Return Ticket Requirements in Indonesia: real experience from chats
Short answer
Indonesia legally requires proof of an onward or return ticket for entry, which airlines and immigration officials frequently enforce to avoid denying boarding or entry. Purchase a fully refundable ticket or a verifiable booking to comply, as fake or dummy tickets risk verification failure.
From real experience
An onward or return ticket is a legal requirement for entry into Indonesia.
While some travelers successfully bypass checks via automated e-gates, airlines frequently deny boarding at departure points without proof of onward travel. Furthermore, immigration officers regularly conduct manual checks, especially for families. Travelers should possess a valid onward flight ticket or a verifiable booking to avoid entry denial.
✓ 3 reports from chats
For entry into Bali, travelers need an e-visa and a completed Customs Declaration (ECD).
While immigration officers may not always ask for an outbound ticket, airlines often require proof of return or onward travel upon check-in. If caught without one, travelers sometimes book last-minute onward tickets to neighboring countries (e.g., Malaysia) via platforms like trip.com or use 'onward ticket' services.
✓ 1 report from chats
Arrival procedures in Bali for international travelers usually include an E-Visa or VOA (Visa on Arrival), Customs Declaration (ECD) filled out online in advance, and a tourism tax payment.
Passport validity must be at least 6 months. Proof of an onward/return flight is often strictly enforced by airlines at the departure airport and immigration officials upon entry.
✓ 1 report from chats
Bali/Indonesia immigration requirements: Dummy or fake return/onward tickets are not recommended as immigration officials may verify the booking number, which leads to entry denial.
Always purchase a fully refundable return or onward ticket (valid for 30-60 days) to comply with entry requirements, then cancel/refund it after successful entry.
✓ 1 report from chats
Indonesian immigration often requires proof of onward travel (an exit flight) upon entry.
Failure to present this can lead to being denied boarding or denied entry. If plans are flexible, purchase a refundable exit ticket or use services that provide temporary flight reservations. Check the airline requirements before departure.
✓ 1 report from chats
Indonesian immigration authorities may request a return or onward flight ticket upon entry and during visa extension processes.
Digital booking screenshots are often insufficient; officials may demand real, verifiable bookings or instruct the applicant to provide a valid ticket via email within a short timeframe to complete the extension.
✓ 1 report from chats
When entering Indonesia, ensure you have a valid return ticket, especially if you plan to extend your visa online.
While some travelers report not having their return tickets checked, it's a requirement. For visa extensions, ensure your current visa status permits overstaying for the duration of your extension.
✓ 1 report from chats
A return ticket is legally required for entry into Bali.
While it might be checked by the airline before departure, immigration may or may not ask for it upon arrival. Some suggest a flexible hotel booking might suffice, but this is not guaranteed.