There are two types of holiday locations in the world.
There are the ones that you visit and leave with memories, photos and souvenirs. Then there are the ones that capture your heart and make you want to stay forever.
Bali definitely falls into the latter. And while it hasn't always been such a highly liveable paradise destination, recent years have seen Bali become a popular option for expats seeking a higher quality of life (without the higher price tag).
That said, moving to Bali isn't for everyone. Any move is stressful, but a move to a completely new country can bring its own set of unique challenges.
At Yolla Realty, we don't just buy, sell and rent properties. We also specialise in making your transition to Bali life as smooth and stress-free as possible.
This article is one of the many ways we help make your move easier. With that in mind, here's our guide to moving to Bali as an expat.
There's a high chance you already know why you want to move to Bali. That said, there's more to the Island of the Gods than just beautiful scenery and stunning beaches.
→ Read our Bali property price guide 2024
Bali's economy is booming. More and more restaurants, cafes, tour operators and accommodations are popping up to cater to the increasing flow of tourists.
English-speaking employees (both local and foreign) are in high demand. Aside from the tourism industry, Bali is also home to many startups, expat-owned businesses and international companies looking for bilingual employees.
For foreigners moving to Bali, job opportunities tend to be highly specialised. Think senior marketing roles, upper management positions and head chef jobs.
Getting a job in Bali requires you to be sponsored by a company before you can start work.
You'll then need a work permit or working visa to legally work in the country.
Healthcare standards and facilities have improved significantly in Bali, with many international hospitals now available.
That said, you shouldn't expect the same level of healthcare as in Australia, the United States or the UK. International health insurance is highly recommended for expats, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
Most foreigners living in Bali tend to use international health insurance plans from their home countries, which can be adapted to cover medical expenses in Bali.
Yes!
We've created a detailed guide on safety in Bali, which covers everything from road safety to natural disasters.
But as a quick summary: avoid drinking tap water, be careful when swimming in the ocean (check for lifeguards and red flags), use common sense when riding a motorbike or driving a car and be aware of cultural differences and local laws.
Statistically speaking, Bali is one of the safest places in the world. But like any country, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Bali has a rich cultural heritage and the local language (Bahasa) is widely spoken.
Learning the Balinese language isn't 100% necessary, but it's appreciated by the locals and recommended if you plan on living here long-term.
Expats from many western countries can learn basic words in just a few weeks. After that, it's best to contact a tutor to help you learn the language more thoroughly.
Knowing Bahasa will open you up to more opportunities, help you better understand the cultural nuances and make it easier to communicate with locals.
That said, many locals also speak English, especially in popular tourist areas.
It doesn't matter where you're from or what visa you're aiming for – your documents (passport, birth certificate etc.) must be up-to-date before you can start the move to Bali.
Having everything lined up and valid before you begin is essential. This includes making sure your financials are in order and having copies of important documents ready.
Not sure about the appropriate visa for your situation? No problem.
There are many different types of visas available, each with its own requirements. You'll need the correct visa if you want to stay long-term in this tropical paradise.
Here's our breakdown of the different visas for expats moving to Bali.
This visa is designed for retirees aged 65 and above who fulfill the financial criteria. You can renew multiple times.
→ Read our guide to retiring in Bali
This visa is ideal for individuals planning to stay in Bali for social or cultural activities. Note that you'll need a sponsor. Also known as the social cultural visa.
Want to invest in Indonesia and start your own business here? The investment visa (KITAS Investor) is what you'll need.
Anyone who wants to work in Bali will need to obtain a working visa. You'll also need to be sponsored for this business visa.
Issued for work, investment or family reunion.
Once you have held a KITAS for a specified duration, you can apply for a KITAP. This permit is valid for up to five years and can be renewed indefinitely.
Bali offers a number of housing options for expats, from luxury villas to apartments and shared accommodation.
If you're planning on staying in Bali long-term, buying a property can be a good investment option. However, renting may be more practical and cost-effective for shorter stays.
Check out our article on where to live in Bali for more information on different neighborhoods and their rental or buying prices.
Once your move is confirmed, it’s time to plan how to transport your belongings to Bali.
You can choose air freight, which is fast but costly, or sea freight, a slower yet more affordable option.
Companies like Seven Seas Worldwide, Crown Relocations, and MoveHub offer reliable door-to-door services—get quotes and compare.
Shipping from Australia and parts of Europe, like Germany or the Netherlands, is often straightforward due to established shipping routes, while moving from the US, UK, or Canada may require more planning.
Research customs rules, consolidate your items to cut costs, and start early to ensure a smooth transition.
Congratulations! After officially moving into your new pad, you can begin to explore and enjoy the many wonders of Bali.
From the unique local culture to your private pool (because why not, right?), Bali has something for everyone.
If you've visited Bali before you can revisit your favourite holiday haunts. If it's your first time, get ready to discover all this amazing island has to offer.
Live in Bali, they said. It'll be the best thing you ever do, they said. Well… for once they were right! Many expats come to Bali for a fulfilling life change and rarely regret it.
Sure, there are specific regulations and cultural differences to learn, but the Balinese will welcome you with open arms. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you move to Bali and sort a long term visa. Get in touch if you need any help.
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