Bali Provides Updates on Tourism Tax Spending As Visitors Urged to Comply
July 5, 2025 — Bali tourism officials have shared recent developments regarding the collection and utilization of the Bali Tourism Tax Levy, emphasizing the importance for holidaymakers to ensure timely payment of the required fees. This announcement comes as the island experiences a steady rise in international tourist arrivals this year.
Rising Tourist Numbers and Tax Revenue
Latest data indicates that Bali is on track to welcome a 10-12% increase in international tourists compared to 2024. In response to the growing visitor numbers, local authorities are reinforcing the necessity for tourists to fulfill their obligations concerning the Bali Tourism Tax Levy, a mandatory fee introduced in February 2024. The levy, set at IDR 150,000 per international visitor, was initially met with limited compliance, with only an estimated 35% of tourists paying the fee during the policy’s first year. However, recent figures from the Bali Provincial Government reveal that between January and June 2025, tourism tax revenue reached IDR 168 billion (approximately USD 10.5 million). Remarkably, on one peak day, Bali collected IDR 933 million (around USD 57,000) in tourism levy fees.
Governor Wayan Koster expressed optimism about the continued trend, projecting the annual tourism tax revenue could reach IDR 340 billion if current patterns persist.
Commitment to Transparent and Effective Use of Funds
Governor Koster also reassured the public that efforts are underway to optimize the spending of tourism tax proceeds. Collaborating closely with stakeholders in the hospitality sector and other relevant parties, the government aims to allocate funds in a manner that benefits local communities, enhances environmental sustainability, and improves tourist experiences across Bali.
Payment Procedures and Tourist Responsibilities
Tourists visiting Bali this high season are reminded that the tourism tax fee of IDR 150,000 is compulsory and non-negotiable. Visitors can conveniently pay the fee in advance through the official LoveBali website, which now supports group payments for multiple travelers in a single transaction. Users must provide passport numbers and an email address, with one group member receiving the consolidated invoice and all individual travelers obtaining separate QR-code vouchers via email.
Alternatively, payment can be made upon arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, although many tourists have reported that this method may complicate the entry process by adding time and steps.
Regardless of the payment method, tourists receive a QR-code voucher which must be carried and presented throughout their stay in Bali. Bali Tourism Task Force Officers regularly conduct random checks at popular destinations such as Tanah Lot Temple and the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces to verify that visitors have paid the levy. Non-compliant tourists will be required to pay immediately on-site. Notably, all transactions must be completed using debit or credit cards, as cash payments are not accepted.
Advisory Against Using Third-Party Services
Authorities have cautioned travelers against using third-party agencies to pay or process their tourism tax levy. To safeguard against fraud, the LoveBali website now offers a verification feature allowing tourists to confirm the authenticity of any QR-code vouchers they receive.
Background on the Bali Tourism Tax Levy
The Bali Tourism Tax Levy is part of the “Love Bali” initiative launched by the Bali Provincial Government under the Comprehensive Development Plan. The overarching goal is to preserve Bali’s natural environment, cultural heritage, and social balance amidst its growing tourism sector.
It is important to note that the tourism tax payment is distinct from the visa on arrival fee; tourists must complete payments separately since the tax is administered by the provincial government while visa fees fall under Indonesian Immigration, a central government agency.
Planning Your Trip to Bali
Travelers planning a visit to Bali are advised to prepare in advance by registering and paying their tourism tax levy directly through official channels to ensure a smooth arrival process. For further information and assistance with accommodations, transportation, and travel insurance, visitors can consult reliable sources dedicated to Bali travel.
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Written by The Bali Sun | July 5, 2025
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