In the era of Covid, checking entry requirements into every country isn’t just important, it’s essential. When I was researching what I’d need for access to Indonesia, specifically Bali, it was quite confusing. Some sites claimed you needed a visa, others said it depended on where you were coming from and for how long. Some claimed you needed to download the Pedulilindungi app and upload Covid vaccination documents. Others claimed travel insurance was mandatory.
Let me set the record straight – most of that wasn’t needed. Here’s what you do need to enter the country (as of September 2022).
Covid checks
Upon arrival, every passenger has to go through a Covid checkpoint where a member of airport staff looks at your passport and your Covid vaccine documents – or proof of a negative test. You can show this either via your phone or in print.
Visa
Next, you’ll wait in a line for a ”visa upon arrival”. You can apply for a visa online ahead of time but it can take up to week to get back .For the VOA, all you need is to pay for it. It costs about $35 or £30. No proof of return nor travel insurance is required, as some sites claimed.
Hold on to this piece of paper. They’ll check it again when you leave the country.
Pedulilindungi app
You don’t need it. My guess is this app was used at the height of Covid-19 to track location check-ins and potential outbreaks. I was never once asked about this app in the eight days on the island.
Once you’re in:
I recommend buying a local SIM at the airport so you have mobile data as you travel around the island. If you don’t care about staying connected, you may still want the SIM as it will allow you to download the GoJek app, where you can order food or a taxi/motorbike. Scooting around the island was hands down one of my favourite activities. It’s not as scary as it seems – it’s great fun.
No Comments