Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Dreaming of settling in Bali, this Indonesian paradise island with its fine sandy beaches and lush green rice terraces? Before you pack your bags, it’s essential to understand the administrative steps needed to live legally on the Island of the Gods. In this article, we guide you step by step through the formalities to complete to make your expatriation project in Bali a reality.
Visa for Bali: Your Ticket to Paradise
The first crucial step to settling in Bali is getting the right visa. Indonesia offers several options tailored to different expatriate profiles:
Visa on Arrival (VOA): This is the simplest solution for short tourist stays. It allows you to stay 30 days in Bali and can be obtained directly at Denpasar Airport for a fee of €34. Note that this visa cannot be renewed on-site and is therefore not suitable for a long-term stay.
E-Visa Visitor: More suitable for extended stays, this electronic visa allows a stay of 60 consecutive days. The application is made online before departure and costs €96. It offers more flexibility than the Visa on Arrival.
- Remote Worker KITAS: Valid for 1 year and renewable, perfect for digital nomads
- Retirement KITAS: For those over 55 with a monthly income of at least USD 3,000
- Investor KITAS: For those starting a business in Bali
- Student KITAS: For studying on the island
To obtain a KITAS, you will need to provide many documents (passport valid for 18 months, photos, proof of income, etc.) and go through a local sponsor. The process can take several weeks.
Good to Know:
Regardless of the visa you choose, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry date into Bali. Also plan for a return or onward travel ticket—it’s mandatory!
Finding Your Cozy Nest in Bali: The Quest for the Ideal Home
Once you have your visa, you need housing! Contrary to popular belief, finding long-term accommodation in Bali can be complex and expensive. Here are some tips for finding that gem:
Short-Term Rental: For your first few months, opt for a rental on Airbnb or Booking.com. This will allow you to explore different neighborhoods before settling down. Expect around €500-1,000/month for a comfortable apartment.
Long-Term Rental: For stays of 6 months or more, prioritize direct contracts with local landlords. Prices are more favorable (around €300-600/month for a villa). Explore expat Facebook groups and local real estate agencies.
Popular Areas: Canggu is very popular among digital nomads for its trendy cafes and coworking spaces. For more peace and quiet, aim for Ubud or the north of the island. Avoid Kuta, which is too touristy.
Watch out for scams! Always check rental contracts and never pay a deposit without having visited the property. It is recommended to hire a local lawyer to secure important transactions.
Good to Know:
Indonesian law prohibits foreigners from buying real estate in their own name. Renting therefore remains the best option for settling in Bali.
Renewing Your Visa: The Administrative Obstacle Course
Enjoying Bali and want to extend your stay? Get ready to face Indonesian bureaucracy! Visa renewal can quickly become a headache if you’re not well prepared.
Tourist Visa: The 30-day VOA can be extended once for an additional 30 days. The application must be made at the immigration office at least 7 days before expiration. Expect multiple visits and additional fees.
E-Visa Visitor: Not renewable on-site. You will need to leave the country and submit a new application.
KITAS: Renewal is generally done 2 months before expiration. You will need to provide new supporting documents and go through your sponsor. The process can take up to 3 weeks.
In any case, plan ahead! Delays are often longer than expected, and fines for overstaying your visa are steep (around €70/day).
A popular alternative is the “visa run”: leaving the country for a few days to obtain a new visa upon entry. Malaysia and Singapore are popular destinations for this practice.
Good to Know:
Since 2023, Indonesia has implemented an electronic visa system that simplifies some procedures. Check the official immigration website regularly for updates.
Essential Formalities: Don’t Neglect the Paperwork!
Settling in Bali isn’t just about getting a visa. Several administrative steps are mandatory to live peacefully on the island:
Residence Declaration: Within 24 hours of your arrival, you must register with the local village chief (Kepala Desa). This formality is often handled by your landlord or hotel.
Driver’s License: To drive a scooter (the number one mode of transport in Bali), you must obtain an Indonesian license or an international driving permit. Driving without a valid license is severely punished.
Health Insurance: Although not mandatory, international health insurance is highly recommended. Medical care can be expensive in Bali, especially in private clinics frequented by expats.
Tax Declaration: If you reside in Indonesia for more than 183 days per year, you become a tax resident. You will then need to declare your worldwide income to the Indonesian authorities.
Opening a Bank Account: Possible with a KITAS, but the process can be lengthy. Many expats use international cards like Revolut or N26 to avoid fees.
Good to Know:
Always keep a copy of your passport and visa on you. Identity checks are frequent in Bali.
Laws and Regulations: Pitfalls to Avoid for Foreigners
Indonesia has strict laws, sometimes confusing for Westerners. Here are some crucial points to know to avoid trouble:
Drugs: Zero tolerance! Possession of narcotics, even in small amounts, can lead to life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Beware of suspicious cocktails in some bars.
Work: It is strictly forbidden to work on a tourist visa. Even volunteering can be considered illegal work. Only the KITAS allows you to engage in professional activity.
Religion: Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country. Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan. Blasphemy is a serious crime.
Dress Code: Although Bali is more tolerant than the rest of Indonesia, modest dress is expected, especially in temples and villages.
Environment: Environmental protection laws are tightening. The use of single-use plastic is now banned in Bali.
Property: Foreigners cannot own land in Indonesia. Buying real estate requires complex legal arrangements.
Marriage: Only religious marriages are recognized in Indonesia. Civil marriage must be registered in your home country.
Good to Know:
In the event of a dispute, the Indonesian justice system can be slow and unpredictable. Always prioritize dialogue and mediation to resolve conflicts.
Settling in Bali is an extraordinary adventure, but one that requires careful preparation. By respecting the laws and completing all necessary steps, you can fully enjoy the gentle Balinese way of life. Don’t hesitate to call on local professionals to guide you through your administrative procedures.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
