Bali Tourist Tax: What You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of a Bali getaway filled with lush rice terraces, serene temples, and golden beaches, there’s one small but important detail to sort out before you arrive: the Bali tourist tax. Introduced to support the island’s culture and environment, this levy ensures that the beauty drawing millions of visitors each year is protected for generations to come. 

Read on to learn how much it costs, who needs to pay, and the easiest way to handle it before your plane even lands.

What is the Bali Tourist Tax?

The Bali tourist tax, also called the tourist levy, is a mandatory one-time fee for foreign visitors entering Bali. It was introduced by the Bali Provincial Government to support sustainable tourism and protect the island’s heritage and environment. The tax is separate from visa fees, airport taxes, or accommodation charges.

The main goal of this initiative is to preserve Balinese culture and natural beauty while ensuring that tourism remains beneficial for both visitors and local communities.

How Much Is the Tax and When Did It Start?

The Bali tourist tax costs IDR 150,000 per person, which is around 10 to 15 US dollars depending on the exchange rate. It is a one-time payment required upon entry, regardless of the length of stay.

The levy officially came into effect on 14 February 2024 and applies to all international tourists arriving in Bali by air or sea.

Source: Unsplash

Who Needs to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax?

Applicable to All Foreign Visitors

Every foreign traveller visiting Bali for tourism purposes is required to pay the Bali tourist tax. This includes tourists arriving directly from abroad or those entering Bali after transiting through another Indonesian city such as Jakarta or Surabaya.

Frequency of Payment

The fee is paid only once per visit. If you travel to nearby islands like Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands and then return to Bali during the same trip, you do not need to pay again.

Who is Exempt from the Tax?

Some categories of travellers are exempt, including:

• Holders of temporary or permanent stay permits (KITAS and KITAP)

• Diplomatic and official visa holders

• Airline or ship crew members

• Holders of family unification or student visas

If you hold another type of visa, such as a business or golden visa, you may apply for an exemption through the official Love Bali platform.

Source: Unsplash

How to Pay the Bali Tourist Tax

Pay Online Before You Travel

The easiest and fastest way to pay is online through the official Love Bali website or mobile app. You will need to enter your passport details, arrival date, and email address, then make payment using a credit card, bank transfer, or digital payment method such as QRIS.

After payment, you will receive a confirmation email containing a QR code. Keep this as proof of payment, as airport officials may ask to scan it upon your arrival.

Pay at the Airport

If you forget to pay online or are unable to do so, you can pay at the counter upon arrival at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport or other designated entry points. Payment counters are cashless, so you can use your card or digital wallet.

Helpful Tips

• Pay before your flight to save time at the airport.

• Make sure the information you provide matches your passport.

• Take a screenshot or print your QR code in case of technical issues.

• Only use the official Love Bali website or app to avoid scams.  

Why the Bali Tourist Tax Matters

The tourist levy was introduced to support Bali’s cultural and environmental sustainability. Your contribution helps fund initiatives that preserve the island’s unique charm and authenticity. 

The collected funds are used for cultural preservation, such as protecting temples, traditional arts, and local wisdom; environmental protection through waste management and conservation programs; and tourism management, including infrastructure improvements and the maintenance of public facilities. 

By paying this small fee, travellers play a part in keeping Bali beautiful and ensuring that future generations can experience its same warmth and wonder.

Important Things to Know

• You only need to pay the Bali tourist tax once per trip.

• Children are not exempt; the levy applies to visitors of all ages.

• Payment must be completed before or upon entering Bali.

• Failure to pay may result in being denied entry or delayed at immigration checkpoints.

Although the regulation is still being refined, the process has become more straightforward over time. Paying the tax online before arrival is the easiest way to avoid queues and confusion.

Source: Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bali tourist tax the same as a visa fee?

No. The tax is separate from your visa and must be paid even if your visa is free or already approved.

Can I pay in cash?

Payments are cashless and can be made online or at the airport using cards or digital wallets.

Do all travellers, including children, need to pay?

Yes. The levy applies to every international visitor, regardless of age.

Can I skip the tax if I am staying in another part of Indonesia?

The levy applies only to travellers entering Bali. If you are travelling directly to other Indonesian cities such as Jakarta or Yogyakarta, you do not need to pay.

Conclusion

The Bali tourist tax is a straightforward and meaningful contribution to the island’s preservation. At only IDR 150,000 per person, it helps support cultural conservation, environmental protection, and better tourism management. Paying online before you arrive is highly recommended to make your journey smoother.

As you prepare for your Bali adventure, take this small step to help sustain the beauty that makes the island so special. If you are looking for a comfortable place to stay while you explore Bali, visit Red Lotus Bali Property for trusted accommodation and villa options across the island. Make your payment, pack your bags, and get ready to enjoy the timeless magic of Bali.