Everything You Need to Know About the Bali Tourist Tax

Essential Guide to the Bali Tourist Tax

  • InCorp Editorial Team
  • 30 July 2024
  • 5 reading time

In 2024, Bali implemented a new tourist tax to promote sustainable tourism and infrastructure development. This article will provide an overview of the Bali Tourist Tax and its implications for travelers and businesses. 

By understanding this tax, stakeholders can better prepare for its impact on travel plans and operations, ensuring compliance and smooth transitions in this popular destination.

Understanding the Love Bali Movement

The Bali Provincial Government initiated the Love Bali Movement to preserve the integrity and balance of its natural environment, culture, and people. This initiative is part of a new policy called the Comprehensive Development Plan.

To support this movement, tourists must pay through the Love Bali application, available on the Apple Store and Google Play Store, before arriving in Bali. The application can also be accessed via the website here.

What is the Bali Tourist Tax?

Bali Provincial Regulation 6 of 2023 states that a tourist tax is a fee for visitors to a specific city or country.

This tax is usually collected through accommodation providers like hotels and vacation rentals and is added to the tourist’s final bill. Tourism managers involved in the organization of walker’s haute route and other interesting destinations share information that the revenue generated from these taxes is to support various initiatives, including:

  • Maintain and enhance tourism infrastructure, such as roads, parks, and public transportation.
  • Support local businesses and cultural attractions.
  • Promote sustainable tourism practices.
  • Address the negative impacts of tourism, including overcrowding and pollution.

The Purpose of Bali Tourist Tax

Everything You Need to Know About the Bali Tourist Tax

The levy for foreign tourists visiting Bali serves several purposes and offers numerous benefits. According to the website, the Bali Tourist Tax is used for the following purposes:

  • Protecting Cultural Heritage: The tax helps safeguard Balinese customs, traditions, arts, and local wisdom, ensuring the island’s cultural preservation.
  • Sustaining the Natural Environment: This levy contributes to preserving Bali’s unique culture and natural environment and enhances the beauty of the island’s destinations.
  • Enhancing the Visitor Experience: The funds from the tourist tax are used to improve the overall experience for visitors.

Do You Have to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax?

When planning a trip to Bali to experience its diverse attractions, it’s important to be aware of the mandatory Bali Tourist Tax. This tax is a requirement for all visitors and cannot be avoided.

According to the Bali Provincial Government, foreign visitors who fail to pay the mandatory tourist tax or levy will be denied entry to Bali.

How Much is the Bali Tourist Tax?

The Bali Tourist Tax, also known as the Tourist Levy, amounts to IDR 150,000 per person, roughly equivalent to AUD 15.00 AUD, USD 10.00 USD, or EUR 9.00. This fee can be paid online or at Bali Airport.

This is a one-time fee upon entry to Bali and is relatively affordable compared to tourist taxes in other countries, which are often added to nightly accommodation costs.

How to Pay Your Bali Tourist Tax?

To pay the tourism tax when visiting Bali, you can use the Love Bali application or visit the website lovebali.baliprov.go.id. Follow these steps:

  1. Download the Love Bali app or go to the website lovebali.baliprov.go.id.
  2. Enter your personal details, including passport number, email, name, and arrival date, and select your preferred payment method.
  3. You will receive a Levy Voucher via email.
  4. Show the Levy Voucher to the immigration officer upon arrival.

Can You Pay the Bali Tourist Tax at Bali Airport?

Yes, if you cannot pay the Bali Tourist Tax online or are unaware of it, you can pay the tourism levy in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) at one of the checkpoints after arriving in Bali.

Bali Airport is currently installing more checkpoints to streamline the arrival process.

Do You Need to Pay Again If You Travel to Another Island?

So far, no additional payment is required. If you’re planning a trip to the Gili Islands (Gili T, Gili Meno, or Gili Air) or a snorkeling excursion in Nusa Penida, you won’t need to pay the Bali Tourist Tax again when you return to Bali.

However, this could change. In addition to the usual harbor fees, there are no checkpoints for paying taxes at Bali harbors (except for arrivals from Java via Gilimanuk).

Who is Exempted from the Bali Tourist Tax?

There are currently seven categories of foreign tourists exempt from the new tourism tax, which officially started on February 14, 2024. It’s important to note that these exemptions require prior application and approval. Here are the categories:

CategoryDescription
Holders of Diplomatic and Official VisasIndividuals traveling for official or diplomatic purposes are exempt from the tax.
Crew Members on VehiclesThis includes air, sea, and land transportation staff on designated routes.
Holders of KITAS and KITAPForeigners residing in Indonesia with KITAS (temporary) or KITAP (permanent) are exempt.
Holders of Family Unification VisasSpouses and dependents of Indonesian citizens holding this visa are exempt.
Holders of Student VisasInternational students enrolled in accredited Indonesian institutions are exempt.
Holders of Golden VisasIndividuals with this specific long-term residence visa for investors are exempt.
Holders of Other Business-Specific VisasCertain visas tied to particular business activities (e.g., investment, research) may have exemptions, but verifying with officials is essential.

Remember, even for exempt categories, an application for tourism tax exemption must be submitted online at least one month before entering Bali. Local authorities will verify and decide within five working days.

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Let InCorp Handle Your Visa 

Indonesia’s visa system, including the new tourist tax in Bali, can be complex. InCorp Indonesia has over a decade of expertise in immigration services and streamlines the process to ensure smooth entry. Our decade-long expertise ensures:

  • Effortless Visa Handling: Secure visas, stay permits, and work permits efficiently.
  • Bali Tourist Tax Navigation: Comply with the latest regulations for a hassle-free arrival.

Fill out the form below and let InCorp simplify your transition into Indonesia. 

David Susandi

Branch Manager – Bali Office at InCorp Indonesia

Holding 11 years of experience in various roles, including project manager, operational manager, and corporate strategist, David Susandi is a prominent figure for many entrepreneurial organizations expanding in Indonesia.

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