In a move that has stirred discussion throughout the year, Bali’s new tourism tax now has a confirmed launch date for all international visitors. On February 14, 2024, this idyllic island destination will introduce the anticipated tourism tax. Tjok Bagus Pemayun, Head of the Bali Tourism Department, officially disclosed this development to the media.
Set at IDR 150,000 per person per visit, approximately equivalent to USD 10, the tax applies to visitors of all ages. It is worth noting that travelers returning to Bali after visiting other destinations in Indonesia such as like the Gili Islands, Lombok, or Sumbawa will be subject to the tax once more.
Speculation has arisen regarding the possibility of this fee being valid for a specific duration, such as 30 days, but as of now, no official indications support this idea. The tax, it appears, will continue to be enforced on a per-visit basis.
However, this tax does not extend to travelers visiting the nearby Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, as they are part of the Bali Province. The tourism tax is, fundamentally, a local, provincial tax that is in the final stages of approval by the Provincial Government and relevant central government authorities.
For those flying into Indonesia via other cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Medan, or Labuan Bajo, and subsequently taking domestic flights to Bali on or after February 14, 2024, the tourism tax will also be applicable upon arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport’s domestic terminal.
According to officials, steps have already been taken to ensure a seamless payment process upon arrival. The IDR 150,000 fee must be settled in Indonesian Rupiah, although international cards will be accepted.
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Mr Tjok Bagus Pemayun has informed the media that the payment process will take a mere 23 seconds, and tourists can conveniently make the payment using their cards upon arrival at Bali Airport. Over 20 officers will be on hand to facilitate payments, minimizing any disruptions to travelers’ plans.
Given that more than 15,000 travelers can arrive to Bali every day, it is extremely important to ensure that the process is fast and efficient.
Officials have hinted that, in due course, tourists may be able to make their IDR 150,000 tax payments online before arriving in Bali, although this system’s readiness by February 14 remains unconfirmed.
While the allocation of funds generated by the tourism tax remains undisclosed, authorities have affirmed that the revenue will be invested in environmental conservation, nature preservation, cultural enhancement, and overall quality improvement.
Acting Governor of Bali, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, aims to prioritize waste management with the initial proceeds from the tourism tax. However, long-term spending decisions will ultimately be the prerogative of the next Governor and his administration following the 2024 elections.
Sources: Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Kompas.com
