Bali, an island in Indonesia famously known as “The Island of the Gods,” has become a magnet for expats from around the globe. With its unique blend of tropical natural beauty, rich local culture, laid-back yet productive lifestyle, and a wide variety of both local and international food options, it’s no wonder so many are drawn here. Expats in Bali also benefit from a large and supportive community, making the island an ideal place to start a new chapter in life.

However, moving to Bali isn’t as simple as packing your bags and renting a place to live. There are essential things to understand and prepare for to ensure a smooth transition. In this article, we’ll explore key considerations for expats planning to settle in Bali.

1. Best Places to Live in Bali for Expats

Bali offers a wide range of living options to suit every lifestyle and preference. Here are five of the most recommended areas for expats based on popularity, established expat communities, trustworthy property markets, and proven expat-friendliness:

• Canggu
  
  A trendy yet laid-back area filled with Instagrammable cafes, ideal for young expats and digital nomads. The downside? Heavy traffic during rush hours and higher property prices.
  
• Ubud
  
  Located in Bali’s highlands, Ubud offers a peaceful and spiritual environment—perfect for those seeking balance, nature, and tranquility. It’s farther from the beach and has cooler, more humid weather.
  
• Sanur
  
  A calm, family-friendly area great for retirees or expat families. Sanur has a more classic vibe and is less hectic than Canggu or Seminyak. However, modern entertainment and nightlife options are limited.
  
• Seminyak
  
  Known for its luxurious lifestyle, Seminyak is packed with beach clubs, fine dining restaurants, and upscale boutiques. But be prepared for a higher cost of living.
  
• Uluwatu
  
  Perfect for surf enthusiasts thanks to its world-class waves. The area offers a more relaxed and nature-centric lifestyle.

2. Visa and Legal Requirements

One of the most critical aspects of moving to Bali is ensuring your visa and legal status are in order. It’s essential to follow Indonesia’s immigration laws—overstaying can lead to daily fines, deportation, or even a re-entry ban.

If the visa process feels overwhelming, it’s highly recommended to use a trusted and experienced visa agent. Avoid “shortcuts” or unofficial brokers. For first-timers, a Visa on Arrival or Social-Cultural Visa is a good starting point. For long-term stays, consider legal options like a KITAS. Keep in mind: working or starting a business in Indonesia requires proper permits—not just a tourist or social visa.

Types of Visas:

• Visa on Arrival (VoA):
  
  Valid for 30 days and extendable once for another 30 days (total 60 days). Suitable for tourists or short visits—not for working or formal business.
  
• Social-Cultural Visa (B211A):
  
  Valid for 60 days, extendable up to a total of 180 days. Ideal for family visits, cultural trips, social activities, or non-working business visits.
  
• Business Visa:
  
  Also valid for 60 days with possible extensions up to 180 days. Suitable for attending business meetings or exploring opportunities (not for direct employment).
  
• Digital Nomad / Remote Worker Visa (E33G):
  
  Applicants must be over 18, have a valid passport, sufficient income, health insurance, and a return or onward ticket. Designed for remote workers with location-independent jobs.
  
• KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit):
  
  KITAS is generally valid for one year and can be extended.
  There are four main types of KITAS:

1. Work KITAS – Sponsored by an Indonesian company for employment.
   
2. Retirement KITAS – For individuals aged 55 and above who are not working.
   
3. Spouse KITAS – For those married to an Indonesian citizen.
   
4. Investor KITAS – For directors or commissioners of a company registered in Indonesia.

3. Finding a Place to Live

Finding accommodation in Bali can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for first-time expats. Options range from luxurious private villas and simple guesthouses to fully-furnished apartments and long-term rentals.

Rental terms are usually either monthly or yearly. Monthly rentals are flexible for those testing out different areas, while yearly rentals are more budget-friendly in the long run. Prices vary greatly depending on the location and amenities. For example, a one-bedroom villa in Canggu might cost between IDR 15–30 million per month, while similar accommodations in Ubud or Sanur tend to be more affordable. Also, check if the property is furnished, semi-furnished, or unfurnished, as this will affect your initial setup costs.

To ease the process, many expats use platforms like onbalivin.com or contact trusted local agents via Instagram, such as @onbalivin. Renting through an agent usually means a clearer, more secure contract. Still, it’s highly recommended to visit the property in person before making any decisions—online photos can be misleading.

Always read the lease agreement carefully. Pay attention to rental duration, deposit policies, and extra costs like electricity, water, internet, and cleaning services. Some landlords may have specific rules—like no pets or subletting—so it’s crucial to clarify these before signing.

4. Cost of Living in Bali

Despite being a world-class travel destination, Bali’s cost of living is still relatively affordable compared to major international cities. However, expenses vary based on lifestyle, location, and personal needs.

Housing will likely be your largest expense. Beyond rent, consider utility costs like electricity, water, and internet. For food, you can save by cooking at home and shopping at local markets or supermarkets like Pepito and Popular.

Transport is another key expense. Most expats choose to rent or buy a motorbike for convenience and savings. Monthly rental ranges from IDR 800,000 to 1.5 million, with fuel costs around IDR 100,000–200,000 per month depending on usage. For longer trips or rainy days, you can use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab, which are also affordable.

5. Challenges You Might Face

Living in Bali might sound like a dream, but it comes with its own set of challenges. For example, the relaxed pace of public services and bureaucracy can be frustrating for newcomers used to more efficient systems. Language barriers may also be an issue, especially outside tourist areas. Although most Balinese people are friendly and open, smooth communication is key when dealing with leases, permits, or government matters.

Other potential challenges include limited healthcare access, infrastructure quality, and lifestyle adjustments. In some areas, internet connectivity may be unstable or power outages more frequent—an issue for remote workers. Quality healthcare is mostly available in private hospitals in Denpasar or Kuta, which might be far if you live in rural areas.

Understanding and preparing for these challenges will help ensure a smoother, more comfortable life on the island.

Conclusion

Living in Bali as an expat isn’t just about enjoying beaches, sunsets, or sipping coffee at aesthetic cafes. It’s about adapting to a new culture, learning the local systems, and building a balanced life between work and tropical living.

Despite the challenges, Bali’s charm lies in its ability to make people feel “at home,” even when they’re far from their original home.

With the right information and proper preparation, anyone can build a comfortable and meaningful life on the Island of the Gods. So, are you ready to start a new chapter and call Bali your next home? If you need specific guidance please contact us.