Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2025: Extended Visa-Free Stays
Brunei has extended visa-free entry to 90 days for citizens of over 80 countries, including major nationalities like US, EU, UK, and Australia, to boost tourism. This change simplifies planning for longer explorations of Borneo's rainforests and cultural sites.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Brunei, with at least two blank pages for entry stamps and any potential extensions.
Always verify with your airline and Brunei's immigration website, as requirements can change based on bilateral agreements with your home country.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens from the US, EU countries, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many ASEAN nations enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days in 2025, allowing ample time for multi-destination trips across Borneo.
No prior application is needed, but you'll receive a stamp upon arrival; overstaying incurs fines starting at BND 200 per day.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring visas, such as India or China, apply online through Brunei's e-Visa portal (BND 20 fee) at least two weeks in advance, providing proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds (BND 100/day minimum).
Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, with approvals emailed directly; printed copies are required at immigration checkpoints.
Border Crossings
Most arrivals are via Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan, with efficient e-gates for visa-free travelers; land borders with Malaysia (e.g., via Tutong) require vehicle permits and may involve customs checks for goods.
Sea arrivals from Sabah are possible but less common; all ports enforce strict biosecurity rules for food and plant imports.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical evacuations from remote areas like Temburong District and activities such as jungle trekking or water village tours.
Policies should include coverage for trip delays due to monsoon weather; options start at BND 10/day from international providers.
Extensions Possible
Visa-free stays can be extended once for an additional 14 days (up to 90 days total in 2025) by applying in person at the Immigration Department in Bandar Seri Begawan with a fee of BND 10-20.
Provide justification like ongoing tours or family visits, along with proof of onward travel; approvals are usually granted within 24 hours if requirements are met.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Bandar Seri Begawan by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for regional flights from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at night markets or warungs for affordable halal meals under BND 10, skipping high-end hotel buffets to save up to 50% on food costs.
Opt for local specialties like ambuyat at community centers, where portions are generous and prices are fixed by government subsidies.
Public Transport Passes
Use the affordable public bus system (BND 1-3 per ride) or rent a scooter for BND 20/day, avoiding taxis which can double costs for short trips.
Multi-day ferry passes to Temburong cost BND 15-25, providing unlimited access to remote areas without extra fees.
Free Attractions
Explore Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Ulu Temburong National Park trails, and Kampong Ayer water village on foot, which are cost-free and offer authentic cultural immersion.
Government-maintained beaches and parks like Taman Hutan in Tutong provide picnicking spots without entry fees year-round.
Card vs Cash
Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in hotels and malls, but carry cash for street vendors and rural areas where ATMs are sparse.
Withdraw from bank ATMs for better rates than airport exchanges, and notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Combo Tickets
Purchase bundled eco-tour packages for BND 50-80 covering multiple sites like proboscis monkey spotting and canopy walks, which are cheaper than individual bookings.
National park entry is free for locals and visitors, but guided add-ons through official operators save on self-arranged transport.
Smart Packing for Brunei
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the humid tropical climate, including long-sleeve shirts and pants for modesty in mosques and conservative areas.
Include quick-dry fabrics for jungle hikes and a scarf or shawl for women entering religious sites; avoid revealing outfits to respect local Islamic customs.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type G plugs (British three-pin), portable charger for long boat trips, and a waterproof phone case for rainy season outings.
Download offline maps of Bandar Seri Begawan and Temburong, plus translation apps for Bahasa Melayu, as Wi-Fi can be spotty in rural zones.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a basic first-aid kit with anti-malarials, and high-SPF sunscreen for equatorial sun exposure.
Include DEET insect repellent for dengue-prone areas, rehydration salts for humidity, and any prescriptions; bottled water purifier tabs are useful in remote spots.
Travel Gear
Pack a lightweight daypack for eco-adventures, reusable water bottle (refill at hotels), and a rain poncho for sudden downpours.
Bring passport copies, a money belt for cash security in crowded markets, and eco-friendly bags for shopping in sustainable Brunei style.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy, waterproof hiking sandals or boots for rainforest trails in Ulu Temburong and comfortable flip-flops for water village explorations.
Pack closed-toe shoes for urban mosque visits and insect-proof socks for overnight jungle stays to handle muddy paths and wildlife.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized biodegradable toiletries, high-humidity shampoo, and moisturizer to combat the tropical climate's effects on skin and hair.
Don't forget wet wipes for off-grid areas, lip balm with SPF, and a compact umbrella; pack light to accommodate ferry luggage limits.
When to Visit Brunei
Dry Season (February-May)
Best time for outdoor activities with temperatures of 27-32°C and low rainfall, ideal for hiking in Temburong National Park and boat tours on the Brunei River.
Fewer crowds allow for peaceful mosque visits and wildlife spotting, with vibrant flora blooming in the drier conditions.
Peak Dry (June-August)
High season for cultural festivals like the Sultan's Birthday with warm weather around 28-33°C and minimal rain, perfect for exploring Kampong Ayer.
Expect moderate crowds at beaches and eco-resorts; great for diving in Serasa but book accommodations early due to events.
Wet Season (September-November)
Shoulder period for budget travel with lush greenery from rains (25-30°C) and opportunities for birdwatching in mangroves during clearer spells.
Rainforest tours are enhanced by waterfalls, though some trails may be slippery; lower hotel rates make it ideal for extended stays.
Northeast Monsoon (December-January)
Quiet season for indoor cultural experiences like visiting the Royal Regalia Museum amid occasional showers and 24-29°C temperatures.
End-of-year holidays bring festive vibes with fewer tourists; prepare for higher humidity but enjoy discounted eco-lodges and serene nature walks.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Brunei Dollar (BND). Pegged to SGD; cards accepted in cities but cash essential for rural areas and markets.
- Language: Bahasa Melayu official; English widely spoken in tourism, business, and government settings.
- Time Zone: Brunei Darussalam Time (BNT), UTC+8
- Electricity: 220-240V, 50Hz. Type G plugs (British three-pin square)
- Emergency Number: 991 for police, 995 for ambulance, 993 for fire services
- Tipping: Not customary due to service charges; a small gesture of BND 1-2 for exceptional help is appreciated but optional
- Water: Tap water unsafe for drinking; use bottled or purified sources, especially in humid conditions
- Pharmacies: Available in major towns; look for "Apotek" signs, with 24-hour options in Bandar Seri Begawan