Australians Face New Bali Entry Rules Amid Rising Mpox Concerns: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip

DENPASAR, BALI — Traveling to Bali just got more complicated for Australians, with Indonesia introducing a new entry requirement aimed at mitigating the spread of Mpox (previously known as Monkeypox). All Australians planning to visit the popular holiday destination must now complete a SATUSEHAT Health Pass, an electronic health declaration form, before entering the country.

The new rules were put in place as part of Indonesia’s efforts to contain the spread of Mpox, especially in key tourist hotspots like Bali. Mpox, a viral disease characterized by fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) in August 2024, following an alarming rise in cases, particularly in parts of Africa. While not widespread in Indonesia, the country’s tourism authorities are taking proactive steps to prevent outbreaks among visitors and locals.

What Is the SATUSEHAT Health Pass?

Before boarding a flight to Indonesia, travelers must access the SATUSEHAT Health Pass online. The process involves filling out essential details about their health and travel history. Once completed, a barcode is generated, which must be either saved on a smartphone or printed out. Indonesian authorities will scan this barcode upon arrival in the country to verify the traveler’s health status and history.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), this new measure is mandatory for all Australians traveling to Bali or any other part of Indonesia. The form acts as an additional safeguard, allowing health officials to screen travelers more effectively.

Mpox Symptoms and Procedures at Bali Airport

Mpox, a disease that typically lasts up to four weeks, is characterized by fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that spreads across the body. The WHO notes that mortality rates for Mpox can vary between 0 and 11% in documented cases. While the risk of contracting the virus remains low for most travelers, those displaying any symptoms upon arrival in Indonesia may be referred directly to a hospital for further examination and potential quarantine.

To further tighten safety measures, Denpasar's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has installed three thermal scanners that monitor the temperature of all international arrivals. This, in combination with physical observation of travelers, forms part of the heightened screening process introduced by Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno.

Uno emphasized the importance of these measures, noting that while tourism numbers remain stable, the threat posed by Mpox calls for increased vigilance. "We must remain alert and ensure the health and safety of all visitors and our community," he said during a recent press conference in Bali.

What Happens If You Show Symptoms of Mpox?

Travelers showing symptoms of Mpox upon arrival, such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, could face additional scrutiny and may be referred to medical facilities for further evaluation. Indonesia’s medical infrastructure, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Bali, is equipped to handle mild cases but may not have the same advanced facilities found in Australia. The DFAT has warned that the standard of medical care in Indonesia is generally lower than what Australians might be accustomed to, especially in more remote areas, where healthcare facilities may only offer basic services.

If you are referred to a hospital, authorities will likely isolate you until a definitive diagnosis is made. Visitors are encouraged to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical advice before traveling if they are feeling unwell.

Additional Health and Safety Measures in Bali

Despite these new health protocols, Indonesian officials remain optimistic about maintaining steady tourist numbers, especially in Bali. The island, which is one of the top holiday destinations for Australians, continues to attract visitors, and authorities are committed to keeping the tourism industry thriving while ensuring public safety.

"We are constantly monitoring the situation. As of now, there is no significant drop in international arrivals, but we are taking all necessary precautions to avoid any outbreaks of Mpox or other illnesses," Sandiaga Uno added.

Aside from the health declaration form and thermal scanning, Bali has also introduced more rigorous immigration checks as part of its broader effort to ensure safety for both tourists and locals. Immigration authorities have implemented stricter passport, visa, and residence permit inspections, along with introducing facial recognition technology at border control to track and monitor foreign nationals.

More Changes to Come: Visa Fees and Travel Policies

In a move to further streamline the entry process for Australians, Indonesian authorities are reportedly planning to waive the visa-on-arrival fee for Australian tourists by October. The decision, currently under consideration, aims to encourage more Australians to visit Bali despite the additional health requirements.

Moreover, Indonesia has been steadily increasing taxes and tightening regulations for foreign visitors. Earlier in 2024, a tourist tax was introduced to help support the local economy and fund tourism-related infrastructure projects. However, the Indonesian government is reportedly considering further adjustments to these policies to balance public health concerns with the needs of the tourism industry.

What You Need to Do Before Flying to Bali

If you're planning a trip to Bali, here’s a checklist of what you need to do to comply with Indonesia’s new entry requirements:

1. Complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass: This electronic health declaration form is mandatory for all travelers. Make sure to fill it out online before checking in for your flight.

2. Save or Print Your Health Pass Barcode: Once you complete the health declaration form, a barcode will be generated. Save it to your smartphone or print it out so that Indonesian authorities can scan it upon your arrival.

3. Monitor Your Health: If you experience any symptoms of Mpox before traveling, such as fever or rash, consult with your healthcare provider. It is better to delay your trip than risk complications upon arrival.

4. Stay Informed About Travel Warnings: The DFAT continues to advise Australians to exercise a high degree of caution while traveling to Indonesia. Check the Smartraveller website regularly for updates on entry requirements and health guidelines.

A Familiar Process: The SATUSEHAT Health Pass During COVID

It’s worth noting that the SATUSEHAT Health Pass was first introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The form played a similar role in helping Indonesian authorities track the health of incoming travelers and prevent the spread of the virus. With the re-introduction of this form for Mpox, Indonesian officials are drawing on lessons learned during the pandemic to ensure the safety of both visitors and locals.

Conclusion: Planning Your Trip with Caution

While the introduction of these new health measures may add an extra step to your travel plans, they are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone visiting Indonesia. Bali remains a vibrant and welcoming destination for Australians, but travelers must remain informed and prepared for the latest entry requirements.

Keep an eye on official travel advisories, complete the necessary forms, and most importantly, prioritize your health as you enjoy your holiday in Bali.