Entry into Timor-Leste
Travelers can enter Timor-Leste via air, sea, or land. Dili International Airport serves as the primary entry point for international flights. Sea arrivals typically occur at the Port of Dili, while land crossings are available at specific border posts.
Visa’s
You can get a 30-day visa when you arrive, if you’re both:
- visiting as a tourist, and
- arriving via President Nicolau Lobato International Airport or Dili Seaport
You have to pay for a visa on arrival in US dollars. There are no money exchange facilities at the airport.
If you enter at another location or by land, you need to get a visa before you arrive.
If you can give a valid reason for extending your stay past 30 days, immigration authorities may let you extend your visa.
Apply to the Immigration Department at Vila Verde in Dili to extend your visa.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate or Timor-Leste Immigration for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
Passport
Validity
Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It’s attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service
- If you’re overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate
Duty-Free Allowances
- Travelers over 17 years old are entitled to duty-free allowances for personal items, provided they are not for commercial use and do not exceed a total value of USD $300. Specific limits apply to individual items:
- Tobacco: Restricted to travelers 17 years and over.
- Alcohol: Ethanol or more than 1.5 liters.
- Wine: 5 liters.
- Coffee or Tea: 1 kilogram of coffee; 200 grams or 80 grams of tea essence.
- Medicines: Quantity corresponding to the personal needs of the traveler.
- If the goods exceed the $300 limit and are not exempt from duties, they must be declared upon arrival.
Immigration and Customs
All travelers must present a valid passport or travel document. Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. Upon arrival, travelers must complete an arrival card and may be required to demonstrate the purpose of their visit.
Scooter Hire
Scooter rentals are available in urban areas like Dili. Rental agencies typically require a valid international driving permit and a local license. It’s advisable to check with individual rental services for specific requirements and availability.
Hiring Rental Cars
Car rentals are offered by various agencies in Timor-Leste. A valid international driving permit is generally required. Road conditions can vary, so it’s recommended to rent vehicles suitable for local conditions.
Accommodation
Accommodation options range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and guesthouses. In urban centers like Dili, a variety of accommodations are available. In rural areas, options may be more limited, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
Domestic flights
Domestic flights connect Dili to other parts of Timor-Leste, including Baucau and Suai. Airlines such as Air Timor and STAE offer these services. Flight schedules can be subject to change, so it’s recommended to check with the airlines for the latest information.
Cycling and Walking
Cycling and walking are popular activities, especially in rural areas. The terrain varies from coastal roads to mountainous regions, offering diverse experiences. It’s advisable to use local guides for safety and to enhance the experience.
Driving permit
To drive in Timor-Leste, you need both:
- a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
- your current Australian driver’s licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)
Get your IDP before you leave Australia.
Driving without an IDP could invalidate your travel and vehicle insurance.
After three months, you’ll need to get a local licence.
Road travel
Driving conditions are dangerous because of:
- bad roads
- heavy traffic
- poor signage
- a lack of street lighting
In rural areas, dangers include:
- sinking ground
- large potholes
- pedestrians and animals on the road
- vehicles without headlights
You’re more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Timor-Leste than in Australia.
Large crowds can form quickly after traffic accidents. The situation can become violent with little warning.
Main routes are often single-lane mountain roads. They can worsen quickly and become blocked. This can happen more readily in the rainy season from November to April.
Outside Dili, Australian officials travelling for work don’t drive at night other than in exceptional situations.
Outside Dili, there are limited emergency response resources.
Check security and road conditions with local authorities before you travel.
Make sure you have adequate insurance cover before driving in Timor-Leste.
If you drive:
- learn local traffic laws and driving practices
- always carry your car registration papers and driver’s licence
- always keep car windows up and doors locked
- travel in convoy in regional areas
- follow the advice of local authorities
If you’re in an accident, report it to the local police.
More information:
Traffic disruptions
Traffic disruptions and blocks on major thoroughfares can happen.
Police can set up checkpoints anywhere. Makeshift barricades are sometimes used as unauthorised roadblocks.
Police may close roads in Dili during large events, such as commemorative ceremonies or major sporting events.
Motorcycles
Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike.
Always wear a helmet.
Taxis
Many taxis are in poor condition. Driving standards are often poor. If you choose to use taxis, seek local advice on recommended companies.
You’re at risk of robbery, sexual harassment and sexual assault in a taxi.
It’s safer to arrange limousines or hire cars through your hotel.
Avoid using taxis, especially if you’re a woman
