Timor-Leste business visa (Class I)

You must show that you are a genuine business person who intends to enter or remain in Timor-Leste to develop business opportunities or for investment prospecting, that you are of good health and character and that you complied with earlier visas. Entrants on tourist, transit and Business Class I visas must be able to show USD 100 for each entry and USD 50 for each day of stay. This can be waived if a Timorese citizen, a resident permit holder, a diplomatic or consular card holder, the holder of a work, business, residence or specialised temporary stay visa, a Special Stay Authorization holder or a company registered in Timor-Leste signs a term of responsibility covering food and accommodation. The visa can also be used by ASEAN citizens for business mobility under the ASEAN Agreement on the Movement of Natural Persons.

Apply in person at the Migration Service headquarters in the Interior Ministry building in Vila Verde, Dili, or before arrival at a Timor-Leste embassy or consulate. Of the missions abroad, those in Australia (Darwin), China (Beijing), Indonesia (Jakarta, Bali, Atambua), Malaysia, the Philippines, Portugal and Singapore have immigration attachés. Copies handed in with originals are certified free of charge by the immigration officer, so external certification is not needed unless specifically requested.

The visa is for exploring opportunities, negotiating and prospecting; taking up a job with a local employer requires a Work Visa. Keep your passport valid and do not overstay: Article 141 of the migration law fines overstays from USD 150 for up to 30 days to as much as USD 580 for more than 90 days.

Class I visas are generally not extended, except in exceptional circumstances such as serious medical or humanitarian reasons or transport problems beyond your control. If you decide to set up a company and stay longer than 183 days a year, the Business Visa Class II is the category for company members and administrators.