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

Bali, Indonesia – Bali’s tourism officials have expanded the number of locations where international visitors can pay the newly introduced Bali Tourism Tax Levy. This move comes as local authorities aim to ensure greater compliance with the tax, which is crucial for funding cultural conservation, environmental protection, and infrastructure development in the region.

Background on the Bali Tourism Tax Levy

Introduced in February 2024, the Bali Tourism Tax Levy requires tourists to pay IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 10) before departing the island. However, early data indicated that only about 35% of tourists were adhering to this requirement. Feedback from local leaders highlighted that a significant barrier has been the limited number of payment points available, which has hindered awareness and accessibility for travelers.

Addressing Payment Accessibility

Previously, the primary payment methods included a website and app available 24/7, along with payment booths located at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. However, many tourists find themselves preoccupied with flight arrangements and visa processes, making it inconvenient for them to stop and pay the tax there. Additionally, while payments can be made at popular tourist attractions like Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple, such collections are only enforced on specific days.

To tackle this, Bali’s departments have launched more payment points not just at the airport but also throughout various attractions statewide. Recently, Gede Dody Sukma Oktiva Askara, Head of the Buleleng Tourism Office, announced the installation of 20 new payment points, including e-ticketing devices, at popular sites in Buleleng Regency, the northernmost area of Bali.

The Shift to Digital Payments

Efforts are underway to modernize payment methods to facilitate compliance. Moving towards digital systems is anticipated to address concerns over cash leaks and enhance the overall efficiency of the payment process. This transition aims to benefit international tourists who favor card payments and support real-time tracking of tax revenue generated.

Askara emphasized that a pilot project would be initiated to bundle entrance tickets for tourism experiences, including dolphin watching excursions from Lovina Beach, into one streamlined package that includes the tax payment.

Future Plans and Communication Initiatives

Bali’s leadership acknowledges the importance of disseminating information regarding the tax levy, as a considerable number of incoming tourists remain unaware of their obligation. There is a concerted effort to improve communication strategies to educate visitors about the tax and its purpose more effectively.

Though the IDR 150,000 levy is expected to generate around IDR 318 billion (roughly USD 19.2 million), the government has yet to publish a detailed breakdown on how these funds will be utilized for cultural and environmental initiatives. Nonetheless, Governor Wayan Koster announced in March 2025 that funds from the tourism tax would be allocated directly to traditional village governments for local development in accordance with established policies.

Improving Compliance and Financial Management

The push for compliance comes in light of an unexpected deficit budget experienced in the first year following the tax’s establishment. Bali’s leaders are exploring various methods to ensure tourists contribute their fair share, ultimately aiming for a transparent and sustainable model that aids in the growth of the local economy and benefits the broader Balinese community.

With the implementation of more payment points and digital solutions, officials remain optimistic that compliance rates will improve, and that international tourists will play a crucial role in supporting Bali’s cultural heritage and natural beauty through this tax.