Southeast Asia
Timor-Leste
Uncrowded and welcoming, with world-class diving off Atauro, mountain treks and whale watching. Infrastructure is basic, prices are high for the region and medical care is thin.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa32 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyUSDDollarDetails
- Price level28%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English2/5LimitedDetails
- PlugsType C, E, F, I220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency112Police 112 · Ambulance 110 · Fire 115
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water; avoid tap water and ice outside good hotels and restaurants.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalConservative Catholic society, but Dili has held Pride marches since 2017 with public support from leaders.Details
- DrivingOn the leftCarry an IDP with your home licence. Rental firms often require hiring a driver, which is wise on mountain roads.
Where to go in Timor-Leste
2 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
When to visit Timor-Leste
May–October is dry and best for roads, hiking and diving; whales pass in October–November. November–April rains bring floods and landslides.
Good to know
Entry
- Submit the online arrival declaration (Customs Single Window) up to 3 days before travel and show its QR code.
- Visa on arrival costs US$30 in cash only (no cards or ATMs at the border), 30 days, extendable once.
- Officers can ask for an onward ticket, accommodation details and funds of US$100 plus US$50 per day.
- Overland from West Timor via Batugade works; entering Oecusse via Wini needs a separate visa.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Carry a copy of your passport photo page and visa.
- Bringing in US$20,000 or more in cash needs central bank approval beforehand.
Etiquette
- Greet with a handshake; a few words of Tetum are warmly received.
- Dress modestly in villages and churches.
- Ask before photographing people or sacred (lulik) houses and sites.
- Be thoughtful when discussing the 1975–1999 Indonesian occupation.
Tipping
Not customary; small tips for drivers, guides and dive crews are appreciated.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Migration Service of Timor-Leste
- Migration Service: at the border
- UK FCDO travel advice: Timor-Leste
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.