Southeast Asia has long been a favorite destination for Indian travelers looking to be in awe, tantalize their taste buds with some of the world’s best food, and bask on the incredible beaches. But wait! There is an undiscovered paradise that goes beyond the usual tourist hotspot and is located between Indonesia and Australia: Timor Leste. Timor Leste is a little treasure offering real adventure; undeveloped and untouched beaches, cool mountains, magical diving spots, and rich Portuguese heritage. Timor Leste feels fresh and untouched compared to standard places that are overcrowded with tourists.
For an Indian passport holder who has made the decision to visit paradise, the next step is to understand the Timor-Leste visa for Indians process. In this article, we cover the Timor Leste visa for Indians process from the application steps to documents needed, down to fees, so you can start planning your trip the right way.
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Do Indians Need a Visa for Timor-Leste?
Yes, Indian citizens are required to have a visa to enter Timor-Leste. The good news is that the process is simple, and they have easy options for tourists and short-term visitors. They can either apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at the approved entry points or apply beforehand via email for a pre-arranged visa in advance. This is meant to be a smooth and easy entry process.
Visa on Arrival for Indians
If you are arriving directly in Timor Leste by plane or by ship, you can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) as a traveler from India. This is the easiest option if you are making a last-minute visit or if you are just visiting for a few days.
Where Can You Obtain a Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival can only be issued at the following official entry points:
- Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili (capital city)
- Dili Sea Port
Important: Visa on Arrival cannot be issued at land borders (that is, when crossing over from Indonesia). Advance approval in that scenario would be required.
Length of Stay and Extension
- Period of Validity: 30 days from the date of entry
- Extension: may be possible for an additional 30 days (make an application at the immigration office in Dili).
Visa on Arrival Charges
$30 (payable in cash, upon arrival)
Please be aware to bring cash in USD as the immigration counters may not have credit card facilities.
Apply in Advance (Pre-Arranged Visa via Email)
If you’re traveling by land border crossings, or if you are just interested in having your visa secured well ahead of travel, Timor Leste does offer a pre-arranged visa application via email, a convenient alternative and contactless option.
Easy Steps:
- Gather all necessary documents (see the next section)
- Email application to:
visa@mj.gov.tl
- Wait for the visa approval letter (5–10 business days)
- Print and carry the letter with you for travel
- Upon your arrival in Timor-Leste, submit the letter if requested and pay the visa fee.
This process is particularly useful for overland travel from Indonesia through the Mota’ain border post.
Documents Required for Timor Leste Visa
Regardless of whether you choose to apply for a Visa on Arrival or an advance application, you will need the following checklist of documents:
Check List:
- Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months from date of entry, empty visa page)
- Recent passport photo
- Proof of exit (return or onward flight ticket)
- Confirmed accommodations (Hotel reservation or host invitation, etc.)
- Proof of funds (any bank balance statements, acknowledgement of an international credit card, etc.)
- Visa approval letter (for pre-arranged visa)
Tip: Make sure to print copies of your documents, even if you submitted them electronically.
Timor Leste Visa Fees for Indian Citizens
Tourist Visa on Arrival (VoA):
- Duration: 30 days
- Cost: USD 30
- Where to Obtain: Airport and seaport visa on arrival when you arrive
Pre-Approved Tourist Visa:
- Duration: 30 days
- Cost: USD 30
- Where to Obtain: Must apply before the trip via email.
Business Visa:
- Duration: 30 days
- Cost: USD 50
- Where to Obtain: Requires a business invitation, which must be arranged before your travel.
Can the Visa Be Extended?
Yes, Indian travelers may get their visa extended for an additional 30 days by visiting the Immigration Office in Dili. It is advised that they apply for the extension 7 days in advance of the expiration of their visa.
- Extension fee: Approximately USD 45 – 50
- Documentation needed:
- Original passport
- Current visa
- Updated proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Why You Should Visit Timor-Leste
Still on the fence about whether or not to add Timor-Leste to your travel itinerary?
Here are five reasons that make Timor Leste a unique travel destination worth it:
- World-class diving and snorkeling on Atauro Island, one of the most biodiverse marine hotspots on the planet.
- Virtually deserted, unspoiled beaches that are rarely frequented by tourists.
- Beautiful hikes through the central highlands, with stunning views and pristine nature.
- Delicious local cuisine, including local coffee and Portuguese-influenced dishes
- Warm, peaceful culture, in a country still largely unknown to mass tourism.
Timor Leste is one of Southeast Asia’s last genuine hidden gems and is ideal for travelers who are hoping to experience the untouched beauty, adventure, and peacefulness without the crowds.
Travel Tips for Indian Visitors
- Currency: US Dollar (official currency) – bring smaller denominations
- Language: Tetum and Portuguese; basic English is spoken in Dili
- Local SIM cards: Available at the airport; internet coverage in cities is decent
- Transport: Taxis and minivans are common; the road conditions outside Dili can be bumpy
- Health & Safety: Travel insurance recommended; carry basic medicines
Final Thoughts
As an Indian passport holder, it is entirely possible to travel to Timor-Leste. Even better, it’s quite simple to do so! You can either obtain a Visa on Arrival or apply in advance, but as long as you are prepared, the process is usually simple.
If you would feel more comfortable working with experts, especially if you’re organizing a trip to multiple Southeast Asia countries, then I recommend contacting a visa consultancy like OneVasco. Their experience managing visa logistics will simplify your travels and help you manage the risk of delay or error, so you can just worry about experiencing the natural and cultural discovery of Timor-Leste.
