The Bali tourist tax was officially implemented on February 14, 2024, specifically for international visitors. The levy is mandatory for anyone planning a trip to the Island of the Gods, serving as a contribution to preserve the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while maintaining its status as one of the most romantic destinations in the world.
This payment, also known as the Bali tourist fee, is separate from your visa and must be paid by every international arrival. Below is detailed information about the levy, explaining what it is, why it has been introduced, and step-by-step instructions on how to pay the Bali tourist levy efficiently.
What is the Bali Tourist Tax?
The tax applies to all international visitors of all ages, including infants, and is charged per person, per entry. The fee is IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 10) and is levied on all foreign visitors entering Bali.
This tax is enforced under Governor Regulation No. 6 of 2023, regarding the International Traveler Tax to Preserve Bali’s Culture and Nature. For first-timers visiting this island of God, note that this is a provincial tax, not a national one, meaning it is separate from your visa, including when using a Visa on Arrival (VoA).
If you leave the island to visit another country or another part of Indonesia and then return (depending on your visa type), you will be required to pay the tourism tax again. This differs from Thailand, where travelers pay a single tourism tax covering air, land, and sea entry throughout the country.
However, this tax applies only to tourists. Those holding student visas, KITAS/KITAP permits, diplomatic status, or work visas are exempt from the levy and are not required to pay this retribution.
Why You Need to Pay The Tourist Tax?
The government introduced the tourist levy to help preserve the island’s unique culture and natural environment. Funds collected from this tax are allocated to projects such as environmental conservation, waste management, and cultural preservation, including the protection of temples, arts, and heritage.
By paying this fee, visitors directly support efforts to maintain the island’s beauty and cultural integrity, addressing concerns from travelers about sustainability and whether Bali is safe and clean. The government also distributes the tax revenue to local Desa Adat (traditional Balinese villages), empowering communities to continue their cultural practices and rituals.
This initiative ensures that tourism remains sustainable, allowing the island to flourish while preserving what makes it one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations.
How to pay the Tourist Tax?
The easiest and most convenient method is to pay the levy online before you arrive, so it won’t affect your activities on the island. This will help you avoid delays at the airport.
- Go to the Official Website: Visit Love Bali, the only authorized portal, or download the mobile app.
- Enter Your Details: Fill in your full name, passport number, email address, and arrival date.
- Make the Payment: Pay the IDR 150,000 fee using a credit or debit card.
- Receive Your QR Code: Once the payment is successful, a levy voucher with a unique QR code will be emailed to you.
- Save Your Voucher: Keep the QR code on your phone or print a physical copy.
- Scan at Arrival: Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport or local seaports, scan your QR code at the designated checkpoint.
While it’s also possible to pay at dedicated airport counters (cashless only), completing the tourism tax payment online process before arrival is faster and more reliable.
Faq’s Bali Tourist Tax
1. Is it mandatory to pay the tourist tax in Bali?
Yes, the tourism tax is a mandatory requirement for all international travelers visiting the island. Exemptions only apply to certain visa holders, such as KITAS/KITAP, diplomatic, and student visa holders, who must apply for exemption through the website before arrival.
2. How much is the tourist tax in Bali?
The tourist fee is IDR 150,000 per person, per entry (about USD 10). Payments are processed in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
3. Is there a fine for not paying the tax?
While enforcement is still being strengthened, officials conduct random checks at tourist attractions and airports. If you are found not to have paid, you will be required to settle the tourism tax immediately.
Authorities may issue warnings and could restrict future entry for non-compliance. Stricter penalties are also being reviewed to improve adherence.
4. How to pay the new tourist tax in Bali?
The best option is to pay the tourist levy online before your trip through the official Love Bali website or app. You’ll receive a digital payment voucher (QR code) via email, ensuring a seamless arrival experience.
