Bali Introduces Proposed Bank Statement Requirement for Tourists, Prompting Australian Travel Advisory
The Bali Provincial Government is set to implement new regulations requiring incoming tourists to present three months of bank statements upon arrival as proof of financial adequacy. Governor Wayan Koster confirmed on January 7, 2026, that this measure aims to promote "high-quality tourism" and reduce incidences of unruly behavior among visitors. The policy could take effect later this year.
Details of the Proposed Rule
Under the draft regulation, all travelers entering Bali would need to show recent account activity and maintain minimum balances, although the exact figures have not yet been finalized. These financial documents must be presented at immigration counters upon arrival. Failure to comply with this requirement could lead to denied entry or immediate deportation.
Scope and Impact
The rule is intended to apply to tourists of all nationalities, with particular attention to Australians, who comprised approximately 1.3 million arrivals in Bali during 2025 — the largest visiting group. Mobility experts highlight concerns that the new financial documentation mandate could complicate last-minute business travel and incentive trips, as many corporate travelers rely on company-issued virtual cards rather than personal bank accounts.
Australian Government Response
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade quickly updated its Smartraveller advisory to remind citizens that Indonesian authorities retain the right to deport tourists for a range of infractions, including inappropriate dress or disrespect toward cultural sites. Australian travelers are urged to ensure comprehensive compliance with all entry requirements.
Travel Industry Guidance
Travel-management companies recommend that organizations prepare their employees with clear guidance on acceptable proof of funds, such as original bank PDF statements, authenticated screenshots from banking apps, or credit card statements. They also advise allowing additional processing time at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. Airlines may implement document checks at Australian departure gates to mitigate liability for passengers rejected upon arrival.
Regional Context
This proposed financial proof requirement follows Bali’s 2025 reforms introducing tourist levies and behavior codes, signaling a shift toward prioritizing value over visitor volume. Similar financial documentation rules are already in place in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and the Philippines, but Bali’s proposal represents the most stringent in the region if adopted as drafted.
Assistance Services
For travelers seeking greater assurance, companies such as VisaHQ offer services that review bank statements, visa documentation, and other entry requirements prior to departure. Australian residents can initiate these services online to reduce the risk of refusal at the border.
As Bali moves toward finalizing and implementing these measures, prospective visitors are encouraged to stay informed and prepare their travel documents accordingly to ensure smooth entry to the popular Indonesian destination.
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