Before you go to Timor-Leste: what to know
Must know
- Bring US dollar cash: cards and ATMs are limited outside major towns.
- Arriving air passengers must complete the online customs e-Declaration; keep the QR code.
- Get local advice before swimming: crocodiles occur in waterways and coastal areas.
Entry and visas
British and US tourists need a visa. At Dili airport, a 30-day tourism visa on arrival costs USD 30 in cash. Other nationalities may have exemptions; check the official tourism and immigration information. Confirm land-border procedures separately. The customs e-Declaration does not replace a visa.
Online arrival forms and permits
- Timor-Leste e-Declaration ↗ required
Online up to 5 days before departure; retain the QR code · Fee: Check the official portal · Incoming air passengers
Passport validity: At least 6 months from arrival; UK guidance also requires 2 blank pages.
At the border you may be asked for
- Carry onward travel, accommodation details and sufficient funds.
Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: gov.uk ↗, timorleste.tl ↗, tilesw.customs.gov.tl ↗, travel.state.gov ↗
Money
Mostly cash is used. Cards are rarely accepted.
Apple Pay — no data · Google Pay — no data
ATMs: ATMs and card facilities are uncommon outside municipal capitals; bring enough cash.
- Carry small, recent US dollar notes; large or old notes may be difficult to spend.
- Confirm card acceptance before booking or ordering.
Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: gov.uk ↗, travel.state.gov ↗
Rules and bans
Prohibited
- Illegal drug offences carry severe penalties.
Laws visitors break unknowingly
- Carry copies of your passport photo page and entry visa.
Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: gov.uk ↗
Culture and clothing
Religion: Catholicism is predominant; there is no official state religion.
Clothing: Choose respectful clothing when visiting religious sites and follow local guidance.
Etiquette
- Ask before photographing people or ceremonies.
Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: 2021-2025.state.gov ↗
Climate
Tropical climate. Broadly wetter December–May and drier June–November, with a longer wet season on the south coast. Mountain roads can be cut off by rain.
Month by month
- January: Jan: wet season
- February: Feb: wet season
- March: Mar: wet season
- April: Apr: wet season
- May: May: wet-season transition; regional variation
- June: Jun: drier season; cooler
- July: Jul: drier season; cooler
- August: Aug: drier; lower rainfall
- September: Sep: drier; lower rainfall
- October: Oct: drier season; warming
- November: Nov: warmer transition; showers possible
- December: Dec: wet season
Best season: June–October for generally drier conditions; check local road and marine forecasts.
Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org ↗
What to pack
- Small US dollar notes
- Insect repellent and sun protection
- Warm layers for mountain trips
- Prescription medicines and a medical kit
Do not bring / prohibited to import
- Illegal drugs
Practical
Plugs: Type C/E/F; 220V. Bring a suitable adapter.
Water: Drink bottled or filtered water.
Traffic: drives on the left
Health: Medical facilities are limited outside Dili; serious illness may require evacuation abroad.
Insurance: Arrange medical evacuation cover and accessible emergency funds.
Emergency: Ambulance 110 or +670 331 1044; services may be unreliable.
Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: timorleste.tl ↗, gov.uk ↗, travel.state.gov ↗
Entry rules change. Before your trip, check the website of the embassy or immigration service of the country.