Bali to Require Tourists to Present Three Months of Bank Statements, Sparking Australian Travel Advisory
Bali Provincial Government is preparing to implement new regulations that will require all incoming tourists to show three months of bank statements upon arrival as proof of financial adequacy. Governor Wayan Koster confirmed on 7 January 2026 that the rule is intended to encourage high-quality tourism and reduce unruly visitor behaviour, with enforcement expected to begin later this year.
Proof of Financial Means Required at Immigration
Under the proposed policy, travellers must present documentation showing recent account activity and maintain minimum balance thresholds, though these specific figures have yet to be finalised. Immigration officials will review these bank statements at entry points. Failure to comply could lead to refusal of entry or immediate deportation. This requirement would apply to visitors of all nationalities. Australians represent the largest group of tourists to Bali, making up approximately 1.3 million arrivals in 2025 alone.
Australian Government Issues Updated Travel Warning
Following the announcement, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade quickly updated its Smartraveller advisory. The warning reminds Australians that Indonesian authorities maintain strict entry standards and can deport visitors for a range of infractions, from inappropriate dress to disrespecting cultural sites. Travel and mobility experts caution that the bank statement requirement could complicate last-minute business travel and incentive trips, particularly since many corporate travellers use company-issued virtual cards instead of personal bank accounts.
Travel Companies Advise Preparation and Extra Time
Travel management firms are urging clients to ensure their employees are informed about acceptable proof of funds, such as original bank PDF statements, authenticated screenshots from banking apps, or credit card statements. Airlines might begin checking these documents at departure gates in Australia to prevent boarding travellers who might be refused entry. Passengers are advised to allow additional time at Ngurah Rai Airport for these procedures.
Context Within Wider Tourism Strategy
This new financial proof rule follows Bali’s introduction of a tourist levy and a revised visitor behaviour code in 2025. It aligns with broader Southeast Asian trends favouring quality over volume in tourism. While similar financial status requirements exist in countries like Thailand and the Philippines, Bali’s draft policy represents the strictest approach in the region if implemented as proposed.
Additional Support for Compliant Travel Documentation
For those seeking additional certainty, VisaHQ provides an end-to-end service that reviews bank statements and other visa documentation before travel. Australian residents can securely upload financial documents and receive personalised guidance to reduce the risk of being denied entry upon arrival.
Travellers planning visits to Bali later this year should prepare for these new requirements and monitor updates on implementation timelines and specific financial thresholds.
BaliThisWeek brings you daily snapshots of life in Bali — from local updates and island stories to events, places, and community moments.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @balithisweek
Daily news: balithisweek.net/news/
Explore Bali: balithisweek.net/explore/
Contact us: contact@balithisweek.net
Add a comment