Electricity

The standard electrical supply in East Timor is 220 volts at 50Hz. Power plugs and sockets of types C, E, F, and I are used.

Language

The official languages of East Timor are Portuguese and Tetum.

Money

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). While USD is widely accepted, cash transactions are prevalent, and credit cards are often not accepted outside major hotels. ATMs are limited, primarily located in Dili, and may have withdrawal limits. It's recommended to carry sufficient cash in small denominations, as larger bills can be difficult to exchange. Notes older than 2009 may be rejected.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected, but is always appreciated.

Health

Malaria is present in some areas, especially during the rainy season (November to April). Preventive measures include using insect repellent, sleeping under mosquito nets, and taking antimalarial medication. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid are recommended. A yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from yellow fever-endemic countries.

Safety

East Timor is a welcoming destination with beautiful landscapes and friendly locals. While generally safe, visitors should be mindful of petty crime such as pickpocketing in busy areas. Roads, especially in the mountains, can be narrow and challenging, and flash floods during the rainy season may affect travel. It's best to avoid driving after dark and to use reputable transport services.

Local customs

Hospitality is a cornerstone of East Timorese culture. When offered food or drink, it's polite for guests to accept, even if only a small amount. They should also wait for their host to begin before they start eating or drinking. Shaking hands is a common greeting, and it's respectful to address elders first.

Doing business

Building personal relationships is crucial in Timorese business culture, so it's important to engage in polite conversation before discussing business matters to establish trust. While Portuguese and Tetum are official languages, English is commonly used in business, and Indonesian is also prevalent, especially in rural areas. Knowledge of local languages can enhance both business and social interactions.

Duty free

Travellers over 17 years of age can import the following items duty free: 200 cigarettes or 75 cigars 100 cigarillos or 30 grams of tobacco (or a proportional assortment of these products); 5 liters of wine; 1,5 liters of spirits over 22 percent volume, or alcohol with more than 80 percent volume ethanol. All passengers can import 75 grams of perfume and 0,375 litre of eau de toilette; 1 kilogram of coffee; 200 grams of tea or 890 grams of tea essence; personal effects and other goods up to a maximum value of USD 300.

Communications

The international dialing code for East Timor is +670. Mobile coverage is generally good in urban areas; it's advisable to bring an unlocked phone and purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Internet access is available but can be slow, especially outside major cities.

Passport & Visa

All visitors require a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. A 30-day tourist visa is available on arrival for USD 30, payable in cash. This visa can be extended once for an additional 30 days. Extensions cost USD 40. Travellers must also provide proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for their stay.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that's valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

British citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

Canadian citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

Australian citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

South African citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

Irish citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport valid for six months beyond the date of their arrival in East Timor, and can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for a maximum of 30 days.

Useful contacts

Official tourism: www.timorleste.tl

331 1380 (police), 331 1044 (ambulance), 110 (medical emergencies)