What is the new rule in Bali?

Bali has introduced a set of clearer and more consistently enforced rules for visitors. The changes focus on a modest tourist levy, a required digital arrival process, updated visa and entry checks for 2026, and new measures to protect the island’s environment and culture. This article explains each change, how it affects travellers, and what accommodation providers and tour operators must do to comply.

How the new tourist levy affects your trip

The new tourist levy is a modest per‑person charge introduced to fund conservation and infrastructure projects on the island. It is set at approximately US$ (United States dollar)9.24 per international visitor and generally applies once per stay for most foreign tourists.

Payment is required before or shortly after arrival and is processed through official entry channels or by licensed accommodation and tour operators. Payments are commonly taken via the All Indonesia arrival app (application) or at airport kiosks and may also be accepted by your hotel at check in. Understanding how it is collected will help you avoid delays and unexpected charges.

• Budget impact and planning — The levy adds a predictable extra cost of about US$ (United States dollar)10 per person, so include it when calculating your trip budget and when comparing accommodation options.
• How payment is collected — Expect in‑app (or kiosk or hotel) payment options and check whether your booking includes the levy to avoid duplicate charges.
• Receipt and proof of payment — Keep the payment receipt or a confirmation screenshot handy; immigration staff may request proof at entry or departure.
• Effect on bookings and refunds — Some villas and operators include the levy in invoices while others collect it on arrival; confirm with your host whether the fee is prepaid.
• Exemptions and special cases — Certain visa categories and very young children may be exempt; verify your status in advance if you think an exemption applies.

In practice the levy rarely complicates travel if you prepare in advance. Confirm payment options with your accommodation or booking agent and keep documentation accessible to ensure a smooth arrival and departure. To learn whether your reservation already covers the levy, check with your villa host or Bali Villa Hub.

Using the All Indonesia arrival app for border clearance

The All Indonesia arrival app (application) is the official digital tool used to submit arrival card information and to process the passenger levy for foreign visitors. Completing the form before arrival speeds up immigration and reduces queues at the airport.

Information to have ready

Prepare a clear photograph or scan of your passport biodata page, and note your flight number and scheduled arrival time. You will also need your full accommodation address in Bali and a working phone number or email to receive the confirmation. Enter all details exactly as they appear on your passport to avoid delays.

How to complete the form and make payment

Open the app and follow the guided screens to enter personal details, travel itinerary and contact information. The app will prompt payment for the tourist levy during the process and accepts major international cards or in‑app payment methods. After payment you will receive a digital receipt and a QR (quick response) code which immigration officers may scan.

What immigration officers will check

At the border present your passport and the app confirmation if requested. Officers will verify passport details, flight record and proof of levy payment. If you use autogate facilities, ensure your passport biometric data matches the entry shown in the app. Completing the All Indonesia arrival app (application) in advance is the simplest way to ensure a smooth arrival.

If you need help confirming that your villa reservation is recorded correctly or want practical advice about the process, contact your accommodation or Bali Villa Hub for assistance before you travel.

Updated visa and entry requirements for 2026

Travelers arriving in Bali in 2026 must meet clearer and more consistently enforced entry requirements. Ensure your passport has at least six months validity from the date of arrival and one blank page for stamping. Immigration officers will expect a return or onward ticket and a verifiable accommodation address for your first night in Bali, recorded exactly as shown in your booking confirmation.

For short leisure visits most visitors may use the visa on arrival option, which grants an initial stay of 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days at a local immigration office by paying the prescribed fee. If you plan to stay longer or enter for work, study or volunteering you must obtain the correct e visa (electronic visa) before travel. Engaging in work or volunteer activities without the proper visa can result in fines, detention and deportation.

The All Indonesia arrival app (application) is now a standard part of border processing. Complete the arrival card in the app prior to landing to speed up immigration and to process the tourist levy where applicable. Autogate access is available for eligible biometric passport holders who pre‑register their details and follow the app instructions. Routine health screening related to the pandemic is not required for most travellers, but carry any recent medical documentation if you have specific health needs.

Keep electronic and printed copies of your visa receipts, flight details and accommodation confirmation with you at all times. If you prefer personalised help, confirm the visa type required and check pre‑arrival steps with your accommodation provider or with Bali Villa Hub well before departure to avoid surprises on arrival.

New rules to encourage eco friendly and respectful tourism

Alongside entry and levy changes, Bali has introduced clearer rules to protect natural areas and preserve local culture. These measures combine mandatory practices and locally enforced bylaws that visitors must follow when using beaches, temples and community spaces. Knowing and following these expectations helps you enjoy the island while avoiding fines and conflicts with residents.

Key obligations for visitors

Visitors should follow visible signage and the instructions of rangers or community patrols at protected sites. Many coastal and forest zones require guests to stay on marked trails, avoid stepping on coral and refrain from feeding wildlife. Temple etiquette includes wearing a sarong and sash at sacred sites and observing quiet, respectful behaviour during ceremonies.

• Reduce single‑use plastics — Several regencies now ban single‑use plastic bags, straws and cutlery in public markets and popular beaches, so bring a reusable bottle and a compact bag to avoid last‑minute purchases.
• Proper waste handling — Hotels and villas are required to separate organic from recyclable waste and to use licensed waste collectors; sort your rubbish and avoid disposing of waste in rivers or roadside bins.
• Respect noise and party rules — Local neighbourhoods enforce quiet hours from 23:00 to 07:00 to protect residents and wildlife, so keep loud gatherings small and check venue permits for late events.
• Permits for drones and protected items — Drone use in many areas requires prior permission, and buying or possessing coral shells or wildlife products is prohibited; verify what is allowed before you film or shop.

These rules are practical steps intended to protect Bali for future visitors and local communities. Confirm specific expectations with your accommodation provider and ask Bali Villa Hub for tips on eco‑friendly choices and compliant activities before you travel.

What hotels and tour operators must do to comply

Hotels and tour operators must adapt operational procedures to meet Bali’s regulatory requirements while maintaining a smooth guest experience. Compliance focuses on correct collection of the tourist levy, verification of visa and arrival data, environmental practices and clear guest communication. Implementing these measures promptly avoids fines and reputational risk.

Registration, payment and arrival checks

Ensure every international guest is registered through the All Indonesia arrival app (application) or via a documented alternative at check‑in. Collect the tourist levy of US$ (United States dollar)9.24 per person when applicable and issue a digital receipt with a transaction ID that guests can show to immigration. Verify passport validity of at least six months and confirm return or onward travel before finalising arrival records.

Operational and environmental obligations

Adopt mandated waste separation by providing labelled bins for organic and recyclable materials and contract a licensed waste collector with written proof. Display clear signage about single‑use plastic bans and enforce local quiet hours. For tours, obtain permits for protected areas and arrange licensed guides for sensitive sites. Prohibit guest purchase or display of protected wildlife items and check drone permits before any aerial filming.

Staff training, documentation and guest communication

Train front desk and tour staff to handle visa queries, levy payments and app support, and keep written training records for inspection. Maintain guest files for at least 12 months including levy receipts, arrival confirmations and copies of permits. Provide guests with a concise welcome sheet explaining levy payment proof requirements, local etiquette and emergency contacts.

Compliance is manageable when it is planned and documented. Coordinate with your property manager and reach out to Bali Villa Hub for practical guidance, templates and support to simplify reporting and guest communications.

Preparing documents and answers to common arrival questions

Before you travel, assemble printed and digital copies of a small, clearly labelled packet. Include your passport biodata page with at least six months validity and one blank page, a printed copy of your confirmed return or onward ticket, and the exact accommodation address with booking reference and host name. Save screenshots of your All Indonesia arrival app (application) confirmation and the tourist levy receipt and keep them accessible offline on your phone and on paper. Carry your visa approval or visa on arrival confirmation and any supporting documents for longer stays. Pack a recent bank statement or a credit card showing recent transactions in case immigration asks for proof of funds. If you take prescribed medication bring the prescription and a brief medical note, and ensure your phone is charged and you have a power bank so you can present digital receipts on arrival.

Practice short, clear responses to the questions you are most likely to hear at immigration and from airline staff. For purpose of visit state, "I am here for tourism," and show your itinerary. For length of stay state the exact number of nights and present the return ticket. For accommodation answer with the full address and booking reference and add the host name if asked. If asked about levy payment show the app receipt or a printed confirmation. If anything is missing contact your accommodation immediately and, if needed, contact Bali Villa Hub for assistance before you are required to provide further documents. Calm, confident answers backed by the documents above will make border clearance straightforward.

If you want practical help confirming levy payments, verifying visa steps or ensuring your reservation details are recorded correctly, visit https://www.balivillahub.com/en for assistance and clear guidance before you travel.