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East Timor Visa Policy

East Timor has a comprehensive visa policy that determines the entry status of all foreigners. 

According to the government's current policy, visitors must get a visa to enter the island unless they are from visa-free countries. In accordance with immigration law, all citizens of foreign nations must secure a visa, with the exception of Indonesians, citizens of Schengen countries, and Cape Verde.

Visas are issued to foreigners before their arrival or at the point of entry if they meet the preconditions set by the Interior Ministry. There is a not-too-recent regulation signed in 2019 called Order Number 470 which requires all visitors to get visas from diplomatic missions of East Timor abroad before arriving, but this Order has been suspended.

Land Travelers

Still, on East Timor's visa policy, all visitors arriving by land must obtain a visa application authorization in advance, which will then be presented to the immigration officer at the border. This document qualifies the holder for a single or multiple entry visa valid for up to 90 days and with a fee. Those who are exempted from applying for visas don't need visas; hence they don't need this authorization at land border crossings.

Visa On Arrival

There is a special visa on arrival for selected nationalities at the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport or the Dill Sea Port. Persons who arrive at this point without visas but who qualify for visas on arrival will be issued single-entry visas valid for 30 days after paying an application fee. There is also a transit visa for international passengers traveling through East Timor to another destination, valid for 3 days. Transiting through East Timor is only possible with a transit visa.

Visa applicants are required to hold a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months counting from the entry date, and they must meet strict conditions such as being genuine tourists or business visitors, having prior accommodation arrangements already made, and being fully booked onward, or return tickets. Proof of funds to cover the number of days they wish to spend in East Timor is also mandatory.

Visitors who wish to stay beyond the number of days allowed by their visas may extend their stay by 90 days after submitting an application to the Immigration Department. 

Extensions are for 30 – 60 days.

Key Information About East Timor Visa And Travel Tips

If you have decided to make East Timor your next port or call and you want to have a blissful trip or holiday, here are some major tips to help you.

Apply Early: We recommend that you apply for your visa at least 4 weeks before your trip unless you are eligible for a single entry visa on arrival. Wait to book your ticket until the visa is ready.

Hold Sufficient Cash: The authorities have a strict policy for the financial sufficiency of visitors. There is a daily amount all visitors are required to have in hand to cover their expenses. This amount changes frequently based on government regulations, so check the current figure and prepare accordingly.

Safety: East Timor is not a violent place, but clashes among locals are not uncommon. There are cases of fights breaking out between street gangs or political demonstrations, and disputes could turn violent very quickly. Avoid large gatherings or go outdoors at night. Be more careful in places likeComoro, Dili, and Tasi Tolu which are crowded most of the day.

Beware of crocodiles: Crocodile attacks occur, especially in the Eastern District and the southern coast. If you love surfing or enjoying your time at the beach, ask the locals to show you safe places to enjoy your pastime. Avoid dangerous spots.

Best Season: The best time to travel to East Timor is after April, which is after the wet season, which starts in November. Wet seasons bring about landslides, flooding, and damaged roads. Follow local advice if you must visit during the wet season. Also, note that Timor experiences tsunamis and earthquakes occasionally so take note and check with emergency and meteorological services before traveling. If it occurs during your visit, move toward high ground immediately.

How To Apply For An East Tumor Visa?

Applying for an East Timor Visa can be done in one of two ways. The first option is the visa on arrival which requires an authorization letter issued by the Interior Ministry. 

Holders of this letter can convert it into a single entry visa at the international airport or the Dill Seaport. 

The second option is to submit your application to a foreign mission of East Timor abroad, and a visa will be issued to you after a few weeks. This embassy option is for long-stay visas that exceed 90 days of visits.

Consider the option that bests suit you and go for it.

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Are you planning a trip to East Timor for a holiday, or do you wish to visit for any other reason? You will need to apply for a visa if you are not eligible for visa-free entry. East Timor remains open to foreigners, which is the case all year round.