By Air
Dili's Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (DIL) is the main entry point. Regular scheduled services connect Dili to:
- Bali (Denpasar) — Aero Dili and Citilink, the most common connection for travellers coming through Southeast Asia
- Darwin, Australia — Qantas and Air North; the most convenient option from Australia
- Kuala Lumpur — Aero Dili and Batik Air
- Singapore — Aero Dili
- Xiamen and Fuzhou, China — Aero Dili
Connections to Melbourne and Bangkok were planned to launch in 2025. Check current schedules as services have changed frequently since independence.
Most visitors arrive via Bali or Darwin. If coming from elsewhere in Asia, Kuala Lumpur is usually the most convenient hub.
Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities for US$30, valid 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days. Citizens of most Schengen Area countries and ASEAN members are exempt from the visa fee for short stays. If entering by land, you must arrange a visa in advance from the Timor-Leste consulate in Kupang, Indonesia. All arriving passengers must complete the Timor-Leste e-Declaration Form before arrival.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
By Land
The border crossing at Batugade/Mota'ain connects West Timor (Indonesia) to Timor-Leste. The road from Kupang in West Timor to the border is reasonable; from the border to Dili takes around three to four hours by road. Public minibuses run this route. The crossing is open during daylight hours.
A land crossing also exists at Salele, used mainly by locals, and another connecting the enclave of Oecusse.
By Sea
There is no regular international ferry service. Occasional cargo ships call at Dili port, but this is not a practical option for most travellers.