Do you need a return ticket for Bali visa on arrival (VOA)?

In one recent experience, immigration did not ask for an onward ticket on arrival, but the airline checked it before the flight to Bali and refused online check-in without it. It is therefore best to have proof of onward travel ready even if it is not checked at the border.

Travelers report that immigration now checks more carefully that the ticket attached for a visa extension is genuine (not just a dummy reservation). If you don't have a ticket and aren't planning to buy one yet, some agents/helpers can still get your visa extended without submitting a ticket.

According to informal rules, everyone is technically supposed to have a return ticket, but it's usually only checked for those who don't go through the separate lane/counter for a pre-arranged visa (e.g. e-VOA).

For the initial 30-day visa on arrival, immigration may ask for proof of departure from Bali. A flight reservation is typically sufficient — you don't need a fully paid ticket. You can book a refundable or dummy ticket through any flight booking service.

The visa on arrival payment counter at Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar) is open 24 hours a day, so late-night arrivals can get their VOA processed without any issues.

When extending your Bali VOA for a second 30-day period, you may also need to show proof of onward travel. A return ticket or reservation with a departure date within the extended visa period is generally accepted.