Many Australians dream of moving to Bali for the tropical lifestyle, relaxed vibe, and affordable cost of living 🌴—but relocating to another country comes with important legal and cultural steps that can’t be ignored. 🧳
Some Aussies think they can just pack up and go, but without the right visa, insurance, or financial planning, that dream can turn into stress very quickly. 😓 Not knowing how visas, property laws, or healthcare in Bali work can cost you time, money—or worse, your right to stay.
The good news? With the right preparation, moving to Bali from Australia can be smooth and exciting. This guide will walk you through the essential things you need to know—from choosing the right visa to settling into life in paradise legally and comfortably. ✅
“I moved to Bali thinking it would be like an extended holiday,” says Kylie from Melbourne. “But I quickly learned that understanding the rules about visas and health insurance was key to staying long-term. I’m so glad I did my research!” ☀️🏝️
For example, Australians often use social or business visas first, then transition to long-stay options like the retirement KITAS or investor visa. But navigating this alone can be tricky—especially when paired with housing, banking, or business plans. 💼🏠
If you’re planning your big move, don’t wing it. Let’s explore the 8 things every Australian must know before relocating to Bali—and how to get it right the first time. ✈️
Table of Contents
- Understand the Visa Requirements for Australians
- Choose the Right Visa Type for Your Stay
- Calculate the Cost of Living in Bali
- Explore Healthcare Options and Insurance Needs
- Learn About Property Rental and Ownership Rules
- Understand Employment and Business Opportunities
- Familiarize Yourself with Balinese Culture and Etiquette
- FAQs About Relocating to Bali from Australia
Understand the Visa Requirements for Australians
Even though Bali feels like home for many Aussies, you still need a visa to stay long-term. A tourist visa might work for short trips, but it’s not meant for living in Bali.
You’ll need to start with the right visa from day one—either a B211A (business/social), an Investor KITAS, a Retirement KITAS (if you’re over 55), or a Work KITAS (if you’re employed in Bali). Each visa has different requirements and limitations.
👉 Pro tip: Never overstay your visa! Fines and bans are real. Always check entry rules before flying. 🚫✈️
Choose the Right Visa Type for Your Stay
Choosing a visa depends on why you’re coming to Bali and how long you plan to stay. Here are the most common types Australians use:
B211A Visa – Great for long visits, business meetings, or “trying out” Bali
Retirement KITAS – For those aged 55+ with pension income
Investor KITAS – For those owning a business (via PT PMA)
Work KITAS – If you’re officially employed in Indonesia
Work permits are strict in Indonesia—you can’t just freelance or remote work legally on a tourist visa. Always check with a trusted agent or lawyer to choose the best option. ✅
Calculate the Cost of Living in Bali
Bali can be affordable—but it depends on your lifestyle. A beachside villa in Canggu costs way more than a simple home in Ubud. 🏠
Typical monthly budget for a comfortable life:
Rent: AUD $400–$1,000
Scooter & fuel: AUD $60
Groceries & eating out: AUD $300–$500
Insurance & visa fees: AUD $150+
Coworking or gym: AUD $50–$100
Have a backup savings fund and budget for upfront costs like deposits, visa processing, and insurance. Don’t assume Bali is “cheap” across the board.
Explore Healthcare Options and Insurance Needs
Indonesia doesn’t have Medicare, so you’ll need private health insurance that covers you in Bali. Some Australians skip this and regret it when facing emergency surgery or evacuation.
Good expat insurance covers:
Hospital stays in Bali
Air evacuation to Singapore/Australia
Dental and vision (optional)
Some clinics accept Australian credit cards, but most require upfront cash. Keep a copy of your insurance and emergency numbers with you at all times. 📞✅
Learn About Property Rental and Ownership Rules
Foreigners can’t own land in Bali directly, but you can lease it legally.
Here’s how Aussies usually get homes:
Leasehold contracts (typically 25–30 years)
Long-term rentals with yearly or multi-year payments
PT PMA structure (for businesses with investor KITAS)
Make sure to use a local notary or legal advisor when signing a lease. Avoid verbal agreements or cash-only deals. Bali’s property laws are unique—do your due diligence! 🧐
Understand Employment and Business Opportunities
If you plan to work in Bali, you’ll need a proper work permit (IMTA) and KITAS. Working remotely for a foreign company is still a legal grey area—so don’t risk it without guidance.
Want to open a business? You’ll need to:
Set up a PT PMA
Apply for an Investor KITAS
Submit business plans to the government
Most Australians in Bali work in tourism, fitness, real estate, or digital services. Just remember: “working without a permit” is one of the top reasons foreigners get deported. 😬
Familiarize Yourself with Balinese Culture and Etiquette
Bali isn’t just a beach destination—it’s a deeply spiritual and traditional island. Showing respect to the local culture goes a long way.
Tips for Aussies:
Dress modestly at temples
Don’t raise your voice in public
Learn simple Bahasa Indonesia phrases
Never touch someone’s head or point with your feet
Respect local holidays like Nyepi (Day of Silence)
Blending in with local customs helps you build relationships and stay out of trouble. ❤️
FAQs About Relocating to Bali from Australia
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Can I buy property in Bali as an Australian?
Not directly. But you can lease or use legal structures like a PT PMA or Hak Pakai title.
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Is Bali really cheaper than Australia?
Yes—but not in every way. Imported goods, international schools, and healthcare can be pricey.
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Can I work from Bali remotely?
Technically no, but many do. It’s a grey area—consult a visa agent if unsure.
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What happens if I overstay my visa?
You’ll face daily fines and possibly a blacklist. Always extend or leave on time.
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How long can I stay on a tourist visa?
The Visa on Arrival is valid for 30 days and extendable once. After that, switch to a longer-term visa.
