For foreigners visiting or residing in Bali, extending the Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Bali is crucial for those wishing to stay beyond the initial 30 days.
Bali offers two main VOA types: the Electronic VOA (E-VOA) and the Regular VOA. Each type has distinct requirements, processes, and potential costs.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through each option and provide tips on how to avoid common issues, such as overcharges at Bali’s airport and complex requirements for in-person extensions.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Bali’s Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- E-VOA vs. Regular VOA: Understanding the Differences
- Required Documents for VOA Extension
- E-VOA Extension: Step-by-Step Guide
- Regular VOA Extension: Step-by-Step Guide
- VOA Extension Costs and Processing Times
- Using a Visa Agency for Hassle-Free Extension
- Tips to Avoid Common Issues During VOA Extension
- Conclusion
Overview of Bali’s Visa on Arrival (VOA)
The Visa on Arrival (VOA) allows travelers to stay in Bali for 30 days.
If you plan to stay longer, it’s necessary to begin the extension process approximately two weeks after arrival to ensure seamless travel plans.
With a successful extension, your total stay can be extended by an additional 30 days, making a 60-day total.
There are two types of VOA available: the E-VOA and the Regular VOA.
E-VOA vs. Regular VOA: Understanding the Differences
When traveling to Bali, you can choose between an E-VOA and a Regular VOA. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
E-VOA (Electronic Visa on Arrival):
- How to Obtain: Apply online through the official immigration website or at Bali airport.
- Extension Process: Submit documents electronically for an extension.
- Initial Fee: IDR 500,000.
Regular VOA (Visa on Arrival):
- How to Obtain: Obtain it upon arrival at Bali airport.
- Extension Process: Requires in-person fingerprinting and photos to extend.
- Initial Fee: IDR 500,000.
E-VOA: Available both online and at Bali airport. Online applicants should pay IDR 500,000 via the immigration website, while those applying at the airport need to provide a valid email address and local Bali address for processing.
At the airport, miscommunication can sometimes lead to multiple charges on credit cards, with instances of IDR 500,000 charged two or three times, especially for those not fluent in English.
Regular VOA: Obtained at the Bali airport for IDR 500,000, this option involves a visa sticker in your passport, which requires you to visit the immigration office for in-person fingerprinting and photos for extensions.
Required Documents for VOA Extension
For extending your VOA, ensure you have these documents ready:
- Passport : Serves as the main identification document.
- Return flight ticket : Required for E-VOA extensions.
- Bali address : Confirms your place of stay in Bali.
- Original VOA receipt : Acts as proof of the initial VOA payment.
- Passport copy : Commonly required for Regular VOA processing.
Most travelers prefer using a Visa Agency to handle the extension process, especially for Regular VOA extensions that involve visits to the immigration office.
E-VOA Extension: Step-by-Step Guide
The E-VOA extension is simple and does not require a visit to the immigration office. Here’s how to proceed:
- Apply Online: Submit your extension request via the immigration website.
- Send Necessary Documents: Provide a copy of your E-VOA, passport, and return flight ticket through WhatsApp or email to the agency.
- Processing Time: The process typically takes 5–7 days, with no need for in-person visits.
- Receive Approval: Upon approval, your extended stay confirmation will be sent electronically.
The E-VOA extension is especially convenient as it doesn’t require submitting your physical passport.
Regular VOA Extension: Step-by-Step Guide
The Regular VOA extension requires an in-person visit to the immigration office, often with the assistance of a Visa Agency:
- Provide Documents to a Visa Agency: Submit your passport and necessary documents to the agency, which will handle the initial application.
- Obtain an Appointment Number: Within 6 days, the agency provides you with an appointment number to present at the immigration office.
- Visit the Immigration Office: Go to the immigration office with your appointment number for fingerprinting and photos.
An agent can accompany you if needed.
- Complete the Process: After about one week, your extended passport can be collected from the agency or immigration office.
- Document Submission: Provide the required documents to a visa agency for processing.
- Fingerprinting & Photos: Attend the immigration office with an appointment number to complete fingerprinting and photo requirements.
- Passport Collection: Collect your extended passport approximately one week after completing the process.
- For families with children, note that the parent must accompany the child for fingerprinting and photos.
VOA Extension Costs and Processing Times
VOA extension costs can vary based on the type of visa and service required.
E-VOA:
- Standard Extension Cost: IDR 850,000–900,000
- Express Cost: IDR 1,200,000–1,300,000
Regular VOA (with Agency):
- Standard Extension Cost: IDR 850,000–900,000
- Express Cost: IDR 1,200,000–1,300,000
Regular VOA (with Agency and Accompaniment):
- Standard Extension Cost: IDR 1,200,000
- Express Cost: Not available
Regular VOA holders, especially first-time visitors or non-English speakers, may benefit from Visa Agency accompaniment, which can be added for a total cost of IDR 1,200,000.
Using a Visa Agency for Hassle-Free Extension
A Visa Agency is often recommended for extending the VOA due to the complexity of the process. Agencies provide:
- Document Handling: Agencies ensure all documents are correctly prepared and submitted.
- Scheduled Appointments: They manage immigration appointments and track application status.
- Assistance at Immigration: For Regular VOA, agency representatives can accompany you to the immigration office, assisting with fingerprinting and photos, particularly beneficial for those not fluent in English.
The average cost for an E-VOA extension is IDR 850,000-900,000, with express services costing IDR 1,200,000-1,300,000.
Tips to Avoid Common Issues During VOA Extension
To ensure a smooth VOA extension experience, follow these tips:
- Apply Early: Begin the extension process at least two weeks before your visa expiry to avoid last-minute complications.
- Use a Visa Agency: Simplifies the process and reduces stress by handling paperwork and submission on your behalf.
- Return Flight Ticket Ready: Ensure you have a return flight ticket, as it is essential for E-VOA extensions.
- Check Your Credit Card Statement: Double-check charges if paying at the airport to avoid discrepancies.
- Request a Receipt: Keep copies of all payments and documents for your records.
Notably, E-VOA applicants paying at the airport should be cautious of double or triple charges, as reported cases of multiple IDR 500,000 transactions have been an issue in 2024.
Conclusion
Extending a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Bali can be a smooth and straightforward process with proper preparation and awareness of your options.
Choosing between an E-VOA, which offers online convenience, or a Regular VOA, often managed more easily with agency assistance, depends on your needs.
Being informed about the requirements, such as necessary documents and fees, can help you avoid common pitfalls, like unexpected overcharges at the airport.
Using a Visa Agency can streamline the extension, particularly for the in-person steps required with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Bali.
With early planning and clear communication with your agent, you can enjoy an extended, hassle-free stay on the island.
