Quick Summary
- Yes, US citizens need a visa to visit Indonesia, even for short holidays.
- The easiest options: Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport or the online Electronic VOA (eVOA).
- Cost: IDR 500,000 (~USD 30).
- Stay length: 30 days, extendable once (max 60 days).
- Documents: Valid passport (6+ months), return ticket, accommodation booking, online payment.
- Best choice: Apply for an Indonesia eVOA before departure for a smooth arrival in Bali.
Bali and Indonesia are increasingly popular with US travelers for their beaches, culture, and affordability. Before you book your trip, it’s essential to understand the visa rules for US passport holders. This guide covers entry requirements, visa types, how to apply, and key travel tips.
Do Americans Need a Visa for Indonesia?
Yes. Unlike visiting countries in Europe on ESTA, Americans cannot enter Indonesia visa-free.
Instead, they need to arrange:
1. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- Where to apply: Directly at the airport (Bali/DPS, Jakarta/CGK, and others).
- Fee: IDR 500,000 (~USD 30).
- Stay: 30 days, extendable for another 30.
- Purpose: tourism, family visits, or short business.
- Downsides: Expect long queues at payment counters after a long-haul flight.
2. Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVOA)
- Where to apply: Online before you fly via Visa BaliEasy.
- Fee & validity: Same as VOA.
- Advantages: Skip the airport lines, your visa is pre-approved and linked to your passport.
- Requirements: Passport scan, return ticket, online payment.
For most US travelers, the eVOA is the smartest option, especially after a 20+ hour journey.
To explore all available visa types for US citizens, including VOA, eVOA, B211A tourist visa, and long-stay options, visit our dedicated page: Indonesia Visa for Americans – Complete Options
What is the Indonesian eVOA?
The eVOA (Electronic Visa on Arrival) is a digital visa system introduced to simplify entry.
For US citizens, it offers:
- 30-day validity (tourism & business).
- One-time extension for another 30 days.
- Entry flexibility: usable at Bali, Jakarta, Lombok, and other ports.
Once approved, your eVOA is linked electronically to your passport.
How to Apply for an Indonesian eVOA (for US Passport Holders)
- Start your application at Visa BaliEasy.
- Fill in details: passport, arrival date, and accommodation.
- Upload documents: passport copy + proof of onward travel.
- Pay online: credit or debit card.
- Receive approval by email and present it at immigration.
Need more time in Bali? You can also request an eVOA Extension to stay up to 60 days.
Required Documents for Americans
When applying for VOA or eVOA, prepare:
- US passport valid 6+ months from arrival date.
- At least two blank passport pages.
- Return or onward flight ticket.
- Accommodation booking confirmation.
- Online payment method.
- Email address to receive eVOA approval.
Can Americans Extend Their Stay in Indonesia?
Yes. VOA and eVOA can both be extended once:
- Initial stay: 30 days
- Extension: +30 days
- Maximum stay = 60 days without leaving the country.
For longer stays, consider the B211A tourist visa (60–180 days). See Which Bali Visa Is Right for You.
Extra Tips for US Travelers
- Flights: Most routes from the US connect via Singapore, Doha, or Dubai, plan for layovers.
- Insurance: Strongly recommended; Bali hospitals can be costly.
- Driving: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required to rent a scooter.
- Customs: Duty-free limit is 1 liter alcohol, 200 cigarettes. Fill the e-CD form online before landing.
- Internet: Order a Bali Easy eSIM for instant data on arrival.
Final Thoughts
For US citizens, traveling to Indonesia is straightforward, just make sure your passport is valid, your visa is arranged, and your return flight is booked.
The eVOA is the most convenient choice: apply online with Visa BaliEasy, skip airport lines, and start enjoying Bali the moment you land.
