U.S. Visa via Indonesia: Specifics of the Process in Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya

Many citizens of CIS countries, facing difficulties obtaining permission to enter the United States in their home country, look for alternative options. One such option is applying for a U.S. visa via Indonesia. This country is not only a popular destination for tourism and long-term stays but also a convenient location for submitting documents to U.S. consulates. In this article, we will explain in detail how the process of obtaining a U.S. visa works in Bali, Jakarta, and Surabaya, and break down all the stages and nuances of this process.

Why Consider Applying for a U.S. Visa via Indonesia?

Indonesia is an attractive country for applying for a U.S. visa for several reasons:

1. Lenient entry rules: Citizens of Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and other CIS countries can stay in Indonesia with a tourist visa or visa-free entry (depending on the duration and passport type).
2. Multiple operating U.S. consulates — in Jakarta (Embassy), Surabaya (Consulate), and temporary arrangements in Bali (such as outreach sessions or document support).
3. Easier appointment scheduling — often with available dates sooner than in Europe.
4. English-speaking population and a friendly atmosphere.

Where Can You Apply for a U.S. Visa in Indonesia?

U.S. Visa in Bali

Although there is no full U.S. Consulate in Bali, the island is popular among foreigners applying for a U.S. visa. Usually, applicants live in Bali but attend their interview in Jakarta or Surabaya. Occasionally, outreach consular sessions are held in Bali, announced by the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia on its official website. This is a rare occurrence but convenient if the timing aligns. Additionally, residents of Bali can easily travel to Jakarta (flight time around 1.5 hours) or Surabaya (about 1 hour) for their interview.

U.S. Visa in Jakarta

Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and home to the main U.S. Embassy. Most document submissions and interviews take place here. Advantages of applying in Jakarta:

• Broad availability of interview slots;
• Fast document processing;
• Full range of visa services (tourist visas, student visas, work visas, etc.).

Application process:

1. Create a profile on ustraveldocs.com/id.
2. Complete the DS-160 form (indicate “Jakarta” as the interview location).
3. Schedule your interview.
4. Arrive at the appointed time with a complete set of documents (passport, DS-160 form, appointment confirmation, photo, previous visas, etc.).

U.S. Visa via Surabaya

The U.S. Consulate also operates in Surabaya — one of Indonesia’s largest cities. It is a convenient place to apply for a U.S. visa for those located closer to East Java or vacationing in Bali, as traveling here is often faster and easier than going to the capital. Specifics of applying in Surabaya:

• Less busy schedule compared to Jakarta;
• Convenient location for tourists from Bali;
• Same procedures as in other consulates.

Useful Tips

1. Plan your trip in advance: purchase tickets, book accommodation, and obtain an Indonesian visa if required.
2. Arrive at the Embassy at least 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time.
3. Dress formally, even in the tropical climate.
4. Be ready to briefly and clearly answer the consul’s questions — why you want to visit the U.S., what you plan to do there, and when you will return.
5. Do not purchase tickets to the U.S. before obtaining your visa! The decision is made only during the interview.

Applying for a U.S. visa via Indonesia is a practical and effective way to obtain an American visa without long waiting times. Pay attention to the details, follow the application rules, and your chances of approval will increase significantly.