As of this Wednesday, Australians planning a trip to Bali will be greeted with a new requirement—a tourist levy. This initiative, set at 150,000 IDR (approximately $15 AUD), aims to contribute to the preservation of Bali’s rich cultural heritage and natural landscape. Here’s everything you need to know about the levy, from payment methods to exemptions.
How to Pay the Tourist Levy
Online Payment Options:
- Website & App: The levy can be paid through the Love Bali website or via the Love Bali app. Here’s how:
- Enter personal details, including passport number and arrival date.
- Select a payment method.
- Upon payment, a ‘Levy Voucher’ will be emailed to you. Ensure this voucher is valid and active, as it will be required at scanning checkpoints upon entering Bali.
Airport & Harbour Counters:
- For those preferring to pay upon arrival, debit or credit card payments can be made at counters located in I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or Benoa Harbour. However, online payments are more encouraged.
Purpose of the Tourist Levy
Indonesia’s Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Made Ayu Marthini emphasizes that the levy is crucial for fostering sustainable tourism. The funds will be allocated towards:
- Enhancing waste management systems.
- Preserving cultural sites and the environment.
- Improving the overall quality, safety, and comfort of tourist services, including infrastructure across land, sea, and air.
This levy is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the impacts of mass tourism in Bali, including the introduction of an official tourist etiquette guide, a hotline for reporting unruly behaviour, and a task force overseeing foreigner activities.
Clarifications on the Levy
Multiple Entries:
- According to Indonesia’s Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno, the levy is a one-off payment for foreign visitors per trip to Indonesia. This means if you travel from Bali to another Indonesian city and back within the same trip, you won’t need to pay the levy again. However, leaving Indonesia and then re-entering Bali from abroad will necessitate a new payment.
Exemptions
Certain foreign visitors are exempt from the levy, including those holding:
- Diplomatic and official visas.
- Temporary (KITAS) or Permanent Stay Permit Cards (KITAP).
- Family unification visas.
- Golden visas.
- Student visas.
- Specific non-tourist visa types issued by Immigration.
Exemptions must be applied for at least one month prior to arrival via the same website and app. Crew members of conveyances are automatically exempt without the need for an application.
A Call for Respectful Travel
Both Indonesian and Australian authorities urge travellers to respect local customs and explore beyond Bali, reinforcing the importance of responsible tourism. This new levy represents a commitment to preserving Bali’s unparalleled beauty and cultural integrity for future generations.
As you prepare for your journey, remember this small contribution is an investment in the sustainable development of one of Australia’s most beloved travel destinations.
A seasoned traveller and Bali enthusiast with a wealth of experience and knowledge about the island. With a passion for exploring and discovering Bali’s hidden gems, Ben has a keen eye for details and a deep understanding of Bali’s culture, history, and unique features. With years of travel experience under his belt, he has explored almost every corner of the island and can provide invaluable insights and recommendations to make your trip unforgettable. From the best beaches to the tastiest local cuisine,he’s has got you covered.