From the tranquil Muara beach to the meditative mosque of Bandar Seri Begawan, and the diverse wonders of the Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei beckons with its natural and cultural treasures. Doesn’t this tempt you to visit the country? Well, you can experience the beauty of Brunei on a Brunei tourist visa. Even Indians have been touring more often than before on a Brunei tourist visa from India.

What is a Brunei Tourist Visa?

Different purposes of visit require different types of visas. The most common type of Brunei visa is a tourist visa. It’s issued to foreigners planning to visit the country for tourism. A Brunei tourist visa grants you a stay in the country for about three months, depending on your requirements. Another advantage of a tourist visa to Brunei is that it can be extended by applying to the Diplomatic Section of the Department of Immigration and National Registration.

How to Obtain a Tourist Visa for Brunei Darussalam?

The process of applying for a tourist visa to Brunei is primarily conducted online. Before applying for the visa, you need to determine the type of visa you require. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Brunei tourist visa from India:

1. Download and Complete the Form: Download and print the Brunei tourist visa application form from the official Brunei embassy website.

2. Fill Out the Form: Thoroughly fill out the form with all the required details.

3. Attach a Photograph: Attach one photograph to the visa application form.

4. Proof of Accommodation: Provide proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter.

5. Submission: Submit the completed form and all supporting documents to the embassy.

You can submit the application form and supporting documents to the embassy in person, through an acquaintance, or via a visa agency. After document submission and receipt of the visa application form, the embassy will process the documents and stamp your passport with the Brunei visa. If you choose the delivery option, your passport will be mailed to your registered address; otherwise, you can collect it yourself.

Ensure that you provide genuine documents, as incorrect or unverifiable information may result in visa rejection, which could affect your future visa applications.

Eligibility

When applying for a tourist visa to Brunei, several factors determine your eligibility. Here are the eligibility criteria for the permit:

• Proof of the purpose of your visit.
• If visiting acquaintances, you must have an invitation letter from a resident in Brunei.
• The visit should be for tourism or visiting acquaintances, with no intention of seeking or taking up employment.
• Meeting health requirements, including a medical test and relevant documentary proof.
• Meeting age requirements for a work permit.
• Meeting character requirements, proving good character and genuine intentions to work in Brunei, possibly with a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• Having sufficient funds to cover your stay and other expenses, with proof like bank statements or equivalent documents.

Documents Required

Several documents are necessary for obtaining a Brunei visa. Here’s a list of Brunei tourist visa requirements:

• Passport with a validity of at least six months.
• Completed visa application form.
• One/two colored photographs meeting specifications.
• A covering letter specifying important details.
• Confirmed return and onward flight tickets.
• Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter.
• Copy of Income Tax Returns.
• Proof of financial support, including salary slips for the past six months and bank account statements (if self-employed or unemployed).
• Identification proof, like a copy of your Aadhar card or PAN card.
• Travel insurance.
• Copy of leave sanctioned letter from the employer (from the institute if you’re a student).
• Other additional documents if requested by the consular.

Photo Specifications

Ensure your visa photos meet the following requirements:

• Colored photos.
• Photo size: 40mm x 50mm.
• 70% to 80% face coverage.
• White background.
• Neutral facial expressions.
• Head square to the camera.
• Glasses are not allowed.
• Headgear is prohibited, except for religious reasons.
• Photos shouldn’t be older than 3 months.

Processing Time

After document submission, the embassy or consulate takes time to process and verify the documents before stamping the visa on your passport. The typical processing time for a Brunei Darussalam visa is around 7 working days. However, this duration may vary based on document verification and potential complications.

Brunei Tourist Visa Fees

The tourist visa fees for Brunei depend on various factors such as the type of the visa, the number of entries, service charges, and others. The fee varies and is generally paid to the embassy after filling out the visa application form.

After Submission

Ensure that you provide the required original documents to the embassy as per the given specifications. After document submission:

• If there are any additional requirements or mistakes in the application, inform the embassy or the agency.
• If there are any changes related to the application, such as a change in marital status or the birth of a child, notify the embassy/agency.
• You can check the status of the application and the processing in the meantime.
• If there is a change of plans, you can withdraw the application.
• The fee is generally non-refundable.

Visa Status of Brunei Tourist Visa

To check the status of your Brunei Darussalam visa online, visit the website of the visa agency through which you applied or the visa application center’s website. Alternatively, you can inquire about your status offline by calling the embassy with your visa application number.

When You Have the Visa

After obtaining the visa, make sure that you adhere to the rules and regulations to avoid visa cancellation. Here are some guidelines:

Before You Travel

• Note the visa expiry date and the number of entries permitted; do not overstay.
• Travel to Brunei within the validity of your visa.
• Carry a copy of your passport and other travel documents while in the country.
• Acquire health and travel insurance from a certified company.

At the Border

• Get your documents checked and your passport verified.
• Obtain the entry stamp on your passport.
• Consult airport authorities for assistance.
• Check your visa copy for other guidelines and rules.

When You Enter Brunei

• Do not engage in any kind of employment; volunteer work may be allowed.
• Avoid tourist-prohibited areas.
• Do not overstay your visa, and apply for a visa extension if needed.