Simple Guide to Visa Runs from Bali and How to Avoid Them
Bali is a beautiful place to live, but Indonesia's visa rules can make staying long-term tricky. If you've ever had to leave the country just to renew your visa, you’ve experienced a "visa run." I’ve done many of them myself, and while it sounds like a quick trip, it can be expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. Here, I’ll share my experience and explain how to avoid visa runs—or make them easier if you can’t avoid them.
My Story: Why Visa Runs Weren't Worth It
When I first came to Bali, I got a tourist visa, which only lasts 30 days. I thought I could just do quick trips to nearby countries to renew my visa and keep enjoying life in paradise. At first, it felt like a little vacation every month or two. But after a while, it wasn’t fun anymore.
Every visa run meant spending money on flights, hotels, and visa fees. I also had to organize everything—documents, schedules, and immigration forms—which became a hassle. After many trips to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, I realized it wasn’t sustainable. I started looking for better solutions.
How to Stay Longer Without Visa Runs
Here are some ways to avoid visa runs if you plan to stay in Bali:
1. Get a KITAS (Long-Stay Permit)
- A KITAS lets you stay for months or even years without leaving the country. You can get one for work, business, retirement, or as a dependent.
- It’s a bit complicated to apply, but visa agents can handle most of the paperwork for you. This was a life-saver for me!
2. Extend Your Visa
- Tourist visas can be extended for another 30 days while you’re still in Bali. Social visas allow for multiple extensions and let you stay up to 6 months.
- A local sponsor is needed for a social visa, but many agencies can arrange this.
3. Use a Multiple-Entry Visa
- With this visa, you can stay 60 days at a time and re-enter Indonesia as many times as you want for a year. It’s less hassle than doing frequent visa runs.
4. Hire a Visa Agent
- Visa agents make everything easier. They can help extend your visa or even apply for a KITAS on your behalf. It costs more but saves you a lot of effort.
If You Must Do a Visa Run
Sometimes, visa runs are unavoidable. If that’s the case, here’s what you need to know:
Best Places for Visa Runs
- Singapore
- Why Go: Singapore is just a short flight from Bali, making it a convenient option. The city is clean, safe, and has a highly efficient visa process at the Indonesian Embassy.
- What to Do: While waiting for your visa, explore Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, or Sentosa Island. If you prefer something low-key, try the hawker centers for affordable and delicious food.
- Pro Tip: Book your visa appointment in advance to avoid delays and ensure smooth processing.
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Why Go: Kuala Lumpur is another nearby city with affordable flights and accommodations. The visa application process at the Indonesian Embassy is straightforward and quick.
- What to Do: Visit iconic landmarks like the Petronas Towers or Batu Caves. The city is also famous for its mix of cultures, so try local delicacies at Jalan Alor food street or explore Little India.
- Pro Tip: Use ride-hailing apps like Grab to get around easily and save time during your trip.
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Why Go: Bangkok offers a mix of affordability and vibrant culture, making it a favorite for many visa runners. The Indonesian Embassy there is well-organized, and the city has plenty to offer.
- What to Do: Take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, visit the Grand Palace, or shop at Chatuchak Market. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy authentic Thai street food.
- Pro Tip: Plan your visit to avoid major Thai holidays when the embassy might be closed.
Same-Day Visa Runs
Some people prefer to leave Bali in the morning and come back the same day. This saves money on hotels and time away. Airports in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur make this easy. Just double-check your flight times to avoid delays.
Tip: If you’re staying at the airport, use a lounge or bring snacks and something to do. It’ll make the wait much more comfortable.
Visa runs can feel like an adventure at first, but they get tiring and expensive over time. Switching to a KITAS or finding other long-term visa options was the best decision for me. If you’re in Bali long-term, look into these alternatives so you can enjoy your time without constantly worrying about visas.
If you’ve done a visa run from Bali, share your tips or stories. Let’s help each other out!