Applying and Paying for VOA: how it works in Indonesia — first-hand
Short answer
The Indonesian Visa on Arrival costs 500,000 IDR and should be paid in exact local currency or via the official online portal to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. Using the online e-VoA allows for faster entry through biometric autogates, while failing to secure a visa results in a daily fine of 1,000,000 IDR.
From real experience
Official cost of Indonesian Visa on Arrival (VOA) is 500,000 IDR.
When paying on-site with foreign currency or credit cards, exchange rate discrepancies often lead to extra fees. To avoid overpayment, travelers should pay the exact amount in local currency (IDR) or use the official online portal prior to arrival.
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Visa on Arrival (VoA) in Bali costs 500,000 IDR.
If paying in USD cash (approx. $35), avoid paying with large bills because the change is often given in IDR at a highly unfavorable exchange rate. Applying for an e-VoA online before arrival is recommended to use the fast-track autogates (available for biometric passports, though families with small children must still use manual desks).
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For extending tourist visas (like B1 or C1) in Bali, applications usually require a passport and supporting documents.
If applying through an agency, payments can sometimes be made via Russian cards (SBP/T-Bank) depending on the agency's local payment gateway. Using biometric passports allows entry via e-gates, skipping manual immigration queues. Always carry small cash (IDR) for VOA fees at the airport.
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Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Indonesia must be purchased and processed correctly at the airport upon arrival if not done online.
Skipping the payment or stamp process results in an illegal stay, punishable by a daily fine (1,000,000 IDR per day) and potential issues upon departure.