For foreign tourists travelling to Bali from 2024 to 2025, the Bali Provincial Government has implemented a new requirement upon entry. The Bali Tourist Tax, also known as the Bali Tourism Levy effective 14 February 2024 and introduced for a fee of 150,000 IDR (approximately USD 10 or 9 EUR) for international visitors arriving on the island. The levy will be used to support the preservation of Balinese customs, traditions, arts, and local wisdom, ensuring the sustainable culture of Bali island.
If you’re planning a trip to Bali for leisure or business, understanding this new levy is essential for a smooth travel experience.
If you are arriving at Bali Airport soon, here’s all you need to know about the new Bali Tourist Tax.
Contents
- What is the Bali Tourist Tax?
- How much is the Bali Tourist Tax?
- When Does it Take Effect?
- How to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax?
- What Happens If You Forget to Pay?
- Does the Tax Apply to Domestic Travellers or Island Transfers?
- Who is Exempt from the Tax?
- What is the Tax Used For?
- Why This Matters for Future Bali’s Tourism
- Plan Ahead with Lets Move Indonesia
What is the Bali Tourist Tax?
The Bali Tourist Tax is a one-time levy imposed on international tourists entering Bali. This fee is part of a broader initiative by the Bali government to preserve the island’s cultural heritage, support environmental conservation efforts, and enhance tourism infrastructure. Unlike other countries where tourist taxes are often added to nightly accommodation costs, Bali’s levy is paid upon arrival.
How much is the Bali Tourist Tax?
The fee is 150,000 IDR per person, which translates to approximately 10 USD or 9 EUR, depending on the exchange rate. Compared to similar taxes in other destinations, this is relatively affordable and aims to ensure Bali remains accessible to travellers while funding crucial conservation and cultural projects.
When Does it Take Effect?
The Bali Tourist Tax officially came into effect on February 14, 2024. All international arrivals after this date are required to comply with the payment process.
How to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax?
Paying the Bali Tourist Tax Online
Foreigners are encouraged to use the official Love Bali website or The Love Bali Application to complete their payments before arrival.
Any international visitor planning to enter Bali must pay the tourist tax before entering the country. The levy can be paid online via the official government website. Based on current regulations, it is best practice to pay the tax at least one month before your planned visit to Bali to avoid potential delays with customs. The process is simple:
- On the official website, select the currency in which you wish to pay and click on Pay Tourist Levy.
- Select your payment method. The site accepts various payment methods include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, QRIS, and bank transfers, or foreigners, you can pay by credit card or bank transfer.
- You’ll need to provide basic information such as your full name (as it appears on your passport), email address, passport number, and arrival date.
- Submit your form and you’ll receive a payment QR code via email to show on arrival in Bali.
The site supports multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Spanish, German, Indonesian, and Chinese, making it accessible for a global audience.
At the Airport
For those unable to pay online, kiosks at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport accept payments in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Airport officials are also in the process of installing additional checkpoints to streamline the payment process.
International visitors are encouraged to conveniently settle this payment via the Love Bali website or App prior to their arrival. Upon payment, a tourism levy voucher will be sent via email, and the QR code can be downloaded to smartphones, or printed for scanning at checkpoints in Bali Airport and sea ports. This code must be scanned at checkpoints upon arrival. Ensure you have it accessible, either digitally or as a printed copy, to avoid delays.
What Happens If You Forget to Pay?
The government is initially adopting a lenient approach to encourage compliance, but stricter measures will follow. These may include:
- Spot checks at popular tourist destinations.
- Fines or minor sanctions for non-compliance.
- Pre-boarding checks by airlines to ensure the levy has been paid.
To avoid inconvenience, it’s advisable to pay the tax ahead of time.
Does the Tax Apply to Domestic Travellers or Island Transfers?
The tax applies only to international tourists entering Bali. If you’re travelling domestically, such as flying from Jakarta or transferring from another Indonesian island, you are exempt from the fee. However, if you’re an international traveller who lands in another Indonesian city (like Jakarta) and continues to Bali, you must pay the tax upon arrival.
For those planning trips to neighbouring islands like the Gili Islands or Nusa Penida, no additional tax is required when returning to Bali. However, harbour fees still apply for ferry transfers.
Who is Exempt from the Tax?
Certain groups who hold certain Indonesia official visas are exempt from paying the Bali Tourist Tax, including:
- KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) holders.
- KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) holders.
- Diplomatic visa holders.
- Family unification visa holders.
- Student visa holders.
- Crew members of conveyance.
| Category | Description |
| Holders of Diplomatic and Official Visas | Individuals travelling for official or diplomatic purposes are exempt from the tax. |
| Crew Members on Vehicles | This includes air, sea, and land transportation staff on designated routes. |
| Holders of KITAS and KITAP | Foreigners residing in Indonesia with KITAS (temporary) or KITAP (permanent) are exempt. |
| Holders of Family Unification Visas | Spouses and dependents of Indonesian citizens holding this visa are exempt. |
| Holders of Student Visas | International students enrolled in accredited Indonesian institutions are exempt. |
| Holders of Golden Visas | Individuals with this specific long-term residence visa for investors are exempt. |
| Holders of Other Business-Specific Visas | Certain visas tied to particular business activities (e.g., investment, research) may have exemptions, but verifying with officials is essential. |
If you hold any other specialised visa, such as the Golden Visa, you may also qualify for an exemption. Applications for exemptions can be submitted through the official payment website.
What is the Tax Used For?
Revenue collected from the Bali Tourist Tax supports the Preservation of Bali’s Unique Culture and Natural Environment
Bali’s rich cultural heritage its temples, traditional dance, and crafts requires ongoing funding to maintain authenticity in the face of globalisation.
With tourism on the rise, maintaining Bali’s natural beauty is paramount. Funds are directed toward waste management, beach clean-ups, and protecting natural ecosystems.
Why This Matters for Future Bali’s Tourism
Sustainable tourism initiatives like the Bali Tourist Tax are essential for maintaining the island’s charm. While $10 may seem like a small contribution, multiplied across millions of visitors annually, it becomes a powerful tool for positive change.
For tourists, this levy ensures Bali’s unique culture and pristine landscapes remain intact. For the Balinese community, it provides vital funding to address the challenges of balancing tourism growth with environmental and cultural sustainability.
By paying the tourism levy, you contribute to the preservation of the island as a sustainable destination for future generations.
Plan Ahead with Lets Move Indonesia
This new tax reflects a growing global trend of sustainable tourism a movement we wholeheartedly support.
Make it a habit to verify regulations before travelling. Make sure to access the official websites for updates or consult to ensuring you have accurate and up-to-date information.
Stay informed about the latest Bali travel updates and make your trip stress-free by reaching out to us. Whether you’re visiting Bali for leisure or exploring opportunities in Indonesia, we’re here to ensure your journey is smooth and compliant.
For more detailed advice or assistance with the Bali Tourist Tax, contact Lets Move Indonesia today. Let us help you enjoy a hassle-free experience on this enchanting island!
