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Planning a trip to Brunei? By the end of this guide, you’ll understand who needs a visa (and who doesn’t), how to apply—online or on arrival—plus insider tips on extensions, transit stays, land crossings and more.

Who Needs a Tourist Visa?

Whether you’re traveling with a passport from Europe, Asia or the Americas, Brunei’s entry rules vary by nationality.

Most travelers from over 90 countries enjoy visa-free entry for 14, 30 or 90 days according to Brunei Tourism’s official travel information. Those not on the list must apply in advance or obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) if eligible.

• 14 days: Citizens of China, India, Russia and others
• 30 days: Australia, Canada, Japan and many EU states
• 90 days: Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines (ASEAN neighbors)

These visa durations are based on the IATA Timatic database, which airlines and immigration authorities use to verify entry requirements worldwide.

ASEAN Visa-Free Access

As an ASEAN member, Brunei grants 90-day visa-free stays for ASEAN nationals from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. This arrangement simplifies overland travel through the Temburong exclave.

Visa on Arrival

If your country isn’t visa-exempt, you may qualify for VOA at Brunei International Airport (BWN). You’ll need:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Return or onward ticket
• Proof of funds (approximately USD 500)

Visa on arrival costs BND 20–30 (USD 15–22) and grants a 14-day stay, as detailed in a Tripadvisor discussion on Brunei VOA fees.

Applying for a Brunei Tourist Visa

If you’re required to apply beforehand, choose between a traditional embassy application or the new eVisa pilot:

1. Locate your nearest Brunei embassy or consulate.
2. Complete the printable form and gather documents.
3. Pay the visa fee (varies by nationality).
4. Wait 5–7 business days for processing.

Documents You’ll Need

• Passport with at least 6 months’ validity
• Completed visa application form
• Two passport-sized photos
• Flight itinerary
• Bank statement showing sufficient funds

Using the eVisa System

Brunei launched an eVisa pilot in mid-2023 for 50 nationalities to streamline tourism and business travel, as reported by the Borneo Bulletin’s eVisa announcement.

“We expect the eVisa system to simplify travel planning for visitors,” said Brunei’s Immigration Director.

Transit Visas and Land Border Crossings

Even if Brunei isn’t your final destination, you can still explore legally:

• 72-Hour Transit VOA: Certain nationalities may spend up to three days in Brunei while en route to another country, based on Lonely Planet’s transit visa guidelines.
• Land Entry at Temburong: If you cross from Malaysia into the Temburong exclave, carry your passport and proof of onward travel. Land-border VOAs are granted only at designated checkpoints.

Extending Your Stay and Overstaying

Want more time? You can apply to extend your tourist visa in Bandar Seri Begawan:

• Extension: Up to 30 additional days per visit, processed at the Immigration Department for BND 10 according to the Brunei Immigration Department’s visa extension process.
• Overstay Penalties: BND 30 per day plus possible deportation and a one-year entry ban, as specified in the Brunei Immigration Act penalty provisions.

Special Considerations

• Diplomatic & Official Passports: Holders often receive 30- or 90-day visa-free entry not available to ordinary passports, per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs diplomatic passport privileges.
• Health Outbreaks: During past dengue and H5N1 scares, Brunei required health certificates and extra screening, outlined in WHO’s Brunei health entry measures.
• No Dual Citizenship: If you hold multiple passports, choose the one you’ll enter with and stick to it—mixing can cause processing delays.

Insider Tips for Smooth Entry

• Confirm your passport has at least 6 months’ validity.
• Keep digital and physical copies of your visa and flight booking.
• Carry cash in BND or USD for on-arrival fee payments.
• During Ramadan, immigration counters may close earlier—plan accordingly.

Your Brunei Journey Starts Here

With clear entry rules, a growing eVisa program and flexible transit options, Brunei is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re island hopping through Borneo or attending a business forum, this guide equips you with the knowledge to secure your visa and focus on the adventure ahead. Safe travels!
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