Brunei

The Land of Mosques
and Majesty

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Brunei, a small but wealthy nation on the island of Borneo, is known for its lush rainforests, rich cultural heritage, and oil wealth. The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, is home to opulent landmarks like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the lavish Istana Nurul Iman palace.

Brunei’s culture is rooted in Malay and Islamic traditions, celebrated through festivals, traditional music, and handicrafts. The cuisine features flavorful dishes like ambuyat (a sago-based dish) and a variety of fresh seafood. With its pristine landscapes and strong cultural identity, Brunei offers a unique experience of tradition and natural beauty.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Brunei.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Brunei.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from nations like the US, UK, Australia, Canada, Japan, and ASEAN countries (e.g., Malaysia, Singapore) can enter Brunei with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days (or 30 days for some nationalities) within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Brunei, typically through a Bruneian embassy or consulate.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Bruneian visa is required unless the traveler’s nationality is visa-exempt.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry unless their nationality is visa-exempt.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry; a Bruneian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Brunei using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year (e.g., tourist or business visa).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year, allowing application for a residence permit (e.g., for work or family purposes).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 30-90 days, depending on nationality. Extensions may be granted with approval.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas require sponsorship from a Bruneian employer.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Brunei may reintroduce measures like mandatory testing or quarantine.
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Driving in Brunei

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Brunei has no operational toll roads. Roads are generally state-maintained, and travel is free of tolls.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no toll roads exist. Road travel relies on fuel costs and vehicle maintenance.

Driving in Brunei

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (e.g., Muara-Tutong Highway)
  • Road conditions are generally excellent; Brunei has well-maintained roads, though rural areas may have narrower roads and occasional wildlife crossings.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, especially for non-ASEAN nationals. ASEAN nationals can use their domestic license for up to 90 days.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Brunei does not use a vignette system for road use; travel is free.
  • Road Safety: Brunei has good road safety standards, but speeding and sudden lane changes can occur. Be cautious at roundabouts and pedestrian crossings.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable across Brunei; Google Maps and Waze work well.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 993 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Currency Menu

Brunei Currency

The official currency of Brunei is the Brunei Dollar (BND).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 BND
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents
  • Symbol: $ (often written as BND; occasionally B$ to distinguish from other dollar-based currencies)
  • Note: The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is also widely accepted in Brunei at a 1:1 exchange rate due to a currency interchangeability agreement.

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, Brunei International Airport, and major hotels.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas (e.g., Bandar Seri Begawan) for direct BND withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred for small transactions, especially in rural areas and small establishments.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments, but less common in rural areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash (BND or SGD) for small purchases and rural areas, as digital payments are not universal.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the BND is pegged to the SGD.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Autoriti Monetari Brunei Darussalam (AMBD) website: https://www.ambd.gov.bn/
Laws Menu

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Brunei

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Brunei, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including the death penalty for trafficking. Even small quantities can lead to long prison sentences.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is banned for Muslims; non-Muslims over 17 can import limited amounts (2L of spirits or 12 cans of beer) but must declare it and consume it privately. Public intoxication is illegal.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in many outdoor public areas (e.g., parks).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Islamic customs; dress modestly, especially during Ramadan and at religious sites like mosques. Avoid public displays of affection.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal under Sharia law, with penalties including imprisonment or corporal punishment. Public displays of affection may attract legal consequences.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, or royal residences (e.g., Istana Nurul Iman). Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 2L spirits or 12 cans of beer (non-Muslims only, must declare).
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars (must declare).
  • Cash: Declare amounts over BND 10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, pork products, weapons, and pornography.
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at Brunei International Airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Brunei Tourism Board or the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Muara Beach) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is mandated but not always implemented.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

Brunei Travel Safety

Brunei is generally safe for travellers, with very low crime rates and a reputation for stability. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Brunei.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is extremely rare, even in crowded areas like markets in Bandar Seri Begawan. Violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Brunei is considered very safe, with a welcoming atmosphere. Female travelers should dress modestly and avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving is straightforward, but speeding and sudden lane changes can occur in urban areas.
    • Avoid driving in rural areas at night due to limited lighting and wildlife crossings (e.g., monkeys).
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is recommended for visitors.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; Brunei’s cuisine (e.g., ambuyat) is generally safe but can be unfamiliar.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for jungle travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue and malaria, especially in rural or jungle areas (e.g., Ulu Temburong National Park).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not a concern; Brunei is mostly flat, with the highest point (Bukit Pagon) at 1,850 meters, rarely visited by tourists.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: High-quality facilities like RIPAS Hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan offer excellent care. Rural areas have limited options.
  • Pharmacies: Widely available in cities; carry essential medications for remote areas.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, though local care is generally reliable.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 993 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 991 | Fire: 995 | Police: 993.
  • Tourist Police (Bandar Seri Begawan): +673 222 2333.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Renting a car is straightforward; ensure insurance covers rural travel (e.g., to Temburong District).
  • Hiking: Use local guides for jungle treks (e.g., Ulu Temburong National Park); trails can be slippery during the wet season (November-March).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Ramadan customs; avoid eating/drinking in public during fasting hours.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but haze from regional forest fires can occur (September-October); monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

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Flying to Brunei