Bali Sets New Rules For Foreign Tourists, Here's What You Need To Know

Bali has long captivated global travelers, drawing them in with its warmth, stunning beaches, and rich, vibrant culture. However, this very popularity has presented significant challenges to the island in recent years, impacting its tourism sector. Concerns raised by locals and highlighted by both international and domestic media have become increasingly prevalent.

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The issues facing Bali extend beyond overtourism, environmental damage, and strain on infrastructure. A concerning trend has emerged with some international visitors behaving inappropriately during their time on the island. Notable instances include tourists entering sacred temples without proper attire or disrupting the solemnity of Melasti ceremonies. Furthermore, traffic violations committed by foreign tourists have become a growing concern.

The Balinese Government's Efforts to Address the Issues

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Last March, the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, issued Circular Letter number 7 of 2025 concerning New Regulations for Foreign Tourists While in Bali. Governor Koster stated that this circular letter refines previous regulations issued in 2023. This updated policy aims to cultivate a tourism industry in Bali that is rooted in its culture, emphasizes quality, and upholds dignity.

Obligations for Foreign Tourists

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• To respect and honor places of worship, traditions, arts, culture, and the local wisdom of the Balinese people.

• To dress and behave respectfully when visiting sacred sites, tourist attractions, and public areas, and during all activities in Bali.

• To pay the tourist levy electronically before departure or during their stay in Bali via the Love Bali website.

• To be accompanied by a licensed tourist guide.

• To exchange foreign currency only at authorized money changers, banks, or non-bank institutions displaying an official permit number and the Bank Indonesia QR code logo.

• To make payments using the Indonesian Standard QR code and transact using the Indonesian Rupiah.

• To comply with Indonesian traffic laws, including possessing a valid international or national driver's license, driving responsibly and wearing appropriate clothing, using a helmet, obeying traffic signs, not exceeding passenger capacity, and not being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

• To use official transportation services, and only utilize licensed car rental or official transportation providers.

• To stay in legally licensed accommodations.

Prohibitions for Foreign Tourists

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• Entering sacred areas of temples, except for the purpose of prayer, and only while wearing appropriate attire and not during menstruation.

• Climbing sacred trees.

• Engaging in behavior that could desecrate sacred sites, such as climbing holy sites and taking photos with inappropriate clothing or without clothing.

• Littering or polluting the environment.

• Using single-use plastics.

• Using coarse language, behaving disrespectfully, causing disturbances, or acting aggressively, either directly or indirectly.

• Working or conducting business activities without official documents issued by the relevant authorities.

• Engaging in illegal activities and trading.

Mandatory Tourist Levy

As mentioned above, foreign tourists are now required to pay a levy of IDR 150,000 before departing for or upon arrival in Bali. This payment is made electronically through the official Love Bali Website and is dedicated to supporting Bali's environmental protection efforts and the preservation of its cultural sites.

Consequences for Tourists Who Violate the Regulations

The Balinese government will take serious action against foreign tourists who violate these new regulations. A special task force has been established to monitor compliance, and violations may result in fines, imprisonment, or being barred from entering popular tourist destinations in Bali. To avoid penalties and legal repercussions for inappropriate behavior, foreign tourists are strongly urged to adhere to the rules.

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These new regulations represent the Balinese government's commitment to revitalizing responsible and sustainable tourism. It is also a crucial step for the government to safeguard Bali's natural beauty and cultural heritage. By respecting the applicable rules, including honoring sacred sites, obeying traffic laws, and paying the tourist levy, it is hoped that visiting foreign tourists can contribute to the harmonious experience of traveling in Bali.