travel to bali no vaccine

Bali Holiday Secrets

Bali Covid Vaccination Requirements (2024)

updated January 20, 2024, 5:06 pm 225.2k Views 175 Comments

The Indonesian Government have updated their Immigration laws pertaining to Covid vaccination requirements and proof of vaccination for both international and domestic travellers. You no longer need to provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination to enter Indonesia or travel domestically

Proof of Vaccination is no longer required

The latest government announcement issued June 9th states that showing a certificate of the COVID-19 vaccine is no longer required. Previously, it was mandatory for both foreigners and domestic travellers to present a certificate showing their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. With the latest circular, this requirement is no longer necessary .

Do I need to be vaccinated to enter Bali?

Based on the government’s latest circular, the answer is no – you do not need to be vaccinated.

Domestic Travel in Indonesia

Indonesian citizens are no longer required to have a booster to exit and enter Indonesia.

Do I have to download the SATUSEHAT application?

No, the application is no longer required.

Don’t forget you will also need to check what kind of visa is required for entry into Bali and take the hassle out of arriving at Bali airport by booking an airport transfer with a private car and driver to be met on arrival.

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Indonesia Travel Regulations, Entry Requirements and Bali Tourist Tax

Planning your trip to bali.

The following FAQ will guide you through the general regulations that apply to all INTERNATIONAL travelers

Updated Travel Regulations and Entry Requirements for Bali / Indonesia. Essential Tips to get Ready

3 essentials to prepare and have ready for your arrival in bali.

Yes, you need a Visa for traveling to Bali, unless you are a national of one of the 9 ASEAN countries or Timor Leste.

For tourists and standard visits (not working) there are two Visas available. Which Visa depends on your nationality, travel purpose and length of stay. Please click on the button below to check what applies to you.

Yes, travelers have to fill in a Customs Declaration Form when entering into Indonesia

Here is all you need to know about the Electronic Customs Declaration form for Indonesia / Bali and the official link

Customs Declaration Form  

The new tourist tax is effective since 14th February 2024 (Tourist Levy for INTERNATIONAL visitors)

• The Fee is IDR 150,000 per person (ca. USD 10 and AUD 15)
• The tourist tax (levy) is a local tax that the Bali administration government implemented. It is only related to Bali and not to Indonesia
• Be careful about Scammer sites, which mushroomed since the tax has been introduced. 

For the official tax payment link and more information on who has to pay, exemptions please click below:

Additional Important Information to Be Aware of When Planning Your Bali Trip

• Passport, needs to be valid at least 6 months from day of arrival. No exceptions, they will send you back otherwise! Make sure your passport is valid.
• The passport needs to have at least one empty page .
• The passport must be in good condition. Ripped or very run down passports might get refused. There are travelers who were denied entry into Indonesia and were sent back, because the passport was in bad condition

Passport Requirements Details

Yes you need a return ticket.

You might not have to show it at the immigration counter, but it could happen.  .

• Return ticket - airlines and also the immigration authorities can insist that you have a return ticket that is within the time-frame of your visa validity, 

Yes. This is now a MANDATORY Requirement

• Bring your international drivers license (f you wish to rent a scooter). If you don't have one and can't get it in your home country you can get a digital or printed version (delivered in Bali) here from our accredited partner in Singapore:

Order your International Driving License / Driving Permit (IDP) copy online here

Yes you can order an esim for bali online..

Our partner provides eSIM allowing you to connect to the internet quickly themoment you arrive in Indonesia. 

Order Online

If you purchase out Digital Discount Card for Bali, our BaliCard, you will get a FREE 1GB eSIM for free to test, which you can then top-up.

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A medical travel insurance is not mandatory anymore..

But it's advisable to have one. Accidents do happen in Bali and if you are not properly insured, hospitals and doctors will ask for cash payment and can deny treatment. 

Don't have a medical travel insurance?

Get your medical travel insurance for Bali / Indonesia and beyond online

International Travel Insurance / Nomad Insurance / Medical Travel Insurance for 4 weeks or longer. 

Info, Prices & Signup 

YES. Bali (Airport Denpasar DPS) is very well connected internationally.

Plenty of budget and international carriers are operating flights to Bali.

It can be significantly cheaper, depending on the season you intend to travel.

If you can't get a flight to Bali, or if it is too expensive for you, you can look into the option to book a flight to Jakarta and then take a domestic flight on the same day to Bali. Airlines such as Citilink, Batik Air, Air Asia, Lion Air, and Garuda are flying to Bali several times a day. Ticket price one way: 50-150USD.

If you choose to travel to Jakarta first, tt's good to at least have 3 or 4h difference between your arrival in Jakarta and the next flight to Bali. Because you would have to go through immigration, pick up your luggage and then go to the terminal for to catch your domestic flight. 

Don't bring more than the equivalent value of IDR 100,000,000 cash into the country (ca. AUD 10,000). Otherwise you have to declare and pay taxes.

NO. All requirements have been lifted.

As of 9th of June 2023, travelers do NOT need to show proof of vaccination anymore. However the Indonesian government "suggests" to be fully vaccinated.

Link to the official statement from the government (in Bahasa Indonesia).

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Bali scraps covid vaccination requirement for travellers.

Bali Travellers could be slugged a 'tourist tax'

Indonesia has scrapped its mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements for all arrivals.

Travellers heading to Bali will no longer need to provide proof of vaccination to enter or travel domestically.

The Indonesian government’s COVID-19 Handling Task Force announced the change in a June 9 letter.

Australian government service Smartraveller has since updated its advice to reflect the changes for travellers.

“You no longer need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter Indonesia or travel domestically,” its website reads.

It comes just a week after Indonesian officials announced travellers would receive a “dos and don’ts” card on arrival in a bid to combat bad behaviour.

There has been a recent spate of Australians acting badly in Indonesia, with six people deported so far this year.

Now, officials are introducing new information cards for all foreigners entering the island, The Detik Bali reported.

Bali Ministry of Law and Human Rights regional office head Anggiat Napitupulu said officials have had “several meetings” to discuss ways to combat bad behaviour on the island.

“The card will be created and handed over at Immigration so that the Immigration can tuck the card into the foreigner’s passport when they land at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport,” Napitupulu said, as reported by The Bali Times .

“The card contains what is allowed and what is not allowed to be done in Bali.”

Meanwhile, the Australian government has warned travellers to behave when venturing abroad.

Smartraveller said travellers must be respectful of different cultures.

“Travelling is often about letting your hair down and relaxing. But don’t leave your manners and common sense at home when you get on the plane,” it said.

“We can’t get you out of trouble, out of jail, or pay your legal bills or fines.”

Bali beaches overrun by rubbish

Stream free on

Travel Vaccinations for Bali

Are you planning on travelling to Bali? This lush island has plentiful activities, from surfing to historical landmarks, scenic beaches, rafting and more.

Before you travel to Bali from Australia, make sure you get up to date on the most important vaccinations for Bali. Speak with a vaccination clinic or medical provider no later than 6-8 weeks before you travel to Bali. This will allow time for cases where multiple Bali vaccines are recommended that require spreading out.

Although Bali is very developed compared to other parts of Indonesia and the rest of the world, there are a range of illnesses you may be exposed to during your travels.

Pre-travel Preparation Will Help Protect Your Health While You Are Away

Pre-travel preparation will help keep you safe and healthy while you are away. Please consult the Travel Doctor-TMVC before you travel overseas. We will provide specific recommendations tailored to your itinerary, including any mandatory vaccines for travel and any Bali travel alerts. Our doctors will assess and advise you on your risks, and recommend appropriate vaccination and medication to minimise your risk of becoming seriously unwell on your trip.

Insect Avoidance

There are a number of viruses and illnesses that are contracted through insects such as fleas, ticks and flies. Mosquitoes however are the biggest culprit of spreading insect borne diseases. Ensure you a prepared and read up on our insect avoidance tips.

Safe Eating and Drinking Practices

One of the great pleasures of travel is sampling the local cuisine. However, contaminated food and beverages are a common cause of traveller’s diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal illnesses. Safe eating and drinking practices are essential in minimising your risk of contracting traveller’s diarrhoea.

Rabies Prevention

Avoid physical contact with all domestic or wild animals in any setting unless you are absolutely certain the animal has been well vaccinated. The need for vigilance, particularly when travelling with children, cannot be understated. If bitten, wash the wound gently but thoroughly with soap and water for at least fifteen minutes.

What vaccinations do I need for Bali?

Your medical provider will go over your health history, Bali travel plans and other details to determine the specific vaccinations that you will need when travelling to Bali from Australia. Below are some of the most important routine vaccinations for Bali that you may be asked to receive before you head out:

• Measles-Mumps-Rubella Most people receive the measles, mumps and rubella vaccination in childhood in first world countries, but you may need to receive an initial vaccination or a booster of your MMR vaccination before you travel to Bali.  
• Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis You should be brought up to date on your routine vaccinations before you travel to Bali including diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus. You may be recommended to receive a tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (TdapdTpa ) vaccination or booster before you travel, especially if it has been more than 10 years since your prior vaccination.  
• Polio You may be required to receive a polio vaccination if you travel to Indonesia. Even if you received a polio vaccination as a child, you may need to receive a polio booster as an adult if you haven’t received a booster in the past. You may also need to provide proof of a polio vaccination when you are exiting Indonesia if you are staying there for longer than 4 weeks.  
• Influenza You should get your annual influenza vaccination prior to travelling to Bali as the prevalent strain changes from year to year and doing so will help you avoid the risk of getting the flu while travelling or staying in Bali.

Additional potential vaccinations for Bali

These are additional vaccinations for Bali which may be recommended depending on where you are traveling, the length of your stay and other factors:

Hepatitis A This is a viral illness which can be spread by contaminated food and water or through contact with infected people. Because it can be spread so many ways and is a common travel related illness, you will be strongly recommended to receive a hepatitis A vaccination before you travel to Bali.

Typhoid This illness is linked to a bacterium called Salmonella typhi which can be spread through contaminated food or water. It can be transmitted by people without knowing it. If you plan on staying for a while in Bali or eating street food, you may be strongly recommended to receive this vaccination; in other cases, it may not be needed.

Rabies There have been previous rabies outbreaks in Bali (in 2008 and 2010) mainly due to bites from dogs. Rabies is a serious and fatal illness, yet since the recent outbreaks in Bali there have been strict measures adopted to reduce the risk of rabies by the local government. You may still be advised to receive a Rabies vaccination depending on your travel plans and health needs.

Yellow Fever A yellow fever vaccination may be required by the Balinese government if you have recently travelled in an area with a high rate of yellow fever infection, otherwise it will not be required. It is not required for travel from Australia.

Japanese Encephalitis This mosquito borne illness has potentially serious symptoms, and although the risk for most travellers to Indonesia is quite low, you may need to receive a vaccination if you plan on staying in the country one month or longer, or if you are staying in regions with higher rates of Japanese encephalitis. The activities you plan to undertake, season, as well as accommodation will all be taken account when this vaccine is considered.

Hepatitis B Hepatitis B can be spread through sexual contact, sharing personal items or bodily fluids and is a viral illness that affects the liver. The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to avoid interactions that could spread the virus and also receive a vaccination before you travel. Hepatitis B is now considered a routine vaccination and many people under 30, in Australia, have had this as part of the standard vaccine schedule.

Other potential health risks for travel to Bali

As a general rule, do everything possible to limit your exposure to mosquito bites, follow safe food and drink consumption practices, carry hand sanitizer with you and wash your hands frequently, and do not drink untreated water. These are some additional health risks to consider when travelling to Bali:

• Dengue Fever Dengue fever is relatively common on Bali, and this mosquito transmitted viral illness can be mild to serious. There currently is no vaccination available or treatment, making it critical to do everything possible to prevent mosquito bites including wearing insect repellent, long sleeved pants and shirts, using mosquito netting when possible and practical, and ensuring your doors and windows have insect screens. The mosquitoes that spread this disease bite mainly from dusk to dawn.  
• Traveller’s Diarrhoea Also nicknamed “Bali belly,” traveller’s diarrhoea affects many people. It typically does not last longer than a few days, but you should go to a doctor if your symptoms persist beyond 48-72 hours. To help avoid getting this be sure to only dine at sanitary and well-known destinations and practice good hygiene habits like frequent hand washing. You may consider taking medications with you when travelling to Bali to manage diarrhoea if you were to get this. Discuss this with your doctor prior to leaving.

Do you need vaccinations for Bali?

You may be advised to receive these and other vaccinations for before you depart to travel to Bali, so make sure to schedule an appointment with a vaccination clinic or your medical provider as soon as you know you are going to travel to Indonesia.

Remember to start scheduling your vaccinations for Bali 6-8 weeks before you leave from Australia. Stay safe, practice good hygiene habits, get all the recommended vaccinations for Bali from Australia, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and beaches of Bali!

Health Risks

How can we help.

Travel Doctor-TMVC provides specific health recommendations tailored to your individual holiday plans. Our medical and nursing staff at Travel Doctor-TMVC have extensive knowledge of international health issues, immunisation and preventative medicine. Travellers should have individual risk assessments by one of our doctors whether they are holiday makers, businesspeople, or long-term expatriates.

Travel Doctor-TMVC has clinics throughout Australia. We are always available to assist you before you travel, on your holiday, or when you return. You can book an appointment online at any time of the day or night by visiting our locations pages, or you can talk to one of our friendly team members during business hours on 1300 658 844.

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Fully-vaxxed travelers no longer need COVID-19 tests to visit Bali: official

Travelers who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to present negative COVID-19 test results to enter Bali, an official has confirmed. 

Arguably one of the most anticipated news for those who plan to visit Indonesia’s tourism hotspot, PCR and antigen tests will no longer be required for fully-vaccinated international and domestic travelers as of yesterday.

Herry AY Sikado, the general manager of airport operations firm PT Angkasa Pura I, says Ngurah Rai has relaxed test requirements in line with President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s statement earlier this week . 

Herry told local outlets that international travelers would only be required to show their two-dosage vaccination certificates (both hard and soft copies) obtained at least 14 days prior to departure to Bali. The same rule applies at all Indonesian entry points.

International visitors who are not vaccinated are obliged to show negative PCR test results upon arrival and will receive jabs upon arrival at local medical facilities. Meanwhile, foreigners who have only received their first dose will be required to undergo a 5-day quarantine.

In addition, foreigners are required to verify their personal and travel documents using the mobility tracking app PeduliLindungi before departure.

“Domestic travelers who have received their second dose or the booster shot are not required to show either PCR or antigen tests,” Herry said, adding that people who have only received their first dose will be required to show a negative PCR test result obtained three days prior to departure or a negative antigen result 24 hours before traveling.

Herry expected the loosened travel restrictions will further boost tourism in Bali, while reiterating that all travelers should still follow social distancing rules and wear masks when indoors.

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Indonesia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Indonesia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces and enclosed environments.

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Can I travel to Indonesia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Indonesia.

Can I travel to Indonesia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Indonesia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Indonesia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Indonesia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Indonesia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Indonesia.

Can I travel to Indonesia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Indonesia?

Mask usage in Indonesia is not required in public spaces and enclosed environments.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Indonesia?

Restaurants in Indonesia are open. Bars in Indonesia are .

13 things to know before going to Bali, Indonesia

Jan 18, 2024 • 8 min read

These top tips for visiting Bali can help you plan the perfect trip © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

The Indonesian island of Bali is a sun-soaked paradise that attracts every type of traveler, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury jet-setters.

But – as with any destination – the vast majority of travelers (especially first-timers) will have a number of questions, whether it's "Can unmarried couples stay together in Bali?" (an increasingly common one in the light of recently-introduced new rules for tourists in Bali, which we'll get to later) or "What should I wear?"

Thankfully, Bali is one of the easiest destinations to explore, although its size – the island covers 5776 sq km (2230 sq miles) – means travelers should take the time to think about what they want to see and do relatively early on. For example, places such as Seminyak , with its beach clubs and five-star hotels, tend to become somewhat crowded during peak season, while more rural destinations, such as Ubud , might well require a longer taxi journey but are absolutely worth the effort, especially for those keen to avoid the crowds.

It's also worth bearing in mind that Bali is one of Asia's safest destinations. As with any holiday hot spot, there are always going to be certain things we can do to ensure we stay safe while traveling, but crackdowns on petty theft and bad behavior have all helped transform the island into a wonderfully family-friendly destination .

Here are our top tips for anyone heading to Bali.

1. Check your vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Indonesia

There are no mandatory vaccinations for visitors to Bali (barring the need for travelers arriving from countries with a high yellow fever transmission risk to carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate), although Hepatitis A, typhoid and tetanus are often recommended. Bali falls into the "low to no risk" category when it comes to malaria.

Rabies remains a big problem in Indonesia, and although it claims fewer lives in Bali than elsewhere (according to the World Health Organization, 11 people died from rabies in the first half of 2023), it still exists, and the rabies vaccination is worth considering. Working out what vaccinations you need for a holiday to Bali is mostly a personal choice, but if you have concerns, contact your local physician for the latest guidance.

2. Bring a reusable bottle

One of the most asked questions by tourists: "Is Bali's tap water safe to drink?" The short answer is "no." Stick to bottled water or, better still, bring a bottle with a built-in water filtering membrane. Purchasing bottled water – especially in restaurants – can quickly become expensive, which is another reason we're fans of reusable filtered ones, such as Larq and Lifestraw. These are also handy when it comes to purifying water used for cleaning fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try to steer clear of ice and use bottled water to brush your teeth.

3. Don't write off the rainy season

Having a rough idea of when dry and rainy seasons fall is undoubtedly something that is useful to know before heading to Indonesia . But bear with us – Bali's rainy season, which takes place between October and April, is a great time to visit. It's typified by short, sharp showers that often only last a few minutes. And in addition to the fact that prices for everything – from regional airfares to hotels – plummet, the island becomes wonderfully lush, the weather is still warm (typically hovering between 24°C/75°F and 29°C/85°F), and the main tourist attractions are blissfully crowd-free. You'll also find it easier to snap up places on excursions, such as snorkeling tours and guided hikes .

4. Buy some bug spray

To be clear, Bali doesn't have a major mosquito problem, but like anywhere in Southeast Asia, these pesky biting bugs love the occasional bloodsucking session – in the case of Bali, particularly during the rainy season between November and April. Lighten the load on your wallet by purchasing your repellent in Bali and opting for bug sprays made in Asia. Popular (and much cheaper) Asian brands you'll find throughout Indonesia include Soffell (snap up the surprisingly pleasant floral-scented version if you can).

5. Avoid traveling during peak times

Traffic in Bali can be horrendous – especially around busier spots such as Denpasar and Kuta – and estimated journey times on apps like Google Maps or Grab are notoriously unreliable. Peak times tend to be 6am to 8am (but roads often remain busy until 10am when day-trippers head out) and 4pm to 7pm. Allow plenty of time to get from A to B, especially when heading to the airport.

6. Pack clothes that will cover you up for when you're not on the beach

In Bali, skimpy swimwear is fine for the beach , but definitely not for trips to a supermarket or restaurant.

Men and women need to ensure their shoulders and upper legs are covered when visiting religious sites, although most of these places will have sarongs for visitors to borrow. Pack like a pro by taking a light cotton scarf that can double as a sarong if you visit a temple or other religious site, and a pair of light cotton trousers (bonus points if they've got a built-in mosquito repellent), which will protect you from bites while also providing enough coverage at sites where tiny denim shorts or a vest just won't cut it.

7. Behave respectfully

Various media reports might give the impression it's easy to get into trouble in Bali, but it's not. In reality, you just need to be sensible: don't do drugs (being caught with under a gram of cannabis will land you in prison), be respectful and dress appropriately at religious sites, don't ride a motorbike or moped without a helmet (Bali's police have recently started cracking down especially hard on foreign moped drivers), and treat locals with respect.

8. Locals will be keen to share their knowledge with you

Staying at a hotel with a concierge or a friendly receptionist? Feel free to grill them about the best local bar, beach or restaurant. The Balinese are incredibly proud of their island  – don't be surprised if the bartender at your favorite beach bar ends up inviting you to their home for dinner with their family – and love nothing more than telling visitors about their favorite beach, nature walk or temple.

9. Eat, drink, stay and shop locally

Don't be afraid to go local, whether this means eating at tiny family-run restaurants or opting for local drink brands. You'll pay less and enjoy delicious local dishes, and you'll be contributing directly to the local economy, too. These days, even the smallest restaurants, bars and independent hotels will be listed on online review sites such as Zomato (especially popular in Asia), and a quick glance should tell you whether the business in question is reputable or not.

10. Carry some loose change

Many businesses in Bali will take payment by card, but there are still plenty of places that only take cash. These include temples, smaller souvenir shops and beachfront masseuses (which, by the way, offer some of the best massages going). ATMs on the island can be unreliable and are also few and far between in some areas. Additionally, don't assume you'll always have the mobile data you'll need to book a ride-share taxi. If you need to hail a tuk-tuk or taxi from the side of the road, it's highly likely you'll need to pay in cash.

When using ATMs, opt for ones connected with major banks (in Indonesia, these include BNI, Bank Mandiri, BCA and CIMB Niaga) to avoid withdrawal fees and remember that Indonesian ATMs issue the cash first, so don't forget to wait for your card to appear.

11. Get around by moped (but always wear a helmet)

Mopeds are the cheapest way to get around Bali  and often – especially during rush hour in places such as Kuta – the quickest, too. They're also offered as a mode of transport by Grab and Gojek (Bali's most popular ride-sharing apps), and prices for journeys via mopeds are significantly cheaper than those made by car. Just remember to check the reviews of your chosen driver and always wear a helmet (the driver will typically provide one). Avoid hailing scooter taxis on the street – you won't be able to check their credentials, and, in reality, Grab and Gojek have so many scooter drivers (both identifiable for their bright green jackets) that there's simply no need.

12. There is a no-sex-before-marriage law

In December 2022, the Indonesian government brought in a new law that forbids sex outside of marriage. Technically, this law applies to visitors as well as locals.

At the time, it was announced that the legislation won't be introduced until late 2025. Since then, Bali's governor has said that the law – dubbed by some newspapers as the "Bali bonk ban"– won't apply to tourists and, additionally, guilty parties can only be reported by spouses, parents or children. In summary, the law represents a worrying development for human rights in Indonesia, but it's not one that is likely to affect tourists.

13. Prepare to pay a daily tourist tax

As tourism has roared back after the pandemic, authorities have responded to environmental challenges (especially plastic waste on beaches) and overtourism concerns by finally launching a long-mooted fee for foreign visitors as of February 2024. The fee of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah per visitor (about US$10, €9 or AU$15) is payable upon arrival on the island.

This article was first published May 30, 2019 and updated Jan 18, 2024.

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• Travel Updates
• Health & Safety

Foreign nationals visiting Bali will need to be vaccinated to enter

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Australians hoping to travel to Bali in 2022, when international travel has been tipped to resume, will need to be vaccinated or potentially barred from entry, according to reports.

Indonesia’s Covid-19 Task Force has issued a new set of requirements for foreign entry, which mandates that those entering Indonesia must test negative for coronavirus and also show a card or certificate that indicates they have received their full dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.

The new ‘no vax, no fly’ policy has been met with various reactions from foreign nationals currently living in Bali, with many taking to social media to air their frustrations about getting the jab.

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While some anti-vaxxers have slammed the rule, other travellers currently living in Indonesia say they would prefer to get the covid jab in their own home countries. Others, however, say that like in Australia – getting access to the jab is proving near impossible.

According to local media, one Facebook user said they recently arrived in Jakarta from the Netherlands and intended to travel to Bali, but were now unable to do so because they “do not want to be vaccinated”.

While Indonesia’s Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno suggested Bali would reopen in July 2021 to vaccinated tourists, a growing surge in Covid-19 cases has pushed this date back for the foreseeable future.

“We are targeting the end of July, beginning of August, but we just have to be mindful of where we are in this recent spike,” he said.

“We will be waiting for the situation to become more conductive.”

Currently, Bali has around 200 cases per day, with local media reporting the Tourism Minister wants to bring cases down to about 30 to 40 cases per day before reopening.

The Red Cross, however, has warned that Indonesia is “on the edge of catastrophe” because of a rapid rise in Covid-19.

The head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said that the world needs “lightning-fast action globally so that countries like Indonesia have access to vaccines to avert tens of thousands of deaths”.

Vaccination levels remain low throughout the country of Indonesia, with the country only reporting 5 per cent of the population fully vaccinated.

The Balinese government has vaccinated 71 per cent of its population so far. This is because the Indonesian government prioritised the holiday island as a vaccination hub due to its economic significance.

According to local media Coconuts, it is understood the vaccine certificate requirement will not apply to foreign nationals with diplomatic visas, visiting on an official state capacity, or entering Indonesia under the Travel Corridor Arrangement scheme . The TCA is not meant for the general public, but rather exclusively for business travellers to facilitate the nation’s economic activities.

The corridor has been set between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates, China, South Korea, and Singapore.

While the task force has not given a time frame for the new vaccination mandate measures, it is understood the co-ordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment — which oversees the tighter social restrictions on the islands — said they will take effect in July.

“We already understand that there is an increase in Covid-19 cases and new variants that continue to spread in various countries, so the government added special provisions to protect Indonesian citizens from imported cases,” said Ganip Warsito, head of the Covid-19 Handling Task Force, in an online news conference on Sunday.

The Indonesian government website listed ‘updates’ to the Addendum, listing all international travellers, both Indonesian citizens and foreigners, must comply with the following conditions/requirements:

a. Indonesian citizens are required to present vaccination cards or certificates (physical or digital) with a complete dose of Covid-19 vaccine as a requirement to enter Indonesia, and in the event that Indonesian citizens have not received the vaccine abroad, they will be vaccinated at the quarantine location upon arrival in Indonesia after the second Covid test is carried out and shows negative results;

b. Foreign citizens are required to present a complete dose of Covid-19 vaccine certificates (physical or digital) as a requirement to enter Indonesia;

c. Foreign citizens who are already in Indonesia and will travel, both domestically and internationally, are required to get vaccinated through a vaccination program or mutual co-operation scheme in accordance with the laws and regulations; and

d. The obligation to present Covid-19 vaccination cards or certificates (physical or digital) is excluded for foreign citizens holding diplomatic visas and service visas related to official/state visits of foreign officials at a ministerial level and above and foreign citizens who enter Indonesia with the travel corridor arrangement scheme, in accordance with the principle of reciprocity while still implementing strict health protocols.

The new rules are similar to what’s been implemented in Thailand’s popular tourist island of Phuket.

The resort island is now allowing vaccinated international travellers to enter without quarantine restrictions.

Off the island of Phuket, the country continues to battle its third and worst Covid-19 wave since the start of the pandemic. Earlier this month, Thailand reported a record-high 57 Covid-19 deaths and 5,533 new cases, mostly in Bangkok.

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Bali blocks unvaccinated tourists: Indonesia's new entry requirements

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Those dreaming of a Bali holiday will have to get vaccinated first. Photo / Bady Abbas, Unsplash

Tourists hoping to travel to Bali in 2022, when international travel has been tipped to resume, will need to be vaccinated or potentially barred from entry, according to reports.

Indonesia's Covid-19 Task Force has issued a new set of requirements for foreign entry, which mandates that those entering Indonesia must test negative for coronavirus and also show a card or certificate that indicates they have received their full dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.

The new 'no vax, no fly' policy has been met with various reactions from foreign nationals currently living in Bali, with many taking to social media to air their frustrations about getting the jab.

While some anti-vaxxers have slammed the rule, other travellers currently living in Indonesia say they would prefer to get the covid jab in their own home countries. Others, however, say that like in Australia – getting access to the jab is proving near impossible.

According to local media, one Facebook user said they recently arrived in Jakarta from the Netherlands and intended to travel to Bali, but were now unable to do so because they "do not want to be vaccinated".

While Indonesia's Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno suggested Bali would reopen in July 2021 to vaccinated tourists, a growing surge in Covid-19 cases has pushed this date back for the foreseeable future.

"We are targeting the end of July, beginning of August, but we just have to be mindful of where we are in this recent spike," he said.

"We will be waiting for the situation to become more conductive."

Currently, Bali has around 200 cases per day, with local media reporting the Tourism Minister wants to bring cases down to about 30 to 40 cases per day before reopening.

The Red Cross, however, has warned that Indonesia is "on the edge of catastrophe" because of a rapid rise in Covid-19.

The head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said that the world needs "lightning-fast action globally so that countries like Indonesia have access to vaccines to avert tens of thousands of deaths".

Vaccination levels remain low throughout the country of Indonesia, with the country only reporting 5 per cent of the population fully vaccinated.

The Balinese government has vaccinated 71 per cent of its population so far. This is because the Indonesian government prioritised the holiday island as a vaccination hub due to its economic significance.

According to local media Coconuts,it is understood the vaccine certificate requirement will not apply to foreign nationals with diplomatic visas, visiting on an official state capacity, or entering Indonesia under the Travel Corridor Arrangement scheme. The TCA is not meant for the general public, but rather exclusively for business travellers to facilitate the nation's economic activities.

The corridor has been set between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates, China, South Korea, and Singapore.

While the task force has not given a time frame for the new vaccination mandate measures, it is understood the co-ordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment — which oversees the tighter social restrictions on the islands — said they will take effect in July.

"We already understand that there is an increase in Covid-19 cases and new variants that continue to spread in various countries, so the government added special provisions to protect Indonesian citizens from imported cases," said Ganip Warsito, head of the Covid-19 Handling Task Force, in an online news conference on Sunday.

The Indonesian government website listed 'updates' to the Addendum, listing all international travellers, both Indonesian citizens and foreigners, must comply with the following conditions/requirements:

a. Indonesian citizens are required to present vaccination cards or certificates (physical or digital) with a complete dose of Covid-19 vaccine as a requirement to enter Indonesia, and in the event that Indonesian citizens have not received the vaccine abroad, they will be vaccinated at the quarantine location upon arrival in Indonesia after the second Covid test is carried out and shows negative results;

b. Foreign citizens are required to present a complete dose of Covid-19 vaccine certificates (physical or digital) as a requirement to enter Indonesia;

c. Foreign citizens who are already in Indonesia and will travel, both domestically and internationally, are required to get vaccinated through a vaccination program or mutual co-operation scheme in accordance with the laws and regulations; and

d. The obligation to present Covid-19 vaccination cards or certificates (physical or digital) is excluded for foreign citizens holding diplomatic visas and service visas related to official/state visits of foreign officials at a ministerial level and above and foreign citizens who enter Indonesia with the travel corridor arrangement scheme, in accordance with the principle of reciprocity while still implementing strict health protocols.

The new rules are similar to what's been implemented in Thailand's popular tourist island of Phuket.

The resort island is now allowing vaccinated international travellers to enter without quarantine restrictions.

Off the island of Phuket, the country continues to battle its third and worst Covid-19 wave since the start of the pandemic. Earlier this month, Thailand reported a record-high 57 Covid-19 deaths and 5,533 new cases, mostly in Bangkok.

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Bali reopens to foreign travelers as COVID-19 surge subsides

The Associated Press

A beach vendor sets chairs as he waits for customers in Kuta beach in Bali, Indonesia, on Thursday. The Indonesian resort island of Bali welcomed international travelers to its shops and white-sand beaches for the first time in more than a year Thursday - if they're vaccinated, test negative, hail from certain countries, quarantine and heed restrictions in public. Firdia Lisnawati/AP hide caption

A beach vendor sets chairs as he waits for customers in Kuta beach in Bali, Indonesia, on Thursday. The Indonesian resort island of Bali welcomed international travelers to its shops and white-sand beaches for the first time in more than a year Thursday - if they're vaccinated, test negative, hail from certain countries, quarantine and heed restrictions in public.

DENPASAR, Indonesia — The Indonesian resort island of Bali reopened for international travelers to visit its shops and white-sand beaches for the first time in more than a year Thursday — if they're vaccinated, test negative, hail from certain countries, quarantine and heed restrictions in public.

However, foreign visitors may be slow to arrive. No international flights to Bali were scheduled on the first day of the reopening and a tourism official forecast travel would pick up in November.

Bali's airport will welcome new foreign arrivals from 19 countries that meet World Health Organization's criteria such as having their COVID-19 cases under control, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, the government minister who leads the COVID-19 response in Java and Bali, said in a statement late Wednesday.

He said all international flight passengers must have proof they've been vaccinated two times, test negative for the coronavirus upon arrival in Bali and undergo a 5-day quarantine at designated hotels at their own expense. They'll also have to follow stringent rules at hotels, in restaurants and on beaches.

"We have to do this with caution because we need to stay alert," Pandjaitan said.

President Joko Widodo credited Bali's high vaccination rate for the decision to reopen. The country's COVID-19 caseload has also declined considerably; Indonesia has had around 1,000 cases a day in the past week after peaking around 56,000 daily in July.

Tourism is the main source of income on the idyllic "island of the gods" that is home to more than 4 million people, who are mainly Hindu in the mostly Muslim archipelago nation. Bali's tourist areas were deserted two decades ago after visitors were scared off by deadly terror attacks that targeted foreigners, but the island has worked to overcome that image.

More than 6 million foreigners arrived in Bali each year prior to the pandemic.

Foreign tourist arrivals dropped six-fold from 6.2 million in 2019 to only 1 million in 2020, while 92,000 people employed in tourism lost their jobs and the average room occupancy rate of classified hotels in Bali was below 20%. Statistics Indonesia data showed the island's economy contracted 9.31% year-on-year last year.

After closing the island to all visitors early in the pandemic, Bali reopened to Indonesians from other parts of the country in the middle of last year. That helped the island's gross domestic product grow a modest 2.83% in the second quarter this year, ending five consecutive quarters of contraction.

An airport worker marks queue line for the reopening of International Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali, Indonesia, Thursday. Firdia Lisnawati/AP hide caption

An airport worker marks queue line for the reopening of International Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali, Indonesia, Thursday.

The July surge , fueled by the delta variant, again totally emptied the island's normally bustling beaches and streets. Authorities restricted public activities, closed the airport and shuttered all shops, bars, sit-down restaurants, tourist attraction spots and many other places on the island. It reopened to domestic travelers in August.

Sang Putu Wibawa, the general manager at Bali's Tandjung Sari Hotel, said only two of its 40 rooms were occupied on average and he hoped the reopening would help the occupancy rate back to normal.

"We have been waiting for this moment for so long," he said. "This outbreak has hammered the local economy ... we are very excited to welcome foreign guests by observing health protocols."

Widodo said deciding to reopen Bali was based on its high vaccination rate as well as wanting to revive its economy. He said more than 80% of the Bali population has been fully vaccinated.

"Based on this situation, I am optimistic and we have decided to reopen international flights to Bali," Widodo wrote in his official Instagram on Saturday.

Overall, 59.4 million of Indonesia's 270 million people are fully vaccinated and another 43.2 million are partially vaccinated. Indonesia has confirmed more than 4.2 million cases and 142,811 deaths from COVID-19, the most in Southeast Asia.

Tourists from 19 countries are now able to visit the Bali and Riau islands provinces — Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Italy, France, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Poland, Hungary, and Norway.

The tight timing is one reasons tourists were not immediately arriving, said Putu Astawa, head of the Bali Tourism Office

Airlines need time to schedule flights to Bali, while tourists need time to arrange travel documents such as tickets, insurance and virus tests as well as their five-day quarantine accommodations.

He predicted new visitors would start coming in early November.

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