How to Live Permanently in Bali as a Foreigner

Moving to Bali for the long term is an exciting decision that brings lifestyle change, cultural richness, and practical challenges. This guide explains the main visa paths, the step-by-step application process, routes to permanent residency, budgeting expectations, and common legal pitfalls so you can make informed choices and avoid costly mistakes.

Comparing long-term visa options for Bali residency

Choosing the right long-term visa shapes daily life in Bali more than any other decision. Below is a concise comparison of the main paths to extended residence with practical notes on eligibility, duration, work rights, and the route to permanent status.

Limited stay permit ITAS KITAS

ITAS (limited stay permit) and KITAS (temporary stay card) refer to the standard temporary residence framework for workers, family dependents, and sponsored foreigners. These permits are typically issued for six to twelve months and can be renewed annually, often for up to five years, provided sponsorship remains valid. A work-based KITAS requires a local employer to secure a work permit; spouse and dependent KITAS variants require proof of relationship and a local sponsor.

Second home and retirement visas

The retirement visa targets applicants aged fifty-five and older who can demonstrate steady pension income or savings and have confirmed accommodation in Bali. It generally grants one-year residency that is renewable and does not permit local employment. The second home option is aimed at long-term residents who meet asset or income thresholds and who want multi-year stays with fewer restrictions than a tourist route, though employment with local companies remains regulated.

Remote worker visa and path to permanent residency

Remote worker visas allow residents to live in Bali while performing work for overseas employers without entering the Indonesian labor market. These visas typically cover stays of several months to a year and do not automatically lead to permanent status. For permanent residency, KITAP (permanent residence card) eligibility commonly requires five continuous years on qualifying permits or specific family ties to an Indonesian national.

Weigh eligibility, work rights, renewal terms, and the expected path to KITAP when deciding which option fits your goals. With a clearer sense of the options, the next section outlines the step-by-step process to secure your chosen permit.

Step-by-step process to secure a long-term stay visa in Bali

Securing a long-term stay visa requires organised steps and disciplined documentation. The following sequence guides you from choosing the correct permit to arriving in Bali and maintaining legal status.

Choose the right permit and prepare core documents

Decide whether you need a work-based KITAS, a spouse-sponsored permit, a retirement visa, or a remote worker option. Gather a passport with at least six months validity, recent passport-style photos, a certified copy of your birth certificate, and any relevant civil documents such as a marriage certificate or employment contract. Obtain a police clearance from your home country and a basic health certificate from an accredited clinic when required by the visa type.

Secure a sponsor and submit the application

For most long-term permits you will need a local sponsor, which may be an employer, an Indonesian spouse, or a registered company. Your sponsor files the initial application with immigration and provides a sponsorship letter and relevant company permits if applicable. Applications are usually lodged through the local immigration office or by the sponsor using the online system, then processed at the consulate if you apply from abroad.

Arrival registration, biometric steps, and renewals

On arrival, complete immigration registration and any mandatory biometric checks within the first week if instructed. Keep originals of all documents and register with the local immigration office to receive your residence card. Long-term permits require timely renewals, often annually, and after five continuous years you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. The next section explains how permanent residency is typically obtained.

Follow each step methodically and keep copies of every submission to reduce delays. If you prefer professional assistance, Balivillahub specialises in long-term stay logistics and document preparation to help ensure compliance with local requirements.

How to obtain permanent residency in Indonesia (KITAP and ITAP)

Understanding the difference between ITAP and KITAP is important when planning for permanent residency. ITAP (permanent stay permit) is the formal permit granted by immigration, and KITAP (permanent residence card) is the physical card issued to the holder once ITAP is approved.

There are a few established routes to permanent residency, such as holding a qualifying temporary permit for five consecutive years or having family ties to an Indonesian national after the required period on a temporary permit. Each route requires consistent compliance with immigration rules and continued local sponsorship where applicable.

• Eligibility and common routes Evidence of continuous legal stay on a temporary permit is central for standard applications. Spouse sponsorship frequently allows a faster path when marriage and residency requirements are met.
• Core documents to prepare Provide a valid passport, copies of prior KITAS records, a sponsor letter from an employer or relative, certified marriage documents when relevant, recent passport photos, and proof of address in Indonesia.
• Medical and police clearances Obtain a health certificate from an accredited clinic and a police clearance from your country of origin with required legalisation and Indonesian translations if requested by immigration.
• Submission and biometric steps Your sponsor or agent lodges the application at the immigration office; you then attend biometric registration and any interview appointments scheduled by immigration.
• Processing time and card issuance Expect formal processing to take around eight to twelve weeks for a complete file; the KITAP card is typically issued with multi-year validity and subject to renewal rules.

Keep organised copies of every submission and track renewals to protect your permanent status. If you want help preparing documents or managing the application, a specialist service can streamline the process and reduce avoidable errors.

Budgeting and cost of living for permanent life in Bali

Planning a sustainable monthly budget starts with clear line items and realistic prices. USD (United States dollar) 1,100 per month is a reasonable estimate for a modest solo resident in a non‑tourist neighbourhood. This example covers a one-bedroom rental with private entrance at USD 450 per month, utilities and fast internet at USD 75, groceries and household supplies at USD 200, daily local meals and occasional café visits at USD 200, scooter fuel and maintenance at USD 40, and basic health visits and insurance top-up at USD 135. A comfortable couple living in a well-appointed two-bedroom villa should budget around USD 2,500 per month to include villa rent at USD 1,200, reliable internet and utilities at USD 120, groceries and dining at USD 500, weekly cleaning and a part-time driver at USD 300, and private health insurance at USD 380.

Beyond monthly expenses, prepare for one-time and irregular costs that affect cash flow. Initial visa and sponsorship processing for a long-term stay typically totals about USD 700 when including agent fees and government charges. Annual KITAS renewals are commonly around USD 350 per year in combined fees. Setting up security deposits and utility connections usually requires about USD 400. If you plan to import a vehicle or hire full-time staff, add USD 800 to USD 1,500 as a buffer. Keep an emergency reserve equal to three months of your targeted budget and review costs annually as visa rules and service prices change. For personalised cost planning and a month-by-month projection tailored to your situation, consult a specialist service.

Legal risks, common pitfalls and practical tips for settling in Bali

Moving to Bali long term is rewarding but requires attention to legal detail from day one. Many expats underestimate immigration rules, tax obligations, and property restrictions, which can convert a smooth transition into a costly problem. This section highlights the highest-risk areas and gives practical steps to reduce exposure and stay compliant.

Key compliance areas to prioritise

Begin with visa compliance and sponsorship rules because most long-term permits depend on an active sponsor and timely renewals. Work only under the permissions granted by your visa and avoid informal employment arrangements. Taxes are the second major area to address: if you earn money in Indonesia, register for a tax identity number and keep clear records of local income. Property is the third area to handle cautiously: foreigners cannot hold freehold land, so always use vetted lease agreements and notarised contracts when securing long-term housing.

• Verify your sponsor and contracts Confirm employer or sponsor permits are current and ask for copies of the company registration or spouse identification before submitting your application.
• Keep visa dates visible and renew early Mark expiry dates and start renewal processes at least four weeks ahead to avoid fines and interrupted residency.
• Avoid informal property ownership schemes Steer clear of nominee ownership offers and insist on professionally drafted lease agreements registered with a notary.
• Document financial and medical coverage Maintain proof of health insurance and bank statements to support residency applications and renewals.

Treat every legal document as vital and keep both originals and certified translations. For tailored checks and step-by-step support, consider engaging a professional to review your file and prepare submissions to reduce the chance of common mistakes. For personalised assistance with permits, documentation, and local compliance, visit https://www.balivillahub.com/en to arrange a consultation and get practical guidance for your move. Staying proactive saves time, money, and stress while you build a stable life in Bali.