Aussies planning a trip to Bali, listen up! The Indonesian government has issued a reminder about an important fee that could see you refused entry if not paid.
In February last year, Bali introduced a 150,000 IDR ($15) Tourism Tax Levy fee, aimed at helping preserve the island’s culture and customs, as well as protect its natural environment and sustainable tourism practices.
A Record-Breaking $87,000 in One Day
Bali made a record-breaking $87,000 in one day from the Tourism Tax Levy earlier this year, and with an influx of international visitors expected to descend on the island throughout 2025, the government is reminding tourists to “pay up”.
Data from the Bali Provincial Government revealed the province received IDR 168 billion in revenue between January and June 2025 – about $A16 million.
The Importance of Paying the Levy
Bali governor Wayan Koster said that if this trend continues, the potential annual revenue is estimated to reach IDR 340 billion.
Aussies still make up a huge chunk of overseas visitors, with travel data shared by Ngurah Rai Immigration revealing 344,639 Aussies visited the island in January to March.
However, not everyone is contributing to the tourism tax, with as few as 35 per cent of visitors having paid the mandatory fee by the end of the first year of the policy.
Consequences of Not Paying the Levy
According to Time magazine, Mr Koster said those who fail to pay the fee may face consequences ranging from being denied entry to attractions, fines, or even deportation.
The goal of the tourism tax is to help the government “preserve the integrity and balance of Bali’s nature, its people, and their culture”.
How to Pay the Levy
Tourists are encouraged to pay the fee before arriving in Bali via Love Bali – part of the official government website.
Travellers will need their passport number and email address handy. There is also the option to select ‘Group’ if travelling with family or friends. Each member will then be emailed a unique QR code.
The payment can also be made on arrival at Bali’s main airport – I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. However, some have complained it adds an extra step in the arrivals process.