Tourists Can Now Pay Bali Tourism Tax Levy at Expanded Payment Points

Published: April 24, 2025

In a significant move to enhance compliance among international visitors, Bali’s tourism leaders have announced the introduction of additional payment points for tourists to settle the Bali Tourism Tax Levy. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to increase awareness and facilitate the payment process, which has faced challenges since its introduction in February 2024. ## Background of the Bali Tourism Tax Levy

The Bali Tourism Tax Levy mandates that international visitors contribute IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 10) prior to leaving the island. However, recent data indicates that only 35% of tourists complied with the tax requirement during its inaugural year. The Bali provincial government has expressed concerns over this low participation rate, attributing it largely to the limited number of payment points available for tourists.

Increased Accessibility for Tourists

Recognizing this issue, Bali’s tourism officials have committed to making the payment process more accessible. Previously, tourists could make payments at the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and select attractions, such as Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple, when officers from the Bali Tourism Office conducted spot checks. The government is now working to improve communication regarding the tax levy, as many visitors remain unaware of their obligation.

In a bid to streamline and digitalize the payment process, the Head of the Buleleng Tourism Office, Gede Dody Sukma Oktiva Askara, confirmed the installation of 20 new payment points across popular attractions in Bali’s northernmost regency, Buleleng. This area is known for its stunning sites, including Lovina Beach and West Bali National Park.

The Role of Digital Technology

The shift toward digital payment systems aims to simplify payments for international visitors who often prefer cashless transactions. The hope is that these measures will allow for real-time tracking of tax revenues and improve transparency within the system. Askara stated, “We are currently also exploring a number of other tourist attractions to adjust the retribution payments, from conventional to digital…”

Tourists will also benefit from enhanced services, such as e-ticketing for excursions, including dolphin watching experiences from Lovina Beach. The initiative looks to provide a comprehensive package that eases the booking process and provides clear pricing, mitigating concerns over potential overcharging.

Allocation of Tax Revenues

The tourism tax fund, estimated to generate IDR 318 billion (around USD 19.2 million), is intended to support various initiatives aimed at conserving Bali’s cultural heritage, protecting the natural environment, and developing local infrastructure. However, transparency regarding the allocation of these funds remains a concern, as a detailed budget breakdown has yet to be publicly released.

In March 2025, Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster announced that the initial funds from the tourism levy had been distributed directly to traditional village governments for localized projects. This approach aligns with the legislation that stipulates funds should contribute to the preservation of Balinese culture and support community developments that benefit the broader population.

Conclusion

With newly established payment points and ongoing measures to digitalize payment systems, Bali’s provincial government is striving to enhance tourist compliance with the Bali Tourism Tax Levy. These efforts aim not only to secure necessary funding for cultural and environmental conservation but also to ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt across the island’s communities. As the tourism sector continues to evolve, officials remain committed to better serving both tourists and the local populace.