Bali is nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean. This province in Indonesia has long held a special place in the hearts of Indian tourists, travelers and backpackers. Its allure lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the budget-friendly options it offers for travelers. With cheap flights and a hassle-free Visa on Arrival process, Bali has become the go-to destination for those with a passport and a zeal to tick off a foreign destination from their wishlist.
What’s more, Bali’s strategic location within the Indonesian archipelago opens up opportunities to explore other captivating destinations like Yogyakarta, Jakarta, Jawa, and more. In this blog, I will guide you through the travel and visa processes when planning a trip from India to Bali in 2023.
Reasons to Visit Bali in 2023
Bali, often referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” is the only Hindu province in predominantly Muslim Indonesia. This unique blend of culture and spirituality infuses every corner of the island. The presence of countless temples unlike anything you’ll see in India. There are ceremonies, and rituals happening all around the region that add a mystical charm. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply an insight into the local way of life, Bali promises an enriching cultural journey.
Bali also boasts multiple number of attractions. You can enjoy the lovely Indonesian cuisine or just spend hours in Ubud’s lush rice terraces. If you are an adventure seeker then you will find plenty of spots to do scuba diving, white-water rafting, or surfing. For nature enthusiasts, trekking through lush rainforests, ascending active volcanoes, or exploring the breathtaking rice terraces in Tegallalang will create memories that last a lifetime. Bali blends tradition, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit location for every traveler in 2023.
Bali Visa Process for Indians in 2023
For Indian travelers planning a visit to Bali in 2023, the Visa on Arrival (VoA) system remains one of the simplest ways to obtain a visa. As of this year, the VoA is available at the cost of $35. Upon arriving at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, you can proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter. Here, you’ll pay the requisite fee and receive a receipt for your records.
After securing your VoA receipt, the next step involves standing in the immigration line. Immigration officers typically ask a few routine questions about the purpose and duration of your visit. If all is in order, your visa is promptly approved, and you can proceed to enjoy your Bali vacation. However, it’s essential to note that in the rare instance of visa rejection, the $35 fee won’t be refunded, so ensure your travel documents are in order before your journey.
When it comes to payment, it’s convenient to carry US dollars with you, as you can use them to pay for your VoA. While some travelers may prefer to exchange their dollars for Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) at the airport, you can also do this later at an exchange office or an ATM outside the airport.
Traveling to Bali, Indonesia – Visa on Arrival vs eVisa
Indonesia has introduced an eVisa facility for travelers to make travel process easy. While eVisa aims to spare them the often time-consuming queue for visa fees, allowing for a more direct path to the immigration counter, it can also create some hassles.
During my own experience at the Visa on Arrival counter, I saw multiple tourists who had opted for the eVisa but faced issues with their documents. While some immigration officers were able to rectify these mistakes, it’s a risk that may result in having to pay for the eVisa twice, and personally, I preferred the straightforward Visa on Arrival process.
Documents Required for Successful Immigration Check in Indonesia
To ensure a hassle-free process, you’ll need to have the following documents in order:
- Return Flight Tickets: Present your return flight tickets to your home country or next country you are going to. If you plan to leave Indonesia from a different airport, be prepared to show additional tickets, as per your itinerary. In my case, departing from Jakarta required me to show a flight ticket to Jakarta.
- Hotel Confirmations: Typically, immigration officers may request confirmation of your hotel bookings. Generally, the bookings for the first two to three days of your stay should suffice.
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has a minimum validity of six months and contains empty pages for visa stamps.
Special Note for Solo Travelers
If you’re traveling alone, be prepared for additional questions from immigration officers. During my visit, I was asked to show all my Bali bookings for my 20-day stay. Fortunately, I had made my reservations through Booking.com with a cancellation option, giving me the flexibility to modify my plans if needed.
Once your immigration is successfully cleared, the next step is to declare customs. You can either complete the declaration process on your phone or use the computers at the customs counter. Filing is free, but remember to keep the receipt and present it at the customs counter to gain entry into Bali without any hiccups.
Conclusion
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start your Bali journey. Stay tuned for more insights and recommendations to make your Indonesian adventure even more enriching and memorable. Safe travels!
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