Bali, a slice of paradise nestled in Indonesia, has become a hot spot for those seeking a new home abroad. With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and booming expat scene, Bali offers a lifestyle like no other, drawing folks from every corner of the globe. Plus, living here won’t break the bank!
Picture this: emerald rice fields, sparkling beaches, and towering volcanoes paint the landscape. It’s not just about the views; it’s a way of life. Bali’s vibrant culture shines through colorful ceremonies, lively festivals, and intricate arts and crafts. And let’s not forget the locals—always ready with a smile and a warm welcome.
But what really sets Bali apart is its expat community. From laid-back beach bums to budding entrepreneurs, people from all walks of life call Bali home. It’s a melting pot of cultures and ideas, creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. So, if you’re dreaming of a life where every day feels like a vacation, Bali might just be your ticket.
Key Takeaways
- Bali is a popular destination for relocation due to its beautiful scenery, warm climate, and affordable cost of living.
- Before moving to Bali, it is important to consider visa requirements, employment opportunities, and housing options.
- Understanding the cost of living in Bali and budgeting accordingly is crucial for a successful relocation.
- Staying healthy and safe in Bali requires taking precautions such as getting vaccinations and avoiding certain foods and activities.
- Finding the right school for your children is important when considering the education system in Bali.
Essential Considerations Before You Move to Bali: Visa, Employment, and Housing
Before making the decision to move to Bali, there are several essential considerations that need to be taken into account. Firstly, foreigners need to understand the visa requirements for living in Bali. There are several types of visas available for foreigners, including tourist visas, social visas, and work visas.
Let’s say you want to move to Bali for a retirement, then you need a retirement visa, or if you want to stay longer in Bali then you will need a KITAS/KITAP or Work Visa which will grant you longer stays in Bali than regular tourists visa. It can also allow you to *work* in specific fields of jobs.
| KITAS/KITAP | You need to invest / open a PT PMA in Indonesia |
| RETIREMENT VISA | You have to be 55 or older to get retirement visa |
| WORK VISA | Only limited to this specific jobs (mostly skill specific jobs). Click here for the list. |
Finding employment opportunities in Bali can be challenging for foreigners, as the job market is competitive and many positions are filled by locals. However, there are still opportunities available in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and digital nomadism. What we can suggest is to not abusing your visa. If you come here with Tourist Visa, then don’t expect to move and working in Bali.
When it comes to housing, there are various options available in Bali, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious villas. Rental prices can vary depending on the location and amenities of the property. It is advisable to visit Bali and contact real estate agency in Bali before making any long-term housing commitments, as this will allow you to explore different neighborhoods and get a feel for the local housing market.
Cost of Living in Bali: Understanding the Expenses and Budgeting
One of the main attractions of living in Bali is its affordable cost of living. Compared to many Western countries, the cost of food, housing, transportation, and entertainment in Bali is significantly lower. However, it is still important to understand the expenses and budget accordingly.
Cost of living in Bali depends on your lifestyle. We will give you a table so you can get the basic idea:
| Live like Bule | Live like Local | |
| Rent | up to USD2,000 per month (villa) | 200 USD to 500 USD for a Kosan. You can get less than that if you choose to live in a local area (read: not canggu) |
| Food | up to USD1,000 per month (for example a cup of coffee in Canggu can cost you 5USD, a simple breakfast in a western cafe can cost you 10-20 USD) | between 70 USD to 150 USD per month. Eat in a local warung with 1-3 USD per Nasi Bungkus |
| Entertainment | FREE (well you live in Bali) unless you wanna go for a night out every weekend. | FREE |
| Transportation | Scooter rent is around 100USD per month | Unfortunately you will be charged Bule price for scooter rent |
On average, monthly expenses for a single person in Bali can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on their lifestyle and preferences. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, dining out, and entertainment. Rent prices can vary greatly depending on the location and type of accommodation. It is possible to find affordable housing options in Bali, especially if you are willing to live outside of popular tourist areas.
To save money in Bali, it is important to budget wisely and make smart financial decisions. This includes cooking at home instead of eating out, using public transportation or renting a scooter instead of hiring a private driver, and taking advantage of free or low-cost entertainment options such as exploring nature or attending local cultural events.
Health and Safety Precautions: Staying Healthy and Safe in Bali
While Bali is generally a safe destination for tourists and expats, it is important to take certain health and safety precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. One of the main health risks in Bali is mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. It is advisable to use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under a mosquito net to prevent mosquito bites.
In terms of safety, it is important to be cautious when navigating Bali’s roads, as traffic can be chaotic and road conditions may not be up to Western standards. It is advisable to wear a helmet when riding a scooter, follow traffic rules, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. When visiting Bali’s beaches, it is important to be mindful of the ocean currents and only swim in designated areas.
Education System in Bali: Finding the Right School for Your Children
For expats with children, finding the right school in Bali is an important consideration. Bali has a variety of educational options available for expat children, including international schools, national plus schools, and homeschooling programs.
International schools in Bali offer a curriculum based on international standards and are often taught in English. These schools cater to expat children from various countries and provide a multicultural learning environment. National plus schools, on the other hand, follow the Indonesian national curriculum but also incorporate elements of international education. Homeschooling programs are also available for families who prefer a more flexible and personalized approach to education.
When choosing a school for your child in Bali, it is important to consider factors such as curriculum, accreditation, facilities, extracurricular activities, and the overall learning environment. It is advisable to visit potential schools and meet with teachers and administrators to get a sense of their educational philosophy and approach.
Transportation in Bali: Getting Around the Island
Getting around Bali can be an adventure in itself, as the island offers various modes of transportation for both locals and tourists. The most common mode of transportation in Bali is motorbikes or scooters. Renting a scooter is a popular option for expats, as it allows for flexibility and ease of navigation through Bali’s narrow streets and heavy traffic. However, it is important to have a valid international driver’s license and wear a helmet at all times.
Please learn to ride a scooter before you decided to go on a road! Local here has had enough of the way Bule’s riding a scooter.
For those who prefer not to ride a scooter, there are other transportation options available in Bali. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Gojek & Grab are widely available and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for longer distances. Public transportation in Bali is limited, but there are buses and bemos (minivans) that operate on certain routes.
Navigating Bali’s traffic can be challenging, especially during peak hours. It is important to plan your journeys accordingly and allow for extra time to reach your destination. It is also advisable to use navigation apps or maps to help you navigate through Bali’s streets.
Climate and Weather in Bali: What to Expect Year-Round
Bali has a tropical climate, which means it experiences warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The island has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which runs from April to September, is characterized by sunny days and lower humidity levels. This is considered the peak tourist season in Bali, as many visitors flock to the island to enjoy the beautiful weather.
The rainy season in Bali typically starts in October and lasts until March. During this time, the island experiences frequent rainfall, often in the form of short but heavy showers. Despite the rain, Bali still receives plenty of sunshine during the rainy season, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities.
The best time to visit Bali depends on personal preferences and interests. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) can be a good option. However, if you want to experience Bali at its liveliest and enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing or diving, visiting during the dry season is recommended.
Cultural Differences and Etiquette: Adapting to Balinese Customs
Bali has a rich cultural heritage and follows traditional customs and etiquette. As a foreigner living in Bali, it is important to respect and adapt to Balinese customs in order to integrate into the local community.
One of the key aspects of Balinese culture is the importance of religion. The majority of Balinese people practice Hinduism, and religious ceremonies and rituals are an integral part of daily life. It is important to be respectful when visiting temples or attending religious ceremonies, and to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees.
Another important aspect of Balinese culture is the concept of “Tri Hita Karana,” which emphasizes the balance between humans, nature, and the spiritual world. Balinese people have a deep respect for nature and believe in maintaining harmony with their surroundings. It is important to be mindful of the environment and avoid activities that may harm Bali’s natural beauty.
When interacting with Balinese people, it is important to be polite, friendly, and respectful. Balinese people are known for their warm hospitality, and it is customary to greet others with a smile and a nod. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language, such as “thank you” (terima kasih) and “hello” (selamat pagi/siang/sore/malam), can go a long way in building rapport with the local community.
Leisure and Entertainment in Bali: Discovering the Island’s Attractions
Bali offers a wide range of leisure and entertainment options for both tourists and expats. The island is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, lush rice terraces, and ancient temples. Popular tourist attractions in Bali include the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, the picturesque Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and the vibrant markets of Ubud.
In addition to the well-known tourist attractions, Bali also has many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations waiting to be discovered. These include secluded beaches, hidden waterfalls, and traditional villages where you can experience the authentic Balinese way of life.
For expats living in Bali, there are also plenty of activities and events to keep you entertained. The island has a thriving arts and culture scene, with regular art exhibitions, music festivals, and dance performances. There are also numerous yoga and wellness retreats, cooking classes, and outdoor adventure activities such as surfing, diving, and hiking.
Preparing for Your Move to Bali and Making the Most of Your Experience
Moving to Bali can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, it is important to be well-prepared and informed before making the move. This includes understanding the visa requirements, finding employment opportunities, and researching housing options.
Once you have made the move to Bali, it is important to embrace the unique culture and make the most of your experience. Immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions, explore the island’s natural beauty, and connect with the expat community. Bali offers a vibrant and diverse lifestyle that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who chooses to call it home.
FAQ
To live in Bali permanently, you’ll need the appropriate visa. KITAS/KITAP will enable you to move to Bali permanently but you need to invest. Retirement visa will do so if you are over 55 of age. Then the last one is Working Visas for a specific jobs.
The answer is yes you can but in a grey area. The process is very heavy tho’. Last one is do you have the heart to leave your pet in the plane cabin for quite a long time?
It is dependable on how you gonna live here in Bali. But if we are talking about the money to move then it is around USD 2000 to USD 5000 to process the ticket planes, visa, get your first rental house, etc.
People relocate to Bali for various reasons such as the island’s natural beauty, rich culture, affordable cost of living, warm climate, and friendly locals.
The cost of living in Bali is relatively low compared to other popular destinations. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is affordable, making it an attractive destination for expats.
Currently Bali has no public transportation. You either rent a scooter or use GoJek/Grab for transportation. GoJek/Grab is the Uber in Bali.
There was Uber in Bali (2014-2018), but now there isn’t. Uber equivalent in Bali is Gojek or Grab.
If marry a local Indonesian is not an answer to your question of “How can I live in Bali permanently?” Then the answer is A KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) is available after holding a KITAS for five consecutive years. Once you receive a KITAP, it’s valid for five years, and renewal is relatively easy. Foreigners can also opt for retirement visas if they are over 55 years old, financially self-sufficient, and meet specific conditions.
As of 2024, you can stay in Bali without a visa for 30 days under the visa exemption rule if you’re from a country that qualifies for this exemption. This 30-day stay is non-extendable, meaning once it expires, you must leave Indonesia.
