Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Labuan Bajo for Diving?

Visa Requirements for Diving in Komodo

Indonesia offers straightforward visa options for most nationalities visiting Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park. Here is what you need to know before your trip.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

The most common option for tourists is the Visa on Arrival, available to citizens of over 90 countries including the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and most European nations. Key details:

• Duration: 30 days, extendable once for an additional 30 days (60 days total)
• Cost: IDR 500,000 (~$35 USD)
• Available at: Major international airports including Bali (DPS) and Jakarta (CGK), and Labuan Bajo (LBJ)
• Payment: Cash (IDR or USD) or card at most entry points

Passport Requirements

• Minimum 6 months validity from your date of entry
• At least 2 blank pages for stamps
• Proof of onward or return travel may be requested

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of some ASEAN countries (Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and others) can enter Indonesia visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. This option is not extendable.

E-Visa Options

Indonesia also offers an electronic visa system through the official Molina (Immigration Online) portal. This allows you to apply and pay for your VOA online before arrival, saving time at immigration. Processing typically takes 1 to 3 business days.

Currency and Payments in Labuan Bajo

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). The approximate exchange rate is 15,000 IDR to 1 USD. ATMs are available in Labuan Bajo but can be unreliable, especially during peak tourist season. Credit cards are accepted at larger dive operators and hotels but typically carry a 3% surcharge. Bringing a supply of cash in IDR or USD is strongly recommended.

Pro tip: If you are flying through Bali first and spending a few days there before continuing to Labuan Bajo, your VOA covers the entire Indonesia stay — you do not need a separate visa for domestic flights within the country.