Yes, U.S. citizens need an Indonesian visa to visit Bali, but most tourists can use a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) before traveling. Bali follows Indonesia's national immigration rules.
Bali Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Indonesian Visa on Arrival, also called B1 |
| Eligible travelers | U.S. citizens traveling on an ordinary passport |
| Initial stay | Up to 30 days |
| Extension | One additional 30-day extension, for a total of up to 60 days |
| Visa fee | IDR 500,000 |
| Passport validity | More than six months when entering Indonesia |
| Onward travel | Return or onward ticket required |
| Entry point | Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport accepts VoA |
| Separate Bali charge | Foreign tourist levy of IDR 150,000 |
Which Visa Should U.S. Tourists Use for Bali?
For a typical holiday, use the B1 Visa on Arrival. You have two options:
- Apply for an e-VoA online before departure, or
- Buy a VoA after landing at the airport visa counter.
Applying for an e-VoA before your flight means you do not need to purchase the visa at the arrival counter. The official Indonesian immigration portal requires your passport information, a recent photo and proof of return or onward travel.
How Long Can U.S. Citizens Stay in Bali?
The Indonesian B1 Visa on Arrival allows an initial stay of up to 30 days. You can extend it once for another 30 days, for a maximum stay of 60 days under this visa category. Complete the extension before the initial permission expires.
Overstaying can lead to a daily fine, detention, deportation or problems with future entry.
What Documents Do U.S. Citizens Need?
Before flying to Bali, prepare:
- A U.S. passport valid for more than six months from the date of entry
- A return or onward ticket
- Your e-VoA approval, if you applied online
- Accommodation details
- The required Indonesian arrival declaration
Travelers arriving in Indonesia must complete the All Indonesia arrival and customs declaration within the permitted pre-arrival window. Save the QR code for inspection.
U.S. citizens traveling with temporary, emergency or other non-standard documents may not qualify for a Visa on Arrival. If you are not using a regular U.S. passport, confirm your eligibility with Indonesian immigration before traveling.
Is the Bali Tourist Levy Included in the Visa Fee?
No. The Bali foreign tourist levy is separate from the Indonesian visa fee.
Foreign tourists entering Bali must pay IDR 150,000 per person. You can pay the levy electronically before arrival or through designated payment facilities in Bali.
The two charges are:
- Indonesian Visa on Arrival: IDR 500,000
- Bali foreign tourist levy: IDR 150,000
Can U.S. Citizens Work or Study in Bali on a Tourist Visa?
No. The B1 Visa on Arrival is for tourism and certain short visits. It does not authorize employment, receiving Indonesian income or studying.
U.S. citizens who plan to work, study, carry out restricted activities or stay longer than the permitted tourist period need the correct Indonesian visa before traveling.
Bottom Line
For a typical vacation, choose either an Indonesian e-VoA before departure or a B1 Visa on Arrival at Bali's international airport. Check your passport validity, arrange proof of onward travel and set aside IDR 150,000 for the separate Bali tourist levy.