Bali continues to welcome millions of international visitors each year, and since the introduction of the official tourist levy, every foreign traveler is now required to contribute a mandatory entry fee. As travel demand grows in 2026, understanding this regulation before arriving helps ensure a smooth and stress-free entry into the island. Many visitors still arrive unaware of how the system works, which can lead to unnecessary confusion at the airport.
The Bali Tourist Tax is not an additional visa, nor is it a hotel charge. It is a one-time tourism contribution collected by the Bali provincial government to support cultural preservation, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism development. Before planning your trip, it is important to understand the amount, payment process, exemptions, and practical details so you can travel confidently and fully prepared.
How Much Does Bali’s Tourist Tax Cost Travelers?
The Bali Tourist Tax is set at IDR 150,000 per international traveler per entry. This amount applies to all foreign visitors entering Bali, regardless of age, nationality, or length of stay. The fee has remained unchanged through 2026 and is approximately equivalent to USD 10, depending on exchange rates. The payment is required once for each arrival into Bali.
This tourist levy is separate from visa fees and is not included in airline tickets or accommodation charges. Travelers must pay the tax either before arrival through the official Love Bali platform or upon landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport. The regulation applies every time a traveler re-enters Bali from another region or country, as the fee is charged per entry, not per trip duration.

Since When Has the Bali Tourist Levy Been Mandatory?
The Bali Tourist Tax officially took effect on 14 February 2024 and has remained mandatory for international visitors entering the island. Since its implementation, every foreign traveler arriving in Bali is required to comply with this regulation as part of the entry process. The policy was introduced by the Bali provincial government as a long-term tourism measure, not as a temporary or seasonal rule.
As of 2026, the tourist levy continues to apply without suspension or expiration. Travelers planning a visit to Bali should consider this requirement as a standard part of their travel preparation. Because the regulation is ongoing, visitors are expected to stay informed about any official updates before departure to ensure full compliance upon arrival.

How to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax in 2026
Travelers can pay the Bali Tourist Tax either online before arrival or upon landing at Ngurah Rai International Airport. The most recommended method is completing the payment in advance through the official Love Bali website or mobile application, where travelers receive a digital QR code as proof of payment. This QR code may be checked by airport authorities during arrival. For those who prefer to pay on site, designated counters are available at the airport. However, paying in advance helps avoid queues and ensures a smoother entry process.
*Below is a summary of the available payment methods for the Bali Tourist Tax.

| Payment Method | Where to Pay | When to Pay | What You Receive | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Love Bali Website | Online (browser) | Before arrival | Digital QR Code | Highly recommended |
| Love Bali Mobile App | Mobile application | Before arrival | Digital QR Code | Recommended for convenience |
| Airport Payment Counter | Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) | Upon arrival | Printed / Digital proof of payment | May involve queue |
Is Airport Payment Available for the Bali Tourist Tax?
Travelers can pay the Bali Tourist Tax upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport if they have not completed the payment in advance. Designated payment counters are available in the international arrival area, allowing visitors to settle the required levy before proceeding through the airport process. After payment, travelers receive official proof, either in printed or digital form, which may be checked by authorities.
Although airport payment remains available in 2026, travelers are encouraged to complete the process online before departure. Paying in advance helps reduce waiting time, especially during peak travel seasons when arrival queues can become longer. Completing the payment prior to landing ensures a smoother and more efficient entry into Bali.

Does the Bali Entry Tax Apply to Multiple Entries?
The Bali Tourist Tax is charged per entry into Bali, not per length of stay. If a traveler leaves Bali and later returns, the levy must be paid again upon re-entry. This means that visitors who travel from Bali to another island such as Lombok, Java, or Flores and then come back to Bali are required to complete a new payment for each arrival. The regulation applies regardless of how short the time spent outside Bali may be.
If a traveler remains within Bali without exiting the island, no additional payment is required. However, once the traveler departs and re-enters Bali through an official port of entry, the system treats it as a new arrival. Because the policy is structured around entry records, visitors planning multi-island trips within Indonesia should factor in the possibility of paying the tourist tax more than once.

Who Is Subject to the Bali Tourist Tax?
The Bali Tourist Tax applies to all foreign travelers entering Bali, regardless of nationality, age, or length of stay. Every international visitor arriving for tourism, business visits, or short-term purposes must complete the payment upon entry. Indonesian citizens are not subject to this levy, and certain categories of foreign nationals holding valid residence permits or official status may qualify for exemption under provincial regulations.
*The following table summarizes who must pay the Bali Tourist Levy upon entry into Bali..

| Visitor Category | Required to Pay? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign tourists (all nationalities) | Yes | Applies per entry into Bali |
| Children (foreign passport holders) | Yes | No age exemption |
| Indonesian citizens (WNI) | No | Not subject to the levy |
| KITAS / KITAP holders | No | Valid Indonesian residence permit required |
| Diplomatic / Official visa holders | No | Must hold official status |
| Airline / ship crew on duty | No | Active duty status required |
Who Is Exempt from the Bali Tourist Tax?
Certain categories of foreign nationals are officially exempt from paying the Bali Tourist Tax based on their legal status in Indonesia. Travelers who hold valid Indonesian residence permits, diplomatic status, or official government assignments may qualify for exemption under provincial regulations. The exemption does not apply automatically to all foreign visitors, and eligible individuals must ensure their documentation is valid at the time of entry to confirm their status.
*The table below outlines the main exemption categories under the current regulation.

| Exemption Category | Eligible for Exemption | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| KITAS holders | Yes | Valid temporary stay permit |
| KITAP holders | Yes | Valid permanent stay permit |
| Diplomatic visa holders | Yes | Official diplomatic status |
| Official government delegation | Yes | Formal assignment documentation |
| Airline crew on active duty | Yes | Listed as operating crew |
| Ship crew on active duty | Yes | Registered crew manifest |
Is the Bali Tourist Tax Mandatory?
The Bali Tourist Tax is mandatory for all foreign travelers entering the island. Every international visitor is required to complete the payment as part of the official entry regulation implemented by the Bali provincial government. The levy is not optional, and travelers must settle the required amount either before arrival or upon landing at an approved entry point.
Failure to complete the payment may result in delays during the arrival process, as authorities may verify proof of payment. Because the regulation applies per entry, travelers should treat the tourist tax as a standard travel requirement, similar to visa or immigration procedures. Completing the payment in advance ensures compliance and helps avoid unnecessary complications upon arrival in Bali.

What Is the Bali Tourist Tax Used For?
The Bali Tourist Tax is used to support cultural preservation, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism development across the island. The provincial government allocates the funds to maintain temples, support traditional ceremonies, and protect Bali’s unique cultural heritage. The levy also contributes to programs that safeguard natural landscapes, including beaches, forests, and marine ecosystems.
In addition to cultural and environmental initiatives, the tourist tax supports improvements in tourism infrastructure and public facilities. The goal is to enhance the overall quality of the visitor experience while ensuring that tourism growth remains responsible and sustainable. By collecting this contribution from international travelers, Bali aims to balance economic benefits with long-term environmental and cultural preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Short Answer |
|---|---|
| How much is the Bali Tourist Tax? | IDR 150,000 per international traveler per entry into Bali. |
| When did the Bali Tourist Tax take effect? | The regulation took effect on 14 February 2024 and remains active in 2026. |
| How can travelers pay the Bali Tourist Tax? | Travelers can pay online via the official platform or upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport. |
| Can travelers pay the Bali Tourist Tax at the airport? | Yes, designated payment counters are available at the international arrival terminal. |
| Do travelers need to pay again if they leave and return to Bali? | Yes, the levy is charged per entry, so re-entering Bali requires a new payment. |
| Who needs to pay the Bali Tourist Tax? | All foreign travelers entering Bali are required to pay, unless they qualify for an exemption. |
| Who is exempt from the Bali Tourist Tax? | KITAS/KITAP holders, diplomatic visa holders, official delegations, and active crew members may qualify for exemption. |
| Is the Bali Tourist Tax mandatory? | Yes, it is a compulsory payment for eligible international visitors. |
| What is the Bali Tourist Tax used for? | The funds support cultural preservation, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism development. |

The Bali Tourist Tax is a mandatory contribution that every eligible international traveler should understand before arriving on the island. By staying informed about the fee amount, payment process, re-entry rules, and exemption categories, visitors can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth arrival experience. As Bali continues to prioritize sustainable tourism in 2026, this levy plays an important role in protecting the island’s cultural heritage, natural environment, and long-term tourism quality.
For those planning an extended stay, investment, or property exploration in Bali, understanding local regulations is just one part of making confident decisions. If you are considering owning a villa, securing a leasehold investment, or exploring long-term opportunities on the island, the team at Red Lotus Bali Property can guide you with trusted insights and professional support tailored to your goals.