More than a year has passed since the tourist tax was introduced in Bali, yet collecting it remains a challenge for the island’s authorities. Out of the 6.3 million foreign tourists who visited Bali in the first 12 months, only 2.1 million paid the $10 fee — that’s just one in three. However, this may soon change, with more revenue expected to flow into the local budget from international visitors.
Officials continue to actively discuss ways to improve the situation, but they are still hesitant to make the payment mandatory or link it to visa checks at passport control. Yet without such measures, it seems unlikely that foreigners will feel compelled to pay the 150,000 IDR (around $9) “island development” fee.
For now, Bali authorities have once again decided to revise the tourist tax system. The new changes aim not only to make it harder to avoid payment but also to ensure that the collected funds are used “optimally and transparently.”
Bali’s Regional Representative Council has approved amendments to Regional Regulation No. 6 of 2023 concerning fees for foreign tourists. Since its implementation, this tax has remained one of the most debated topics on the island.
Key changes include:
- Stronger enforcement: Authorities plan to collaborate with third-party operators to ensure all tourists pay the 150,000 IDR fee.
- Transparency of spending: The funds are to be used in ways that benefit the local population as much as possible.
One of the biggest issues so far has been the lack of information — many tourists simply don’t know where or how to pay. And with no penalties for non-payment, there’s little incentive beyond a sense of moral responsibility.
Senator Suwirta stated: “The PDI Perjuangan faction and the Bali Provincial Council support amendments to the tourist fee regulation if they help provide legal clarity, harmony, and the achievement of regulatory goals.”
Gerindra-PSI faction member Kade Darma Susila proposed creating an “independent oversight body” to monitor the collection and use of the funds.
Bali’s Vice Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta confirmed that the government will cooperate with third-party platforms to streamline the payment process and improve transparency.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies Association (ASITA) announced that at the request of Governor Wayan Koster, it will strengthen monitoring efforts at airports and seaports.
ASITA representative Putu Winastra added: “We will increase the number of informational signs at key points, including the airport and major tourist attractions, to remind visitors to pay the fee.”
In the coming months, more changes may be introduced to simplify the payment process further.
What does this mean for tourists?
According to authorities, travelers to Bali should now expect to be asked more frequently to show their QR code proving they paid the tax — especially at popular spots, airports, and ports.
The fee can currently be paid via the LoveBali website, its mobile app, or upon arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport. Authorities are working to make the process even more convenient.
For now, promises to verify the tax payment during check-in before flying to Bali remain just that — promises.
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