In recent years, the number of Japanese people visiting Indonesia for tourism and business has been increasing.
In Indonesia, a visa is required even for tourist stays of up to 30 days. The Visa on Arrival (VOA) for tourism purposes in Indonesia was introduced on March 7, 2022. This system is for tourists from 23 countries, including Japan, and can be applied for upon arrival at international airports and seaports in Bali (Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia).
Procedures like getting a visa are always a bit troublesome and worrying for me…
And among the Indonesian visas, the VOA (Visa On Arrival) is used by many travelers because it can be obtained at the airport upon arrival. However, in recent years, scams exploiting the VOA have become rampant, so caution is necessary!
I can’t believe there are even visa scams…
This time, we’ll provide a detailed explanation of the “VOA scam” to watch out for when traveling to Indonesia, including its methods, countermeasures, and even how to apply for the VOA online.
Let’s gather the necessary information in advance and prepare for a safe trip to Indonesia!
VOA (Visa On Arrival) is a visa that can be obtained at the airport upon arrival in Indonesia.
It permits a stay of up to 30 days (extendable once for another 30 days during the stay) for purposes such as tourism, business, socio-cultural visits, and government visits.
While the VOA is popular among many travelers for its convenience, it’s important to be aware that scams exploiting the VOA are also common.
VOA: Visa on Arrival
VOA (Visa on Arrival): For citizens of eligible countries, including Japan, who are visiting for tourism, business meetings, purchasing goods, or transit for up to 30 days, a VOA can be obtained upon arrival at major airports and seaports in Indonesia. Additionally, an e-VOA can be applied for and obtained online in advance[1][2][4].
e-VOA (Electronic Visa on Arrival)
e-VOA: This system was launched on November 9, 2022. By applying online in advance and paying with a credit card, you can ensure a smooth entry process upon arrival[2][5].
VOA Scam Tactics: Don’t Be Fooled by Clever Fake Websites!
The most common VOA scam tactic is to use a fake VOA application website to trick you into paying exorbitant fees.
These fake sites are designed to look very similar to the official VOA application site, which can make them difficult to distinguish.
Be cautious of sites with the following characteristics:
The URL is slightly different from the official site:
For example, “.com” might be changed to “.org,” or “gov” might be shortened to “go.”
Unnatural Japanese:
If the Japanese on the site seems machine-translated and unnatural, it’s likely a fake site.
High fees are charged:
The official VOA fee is US$35, but fake sites may charge over $100.
Requests for personal or credit card information:
Fake sites will ask for this information in an attempt to steal your personal and credit card details.
Things to Be Careful About When Applying for e-VOA
Apply on the official website:
Always apply for the VOA on the official website of the Indonesian Immigration Bureau.
From the top page menu, select “Apply” and choose the type of visa.
How to apply for Indonesia eVOA
For tourism purposes
Select ‘JAPAN’
Select ‘General, Family or Social’
Select ‘Tourism’
Select ‘B1’ visa
For business purposes
Select ‘JAPAN’
Select ‘Investment, Business or Government’
Select ‘Business, Meeting and Goods Purchasing’
Select ‘B2’ visa
STEP
Enter the required information
Enter the required information such as passport details, travel information, and accommodation details.
Input must be in English.
STEP
Upload your photos
Upload a photo that meets the passport photo requirements.
Upload the PDF of your return flight ticket.
STEP
Pay the visa fee
Pay with a credit card.
STEP
Receive the VOA approval letter
Once your credit card payment is approved, the VOA approval letter will be sent to your email.
Print the VOA approval letter and bring it with you along with your passport.
What You Need to Enter Indonesia
When entering Indonesia, you will need the following:
A passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
A round-trip ticket or a ticket to your next destination
VOA approval letter (if you applied for the VOA online)
Conclusion: Travel to Indonesia with Confidence Through Correct Information and Preparation!
This time, we’ve explained the “VOA scam” tactics to watch out for when traveling to Indonesia, its countermeasures, and how to apply for the VOA online.
VOA scams can be prevented by using the official website and confirming the correct information.
Also, by applying for the VOA online in advance, you can streamline the process at the airport and make better use of your time.
Please use this article as a reference and enjoy a safe trip to Indonesia!
Yes! It’s hard to choose, but… Choosing souvenirs is fun!
Indonesian National Instant Noodles / indomie | Indonesian SouvenirHatten wine, wine from Bali | Indonesian SouvenirYavabali Cashew Nuts | Indonesian SouvenirTolak Angin | Indonesian SouvenirKapal Api drip coffee | Indonesian Souvenirellips hair oil | Indonesian Souvenir
【Indonesia】How to Apply for VOA (Visa on Arrival) Online Explained Clearly【2023 Latest Version】 – YouTube: A YouTube video explaining how to apply for the VOA online.
How to Not Waste $35 on Your Indonesian VOA Online Application: An article explaining common mistakes and points to note when applying for the VOA online.
