Bali has a new policy regarding the tourism sector. Starting from February 14, 2024, this new regulation requires international tourists to pay a mandatory levy of 150,000 IDR or around 10 USD for each visit. The Indonesian government calls this policy as Foreign Tourist Levy Program.
According to the Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, Tjokorda Bagus Pemayun, the money collected will be used for cultural preservation, conservation of the natural environment, and to improve tourism facilities and infrastructure in Bali.
Online Method to Pay Foreign Tourist Levy in Bali
So how the foreign tourists pay the levy for their visit to Bali? To avoid illegal action from irresponsible parties, foreign tourists are advised to register first on the “Love Bali” application which is available in Android and iOS. Another online registration method is through https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id.
It is recommended for tourists to complete the payment before arriving in Bali to streamline their entry process at the airport or seaport. The following steps are quite easy as shown below.
- After downloading the app or filling in relevant data on the website, Love Bali system (both the app and website) require you to select a payment method. Start from credit card, bank transfer, virtual account, or QRIS.
- Upon a successful transaction, the Love Bali will generate a digital payment confirmation, serving as proof of payment.
- In cases where payment cannot be made through both Love Bali systems, foreign tourists can opt for cashless payments at bank counters available at Ngurah Rai Airports and Benoa Harbor. Accepted payment methods include debit/credit cards or Electronic Data Capture (EDC).
- Tourists will then receive a printed proof of payment, which must be retained throughout their stay. This proof of payment will undergo scanning during the document inspection process at the arrival gate.
Transparency of Foreign Tourist Levy in Bali
Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, Tjokorda Bagus Pemayun promises transparency in this foreign tourist levy, including the utilization that will be announced on Love Bali apps. Furthermore, he added that the security of Love Bali apps is guaranteed since the apps had undergone testing conducted by Indonesia’s Cyber Agency during the trial period.
Bali Governor, I Wayan Koster and the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno both agree that when executed appropriately, the retribution fee will not negatively impact the influx of foreign tourists to Bali.
Foreign Tourist Levy Exemption
When it comes to this mandatory fee, the Love Bali app and the official website of the Bali provincial government serve not only as tools for tourist registration and payment but also for understanding which visa categories are exempt from this charge. The exempt categories include:
1. Diplomatic and official visa holders
2. Crew members of transportation vehicles
3. Holders of Temporary Stay Permits (KITAS) or Permanent Stay Permits (KITAP)
4. Holders of family unification visas
5. Holders of student visas
6. Holders of Golden Visas
7. Holders of business-specific visas
However, to qualify for this exemption, applications must be submitted at least 5 days before arriving in Bali to ensure a smooth entry for those who meet the specified criteria.
Since the introduction of the policy in mid-2023, the Bali Provincial Government and Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism have initiated socialization campaigns with different stakeholders. They also carried out simulations of the collection process of the foreign tourist levy. Impressively, the anticipated time required for each tourist is a mere 23 seconds, showcasing the efficiency of the process.
Plan Your Visit
And what do you think about the foreign tourist levy? Do you have any plans to visit Bali? Have you started to file the visa application? Or are you still unsure what type of visa that suitable for you? Don’t hesitate to ask your questions about Indonesia’s immigration issues. Our professional team has been experienced in providing personalized solutions to ensure you have stress-free stay in Indonesia. Contact us today and let’s plan your visit to Bali.
