‘Pay up': Warning for tourists headed to Bali
The island introduced the 150,000 IDR ($15) Tourism Tax Levy fee in February last year with plans to use the money to help protect Bali's culture and customs, as well as protecting the island's natural environment and sustainable tourism practices.
Data from the Bali Provincial Government revealed the province received IDR 168 billion in revenue between January and June 2025 – about $A16 million.
Bali governor Wayan Koster said on one record-breaking day, Bali received IDR 933 million – $A87,000.
According to The Bali Sun, he told reporters if this trend continues, the potential annual revenue is estimated to reach IDR 340 billion.
Aussies still make up a huge chunk of overseas visitors, with travel data shared by Ngurah Rai Immigration revealing 344,639 Aussies visited the island in January to March.
However, while the island continues to attract plenty of tourists, in turn boosting its economy, not everyone is contributing to the tourism tax, with as few as 35 per cent of visitors having paid the mandatory fee by the end of the first year of the policy.
According to Time magazine, Mr Koster said those who fail to pay the fee may face consequences ranging from being denied entry to attractions, fines, or even deportation.
He said he is working with a range of stakeholders, including in the hotel sector, to ensure the funds are spent in ways that benefit Bali residents, the environment, and tourists.
Tourists are encouraged to pay the fee before arriving to Bali via Love Bali – part of the official government website.
Travellers will need their passport number and email address handy. There is also the option to select 'Group' if travelling with family or friends. Each member will then be emailed a unique QR code.
The payment can also be made on arrival at Bali's main airport – I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. However, some have complained it adds an extra step in the arrivals process.
The goal of the tourism tax is to help the government 'preserve the integrity and balance of Bali's nature, its people, and their culture'.
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9 News
2 days ago
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News.com.au
2 days ago
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It's entirely possible that I was woken by my snoring again, but I don't know for sure, so let's just pretend it was the bang of a scooter backfiring nearby … yes, let's go with that. 6pm - After a quick shower, I catch a Grab (Indonesian version of Uber) scooter to La Plancha, a beach bar famous for its colourful bean bags and bright umbrellas. With a cocktail in hand, I watch the sunset. 7pm - I arrive at MoonLite Kitchen and Bar, a rooftop restaurant overlooking the beach, for dinner. 9pm - Back at Villa Vienna, I head upstairs to the cinema room to watch a movie. 11pm - Bedtime. My thoughts Before my recent trip, I'd never actually considered staying in a villa in Bali, mostly because there are so many amazing hotels over there. But I can assure you that will change from now on, particularly when travelling with a large posse. And it appears I'm not alone. 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