Bali is introducing new rules for tourists to preserve the island's cultural and natural heritage. Find out what travelers must follow, what is strictly prohibited, and which violations could lead to deportation or a lifetime entry ban

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Bali is a world-famous holiday destination and one of the most popular Indonesian resorts. Every year, millions of visitors from all over the world come here to enjoy the stunning beaches, vibrant culture and spiritual attractions. However, the large number of travelers also creates certain problems. That is why, in order to preserve the cultural and natural heritage of the island, on March 24, 2025, the Governor of Bali, I Wayan Koster, announced a number of measures aimed at combating uncontrolled tourist behavior.

Important guidelines that travelers should follow when visiting the island are described in this article.

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Rules of conduct for tourists in Bali

- Respect for sacred places

Visitors should respect religious sites and symbols, observing local customs and traditions.

- Appropriate Dress Code

To further uphold the island's cultural dignity, tourists are now required to adhere to a modest dress code, especially when entering temples or public places. The move is part of a wider effort to preserve Bali's traditional values ​​by ensuring that visitors do not inadvertently offend the local community.

- Respectful Behavior

Tourists are expected to be courteous in all interactions and refrain from disruptive behavior. As tourism continues to grow, disruptive behavior has increased on the island, ranging from public drunkenness to inappropriate behavior at sacred sites. As part of the new regulations, tourists are reminded to respect local customs and values.

- Tourist Fee

To ensure the sustainability of Bali's tourism industry, the government has introduced a tourist fee. Every visitor to the island must pay a fee of IDR 150,000 (approximately USD 9).

The mandatory tourist tax must be paid electronically through a dedicated Bali portal before traveling or during your stay on the island.

- Use of licensed services

The regulations stipulate that tourists must use the services of licensed guides and stay in registered accommodations. This move is intended to ensure a higher standard of tourism services and reduce the number of unregulated businesses that can negatively affect the local economy and security.

- Legitimate financial transactions

To protect travelers and prevent exploitation, the regulations stipulate that all exchange transactions must be made through authorized exchangers with official QR codes. This policy aims to stop the illegal activities of fraudulent exchange services that are known to rip off tourists.

- Traffic Law Enforcement

Bali is tightening its traffic laws, particularly regarding motorbike rentals. Tourists must now have a valid driver's license to rent a motorbike, and helmets must be worn at all times. Violating these traffic laws can result in fines or further legal consequences.

Bans for tourists in Bali

Bali Governor Koster has also drawn up a clear list of activities that are strictly prohibited for tourists.

- Entering sacred temple areas

You cannot enter the Utamaning and Madyaning mandala areas without traditional Balinese clothing, unless you are a believer. Women during menstruation are also prohibited from visiting these places.

- Respect for shrines

It is forbidden to climb sacred trees and monuments, as well as take inappropriate or nude photos in religious places.

- Environmental protection

You cannot litter the island. Throwing waste into rivers, lakes or the ocean is strictly prohibited.

- Ban on single-use plastics

The use of plastic bags, foam plastic, plastic straws and beverage containers is prohibited.

- Respect for locals

Aggression, insults, obscene language and rudeness towards locals, officials or other tourists are unacceptable. Spreading misinformation or hatred on social media is also prohibited.

- Working without permission is prohibited

Tourists are not allowed to work or conduct business in Bali without official permission from the Indonesian authorities.

- Participation in illegal activities

Drug trafficking, the sale of endangered animals, sacred artifacts and other prohibited goods are strictly prohibited.

Who will monitor compliance by tourists with the rules in Bali?

Bali Governor Wayan Koster stressed that these rules will be strictly monitored.

Violations can be reported via the official WhatsApp hotline: +62 81-287-590-999. The monitoring will be carried out by the Bali Police and the Satpol PP unit.

What awaits tourists who break the rules of conduct on the island of Bali?

The government has made it clear that failure to comply with these rules will lead to serious consequences, including possible deportation or a ban on entering Indonesia for up to 20 years. In extreme cases, violators may face a lifetime ban from entering the country.

Tourists who do not pay the tourist tax will be banned from visiting attractions.

Bali will continue to welcome tourists from all over the world, but from now on the focus will be on ensuring that tourism remains respectful, sustainable and in line with the island’s cultural values. It is important for travelers planning a trip to the Indonesian island to be aware of the new rules and adhere to these innovations.

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Recall! The tourist appeal of the island of Bali has made its real estate market one of the most attractive in the world. The Indonesian economy is showing high rates of development, in addition, the state leadership creates favorable conditions for investors. We have already told you what real estate a foreigner should choose to buy in Bali in 2025, what the type of housing depends on and what trends the real estate market in Bali is currently showing.