Expat Guide
Indonesia & Bali 2025
Everything foreigners need to know about living, working, and thriving in Indonesia. From visas to taxes, healthcare to housing — your complete expat resource.
Expat Essentials
Key topics every expat in Indonesia needs to understand.
Visa Quick Reference
Compare visa options at a glance.
| Visa Type | Duration | Work? | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (B211A) | 60 days | No | $100-150 | Short visits |
| Social/Cultural Visa | 6 months | No | $200-400 | Extended stays |
| Digital Nomad Visa (E33G) | 1-5 years | Remote only | $1,500-2,500 | Remote workers |
| Work KITAS | 1-2 years | Yes | $2,000-4,000 | Employment |
| Investor KITAS | 2 years | In own business | $2,500-4,000 | Business owners |
| Retirement KITAS | 1-2 years | No | $1,500-2,000 | Retirees 55+ |
Essential Information
Quick facts about daily life as an expat in Bali.
Banking
- Most expats use BCA, Mandiri, or BNI banks
- KITAS holders can open local accounts
- Wise/Revolut for international transfers
- ATM limits typically Rp 10-15 million/day
Healthcare
- Private hospitals: BIMC, Siloam, Kasih Ibu
- BPJS (national insurance) available for KITAS holders
- International insurance recommended
- Many English-speaking doctors
Housing
- Foreigners cannot own freehold property
- Long-term lease (25-80 years) is common
- Monthly rentals available everywhere
- Popular areas: Canggu, Ubud, Sanur, Seminyak
Daily Life
- Scooter is the main transport (license required)
- Apps: Gojek/Grab for transport and delivery
- English widely spoken in tourist areas
- Cost of living: $1,500-3,000/month comfortable
Expat Communities in Bali
Find your tribe in Bali's diverse expat neighborhoods.
Canggu
Digital nomads, surfers, young professionals
Most popular area for remote workers with cafes, coworking spaces, and beach clubs.
Ubud
Artists, yogis, wellness seekers
Cultural heart of Bali surrounded by rice terraces. Strong wellness and creative community.
Seminyak
Entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals
Upscale area with restaurants, boutiques, and beach clubs. Business-focused expats.
Sanur
Families, retirees, long-term residents
Quieter seaside town popular with families and retirees. Established expat community.
Guides by Nationality
Country-specific information for expats from different backgrounds.
Common Expat Mistakes to Avoid
Don't learn these lessons the hard way.
Working on a tourist visa
Risk: Deportation, 5-year ban, potential jail time
Solution: Get proper work permit or digital nomad visa
Overstaying your visa
Risk: $25/day fine, potential deportation
Solution: Track your visa dates, extend before expiry
Not registering for taxes
Risk: Fines, issues with visa renewal
Solution: Get NPWP if earning income in Indonesia
Driving without valid license
Risk: Fines, insurance void, legal issues
Solution: Get international driving permit or local SIM
How We Help Expats
Professional support for every stage of your expat journey.
Visa Services
Application, renewals, and conversions for all visa types.
Business Setup
PT PMA registration, licenses, and compliance.
Tax & Accounting
NPWP, tax filing, bookkeeping, and payroll.
Related Guides
Explore more resources for living and working in Bali.
Need Expat Support in Bali?
Whether you're planning to move, already here, or running a business, we provide the expertise you need to thrive as an expat in Indonesia.
Get Free Consultation