While Bali laws might not be the first thing on your mind when planning a trip, ignoring them can lead to some serious trouble. While some rules are straightforward, others catch tourists off guard.
The key to staying out of trouble is knowing the basics before you arrive. A little awareness of local regulations, rules, and what not to do will save you from unnecessary headaches.
Whether you’re visiting for a short holiday or planning something more long-term, understanding Bali laws will make your stay safe, smoother, and free of unwanted surprises.
1. Bali Laws on Visa
Tourists can enter Bali with a Visa on Arrival (VOA), valid for 30 days and extendable once. If you think you can overstay and just sweet-talk immigration and slip him a $50 bill, think again.
Overstaying your VOA will set you back IDR 1,000,000 per day – that’s about AUD $100 or USD $62 – with no acceptable excuses.
If you overstay too long, you could face deportation, blacklisting, or a hefty fine that could eat into your entire Bali trip budget. Violating Bali laws on visas could mean missing out on Bali sunsets in exchange for some time in a holding cell.
Tips on Visa laws in Bali:
- Always check your visa type and duration before traveling to Bali.
- If you plan on staying longer, extend your visa before it expires.
- Avoid overstaying, as fines can be expensive.
2. Drug Laws in Bali
Bali doesn’t play when it comes to drugs. Even a tiny amount of marijuana – yes, even CBD – can get you locked up. And before you argue, “but, but, but, it’s legal in my country!” – here is a firm reminder, this isn’t your country.
The bottom line, if someone offers you anything sketchy at a party, just say no and walk away. Apply this rule especially when partying after hours at nightclubs that open until morning.
Bali laws on drugs are among the strictest in the world. Even prescription medication with certain ingredients can be problematic so it’s best to always check ahead.
Aside from the legal aspect, think about your safety. You won’t be buying from a ‘trusted dealer’ like you normally would back in your country. This is just someone guy in a dark alleyway catcalling you with “Hey boss, mushroom? Valium?”
Tips to stay out of trouble:
- Don’t bring, buy, or accept drugs in Bali – period.
- If you need prescription medication, check regulations before hand and carry a doctor’s note.
- Avoid places known for illicit substances.
- Remember: drug penalties in Indonesia are among the harshest in the world.
3. Cultural and Religious Laws
I’m sure you don’t need to be reminded that Bali is a deeply spiritual island. Respecting local customs is a must. While Bali laws on cultural respect has some tolerance, disrespecting the customs could make you the subject of a viral video. Nobody wants to be that ignorant tourist.
A few tips on respecting local culture:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples. A crop top and booty shorts is not acceptable.
- Follow the rules on Nyepi – stay indoors and respect the silence.
- Avoid stepping on offerings (Canang Sari). Not really a Bali law but more of a reminder to stay respectful.
4. Alcohol Regulations
When is comes to Bali laws on alcohol, things might seem a bit carefree. Bali might be a paradise for cocktail lovers and party goers, but that doesn’t mean you can go full “Spreak Break” mode without some consequences.
The legal drinking age in Bali is 21, but regulation regarding this is often relaxed in tourist-heavy areas. But, regardless if you’re staying in Canggu or Kuta, stumbling down the street with a Bintang in your hand isn’t a good look.
Drinking in public spaces, including beaches and sidewalks isn’t technically allowed, but getting too wild in public could land you in trouble with the police or the local banjar.
Tips to stay out of trouble while drinking:
- Drink responsibly. Don’t be that guy or girl that gets carried away and becomes a menace.
- Buy alcohol from trusted sources.
- Avoid public intoxication
- Don’t urinate in public places
Recommended read: Safety Tips for partying in Bali.
5. Bali Traffic Laws
The Bali laws regarding traffic can sometimes feel more like guidelines than strict rules, but don’t be mistaken – there are regulations, and ignoring them can lead to fines, accidents, or confusion.
Officially, you need an international driver’s license to ride a scooter, but many tourists still zoom around Bali without one. It’s all fun and games until you’re stopped by a police officer who will ask for your driver’s license.
You can apply for an International Drivers Permit here. If you don’t have one, it’s a little on-the-spot “fine” (aka a sit-down negotiation session.) This isn’t always a pleasant experience.
Helmets are mandatory, but you’ll still see scooter riders treating them as a fashionable elbow accessory instead. If you’re pulled over without a helmet, be prepared to pay up or face the threat of getting your scooter confiscated.
Tips to stay out of trouble when driving:
- Get an international driver’s permit to ride a scooter or driver a car.
- Wear a helmet to avoid getting pulled over and paying fines. Your head is also worth protecting.
- Don’t run red lights – even though you will see many locals who treat red lights as “suggestions.”
- Don’t drive drunk. Don’t risk it.
6. Public Behavior and Social Laws
Bali laws don’t just cover traffic and visas. There are also social rules that, if broken, might not land you in jail but you might earn some serious side-eye.
For starters, public displays of affection should be kept PG-13. While Bali is less conservative that other parts of Indonesia, don’t turn the beach into your personal rom-com scene. Besides, dry humping on the sand is very uncomfortable. Get a room!
Respect for religion is also a big deal. That means no climbing on temple statues for Instagram shots and no entering temples with revealing clothing. Also, don’t interrupt ceremonies. It might look like a beautiful, story-worthy shot, but interrupting a ceremony is a surefire way to offend locals.
Tips to stay out of trouble:
- Respect the culture. Don’t step on offerings, don’t attempt a shirtless temple visit, and don’t pose up on temple statues.
- Mind your manners. no loud arguments, no drunken outburts in public, and absolutely no respecting locals.
- A little hand holding and some smooching is tolerable, but a full-on french-kissing booty-grabbing session is frowned upon. Take it easy. Wait until you get back to your room.
7. Property Ownership Laws
Bali laws surrounding property ownership can be as tricky as riding a scooter through Canggu traffic – one wrong turn and you can be in some unwanted trouble.
The golden rule is quite simple. Foreigners cannot own land in Bali. So, that dream of buying a villa by the beach? Legally, can’t be done. But, there are plenty of creative workarounds and loopholes. Just be careful they don’t make a loophole in your bank account too.
The most common scenario is a leasehold agreement. This is where you can lease a plot of land anywhere between 25 to 30 years, with possible extensions. It’s like renting, but very long-term.
However, with so many foreigners looking to buy homes and land in Bali, there are many scammers running around claiming they can help you score a freehold land deal as a foreigner. Bali laws are quite clear, do your homework and hire a trusted lawyer.
- Consider a leasehold agreement. It’s the safest and most legal way to get yourself a property or land long term.
- Look into Hak Pakai – the right of use. If you have a residency permit (KITAS), you may qualify for it.
- Understand that you cannot own land outright, no matter what the friendly real estate agent tells you.
8. Gambling Laws in Bali
If you’re thinking of trying your luck in Bali, your jackpot involves fines, deportation, and a visit to an Indonesian jail. You might want to rethink that bet. Bali laws are anything but a game.
All forms of gambling, including casinos, poker, and online betting, are strictly illegal under Indonesian law. There are no casinos in Bali. If you’re really need to burn some cash, catch a flight to Macau.
But despite the strict Bali laws, underground gambling dens do exist, but they’re risky from several angles. Not only could you lose your cash, but you could end up in some serious legal trouble. If someone offers you a “secret poker night” at their villa, it’s better to decline.
Tips for gambling in Bali:
- Don’t gamble. Whether it’s a poker game, a secret casino, or a casual bet, the entire act is a gamble itself.
- Watch out for gambling scams. You may come across friendly locals giving you insider information about an underground spot (although this isn’t as common anymore).
- Avoid online betting. While you might still be able to access online casinos, it could still put you at risk of legal trouble.
- Stick to the legal thrills. Go outside, enjoy the island, have fun!
9. Business and Investment Laws
Like a 2-for-1 cocktail deal, Bali laws about business can seem quite enticing. If you’re dreaming about opening a cafe, bar, or yoga retreat, be prepared for a legal maze that requires a ton of homework (and not just a friend who “knows a guy”).
You’ll need to look into setting up a PT PMA (foreign-owned company), or a PT (local company) with a trusted local.
Another common mistake is working without a proper visa. The business visa is for meetings, not running your cafe or bar. If immigration catches you behind the counter, you’re either slapped with a heavy fine or sent home on a one-way flight.
Tips to stay out of trouble:
- Set up a PT PMA – if you’re serious about starting a business. Don’t cut corners and avoid shady loopholes.
- Get the right visa. A tourist visa doesn’t allow you to work. You’ll need a KITAS (work permit) from your business.
- Hire a lawyer. Bali laws regarding business can be confusing, and regulations change quite often. A good legal advisor can go a long way.
Final Thoughts on Bali Laws
I must admit, after re-reading everything I’ve written – it does come across as a bit overkill. While these Bali laws do seem scary, it also applies to most exotic destinations you will visit.
It’s quite easy to navigate the few Bali laws and regulations. How? Just stick to being a respectful individual. You would literally need to go out of your way and be an ignorant person to break a law in Bali and get yourself into trouble.
The one thing to keep in mind when visiting Bali (or any other destination), is that you are a guest here. This is a beautiful island with an equally beautiful culture. It has no room (or tolerance) for misbehaviour that will stain its beauty.
The second thing to keep in mind: Just because you see other people breaking a law, doesn’t mean you should follow suit. Claiming “well, no one else was wearing a helmet, so why should I?” is a silly, childish excuse to break the law and disregard your own safety.
In summary, Bali is an incredible place to be, but like anywhere else, it has rules that visitors need to respect. Bali welcomes travelers with open arms, as long as they respect its customs and regulations. So enjoy the sunsets, the food, and the island’s magic – legally. A little awareness goes a long way.
- See more Bali Travel Tips
- Book a private car and driver
- Bikago Scooter Rental
- Safety Tips for Partying in Bali
Neil
I’ve been in Bali for so long I’ve grown roots (literally and metaphorically). For the past 10 years, I’ve experienced Bali from every angle. I’ve explored the temples, I’ve tried all the food, and I’m proudly fluent in the Indonesian language. I hope our website helps you get an authentic experience for your holiday in Bali, whether you’re here to enjoy the finer things in life, or to learn more about this Bali’s rich culture.
