Rules for tourists entering East Timor

To enter East Timor, tourists must have a valid passport. It is recommended that the passport be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country. At the border, not only the passport may be checked, but also other documents confirming the purpose of the trip, accommodation booking, and availability of sufficient funds.

Local border services pay attention to the correctness of documents and completeness of filled forms, so it is important for tourists to prepare all papers in advance to avoid delays. Even short trips require a careful approach to document preparation.

For those interested in detailed information about visas, we recommend visiting our separate page about visa processing in East Timor. Here you will find instructions on types of visas, terms, and rules for submitting documents.

The customs rules of the country are aimed at protecting the local economy, flora, and fauna. Upon entry, tourists are allowed to carry personal items in reasonable quantities, but all valuable items and electronics should be declared.

Special attention is given to prohibited goods: weapons, drugs, and products that may harm the ecosystem. Non-compliance with the rules may result in fines or confiscation of items.

What can and cannot be imported into the country

East Timor strictly controls imported goods. It is allowed to import personal belongings, clothing, electronics, and souvenirs for personal use.

Importing is prohibited:

• drugs and psychotropic substances;

• weapons and ammunition;

• plants, seeds, and products that can damage the ecosystem.
  

Violation of the rules can lead to fines or confiscation of goods. Plan your trip in advance and verify the current import restrictions through official sources.

What can and cannot be exported from the country

East Timor protects its cultural heritage and natural resources. Tourists are allowed to export souvenirs, handmade items, and photographs taken during the trip.

It is prohibited to export:

• rare plants and corals;

• historical and archaeological objects;

• endemic species of animals and products made from them

It is recommended to keep receipts and documents for souvenirs to avoid problems with customs when leaving.

When crossing the border of East Timor, tourists over 17 years old may import certain goods duty-free, provided they are intended exclusively for personal use and not for commercial purposes. The total value of duty-free imported goods should not exceed 300 US dollars per person.

Limits on tobacco products and alcohol

The border service allows duty-free importation of the following goods per person over 17 years old: 

• Tobacco products:
  

• up to 200 cigarettes;

• or up to 100 cigarillos;

• or up to 75 cigars;

• or up to 30 grams of tobacco.

• Alcoholic beverages:
  

• 1.5 liters of strong spirits (alcohol content above 22%);

• 5 liters of wine.

If the quantity of these goods exceeds the specified limits, they must be declared at customs and possibly duties paid.

In addition to alcohol and tobacco, the following goods are imported duty-free:

• perfume: up to 75 ml;

• toilet water: up to 375 ml;

• coffee: up to 1 kg;

• tea: up to 200 g;

• medicines: in an amount corresponding to personal needs.

East Timor is located in a tropical climate zone, which determines a pronounced rainy season and dry season. The rainy season usually lasts from November to April, and the dry season from May to October. During this period, roads, especially in mountainous and remote areas, may be temporarily inaccessible due to washed-out bridges, landslides, and flooding. Tourists are advised to plan their routes in advance and consider possible delays when traveling on trekking trails and to remote villages.

Special attention should be paid to sea transport and coastal routes. In the rainy season, high waves and strong currents can make crossing between islands dangerous. Many tourist operators may cancel tours or replace boats with safer options. For trips to islands such as Atauro and Jaco, it is better to check the current conditions and schedule with local operators.

For active holidays, including beach holidays, diving, and surfing, seasonal restrictions also matter. In the rainy season, the water can be murky, and heavy rains limit visibility for snorkeling and underwater routes. The dry season is considered optimal for visiting most beaches and natural attractions.

Tips for tourists: check the current weather forecasts, road conditions, and schedules of sea transport before the trip. Planning routes considering seasonal factors will help avoid unpleasant surprises and make the holiday safe and comfortable.

Traveling with children requires additional documents: passports for each child, and sometimes notarized parental consent if the child is traveling with one of them or a third party.

Tourists should consider age-specific features when planning routes, especially for long journeys and trips through mountains or to islands. It is also recommended to have a medical certificate and insurance for the child to ensure safety during the trip.

To enter with pets, it is necessary to arrange veterinary certificates, health certificates, and vaccinations in advance. Most airlines and border services require documentary proof of the absence of infections in the animal.

It is recommended to clarify the rules for transporting pets when booking air tickets and to prepare a carrier or cages in advance that meet safety standards.

Pets may be subject to quarantine in the absence of proper documents. Tourists should consider this when planning a trip and preparing a pet for travel.

When traveling to East Timor, tourists are strongly advised to have medical insurance that covers emergency assistance, hospitalization, transportation in case of necessity, and accident treatment. Having insurance not only ensures health safety but also peace of mind during active holidays, trekking, diving, and sea excursions.

In some cases, vaccinations may be required, especially if you are arriving from countries with a high risk of infectious diseases. Tourists are most often recommended to vaccinate against yellow fever. Having a vaccination certificate helps speed up border control and enhances your personal safety during the trip.

For the convenience of tourists, our agency offers online medical insurance registration. We will help you choose the optimal policy covering all possible risks for your vacation in East Timor. Additionally, you can get advice on necessary vaccinations and preparation of medical documents for crossing the border.

Detailed information about medical requirements and insurance programs can be found on our separate page: insurance and vaccinations. Registering insurance through our agency will avoid unnecessary trouble and make the trip as safe and comfortable as possible.