In recent years, the island of Bali has become popular not only as a vacation destination but also for relocation. And it’s easy to see why. Thanks to its steady stream of tourists, business opportunities are growing on the island; nature is stunning, the climate warm year-round, and the cost of living relatively low. But which visa is best for relocating? Which area should you live in? How do you find housing? We’ll answer these and other key questions in this article.
There are many visa options that allow you to stay in Indonesia for extended periods. We’ll look at two of the most affordable and accessible ones without complex requirements:
1. Tourist Visa C1 (formerly B211A)
This visa suits those still unsure about long-term plans.
✓ C1 is issued for 60 days and can be extended twice for another 60 days each (i.e., up to 180 days or 6 months). After expiration, you must leave the country and can reapply if desired.
✓ Required documents:
• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Bank statement (minimum $2000)
• Passport photo (white background)
2. KITAS (temporary stay permit)
This is the best option for those planning to stay longer, work (not all types of KITAS allow this), or open a business without needing to leave the country periodically.
✓ KITAS is issued for 1–2 years and can be renewed. You can freely enter and exit the country during its validity.
✓ Types of KITAS:
• Family – for spouses and children of foreigners (or Indonesians) who already have KITAS
• Work – if you have an Indonesian employer
• Retirement – for people aged 55+
• Investment – for those interested in running a business in Indonesia
• Freelancer – for creative or sports professionals
• Digital Nomad – for those with official remote work
• Second Home – for those able to purchase real estate in Indonesia
We’ve covered all these KITAS types in detail in another article. Among them, the most budget-friendly annually is typically the Freelancer KITAS.
Required documents vary by category, but usually include:
✓ Passport (valid at least 18 months)
✓ Health insurance
✓ Bank statement
✓ Passport photo (white background)
✓ Additional documents depending on KITAS type (e.g., marriage certificate, employment contract, resume, rental agreement, business registration documents, etc.)
If applying for a child, they can be included under the Family KITAS as dependents. A birth certificate with a notarized English or Indonesian translation is also required.
Bali offers many unique areas, each with its own characteristics. To find the right one for long-term living, consider your lifestyle, goals, and whether you're relocating alone or with family.
1. Seminyak – Known for cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. Well-developed infrastructure, beach access, and modern housing. Cons: Popular with tourists, which means more noise and higher rental prices.
2. Canggu – A hotspot for creatives and surfers. Lots of coworking spaces, cafés, and yoga studios. Ideal for young people and solo expats seeking an active social life.
Cons: Rapid development has led to occasional infrastructure overload.
3. Ubud – Bali’s cultural heart. Known for rice terraces, art galleries, and yoga retreats. Calm and family-friendly atmosphere.
Cons: Far from the beach.
4. Sanur – Perfect for families. Quiet and peaceful with good schools and shallow beaches safe for children.
Cons: Less nightlife and leisure infrastructure.
5. Nusa Dua – For those who prefer upscale, private, and comfortable living. Many luxury hotels and gated communities.
Cons: High cost of living and distance from cultural hotspots.
6. Jimbaran – Known for seafood restaurants and quiet beaches. Offers quality housing suited for families.
Cons: Limited entertainment options.
7. Kuta – Another popular tourist area. Ideal if you want easy access to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and a vibrant lifestyle.
Cons: Noisy with heavy traffic.
The best ways to find housing in Bali include local agencies, online platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, Facebook groups, and local recommendations.
Avoid short-term rentals. Long-term rentals (typically yearly) are more cost-effective.
Always visit the property in person before paying. Photos and listings can be misleading. Seeing the property lets you assess noise levels, transport access, neighbors, and actual living conditions.
Bali is an excellent choice for both leisure and long-term living. Whether relocating solo or with family, there's a place for everyone here. If you’re also planning to open a business in Bali, rest assured — the island offers favorable conditions and great growth opportunities.
For professional assistance in setting up a company in Bali (or elsewhere in Indonesia), get in touch with our team at Good Luck Group. We’ll help you avoid bureaucratic hurdles and unnecessary costs, guiding you every step of the way — from registration and banking to legal and accounting support.
