Since February 14, 2024, Bali has implemented a mandatory tax of IDR 150,000 (approximately $10 USD) for all foreign tourists. This measure, known as the « Bali Levy, » aims to fund environmental and cultural preservation. But don’t worry: for less than $10, you’re contributing to protecting one of the world’s most beautiful islands – and Bali remains more than ever an exceptional destination with unbeatable value for money. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your 2026 trip.
Bali’s Tourist Tax: What’s New in 2026
Key Facts
According to Balinese authorities, this tax applies to all international visitors, adults and children alike. The tax is valid for one entry: if you leave Indonesia and return, you’ll need to pay again.
Who Needs to Pay?
- All foreign tourists (all nationalities)
- Children, regardless of age
- Travelers in transit for more than 24 hours
How to Pay: Step-by-Step Guide
Option 1: Online Payment (Recommended)
The easiest and fastest way is to pay online before your departure via the official Love Bali website or mobile app.
Steps:
- Visit lovebali.baliprov.go.id
- Enter your personal and passport information
- Pay by credit card (Visa, Mastercard accepted)
- Receive your confirmation QR code by email
- Present this QR code upon arrival at Denpasar airport
Option 2: Payment at the Airport
Counters are available at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. However, expect long queues, especially during peak hours (evening international flight arrivals).
Accepted Payment Methods:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- Cash in Indonesian rupiah (IDR)
Where Does Your Money Go?
Funding Bali’s Preservation
The tax revenue is officially allocated to two major programs according to official Indonesian sources:
In Practice:
- Waste management: Bali produces over 4,000 tons of waste daily. The tax funds new sorting and recycling facilities.
- Cultural preservation: Restoration of ancestral temples, support for traditional ceremonies and local artisans.
- Water resource protection: Conservation programs for springs and traditional irrigation systems (Subak).
Why Bali Remains Unmissable in 2026
Don’t Let $10 Stop You!
To put things in perspective: the IDR 150,000 tax is less than the price of a cocktail at a Seminyak beach bar. Here’s why Bali is well worth this investment:
Bali’s Unbeatable Assets
- Exceptional value for money: For the price of an average dinner in Europe, you get a full day in Bali (accommodation + meals + activities)
- Incredible diversity: Volcanoes, coral reefs, terraced rice paddies, ancient temples – all on an island of 140 km
- Legendary hospitality: The Balinese concept of Tri Hita Karana (harmony between humans, nature, and gods) creates a unique atmosphere
- Wellness and spirituality: Yoga, meditation, Balinese massages… Bali is the world capital of wellbeing
Typical Budget for Bali in 2026 (Tax Included)
How Much Does a Bali Trip Cost?
The $10 tax is a one-time payment on arrival. Its impact on your total budget is minimal. Here are average daily budgets according to Short Stay Bali:
Backpacker Budget ($35-50/day)
- Accommodation: Dorms or guesthouses ($8-15/night)
- Meals: Local warungs ($2-5/meal)
- Transport: Scooter rental ($5/day)
- Activities: Temples, free beaches, hiking
Comfort Budget ($70-120/day)
- Accommodation: 3-4 star hotels or villas ($40-80/night)
- Meals: Mix of local and international restaurants ($10-20/meal)
- Transport: Occasional private driver ($30-50/day)
- Activities: Diving, spas, organized tours
Luxury Budget ($200+/day)
- Accommodation: Private villas with pool ($150+/night)
- Meals: Fine dining, beach clubs ($30-50+/meal)
- Transport: Permanent private driver
- Activities: Exclusive experiences, yacht, helicopter
Must-See Places in Bali
Ubud and the Rice Terraces
Ubud is Bali’s cultural and spiritual heart. The Tegalalang rice terraces (UNESCO-listed) offer spectacular views, while the town is filled with temples, art galleries, and yoga studios. Don’t miss the Monkey Forest and numerous craft workshops.
Iconic Temples
- Tanah Lot: Temple on a sea rock, iconic sunset views
- Uluwatu: Perched on a cliff, Kecak dance performance at dusk
- Tirta Empul: Sacred water temple, Melukat purification ceremony
Best Beaches
- Seminyak: Beach clubs, festive atmosphere, legendary sunsets
- Nusa Penida: Kelingking Beach (the T-Rex), Diamond Beach, crystal-clear waters
- Amed: Black volcanic sand, snorkeling on the USAT Liberty wreck
Practical Tips for 2026
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (April to October) is ideal with little rain and clear skies. Avoid December-January if possible (monsoon + peak season = high prices and rain). May-June and September are perfect: great weather and fewer crowds.
Visa
Most Western travelers are eligible for the Visa on Arrival (VOA):
- Duration: 30 days, renewable once on site
- Cost: IDR 500,000 (~$30 USD)
- Important: Not to be confused with the tourist tax (IDR 150,000) – these are two separate payments
Essential Apps
- Grab / Gojek: Taxis and scooters at fixed prices (avoid negotiations)
- Google Maps: Works perfectly even offline
- Wise / Revolut: Fee-free payments and withdrawals
- Love Bali: Tourist tax payment
Respecting Local Customs
- Wear a sarong when visiting temples (often provided at the entrance)
- Never touch a Balinese person’s head (sacred body part)
- Avoid pointing with your index finger (use your thumb instead)
- Don’t step on offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground
Frequently Asked Questions About Bali’s Tourist Tax
How much is Bali’s tourist tax in 2026?
Bali’s tourist tax costs 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (IDR), approximately $10 USD or 9 euros depending on the exchange rate. This tax has been mandatory for all foreign tourists since February 14, 2024, and remains in effect in 2026.
How do I pay Bali’s tourist tax?
The easiest way is to pay online before your departure on the official website lovebali.baliprov.go.id or via the « Love Bali » app. You’ll receive a QR code by email to present on arrival. You can also pay at Denpasar airport, but queues can be long.
Do children have to pay Bali’s tax?
Yes, Bali’s tourist tax applies to all foreign visitors, regardless of age. Babies and young children must also pay the IDR 150,000, unless they hold a specific visa (child KITAS, for example).
Can I pay the tax at Bali airport?
Yes, payment counters are available at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. However, queues can be very long (30 minutes to 1 hour during peak times). It’s strongly recommended to pay online before arrival to avoid waiting.
Is the tax refundable?
No, Bali’s tourist tax is non-refundable. Once paid, it’s final even if you cancel your trip. Wait until you have confirmed flight tickets before paying the tax online.
Do I have to pay again if I go to the Gili Islands?
The Gili Islands are part of Lombok province (not Bali). However, if you travel from Bali to Lombok/Gili and return directly without leaving Indonesia, you generally don’t have to pay the tax again. Keep your QR code safe. Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are part of Bali, so no additional tax worries for these islands.
What’s the best time to visit Bali?
The dry season from April to October is ideal, with little rain and generally clear skies. May-June and September offer the best balance: great weather, reasonable prices, and fewer crowds. Avoid December-January (monsoon + peak tourist season).
Who is exempt from Bali’s tourist tax?
Certain traveler categories are exempt but must apply 5 days before arrival on the Love Bali website: holders of diplomatic or service visas, KITAS or KITAP holders (residence permits), holders of student or family reunification visas, and « Golden Visa » holders.
Sources
- Love Bali (Official website) – Official tourist tax payment platform
- Short Stay Bali – Complete guide on tax and 2026 entry requirements
- Bali Holiday Secrets – Detailed information on tourist tax
- Cekindo – Legal and fiscal analysis of the Bali Levy
- DWI Tours – Practical guide for tourists
- World Tours – Off-the-beaten-path destinations in Bali
- Finn’s Beach Club – Guide to Bali’s hidden gems
Research conducted on February 2, 2026
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