In a bid to enhance the efficiency of immigration processes and accommodate the surging number of tourists, Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has inaugurated its newly installed auto-gates, marking a significant step forward in streamlining arrivals and departures.

The auto-gates, now operational in both the international arrival and departure terminals, promise to facilitate a seamless entry and exit experience, particularly for tourists hailing from ASEAN nations and those utilizing the Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVoA) system.

Amidst mounting pressure on immigration services, which contend with an average of 18,000 daily arrivals surging to 36,000 during peak seasons, the Directorate General of Immigration, Silmy Karim, has spearheaded the nationwide initiative to digitize operations. Karim expressed a commitment to elevating Indonesia’s immigration services to a 'gold standard' level across all touchpoints.

Since late last year, a total of ninety auto-gates have been methodically installed at Bali Airport, sixty in arrivals halls and thirty in departure halls, emulating the success of similar systems already operational in Jakarta Airport.

However, eligibility for utilizing these auto-gates is reserved for tourists meeting specific criteria, including possession of an electronic passport and adherence to the eVoA system or hailing from ASEAN member countries. Identifying electronic passports is made easy by a distinct golden square beneath the national emblem, facilitating automated scanning processes at the airport.

Tourists are encouraged to arrange their eVoA prior to arrival in Indonesia, utilizing the official website to ensure a smooth and cost-effective process. Notably, the official e-visa website offers reliability, user-friendliness, and multilingual support, in contrast to recent technical glitches encountered by alternative platforms like the Love Bali app.

The eVoA, priced at IDR 500,000, not only expedites the arrival process but also allows for online visa extensions, accommodating couples, families, and group travelers with streamlined applications for up to five individuals.

Moreover, tourists traveling on ASEAN passports enjoy exemption from the eVoA requirement, courtesy of existing travel agreements. However, it’s crucial to differentiate the eVoA from the tourism tax voucher, which necessitates separate arrangements.

Given recent technical hiccups with the Love Bali app, authorities advise tourists to settle their tourism tax levy upon arrival at the designated desk in the arrivals hall, ensuring a hassle-free entry process.

With these advancements, Bali Airport aims to not only meet the escalating demands of tourism but also set a precedent for efficient immigration services, ensuring a positive and welcoming experience for travelers visiting the enchanting island destination.