Planning a trip to our beautiful island? There is a new, simple step for all international visitors. Bali recently introduced a tourism tax. It is an important contribution to preserving the island’s culture and environment. Some people feel confused about how it works. However, the process is actually very simple.
This guide will walk you through the levy. We will explain what it is and why it exists. We will also show you the easiest way to pay it. This will ensure a seamless and stress-free start to your Bali holiday.
What is the Bali Tourism Levy?
First, let’s understand this new levy. It is more than just a tax. It is a collective investment in the future of the island we all love.
- The Amount: It is a one-time fee of IDR 150,000. That is about $10 USD per person. You pay this for each visit to Bali.
- The Purpose: The funds help with vital projects. These projects preserve Bali’s unique cultural heritage. They also protect its beautiful natural environment. By paying the levy, you are helping to keep Bali beautiful for generations to come.
- Who Needs to Pay: The levy applies to all international tourists. This includes children of all ages. You must pay if you enter Bali from overseas.
How to Pay: The Official and Easiest Way
Many people talk about different payment methods online. The official and safest method is to pay online before you travel. This is what we recommend. The official platform for this is the “Love Bali” system.
- A Step-by-Step Guide to Paying Online:
- Visit the Official Website or App: Go to the official government website. It is the only one. The address is lovebali.baliprov.go.id. You can also download the “Love Bali” app on your smartphone. Please be careful of unofficial websites. They may try to charge you an extra fee.
- Enter Your Details: You will need to input your name. It should appear as it does on your passport. You will also need your passport number, email address, and arrival date.
- Make the Payment: You can pay easily and securely online. You can use a credit card like a Visa or Mastercard.
- Receive Your Voucher: Once you pay, the system will send you a digital levy voucher. It has a QR code. They will send it to the email address you provided.
What to Do with Your Voucher
You are all set once you have your voucher! Here is what to do with it:
- Save It to Your Phone: Take a screenshot of the voucher. It has a QR code. Save it to your phone’s photo library. This ensures you can access it instantly upon arrival. It works even without an internet connection.
- Have it Ready: Officials may check your QR code at checkpoints. Have it ready. The checkpoints are at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) or maybe at other places around the island.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
The Bali government takes this new Bali tourism tax very seriously. There are checks and enforcement measures in place. Tourists who have not paid the levy may face inconveniences.
According to official sources, here’s what could happen:
- Entry Denial: Officials may scan the QR code voucher at the entrance of major tourist spots. If you do not have a valid voucher, you may be asked to pay. You could also be denied entry.
- Issues Upon Departure: Checks may also happen at the airport when you are leaving. You may be required to pay the levy and any fines. This must happen before you can depart.
- Reminders and Warnings: The Love Bali system or tourism officials may send you reminders or warnings during your stay.
Ultimately, paying the levy is a mandatory obligation. To ensure your holiday is completely stress-free, it is highly recommended to pay the Bali tourism tax online before you arrive. Keep the voucher saved on your phone to avoid any issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I pay at the airport upon arrival? Yes, payment counters may be available. However, the official recommendation is to pay in advance. This ensures a faster and smoother process through immigration and customs.
- Is this the same as a Visa on Arrival (VoA)? No. The Bali tourism tax is a separate requirement from your visa. You must still follow the visa rules for your nationality.
- Do I have to pay if I am visiting other parts of Indonesia? The levy is specifically for international tourists. It applies only when you enter the province of Bali.
Paying the Bali tourism tax is a simple and quick online process. It makes a real contribution to protecting the island. By taking a few minutes to do it, you can start your holiday with peace of mind. You will know you’ve played a part in preserving the magic of Bali.
