The Ultimate Guide to Long-Term Living in Bali

Bali has long been a dream destination for travelers, but in recent years, it’s also become a hotspot for expats and digital nomads seeking a slower pace of life. Whether you're drawn by the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, or the affordability of living, Bali has something for everyone. If you're thinking about making the move, here’s everything you need to know about visas, housing, cost of living, and adapting to the Balinese lifestyle.

Visas: How to Stay in Bali Long-Term

Navigating Indonesia's visa system can feel daunting at first, but it’s straightforward once you understand your options:

Visa on Arrival (VOA): Ideal for short stays, the VOA is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days.

Social-Cultural Visa (B211A): Perfect for those staying 2-6 months. This visa requires sponsorship, which many visa agents can help you with.

KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit): For expats planning to stay a year or more, the KITAS is essential. It’s commonly used by those working, retiring, or starting businesses in Bali.

Digital Nomad Visa (Coming Soon): Indonesia is currently working on a visa tailored for remote workers, which could make long-term stays even easier.

Pro Tip: Work with a local visa agent to handle paperwork and renewals—worth every penny.

Housing: Finding Your Perfect Bali Home

Bali’s housing market offers something for every budget, from modest guesthouses to luxurious villas. Here are your main options:

Guesthouses: Affordable and great for short-term stays, these typically cost $200–$500 per month.

Apartments: Available in urban areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Denpasar, with monthly rents ranging from $300–$700.

Villas: If you’re dreaming of private pools and tropical gardens, villas start at around $800 per month and can go up to $5,000 for high-end properties.

Tips for Renting:

• Use the website https://www.balivillahub.com/ to find accommodation.
• Ask locals or expats for recommendations on trusted landlords and rental agencies.
• Negotiate! Landlords often expect some haggling, especially for long-term leases.

Cost of Living: What to Expect

One of Bali’s biggest draws is its affordability. While your lifestyle will dictate your monthly expenses, here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

• Rent: $300–$1,500 per month, depending on location and housing type.
• Food: Eating at local warungs (small eateries) costs as little as $2 per meal, while dining at Western-style restaurants ranges from $10–$30 per meal.
• Transportation: Renting a scooter is the most popular choice, costing $50–$70 per month. Gas is incredibly cheap, around $1 per liter.
• Utilities and Internet: Electricity, water, and Wi-Fi will set you back about $100–$150 monthly.
• Health Insurance: Expats often choose international plans, starting at $50 per month.

On average, a comfortable lifestyle costs around $1,200–$2,000 per month.

Adapting to the Balinese Lifestyle

Moving to Bali is more than a change of scenery—it’s a chance to embrace a new way of life. Here are some ways to settle in and make the most of it:

Learn the Basics of Bahasa Indonesia: Even a few words like terima kasih (thank you) and selamat pagi (good morning) can go a long way in connecting with locals.

Respect Local Customs: Bali is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions. Always dress modestly at temples and participate respectfully in ceremonies.

Drive Safely: Traffic in Bali can be chaotic, so take time to get comfortable riding a scooter or consider hiring a driver.

Build a Community: Join expat meetups, yoga classes, or coworking spaces like Dojo Bali and Outpost to make friends and network.

Embrace Slow Living: Bali’s pace is slower than most Western cities. Don’t rush—let yourself adjust to jam karet (“rubber time”), the relaxed approach to schedules.

Final Thoughts

Long-term living in Bali is as rewarding as it is transformative. From the serene beaches to the warm hospitality of its people, Bali offers a lifestyle that’s hard to find anywhere else. As long as you plan well, respect the culture, and stay open to new experiences, you’ll find your own version of paradise on this magical island.

Are you ready to take the leap? 🌴

Check out www.balivillahub.com for long term accommodation rentals!