Brunei: visa and entry rules

Brunei's borders: every crossing point

Brunei has a single land neighbour, Malaysia, but the border with it is arranged unusually.

The country is split into two parts by the Malaysian district of Limbang, and travelling from one part of Brunei to the other means crossing Malaysian territory twice — that is, four borders in a single trip.

The main crossings: Kuala Lurah — Tedungan in the west, Labu — Lawang in the east, Puni — Sungai Tujoh on the road to Miri.

By sea — ferries to Labuan and onward to Malaysian Sabah.

The main way in is Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan; there are not many flights, and most go via Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Driving to Brunei

Overland entry is only from Malaysia, and a route through the country almost always includes Malaysian Limbang.

Traffic drives on the left.

Insurance is bought locally.

Ask customs directly about the temporary import period for Brunei. General figures go out of date faster than guidebooks update them.

Fuel here is noticeably cheaper than in Malaysia, and filling up before driving out is a local habit.

Travelling to Brunei with a pet

You need an international veterinary certificate, endorsed by the state veterinary service of the country you are leaving.

The rabies vaccination must be valid on the date of entry.

An import permit is arranged in advance.

Before bringing an animal into Brunei, check with two authorities: the country's veterinary service and the carrier. Either of the two lists can stop you.

Overstaying your visa in Brunei

A fine accrues for every day beyond your permitted stay and is paid on departure.

The amount is worked out at the moment of departure. Published rates for Brunei contradict one another and go out of date — count on cash and an extra hour at the border.

Extensions are arranged in advance, before the permitted period runs out.

A serious overstay means deportation and an entry ban.