Australians planning to visit Indonesia and Bali in 2026 must adhere to new border regulations. Starting from October 1, 2025, all tourists arriving by air or sea are required to complete an arrival card and apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA). This process can be done online through the official All Indonesia website at allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id or at evisa.imigrasi.go.id, as outlined by the Australian Government’s Smartraveller advisory.
For those who do not obtain an e-VOA at least 48 hours before their arrival, a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) remains available at major international airports, including locations in Jakarta, Bali, and Lombok. Both the e-VOA and the VOA require a fee of IDR 500,000 (approximately $45), with an additional charge for online processing for the e-VOA.
In addition to visa requirements, foreign tourists are also subject to a tourist levy of IDR 150,000 (around $13.55) per person. This levy is separate from the e-VOA and VOA fees. Visitors should also be aware that it is mandatory to carry identification at all times in Indonesia, such as a passport or a copy thereof.
Local Guidelines and New Laws
Travelers heading to Bali are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local customs and regulations. These guidelines cover appropriate dress, respect for local culture, and regulations regarding traffic violations. The Smartraveller advisory warns that “bad behaviour that disrespects local culture or religion can get you in trouble or even deported.”
Starting on January 2, 2026, a revised criminal code will come into effect, imposing stricter penalties for cohabitation and sexual relations outside of marriage. Authorities may act on complaints made by spouses for married individuals, while parents or children may file complaints against unmarried individuals.
Travel Trends for 2026
Data from flight booking website Webjet indicates that Bali is poised to be the most popular destination for Australians in 2026, based on bookings made for travel between January 1 and November 15 of that year. Following Bali, other popular destinations include Tokyo, Auckland, and London.
Travelers are advised to review the full Smartraveller advisory before embarking on their trip to Bali or Indonesia, ensuring compliance with all new regulations and a respectful holiday experience.
