East Timor–Indonesia border, International and maritime boundary between Indonesia and East Timor, Southeast Asia.
The border between Indonesia and East Timor is both a land boundary and a maritime boundary in Southeast Asia. The land border extends approximately 269 kilometers and separates Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province from East Timorese districts of Bobonaro, Cova Lima, and Oecusse.
The border originated from colonial divisions between Portuguese and Dutch territories, formalized through the Treaty of Lisbon in 1859 and a Permanent Court ruling in 1914. After East Timor gained independence in 1999, the boundary took on its current international significance.
Communities on both sides maintain distinct traditions shaped by Portuguese colonial history on the East Timorese side and Dutch heritage in Indonesian territory. Despite the border, people share similar daily practices and local customs that extend across the political divide.
Border crossings require valid identification documents and passports for travel between the two countries. It is wise to check current entry regulations and any restrictions with authorities before attempting to cross.
The maritime boundary extends into the disputed Timor Sea, where questions about jurisdiction limits and resource rights remain ongoing negotiation topics. This uncertainty in maritime delimitation has long-term impacts on natural resource use in the region.
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