The start of a dream Bali holiday begins at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). But many first-time tourists make small blunders which can be time consuming, costly or stressful before they even exit from the airport. In recent years, Bali has implemented several digital requirements in the travel industry so it is best to be well-prepared before travelling and not once you are there.
The updates to the arrival process can help you navigate an airport more effectively, whether you’re staying for a leisurely beach holiday, a honeymoon or a digital nomad stay. So, here are tips on common tourist violations while in Bali, and how to prevent them.
Waiting in the Visa on Arrival Queue Instead of Applying for an e-VOA
One of the most common delays for foreign tourists starts on the plane landing. If the travellers have not applied for an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA), they should wait in line to pay the Visa on Arrival fee before they join the next line.
Eligible travellers who apply for the e-VOA permit prior to their visit will be allowed to use Bali’s automated immigration gates which will make the waiting time shorter. This can save you almost an hour when you’re in a rush during travel time, and begin your vacation sooner.
Forgetting to Complete Indonesia’s Digital Arrival Declaration
Arrival cards, which are used to welcome visitors, have been replaced by an online arrival card declaration in Indonesia. Usually, this is only found by travelers after they land, thus causing them to look for an airport internet service to avoid slow immigration.
The electronic declaration should be filled out within 72 hours of the flight. After submitting, you’ll be issued with a QR code which should be saved on your phone or printed before taking off. Having it ready gives a lot of ease to immigration and customs clearance.
Skipping the Mandatory Bali Tourism Levy
Understanding the required tourism taxes for foreign tourists to Bali is another common mistake. The contribution helps to facilitate Environmental protection, Cultural conservation, and sustainable Tourism projects on the island.
This can often be paid upon arrival, but it is much easier to pay online prior to traveling! Ensure the payment confirmation QR Code is retained along with the passport/travel documents to prevent unnecessary delays in inspections.
Accepting Unofficial Taxi Offers Outside the Arrival Hall
Once visitors pick up their bags, numerous visitors will be approached by people who provide private cab services. Some are an honest business, some drive at much higher prices or make additional charges when the ride starts.
Arrange airport transportation beforehand or hire official service for travelling to/from the airport. There are also pick up points for car services like Grab and Gojek, and the most trusted and reliable metered taxi in Bali is Blue Bird.
Plan a smarter Bali getaway today.
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Exchanging Money at Unlicensed Currency Counters
It’s easy to be tempted by the deals you can see outside the airport if the exchange rate looks more attractive and you need money in Indonesian Rupiah right away. Unfortunately, there are some money changers that are not licensed, and use tricks to get the travelers to think they are getting a better deal than they actually are, perhaps taking advantage of different counting systems or doing other calculations that they can’t reveal.
The best ATM would be going to the large money-lender banks in the airports to make the first payment. In case of exchanging foreign currency in the course of the trip, only exchange at qualified and reputable exchange counters and always count the coins/incredibles before departing.
FAQs
Is it necessary to have a Visa on Arrival to Bali?
Indonesia offers a Visa on Arrival, which can be obtained by many foreign nationals. It is suggested to apply for an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) prior to the trip as this enables immigration to complete immigration upon arrival faster.
Must the Bali Tourist pay the Tourism Levy?
Yes. The Bali Tourism Levy is required to be paid on arrival or prior to arrival to most international visitors. It is recommended to carry a copy of payment records on-site while traveling.
Should I change money at the Bali Airport?
When you arrive at the airport, you’ll find the best and safest way to get local currency will be from major banks that are present at the airport. Do not accept money from a counter that is not licensed and is at a rate that is too attractive for the buyer.
