITAS legally.
3. I Can Extend My Visa-Free Stay
Visa-free entry cannot be extended under any circumstance. If you need a longer stay, it’s best to apply for a Tourist Visa (B211A) or another legal visa that suits your purpose.
What Happens If You Overstay?
Indonesia applies strict overstay fines. Currently, foreigners who overstay are required to pay a fine per day of overstay. More than 60 days of overstay can result in detention or deportation.
If you realize you may overstay or need to stay longer, contact The Bali Lawyer immediately so we can help you apply for a legal visa extension, conversion, or assist with your exit strategy.
Other Visa Options for Longer Stay
If your nationality is not on the visa exemption list or if you plan to stay longer than 30 days, here are your options:
Tourist Visa (B211A) – 60-day validity, extendable
Social Visa – for visiting family or social purposes
Business Visa – for business-related trips
KITAS (Work, Retirement, Investor, Spouse) – for long-term residence
Multiple Entry Visa – for frequent travelers
Our team at The Bali Lawyer will help you choose the right type of visa, process the application, and handle communications with Indonesian immigration.
Airports and Entry Points That Accept Visa-Free Arrivals
To use visa-free entry to Bali or Indonesia, you must enter through designated ports. In Bali, the most common entry point is:
Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar)
Other major ports in Indonesia that accept visa-free arrivals include:
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta)
Juanda International Airport (Surabaya)
Kualanamu International Airport (Medan)
Batam and Bintan seaports
Attempting to enter through a non-designated port may result in immigration denial.
Legal Support for Travelers to Bali
At The Bali Lawyer, we understand the challenges visitors face when entering Indonesia. Our law firm provides the following services for visa-exempt and non-exempt travelers:
Entry requirement consultations
Visa eligibility screening
Legal visa conversion and extension services
Overstay resolution and immigration appeals
Immigration reporting assistance (e.g., STM and e-ITAS)
Support with work permits or long-term stays
Legal representation in immigration cases
Whether you’re already in Bali or planning to visit, we’re here to guide you through a legal, smooth, and stress-free experience.
Who Should Use Our Services?
First-time travelers unsure about Indonesia’s immigration laws
Digital nomads or long-term visitors who plan to convert visas
Retirees considering living in Bali
Business owners needing Investor KITAS
Spouses of Indonesian nationals seeking long-term stay permits
Tourists who want to avoid overstay issues or legal trouble
Anyone who values safe and legal immigration assistance
Why Choose The Bali Lawyer?
Professional Legal Service – We are a licensed law firm with deep experience in Indonesian immigration
English-Speaking Support – We provide clear communication throughout your visa process
Fast & Reliable Processing – We know the system and how to avoid delays
Up-to-Date Information – Our guidance is based on the latest regulations
Comprehensive Legal Help – We don’t just stop at visas; we offer legal support for property, marriage, and business setup in Bali
Travel Smart: Know Your Visa Rights Before You Land
Don’t assume that you’re automatically eligible for visa-free entry. Immigration policies can change, and requirements may vary depending on your travel history, nationality, and travel purpose. To ensure you meet all legal requirements and avoid unnecessary delays at the border, consult with our legal team before you travel.
Final Tips for Visa-Free Travelers to Bali
Check if your country is currently visa-exempt
Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity
Have a return or onward ticket ready
Carry proof of accommodation and financial means
Never engage in work or paid activities
Track your days—don’t exceed 30
Contact us immediately if you need to convert or extend your visa
Traveling to Bali should be about relaxation and discovery — not legal stress. Let The Bali Lawyer handle the legal details so you can enjoy your stay in paradise.