Bali’s New Tourist Tax: Where Will the Revenue Go?
In early 2024, Bali introduced a new tourist tax, marking a significant change in the island's tourism management strategy. I've been in love with Bali since my first visit in 2015, and it’s easy to see why so many travellers and digital nomads, both short-term and long-term, flock to the island every year.
The new tax is a response to the environmental and cultural challenges that come with the growing number of visitors. Like in many other popular destinations worldwide, this tourist tax is intended as a step towards making tourism more sustainable for Bali’s future.
Key Changes in a Nutshell:
Implementation Date: Introduced in February 2024; applies to all foreign tourists.
Amount: IDR150,000, which is approximately US$10 or A$15 per person.
Collection: Can be paid online before travelling or collected on arrival, usually at Bali Airport or a seaport in Bali.
Purpose: Revenue is intended to support environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism infrastructure development.
Overview of the Bali Tourist Tax 2024
Overall, the Bali tourist tax aligns with similar initiatives in other popular global destinations, designed to support sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. Introduced in 2024, the Bali Tourist Tax requires all foreign tourists to pay approximately US$10 or A$15 per person.
Payment can be made online through the official Love Bali Portal before your trip. You'll receive a ‘Levy Voucher' via email once the transaction is successful. Make sure that you carry the voucher with you and that it is valid and active, as you may have to present it at scanning checkpoints upon entering Bali.
There are also counters at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport and Benoa Harbour where the fee can be paid by debit or credit card.
As part of the Love Bali Movement, all international visitors (except for some visas, more below), regardless of age, are required to pay the tax. When paying the Bali Tourist Tax, it’s important to be aware of scam websites claiming to handle the registration. Just like with entry requirements for Australian citizens and applying for visas, only use reputable sites for payment.
Why the Bali Tourist Tax Was Introduced
The Bali Tourist Tax was introduced in response to the significant environmental pressures caused by mass tourism, which has led to challenges such as waste management issues and water scarcity on the island.
During my recent stay in the popular areas of Seminyak and Canggu, I noticed a few things that may go unnoticed by others. Garbage bins were often overflowing, with waste collection being somewhat inconsistent. Litter in public spaces and on beaches in Bali is also fairly common. While locals are diligent about tidying up around the big resorts to keep things looking pretty, these efforts often just mask the underlying issues.
The influx of foreign visitors has not only strained Bali’s natural resources but has also put immense pressure on cultural sites and local communities, with over-tourism threatening the preservation of Bali's unique heritage.
In response to these challenges, the Balinese government has introduced this tax as a proactive measure to promote sustainable tourism. The goal is to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to preserve the island’s environment and cultural heritage.
Where Will the Revenue from the Bali Tourist Tax go?
The revenue generated from Bali's new tourist tax is said to be strategically invested in several key areas to ensure the island's sustainability and also to enhance the visitor experience.
According to the government of Bali, a significant portion of the funds will be dedicated to environmental conservation efforts, including projects focused on protecting Bali’s natural resources. This includes marine conservation, reforestation initiatives, and improved waste management systems. Additionally, the tax is supposed to support the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure, such as eco-friendly public transportation, green energy initiatives, and enhancements to waste management.
To preserve Bali’s rich cultural heritage, there are plans to invest in the restoration of temples, the promotion of traditional arts, and community-based cultural projects, ensuring that the island’s unique traditions are maintained for future generations.
Moreover, the funds will be used to elevate the visitor experience by improving the quality of services, enhancing the safety and comfort of tourists, and developing land, sea, and air infrastructure. This comprehensive approach will not only protect Bali’s environment and culture but also promise a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all visitors.
Potential Impact on Bali's Tourism
I believe the introduction of the Bali Tourist Tax won't significantly affect tourist numbers, even for budget travellers, as the additional cost is relatively small.
Overall, I do hope the tax will help improve major things like waste management, and help build out more sustainable infrastructure and conservation for nature and the Balinese culture as it's intended to. However, also being realistic that visible changes may be slow. I am unsure if it will have a direct impact on tourists to be more responsible and mindful of their environmental and cultural impact.
Book Your Trip To Bali
Book Your Flight
I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to Bali.
Book Your Hotels & Villas
My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com, as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings.
Book Your Tours & Activities
I like finding and pre-booking tours with Get Your Guide and Viator. You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities.
Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees
I highly recommend getting a Wise account to withdraw money in Indonesia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Indonesian rupiah. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to.
Stay Connected Anywhere
Getting an eSIM card from Airalo eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees.
Don't Go Without Travel Insurance
Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo, my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a Breathing Travel reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased!
Bali Tourist Tax – Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to pay the Bali Tourist Tax?
Yes, all foreign visitors to Bali are required to pay the new Bali Tourist Tax. This tourist levy is specific to visiting Bali and does not apply if you are travelling to other destinations within Indonesia.
How much is the Bali Tourist Tax?
The Bali tourism levy is a one-time fee of approximately US$10/A$15 per person. This fee is payable online via the Love Bali website or upon arrival in Bali. It is not required for travel to other parts of Indonesia.
Are there any tourism tax exceptions?
Certain visa holders are exempt from the new tourism tax, including those with Diplomatic and Official Visas, crew members and holders of KITAS (temporary stay permits), KITAP (permanent stay permits) as well as student visas.
Where do I pay the Bali Tourist Tax?
You can pay the Bali Tourist Tax online through the official Bali Tourism Website. This tax is separate from the e-Visa on Arrival or the Visa on Arrival. Alternatively, you can pay the tax upon entering Bali at the international airport and harbours.
What is the Love Bali Movement?
The Love Bali Movement, launched by the Bali provincial government, aims to promote responsible tourism and environmental care among both foreign visitors and locals. The movement aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving Bali’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and overall environment.
Bali Tourist Tax – Final Words
The Bali Government introduced the tourist tax as a crucial step to promote sustainable tourism practices and preserve the island’s environment and cultural heritage. By viewing this tax as a contribution to maintaining Bali’s natural beauty and cultural richness for future generations, you can support efforts to ensure a sustainable future for the island.
Additionally, by making mindful choices, such as respecting local customs, minimizing waste, and supporting eco-friendly businesses, you can personally do your part as a responsible traveller and love and treat Bali as you would your own home.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!
