There was an immediate feeling of excitement when the plane landed at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport for the tropical retreat. However, the excitement of arriving is sometimes temporary for many passengers when they face endless immigration lines. Bali is a popular destination because to its stunning beaches and lively culture, as seen by the heavy traffic at the airport. Nevertheless, with a few calculated moves, astute tourists may now avoid these endless lines.
An Unexpected Finding
As an experienced tourist and regular visitor to Bali, Jenny Hewett believed she understood every detail of the island’s immigration procedure. It had been a simple, fifteen-minute process to pay for the Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the counter for years. She did, however, come across a newer development while traveling: e-gates put in the immigration area. She was surprised to find that these gates were little utilized and that there wasn’t much information about what they needed.
Jenny remembers, “I stood in the immigration line for an hour.” “Airport workers had already removed my bags from the carousel by the time I made it through.”
It struck on her that her outdated practice of paying for the VOA at the counter was ineffective. Although accessing the e-gates needed preparation before even leaving home, they promised a faster admission.
How to Make an Easy Entry
- Apply for the eVisa Prior to Departure: The eVisa is essential to use the e-gates. Pay the $50 application cost online, upload a passport-sized photo, and submit your application. It is essential to finish this step at least three to four days before to travel, since processing might take up to 48 hours.
- Complete the Online Customs Form: Travelers are required to complete the online customs declaration form prior to departing Australia. This is a simple process that just needs some basic statements and personal information. Upon submission, a QR code is sent, which customs officials will scan when they get there.
- Pay the Tourism Tax: Prior your departure, you must pay the $15 tourism tax online in order to assist Bali’s environmental conservation efforts. A QR code serves as proof of payment and should be shown at the airport upon request.
Jenny suggests that in order to utilize the e-gates in Bali, there are three things you need to complete before departing Australia.
Timing Is Everything
The experience at the airport may also be greatly impacted by selecting the appropriate flight. Jenny points out that early morning flights—like the Jetstar flight from Sydney, which arrives at 6 a.m.—generally have less crowding. On the other hand, wait times may increase at busy times.
Travelers may change their tense arrival experience in Bali to a smooth one by following these measures. Making preparations ahead of time not only saves time but also creates a calm atmosphere for the beginning of the trip. Visitors may spend more time taking in the beauty of Bali and less time waiting in line by keeping educated and adjusting to new processes as Bali continues to change.
Visit M-Visa Bali for further articles and a closer look at travel advice for Bali.