Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, is a dream destination for travellers from around the world. Most countries require some form of a visa to visit Indonesia. Fortunately, the process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a tourist visa for Indonesia online.
The easiest option is the Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA), which can be applied for online and is valid for 30 days. You can extend it once for another 30 days while in Indonesia, giving you up to 60 days to explore the country.
This system eliminates the need to visit an embassy or queue at the airport, making it convenient and time-saving.
There is also a Visa On Arrival option.
To start your application, go to the official Indonesian e-Visa portal:
👉 https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/
This is the only legitimate government website for e-VOA applications. Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge additional service fees or provide incorrect information.
Once you’re on the website, enter your nationality, purpose of visit and visa type required. For short stays, select the “Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) (B1)” from the list of visa types.
Click on Apply and accept the terms.
The next step is to upload the following:
Click on Next
Fill in your details exactly as they appear on your passport:
Accuracy is important — any discrepancies may cause delays or rejection.
Upload a clear digital PDF copy of your return or onward flight ticket – Proof that you’ll leave Indonesia before your visa expires.
Ensure that the file is clear, complete, and meets the upload requirements.
The cost of the Indonesian e-VOA is IDR 500,000 (about USD 32-35), depending on exchange rates). You can pay securely online using a credit or debit card.
After submitting payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email and your application will be processed. Mine was issued instantly even though it was a Sunday.
Once approved, your e-VOA will be emailed to you in PDF format. Download and print it — even though it’s electronically linked to your passport, it’s always best to carry a printed copy in case airport systems are offline or immigration officers request it.
When you arrive, proceed to the e-VOA immigration counter at your point of entry. The officers will verify your details, scan your passport, and stamp your entry.
Your e-VOA allows you to stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days. If you want to extend your stay, you can apply for a 30-day extension online through the same portal or visit a local immigration office before your visa expires.
Yes. South African citizens are required to obtain a visa before travelling to Indonesia. A recent announcement, after the G20 Summit, declared that South Africans don’t need a visa for Indonesia anymore. However, I enquired with the embassy and they said that we still required it. This was confirmed at Jakarta airport on 14 December 2025.
Although I had an online visa, my husband and son didn’t as we were unsure whether we still needed it or not. The officials at Jakarta airport confirmed that we still required a visa and directed us to the Visa on Arrival counter where we were asked to show proof of onward flights. The visas were issued within a few minutes.
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
