By Bali, the popular Indonesian island destination, has implemented a new tax for travellers who visit the island from February 14, 2024. The tax, which is 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (about $15), will be used to fund various initiatives to protect and enhance Bali’s natural and cultural heritage.
The Bali tax, also known as the Bali Tourist Contribution, is a one-time fee that applies to all foreign tourists who enter Bali, regardless of their age, nationality or length of stay. The tax does not apply to domestic tourists or visitors to the neighbouring islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, which are part of Bali province.
The tax can be paid online via the Love Bali website or mobile app, where visitors can choose from various payment methods, such as bank transfer, virtual account or QRIS. Visitors will need to provide their name, passport number, email and arrival date, and will receive a voucher by email, which they can scan at the entry points in Bali. Alternatively, the tax can be paid at the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or any other harbour or land entry point, where cashless payment options are available.
What is the Purpose of the Bali Tax
The Bali tax is part of the Indonesian government’s efforts to conserve and promote Bali’s environment and culture, which have been affected by the rapid growth of tourism and the Covid-19 pandemic. According to the Bali Tourism Agency, the island received 4.5 million international tourists in 2020, a sharp drop from the 16.1 million tourists in 2019. However, the agency expects the numbers to bounce back in 2024, as Bali plans to reopen its borders and resume its tourism activities, subject to the health and safety protocols of both countries.
The tax revenue, which is estimated to reach 2.7 trillion rupiah ($185 million) per year, will be allocated to various projects and programs, such as:
- Cleaning and maintaining the beaches, rivers, lakes and forests
- Preserving and restoring the temples, monuments and historical sites
- Supporting and empowering the local communities, artists and craftsmen
- Developing and improving the infrastructure, facilities and services for tourists
- Enhancing the safety and security standards for tourists and residents
- Promoting and educating the tourists about Bali’s culture, traditions and values
What is the Reaction to the Bali Tax
The Bali tax has received mixed reactions from the tourists, travel agents and industry experts. Some have welcomed the tax as a positive and necessary step to ensure the sustainability and quality of Bali’s tourism, while others have expressed concerns about the affordability, transparency and effectiveness of the tax.
According to a survey conducted by the Bali Tourism Agency, 80 per cent of the respondents agreed with the tax, while 20 per cent disagreed. The survey also found that the majority of the respondents preferred to pay the tax online, rather than at the entry points.
The Bali tax has also received support from the international travel agents, who have praised the initiative as a way to showcase Bali’s commitment and responsibility to its environment and culture. They have also expressed their confidence and optimism in Bali’s tourism recovery and growth in 2024 and beyond.
Bali is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. The Bali tax is a new measure that aims to preserve and enhance the island’s charm and appeal, while also providing a better and safer experience for the visitors and residents.
For more information on Bali and the Bali tax, visit lovebali.baliprov.go.id.