With COVID-19 restrictions and quarantine requirements both being walked back this month, we’re running through just what you need to know if you’re looking to get back to Bali ASAP.
We’ve all been waiting for Bali’s reopening, quarantine-free, haven’t we? The idea of being locked in isolation in a hotel room for a big chunk of our holiday in the most beautiful place on Earth doesn’t exactly win us over (although we can think of worse places to isolate from if these options are anything to go by).
Good news, then, for everyone who – like us – can’t wait to get back and start exploring, dining out, doing yoga, visiting beaches and waterfalls, and checking out the markets as soon as we arrive: quarantine-free travel has been announced – no more Bali hotel isolation! It comes with conditions, though. We’ve put together a guide for you so that you can (finally) book your return trip. We’re packing our bags as we speak.
Can foreigners travel to Bali in 2022?
Yes, overseas travellers can travel to Bali right now. The current information as of March 7 is that all foreign travellers with three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine do not need to quarantine upon their arrival, but will need to have proof of a four day hotel booking. Those with two doses must quarantine for three days. Children under 12 are not required to be vaccinated to enter Indonesia and 12-17 year-olds might be required to complete vaccinations by local authorities while in quarantine.
The news we’ve really been hanging out to hear is that quarantine-free travel for overseas travellers has officially been announced! (We’ll update this article with updated travel information as we hear it.)
What are the rules for foreign travellers to Bali?
According to Smart Traveller, foreign travellers to Bali need to show proof that their COVID-19 vaccinations were received at least 14 days before travel. They also need to have medical insurance coverage of at least $US 25,000. Travellers also must also show authorities a PCR test result stating that they are free of COVID-19, taken within a minimum of 48 hours from the time of departure in your country of origin. Finally, you’ll need to fill in the Health Alert Card (e-HAC), which you can download for free.
If you’ve been to Bali before, you’ll know that you must apply for a tourist visa in advance of travelling to Indonesia. You can do this by contacting your nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate for information on visas. Keep in mind that entry, exit and transit conditions can change at short notice, too. For a Visit Visa (60 days), your passport requires six months validity as a minimum and you also require proof of a return ticket. The easiest way to apply for a visa is via the online method, E-Visa.
Do travellers have to self-isolate in Bali?
The rules do not require you to self-isolate upon arrival if you have had three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine (yay!). If you have had two doses you will need to self-isolate for three days / two nights.
If you're suspected of having or confirmed to have COVID-19, Indonesian authorities may place you in quarantine and you may be unable to leave Indonesia until you're cleared or have recovered. Medical evacuation is very expensive and may not be covered by your travel insurance, so it’s worthwhile checking what your insurance covers before you go.
Are there any other COVID restrictions in Bali for travellers?
Thankfully, because Bali has a high rate of vaccination (over 80% of citizens), the restrictions are minimal. Some shops and dining venues have shorter operating hours, and some require you to check in using the e-HAC app. The usual rules you’re probably used to at home still apply in Bali: social distancing and facial masks where mandated, including and especially in crowded areas such as public transport. It’s mandatory to wear a mask when travelling in a private vehicle, public taxi, motorbike or car, bus, or boat.
Really, the same hygiene rules that you’d practice to steer clear of Bali Belly or any other illness apply. Wash your hands with soap and water, avoid sharing cutlery or straws, and be careful of consuming things that have been handled without gloves.
Where can travellers find out about the best things to do in Bali?
So glad you asked. Here at The Bali Bible, we pride ourselves on sharing only the best things to do in Bali with travellers from all over the world. It’s been our mission for 12 years now, so we’ve got you covered.
If working up a sweat and driving your adrenaline levels to the max appeals, go on a quad bike adventure or a cycling tour of Ubud. Or perhaps you want to take some amazing, scenic photos and give all your friends serious Instagram envy, while also soaking up the cultural richness of Bali? If so, we recommend the Uluwatu Cultural Insta tour or a Guided Temple Tour.
Of course, this is just a taster of what Bali has to offer. There’s truly something for everyone in Bali, and perhaps you’ll discover what you really want to do by trying something new. For some inspiration and easy access to booking ahead of your trip, check out our guide for things to do.
We’ll see you in Bali.
This article was updated on March 7 to reflect the latest guidelines around Bali travel.
Cat Woods is a Melbourne-based freelance journalist and a regular visitor to Bali. When she’s not writing or teaching yoga and Pilates, she’s very slowly learning Bahasa Indonesia.
