Planning to explore the beaches, mountains, and vibrant culture of Timor-Leste? Whether you’re flying in, arriving by sea, or crossing by land, this guide explains how to apply for a tourist visa to Timor-Leste, step by step. Learn about eligibility, documents, visa-on-arrival options, and what to expect at the border.
Step 1: Determine How You Will Enter Timor-Leste
There are two main ways to apply for a visa:
A. Visa on Arrival
- Available at:
- Dili International Airport
- Dili Sea Port
- Who can use this option?
- Indonesian citizens: Visa available at all border points, including land borders
- Portuguese citizens: Visa-exempt for tourism purposes
- All other nationalities: Must enter via airport or seaport to apply on arrival
At the entry point, you must:
- Present a passport valid for 6+ months with one blank page
- Show a return or onward ticket
- Show proof of accommodation arrangements
- Demonstrate access to US$100 for entry and US$50 per day of stay
- Complete an arrival card
- Pay the US$30 visa fee in cash
Note: ATMs or currency exchange may not be available at the border. Bring cash in USD.
B. Apply in Advance (Only for Land Border Entry)
If you’re not Indonesian or Portuguese and plan to enter via a land border, you must apply in advance for a Visa Application Authorization.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
To apply in advance, follow these steps:
- Download the Class I + II Application Form (see “Documents to Use”)
- Complete the form digitally or by hand
- Prepare these scanned documents:
- Passport bio-page
- Proof of departure (ticket or travel itinerary)
- Bank statement (or sponsorship form with documents from your sponsor)
- Email the completed form and supporting documents to:
📧 [email protected]
Allow at least 10 working days for processing. Approved applicants will receive a Visa Application Authorization, valid for 12 months. Bring a printed copy when you travel.
Step 3: Embassy or Consulate Option
Alternatively, you may submit a visa application at the nearest Timor-Leste embassy or consulate. Visit their official website for downloadable forms and contact details.
Office Location & Contact (Immigration Service)
📍 Immigration Service – Ministry of Interior
Ground Floor, Vila Verde (Opposite Obrigado Barracks), Dili
📞 (+670) 331 0369
📧 [email protected]
🕗 Office Hours: 08:00 AM – 05:30 PM (GMT +09:00)
Required Documents
To apply for a tourist visa, prepare:
- Completed Class I + II Application Form
- Valid passport (min. 6 months validity)
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of accommodation in Timor-Leste
- Bank statement or sponsorship form
- Visa fee of US$30 (cash on arrival)
Eligibility
To be eligible for a tourist visa:
- You must intend a genuine visit for tourism, business meetings, or family visit
- You must demonstrate access to:
- US$100 for entry
- US$50 for each day of stay
Fees
- Visa on arrival fee: US$30 (cash)
- No fee for Portuguese tourists under visa exemption rules
Validity
A Tourist Visa allows:
- Stay up to 90 days
- Purpose: Tourism, family visit, business negotiation, or attending events
Processing Time
- Visa on arrival: Issued immediately upon meeting requirements
- Advance application: At least 10 working days
Why You Need a Tourist Visa
This visa allows foreigners to:
- Enter legally into Timor-Leste
- Stay up to 90 days
- Explore tourism, family, or business opportunities
It is mandatory unless you are eligible for visa exemption.
Instructions
Only apply in advance if:
- You’re entering through a land border and
- You’re not an Indonesian or Portuguese citizen
If flying into Dili or arriving by sea, apply upon arrival.
