Bali Provincial Government Plans Financial Checks for Incoming Tourists in 2026
In an effort to enhance the quality of tourism on the island, Bali’s Provincial Government has announced new plans to implement financial checks on all foreign visitors arriving in 2026. The initiative aims to ensure that incoming tourists are high-spending and respectful, contributing positively to the local economy and community.
Governor Wayan Koster, speaking at a press conference in Ubud, outlined the proposal requiring tourists to provide evidence of their financial situation, specifically the amount of money held in their savings accounts over the previous three months. Additionally, travelers will need to present clear itinerary details and planned activities during their stay on the island.
“This approach is to keep everything under control, similar to how Indonesia’s citizens are required to meet certain financial criteria when travelling abroad,” Governor Koster explained. The Indonesian Tourism Minister Widiyanti Wardhana supported the plans, indicating alignment with broader national tourism strategies.
In 2025, Bali welcomed approximately 7.05 million tourists. While the Ministry of Tourism has not yet set official 2026 targets, projections suggest international arrivals may exceed 14 million. These new measures form part of Bali’s ongoing strategy to attract quality tourists while managing the environmental and social impacts of mass tourism.
Challenges and Considerations
The proposed financial verification measures have raised concerns among tourism stakeholders about potentially discouraging prospective visitors. There is particular apprehension that the policy might reduce tourist numbers, especially in the early months of 2026, which are already expected to be affected by factors such as local traffic congestion, regional flooding, and global unrest.
Critics have also highlighted that many of Bali’s significant challenges, such as the conversion of agricultural land for development, are driven more by wealthy foreign investors than by low-budget travelers. Governor Koster emphasized the need for a long-term, patient approach to tourism governance focusing on quality rather than quantity.
Implementation and Policy Details
While Bali has previously considered minimum spend policies and visitor quotas, jurisdiction over immigration enforcement rests with Indonesia’s central government, complicating the implementation of some measures. Nonetheless, Bali has successfully introduced regulations such as the Bali Tourism Tax Levy in recent years, demonstrating its capacity to enact region-specific tourism policies.
Governor Koster did not specify the exact financial threshold tourists will need to meet but noted that current Visa on Arrival and eVisa processes already require evidence of sufficient funds if requested by immigration officials.
Looking Ahead
The Bali Provincial Government is mobilising efforts to attract and regulate visitors thoughtfully. Governor Koster concluded, “We have to address this long-term. It can be done with patience and proper governance to ensure tourism benefits Bali sustainably.”
Tourists planning to visit Bali in 2026 are advised to prepare for potential new requirements regarding financial documentation and itinerary disclosure ahead of their travels.
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