Traveling to Indonesia for an extended period used to be simple, but recent regulatory updates have left many digital nomads and tourists confused. The terminology has shifted, and relying on outdated forums can lead to serious complications at immigration checkpoints. You don’t want your dream trip to end before it begins due to a misunderstanding of the current Bali Single Entry Visa rules.
The anxiety of potential deportation or entry refusal is real for those who mix up the old B211A with the new C-class permits. Navigating the government portals alone can be daunting, especially when specific document requirements for the Bali Single Entry Visa seem to change without notice. A single clerical error or a misunderstood stay limit can result in hefty daily fines or even blacklisting.
This guide cuts through the noise to provide the five essential facts you need for 2026. From the reclassification of the B211A to critical stay limits, we ensure you have the correct information to secure your Bali Single Entry Visa safely via the official e-Visa portal.
Table of Contents
The Evolution: From B211A to C1 Index
The first thing to understand is the name change. While many agents and travelers still colloquially refer to it as the B211A, the Indonesian government has reclassified the Bali Single Entry Visa under the C-class system, specifically Index C1. This update is part of a broader modernization of Indonesia’s immigration infrastructure.
Functionally, the Bali Single Entry Visa remains a visit visa designed for tourism, social visits, and business meetings. It is distinct from the Visa on Arrival (VoA) because it must be applied for in advance. When you browse the immigration website, do not panic if you cannot find “B211A”; look for the Bali Single Entry Visa coded as C1 for tourism or related activities.
Maximum Stay Duration Explained
One of the biggest advantages of the Bali Single Entry Visa is the length of stay it affords. Unlike the standard 30-day VoA, this permit grants you an initial stay of 60 days starting from the moment you arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport. This makes the Bali Single Entry Visa the preferred choice for those wanting a slower pace of life.
Crucially, the Bali Single Entry Visa is extendable. You can typically extend the visa twice, with each extension granting an additional 60 days. This allows for a total maximum stay of approximately 180 days (6 months) without leaving the country. This extended duration is why the Bali Single Entry Visa remains the go-to option for winter escapers and sabbatical takers.
The Single Entry Limitation
It is vital to remember the “Single Entry” aspect of the Bali Single Entry Visa. Once you leave Indonesian territory, the visa is immediately invalid. It does not matter if you have 40 days left on your permit; if you fly to Singapore for a weekend run, your Bali Single Entry Visa is cancelled.
If you plan to travel regionally while based in Bali, this is not the right permit for you. The Bali Single Entry Visa is designed for those who intend to stay within Indonesia for the duration of their visit. To re-enter, you would need to start the application process from scratch and pay for a new Bali Single Entry Visa.
Mandatory Offshore Application
Unlike the Visa on Arrival, you cannot obtain a Bali Single Entry Visa at the airport counter. It is an “offshore” visa, meaning the application must be submitted and approved before you board your flight to Indonesia. Airlines will often deny boarding if you cannot produce a valid Bali Single Entry Visa or a return ticket.
You must apply via the official website or through a registered agent. The requirements generally include a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-style photo, and proof of funds. Additionally, you will often need to provide proof of accommodation. If you are booking a long-term stay, consulting a trusted villa management company can help you secure the necessary booking receipts to satisfy immigration.
Real Story: Sarah’s Sabbatical Success
Sarah, a graphic designer from Melbourne, wanted to take a 4-month career break in Ubud. She was initially confused by the conflicting advice online regarding the Visa on Arrival versus the Bali Single Entry Visa. She almost flew in on a VoA, which would have forced her to do a “visa run” after 60 days—a costly and stressful disruption.
Instead, she secured a Bali Single Entry Visa (Index C1) two weeks before her flight. Upon arrival, she was stamped in for 60 days. Sarah partnered with a local agency to handle her extension well before the expiry date. By using the Bali Single Entry Visa correctly, she enjoyed a seamless 120-day stay, exploring the rice terraces and focusing on her art without a single trip to the airport until her final departure.
Strict No-Work Policy
There is a common misconception that the Bali Single Entry Visa is a “digital nomad visa.” It is not. This permit is strictly a visit visa. While you can attend business meetings or look for investment opportunities, you are strictly prohibited from earning money from Indonesian sources or providing services to local clients while holding a Bali Single Entry Visa.
Authorities are increasingly vigilant. If you are caught working illegally—such as offering yoga classes, selling goods, or working in a cafe—you face deportation and blacklisting. The Bali Single Entry Visa is for consumption and spending within Indonesia, not for generating local income.
Costs and Processing Times
The cost of the Bali Single Entry Visa varies depending on whether you apply directly or use an agency. The government fee typically falls in the range of USD 100–150, but agent fees will add to this cost to cover sponsorship and expedited handling. While the price is higher than a VoA, the Bali Single Entry Visa offers double the initial stay duration.
Processing times for the Bali Single Entry Visa are generally efficient, taking between 5 to 10 working days. However, during peak travel seasons or Indonesian public holidays, delays can occur. It is highly recommended to apply for your Bali Single Entry Visa at least two weeks before your intended travel date to avoid stress.
Extension Rules and Overstay Risks
Managing your extensions is the most critical part of holding a Bali Single Entry Visa. You cannot wait until the last day to apply for an extension. The process involves biometrics (photo and fingerprints) at the immigration office, and it takes time. You should start the extension process for your Bali Single Entry Visa at least 7-10 days before your current permit expires.
If you fail to extend on time, you will be subject to an overstay fine, which is calculated daily and is quite expensive (currently 1 million IDR per day). Accumulating a significant overstay on your Bali Single Entry Visa can lead to detention and deportation. Always keep track of your expiry date.
FAQ's about Bali Single Entry Visa
-
Can I work with a Bali Single Entry Visa?
No, you cannot. The Bali Single Entry Visa is strictly for tourism, social visits, and business meetings. Earning money from Indonesian sources is illegal and can lead to deportation.
-
How long can I stay with this visa?
The Bali Single Entry Visa grants an initial stay of 60 days. It can be extended twice, for 60 days each time, allowing for a maximum total stay of 180 days.
-
Is the B211A the same as the C1 visa?
Yes, effectively. The B211A has been reclassified under the new system as the C-class Single Entry Visit Visa (Index C1), but the function and rules remain largely the same.
-
Can I leave Indonesia and come back on the same visa?
No. As the name implies, the Bali Single Entry Visa is valid for one entry only. Once you leave the country, the visa is cancelled.
-
Do I need a sponsor for the Bali Single Entry Visa?
It depends on the specific sub-category and method of application. While some direct e-Visa applications do not require a corporate sponsor, many travelers use agencies to act as guarantors to streamline the approval of their Bali Single Entry Visa.
-
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying your Bali Single Entry Visa results in a daily fine of IDR 1,000,000. Long overstays can result in detention, deportation, and a ban from re-entering Indonesia.
