Big change coming for travellers to Bali next month

Travellers heading to the island paradise next month will be in for a big shock as the tourist hotspot brings in its new tax.

A trip to Bali is about to get more expensive as a new tourist tax is introduced next month.

The Indonesian government announced the tax in September in an effort to conserve the island’s natural environment, preserve their culture and improve the quality of services and safety standards experienced by tourists.

Foreign tourists will have to pay 150,000 Indonesia Rupiah, or AUD $14.40 before entering the province from February 14.

It is recommended tourists save some time and pay the tax online before purchasing their flights, although a variety of payment options are available.

A new tourist tax comes into effects for Bali visitors on February 14. Picture Mt. Agung, Amed, Bali. Picture: iStock

The fee can be paid by bank transfer, virtual account, or Qris payment on the LOVE BALI website or their soon-to-be launched mobile application, which will be available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Cashless payments can also be made at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport or at Benoa Bali Harbor.

Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno said he has “no problem with the plan” to impose a fee on foreign tourists entering Bali, “because the fee will later be used for the conservation of Bali’s nature”.

The fee is equivalent to $14.40 AUD and can be paid for online. Pictured Bias Tugel white sand beach in Padang Bai in Bali, Indonesia. Picture: iStock

The tax will also be used to fund improving the quality of services, safety and comfort of tourists by developing integrated infrastructure on land, sea and in the air.

Who is exempt from the tourist tax?

There are a range of reasons travellers might be exempt from paying the new tax, with the government urging visitors to check their eligibility way in advance of travel.

These are the reasons for exemption:

• Diplomatic and official visa holders: Those visiting Indonesia to conduct government business, a diplomatic posting, or special assignments in Indonesia.
• Conveyance crew: Those working on board a ship.
• KITS/ KITAP holders: Those who possess a Residence Permit Card for a temporary, limited or permanent stay to live and work.
• Family unification, golden and student visa holders: Those helping family settle, corporate investors or students.
• Specific non-tourist visa holders

Those wanting to apply for an exemption are urged to apply one month before arrival.

An exemption can be applied for up to one month ahead of travel. Picture: iStock

The fee can be paid for on the new LOVEBALI app. Pictured Seminyak, Indonesia. Picture: iStock

How to pay the tourist tax

1. Visit lovebali.baliprov.go.id or download the app

2. Enter details and pay

3. Get your Levy Voucher by email.

4. Scan your voucher at checkpoints