Bali's Return Ticket Requirements: Flexible Solutions for Travelers

When entering Indonesia, you may be required to show a return ticket.

Typically, airlines request this proof at your point of departure. Some airlines want to see a confirmed return ticket, while others accept a reservation. There have also been instances where airlines request a return ticket to the country of departure. However, the rules state that you can leave Indonesia for any destination, including a third country.

In Bali, there's a growing trend of border control officers requesting a confirmed return ticket upon arrival. Simply having a reservation isn't enough; Indonesian border control mandates a confirmed return ticket.

The return date on your ticket must be within the validity period of your visa, without considering any extensions. For example, if you have a 30-day visa, your return ticket must be for a date no later than 29 days from your arrival. Even though it is possible to extend this visa, the return ticket must be within the period of the original 30-day visa. Similarly, for a visitor visa, issued for 60 days, the return ticket must be for a date no later than 59 days from your entry date into Indonesia.

For those entering with a KITAS visa, a return ticket is not required.

For travelers entering Indonesia on Tourist or Visitor visas, it's wise to have a return ticket.

While it's uncertain whether authorities will request it, having one on hand can offer peace of mind. This precaution also spares you from the need to hastily purchase a ticket at the airport, should it be required. In Bali, especially, the regulations are stringent, and attempting to buy a return ticket on the spot could lead to immediate expulsion from the country.

For travelers who prefer not to commit to a fixed return date or destination, there are several options to secure a confirmed return ticket for entering Indonesia.

1. Purchase an airline ticket that allows you to change your flight date, subject to fare conditions. For instance, Turkish Airlines offers a flexible economy fare, albeit at a higher cost, which is fully refundable. Alternatively, Etihad Airways provides a Choice Plus fare with complimentary cancellations, although these tickets may come with a higher price tag.

2. Expedia.com Before purchasing your ticket, consider creating an account on Expedia. This will make finding and managing your ticket easier. When making your purchase, look for tickets that have a free cancellation within 24 hours option. This will ensure that you can return the ticket within 24 hours, in accordance with the website's terms. Keep in mind that refundable tickets typically come at a higher cost and the budget airlines do not tend to offer this option.

3. If you're open to sacrificing the ticket cost, opt for the least expensive return flight available. For instance, AirAsia frequently offers budget-friendly tickets for routes like Jakarta to Singapore.

4. Find budget round-trip tickets on the Traveloka website.

5. Trip.com The website provides a cancellation refund option, allowing you to deposit 90% of the ticket's cost towards future purchases on the same platform.

It's better to have a return ticket. They may ask for it, or they may not. But having one will save you from stress (or even deportation), and you won't have to rush to buy a ticket at the airport if it's required. Upon arrival in Bali, the rules are strict - they don't allow you to buy a return ticket on the spot and will immediately send violators out of the country.