Aussie Travelers Warned About Tourist Levy on Bali: “Awareness Is Key”

Bali, a favorite destination for many Australians seeking sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture, has recently implemented a $15 tourist levy intended to manage the island’s increasing visitor numbers. The initiative, introduced in February 2024, requires tourists to pay a mandatory IDR 150,000 fee, in addition to the existing Visa on Arrival fee of A$50 for stays of up to 30 days. However, new reports suggest that a significant number of travelers are unaware of this levy, leading to concerns from local authorities about compliance.

Low Compliance Rates Spark Crackdown

According to a recent analysis, less than 35% of foreign tourists visiting Bali paid the new tourism levy in the last year. This statistic has prompted local leaders to address the issue through a series of enforcement actions aimed at increasing compliance. Ravindra Singh Shekhawat, General Manager for Indonesia at Intrepid, explained that many tourists are simply "unaware of the tax or requirement to pay on or before arrival." He pointed out that the lack of information regarding payment options contributes to this oversight.

"Tourists can just walk out of the airport, and nobody is checking," Shekhawat added, highlighting the previously lax enforcement. Despite this, he emphasized the importance of paying the tax for the greater good, asserting that "paying the fee can help Bali become a better tourist destination."

Payment Options for Tourists

The Danish authorities have begun conducting regular inspections at popular tourist sites to ensure that visitors have paid the levy and obtained their levy vouchers. Tourists are advised to keep their receipts handy to demonstrate compliance if questioned.

Travelers can pay the $15 tax either online via the official government website or upon arrival at the airport. Additional payment locations have also been established at major tourist spots such as Lovina Beach, Munduk Waterfalls, and West Bali National Park, making it easier for visitors to fulfill this requirement.

Funding for Local Communities

In March 2025, the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, announced that the first round of funds collected from the tourist levy had been allocated to local communities. The funds are intended to be used in alignment with existing policy legislation, focusing on preserving Balinese culture, protecting the natural environment, and enhancing local infrastructure.

"This tax is crucial for facilitating sustainable tourism in Bali," said Shekhawat. "It’s really important that tourists contribute so that they can help preserve the rich culture and improve facilities."

Conclusion

As Bali continues to be a top destination for Australian travelers, it is essential for tourists to stay informed about local regulations and requirements. Paying the tourist levy not only supports Bali’s infrastructure and cultural preservation but also enhances the overall travel experience for visitors. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and ensure compliance with this new regulation to avoid any potential issues during their upcoming trips to the island.

For more information and updates, travelers can visit the Bali Tourism Authority’s official website.

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