Bandar Seri Begawan Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s), including contact information and authorization for the child to travel. If traveling with only one parent, bring the child's birth certificate and consent letter. In cases of sole custody, bring legal documentation. Adoption papers should be carried if the child is adopted. Children are subject to the same visa requirements as adults based on nationality. Unaccompanied minors may require special arrangements with the airline and immigration authorities.

Importing pets to Brunei requires advance planning and permits from the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood. Requirements include: import permit obtained before travel (apply at least 30 days in advance), valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel, microchip identification meeting ISO standards, possible quarantine period depending on origin country and species. Dogs and cats are the most commonly permitted pets. Some breeds may be restricted. Birds and exotic animals have additional requirements. All costs including quarantine are the owner's responsibility. Contact the Department of Agriculture well in advance of travel for specific requirements and application procedures.

If you need to stay beyond your initial authorized period, apply for an extension at the Immigration and National Registration Department in Bandar Seri Begawan before your current permission expires. Never overstay your visa - penalties include fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans. Extension requirements typically include: valid passport, completed application form, passport photos, proof of sufficient funds, accommodation details, return ticket, and valid reason for extension. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities. Processing can take several days to weeks. For long-term stays (work, study, residence), you must apply for the appropriate visa type through a local sponsor. Employment passes require a job offer from a Brunei company. Student passes require acceptance from an educational institution. Business visas may be extended for legitimate business activities. Consult the Immigration Department or a local sponsor for specific requirements.

Passengers transiting through Brunei International Airport without leaving the airport typically do not require a visa if continuing their journey within 24 hours and holding confirmed onward tickets. However, if you wish to leave the airport during transit, you must meet the normal entry requirements for your nationality (visa-free, e-visa, or visa). Some airlines offer transit hotel facilities within the airport. If your transit exceeds 8 hours during daytime, you may wish to explore Bandar Seri Begawan, but ensure you have the proper visa status. Always verify transit requirements with your airline and Brunei immigration authorities, as rules can vary based on nationality and itinerary.

Business visitors should enter on a business visa or visa-free entry (if eligible) stating business as the purpose. You cannot work or receive payment from Brunei sources on a tourist visa. Business visitors should carry: invitation letter from Brunei company, business registration documents, proof of business activities, return ticket, and hotel booking. For attending conferences or meetings, bring event documentation. If conducting business activities regularly or for extended periods, you may need an employment pass or professional visit pass. Setting up a business or working requires proper work authorization. Business visa extensions may be possible with supporting documentation from the sponsoring company. Always be honest about business purposes with immigration - misrepresenting your purpose of visit can result in denial of entry or deportation.

Journalists, photographers, and media personnel planning to work in Brunei must obtain prior authorization from the Prime Minister's Office and/or the Information Department. Tourist visas do not permit professional media work. Requirements include: formal application letter stating purpose and itinerary, company credentials, equipment list, and proposed filming/interview locations. Processing can take several weeks. Unauthorized journalism or filming, especially of government buildings, military installations, or sensitive locations, is prohibited and can result in detention and deportation. Even amateur photography in certain areas may be restricted. Always seek permission before filming or photographing people, particularly in religious sites or government areas.