Navigating Brunei VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Planning a visit to the serene Sultanate of Brunei? Known for its pristine rainforests, opulent Islamic architecture, and peaceful lifestyle, Brunei is a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or study, understanding Brunei’s updated visa application process is essential. This guide offers a complete overview of Brunei visa requirements, updated fees, types of visas, and travel regulations for 2025.
Do You Need a Visa for Brunei?
Brunei has visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements with many countries. However, your nationality and the purpose of travel determine your visa needs.
Visa-Free Countries
Nationals of the following countries can enter Brunei without a visa for a limited stay:
- 14 days: Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, UK
- 30 days: Japan, South Korea, New Zealand
- 90 days: EU Schengen Zone countries
- Other: Citizens of ASEAN countries (except Myanmar) can stay visa-free for 14–30 days.
Always check with the nearest Brunei diplomatic mission or official website for the most current list, as these agreements may change.
Types of Brunei Visas
Brunei Darussalam offers several visa types depending on the purpose of visit. Most visitors require a visa to enter Brunei, though citizens of certain countries may enter visa-free for short stays. Brunei’s visa policy is designed to facilitate tourism, business, and family visits while maintaining strict immigration controls.
The visa application process typically involves submitting required documents to the Brunei Immigration Department or through authorized visa application centers. Processing times vary by visa type and applicant nationality.
Tourist Visa
For individuals visiting Brunei for tourism, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.
- Valid for 30-90 days
- Single or multiple entry
- Proof of accommodation required
- Return ticket and sufficient funds
Processing Time: 3-5 working days
Business Visa
For business meetings, conferences, negotiations, or exploratory business visits.
- Valid for up to 90 days
- Letter from inviting company in Brunei
- Letter from employer in home country
- Business registration documents
Processing Time: 5-7 working days
Work Visa
For foreign nationals with employment contracts in Brunei Darussalam.
- Valid for 1-2 years (renewable)
- Employment contract required
- Employer sponsorship mandatory
- Medical examination needed
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Brunei to a third destination.
- Valid for 72 hours
- Confirmed onward ticket required
- Must stay within airport or designated area
- Visa-free for some nationalities
Processing Time: 1-3 working days
Student Visa
For international students enrolled in Brunei educational institutions.
- Valid for duration of study program
- Letter of acceptance from institution
- Proof of financial support
- Academic qualifications
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
Dependent Visa
For family members of work visa or student visa holders.
- Valid same as primary visa holder
- Marriage or birth certificates required
- Proof of relationship mandatory
- Sponsorship by primary visa holder
Processing Time: 3-4 weeks
Brunei Visa Requirements (General Documents)
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photograph (white background)
- Flight itinerary and proof of return ticket
- Hotel booking or proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Invitation letter (if applicable for business or family visit)
- Yellow Fever Certificate (if arriving from an endemic region)
Note: Additional documents may be required depending on the visa type.
How to Apply for a Brunei Visa (Step-by-Step Guide)
1: Determine Visa Type
Identify the correct visa category according to your travel purpose.
2: Gather Required Documents
Ensure all required documents are ready and up to date.
3: Submit Your Application
You can apply:
- In-person at the nearest Brunei Embassy or Consulate
- Via a local sponsor/agent if required
- Online: Brunei is working on expanding e-visa services. Check Brunei Immigration Department’s website for updates.
4: Pay the Visa Fee
Visa fees must usually be paid at the embassy/consulate or via bank transfer. Keep a receipt for confirmation.
5: Wait for Processing
Visa processing times range from 3–7 working days, depending on the visa category and applicant nationality.
Brunei Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Validity / Duration | Fee (in BND / USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Visa | Valid for 3 months | BND 20 / ~USD 15 |
| Multiple Entry Visa | Valid for 3–12 months | BND 30–50 / USD 22–37 |
| Student Visa | Duration of course | Varies (check with institution) |
| Employment Visa | 1–2 years | Approx. BND 50 / USD 37 |
| Transit Visa | Up to 72 hours | BND 5 / ~USD 4 |
Fees are subject to change and may vary depending on currency exchange rates.
COVID-19 & Travel Health Guidelines (2025 Update)
- Entry Restrictions Lifted: As of 2025, Brunei has lifted all pandemic-related entry bans.
- Vaccination: COVID-19 vaccination is not mandatory, but proof of full vaccination may speed up processing at ports of entry.
- Health Declaration: Travelers must fill out the e-Arrival Card at least 24 hours before landing in Brunei.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended. Coverage for COVID-19 or emergency medical expenses is advised.
- Customs & Quarantine: Random health screening and customs checks are in place. Declare all high-value items and medicines.
Important Tips for Travelers to Brunei
- Dress Modestly: Brunei is a conservative Islamic country; dress respectfully, especially in public places and mosques.
- No Alcohol in Public: Importing alcohol is restricted, and public consumption is banned.
- Friday Prayers: Many businesses close between 12–2 PM on Fridays.
- Language: Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Brunei eVisa (Expected Launch in 2025)
Brunei is working on implementing a user-friendly eVisa portal to streamline applications for tourists and business travelers. Once launched, travelers will be able to apply for most short-term visas online.
Stay tuned to Brunei Immigration Portal or your local Brunei embassy website for official announcements.
For the most current updates, always verify visa rules from official government sources or consult your nearest Brunei embassy or high commission.
Brunei Visa – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tourist Visa: For leisure and sightseeing.
- Business Visa: For meetings, conferences, and short commercial visits.
- Employment Visa: For foreign nationals working in Brunei.
- Student Visa: For educational purposes.
- Transit Visa: For short stopovers.
Visa requirements depend on nationality. Citizens of many countries enjoy visa-free entry for short stays, while others must apply for a visa in advance through a Brunei diplomatic mission.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel booking or sponsor letter
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Visa fee payment receipt
Visa fees vary based on visa type and nationality. On average:
- Single-entry visa: Low to moderate fee
- Multiple-entry visa: Higher fee
Processing usually takes:
- 3–7 working days (standard cases)
- Longer for employment or special approvals
Stay duration depends on visa type or visa-free status, typically ranging from 14 to 90 days.
Yes, visa extensions may be granted by Brunei Immigration authorities for valid reasons, subject to approval.
No. Employment in Brunei requires a valid Employment Visa and work permit.
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation
- Insufficient financial proof
- Invalid travel purpose
- Passport validity issues
- Previous immigration violations
Applications must be submitted through:
- Brunei Embassy or Consulate
- Authorized visa processing offices (if applicable)
Important: Brunei visa policies may change. Always verify with official Brunei government sources before applying.