what to know before moving to bali as an expat

Category : Adventure | Posted On Jun 14, 2017

If the question ‘how do I move to Bali’ has ever crossed your mind, you have come to the right place. In this article, you will get an overview of the steps you need to take in order to become a Bali expat.

1 . Moving to Bali

The first thing to do if considering moving to Bali is to make sure what type of visa you need. There are different types of visas and since Indonesian visa policy is often changing, it is important to be up to date with the latest visa requirements to ensure the legality of your stay in Indonesia.

2. Visa on arrival and visa exemption

Tourist visas are issued upon arrival in Bali. Visa exemption is available for 169 countries which citizens will get a free visa stamp in their passports. However, it is non-extendable and is valid for 30 days. If you plan to spend more than 30 days in Bali, you can obtain Visa on Arrival (the VOA). The cost of this visa is 35 USD and it is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. Hence, the maximum stay with the VOA is 60 days.

3. Business visas

For people preparing to start a business in Bali or attending seminars and conferences, there are two types of business visas available.

a. Single-Entry Business Visa (i.e Social or Social Budaya Visa)

b. Multiple-Entry Business Visa

4. Retiring in Bali Re

Retirement visa enables to enjoy an early retirement in Bali and it is available for anyone starting from the age of 55. Retirement visa is initially granted for 1 year, but it can be extended annually to a total of 5 years.

Afterwards, you can apply for a permanent stay permit. Keep in mind that working is not allowed with a retirement visa and it is possible to hold only one visa at a time – either a retirement visa or a work and stay visa.

5. Working in Bali as a foreigner

In order for a foreigner to work in Bali, one must first obtain a work permit (IMTA). IMTA will be the base for issuing a limited stay permit (VITAS) and a limited stay card (KITAS).

Both foreign-owned (PT PMA) and Indonesian-owned (PT Local) limited liability companies can issue KITAS to foreigners. However, PT Local can issue KITAS to foreigners only if specific capital requirements are fulfilled.