East Timor Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at East Timor ports of entry.
Spanish citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Dili airport or land borders for stays up to 30 days. Timor-Leste (East Timor) is one of the world's youngest nations, having gained independence in 2002.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, return ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and visa fee in USD.
Fines and potential complications at departure.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis for some areas, Japanese Encephalitis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Timor-Leste is generally safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare but petty theft occurs. Political demonstrations sometimes happen - avoid gatherings. Roads are poor, especially in rainy season. The country is recovering from decades of conflict and building tourism infrastructure. Locals are welcoming.
Money & Costs
Currency
$ US Dollar (USD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $40 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $180+
Tipping
Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, E, F, I, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Left side
Emergency
112 (Emergency), 331 2383 (Police)
Getting There
Main Airports
Dili (DIL)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to November. The wet season (December-April) brings heavy rainfall and can make roads impassable. June to September offers the most pleasant weather with cooler temperatures in the highlands.
Cultural Notes
Timor-Leste has a unique culture blending Portuguese colonial heritage (400+ years) with indigenous traditions and Indonesian influence from the occupation (1975-1999). Catholic faith is strong (90%+). Traditional animist beliefs persist. The resistance to Indonesian occupation created strong national identity. Tais cloth weaving is an important craft.
Insider Tips
Portuguese and Tetum are official languages; Indonesian is widely understood. The US Dollar is the official currency. Infrastructure is basic - expect rough roads and limited facilities outside Dili. The country has spectacular diving, mountains, and cultural experiences. Tourism is nascent but growing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste was a Portuguese colony for over 400 years until 1975 when Indonesia invaded. The brutal 24-year occupation killed an estimated 100,000-180,000 people. A 1999 UN-supervised referendum chose independence, leading to violence but eventual freedom in 2002. The country is still developing and healing from this history.
Is diving good in Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste has excellent, uncrowded diving in the Coral Triangle (world's most biodiverse marine region). Atauro Island offers world-class diving with pristine reefs, diverse marine life, and few other divers. The north coast has numerous dive sites. Infrastructure is basic but the diving is spectacular and undiscovered.
How do I get to Atauro Island?
Atauro Island is about 25km north of Dili. Regular ferries depart from Dili (2-3 hours) several times weekly. Speedboats are also available (45 minutes, more expensive). The island has basic guesthouses and is known for diving, snorkeling, and traditional culture. Bring cash as there are no ATMs.
What can I see in Timor-Leste?
Attractions include: Dili's Cristo Rei statue and Santa Cruz Cemetery (massacre memorial), Atauro Island diving, the mountains around Maubisse and Aileu, the resistance museum, traditional villages, coffee plantations (excellent Arabica), and the wild east coast. The country offers adventure travel rather than polished tourism.
Is Timor-Leste expensive?
Timor-Leste is moderately priced. Budget accommodation costs $20-40/night, mid-range $60-100. Food is affordable at local restaurants. Transport is cheap but time-consuming on rough roads. Diving is reasonably priced. The use of US dollars means no currency confusion. It's more expensive than Indonesia but good value for the region.