BALI LAUNCHES NEW TOURIST TAX IN 2024

Hold on to your coconuts, Bali lovers! Starting February 14, 2024, the Island of Gods is slapping on a new tax for tourists. We're talking about the Love Levy—Bali's way of saying, "Hey, let’s keep this island paradise groovy & green AND resolve infrastructure issues”.

HOW MUCH DOES THE NEW TOURIST TAX IN BALI COST?

First things first: let’s talk about money! How much will this tax (levy) be? Well, it will cost you around 10 USD per person (or 150.000IDR). It’s a small price for paradise, really.

WHO HAS TO PAY THE NEW TOURISM TAX IN BALI?

Every tourist, traveling on the VISA ON ARRIVAL VISUM (VOA),has to to pay the tax.

However, not all foreigners entering Bali must pay the tourism levy. There are a number of visa categories that are exempt from paying the fee, this includes diplomatic and official visa holders, conveyance crew, KITAS and KITAP holders, family unification visas, golden and student visa holders, and specific non-tourist visa holders.

Both the tourism tax payment and application for exemption can be applied for up to a month before travel.

WHAT WILL THE NEW TAX BE USED FOR?

So, where's your hard-earned money going? First stop: 'Preserve Heritage.' That means protecting Balinese customs, traditions, arts—the whole cultural shebang. Next on the list is 'Nurture Nature.' Your contribution helps keep Bali's culture and environment as beautiful as that filtered Bali sunset on your Instagram. Last on the agenda: 'Evaluate Your Experience.' They're promising top-notch service and cultural management, so you can travel Bali-style—safe and carefree.

While we're on the topic of where your cash is going, the Acting Governor spilled the (not-so-trashy) beans. The initial funds? They're gearing up to tackle Bali's waste issues. Up to 70% of the money is heading straight to the frontline of the island's battle against waste. Talk about putting your money where your pina colada is!

HOW AND WHEN DO YOU PAY FOR THE NEW BALI TOURISM LEVY?

The tax can be paid at the airport, but the government recommends that tourists visiting Indonesia don’t wait to pay the tourism tax at the airport and instead, make the payment online prior to arrival in Bali.

How? Surf to the Love Bali website (soon the LoveBali app will also be available on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) Next, enter your personal details and choose the payment method. Once paid, the tourism levy voucher will be emailed over and you must then keep this on hand on your smartphone to scan at the checkpoint at Bali Airport and sea ports.