Bali Authorities Propose $100 Daily Tourist Tax

The Bali government is considering a daily tourist tax to combat over-tourism, following Bhutan’s model, where nearly all foreign visitors must pay a $100 sustainable development fee, reports Euronews.

Bali legislator Wayan Puspa Negara believes the island should "select" its tourists like Bhutan does. The Himalayan kingdom limits arrivals to 400,000 visitors per year and previously charged up to $250 (240 EUR) per day. "They choose tourists based on spending capacity," he stated, adding that Indonesians pay a similar amount when visiting the U.S., Europe, or the UK.

Why is Bali Considering a Higher Tourist Tax?

Known as the "Island of Gods," Bali is one of Indonesia’s most visited destinations, with tourism making up over 60% of its economy in 2019. However, increasing tensions have arisen due to:

- Foreigners violating local customs and laws
- Traffic congestion caused by overtourism
- Unregulated land acquisitions by expats
- Environmental degradation due to rapid construction

Although Bali has been lenient toward tourists for years, authorities are now cracking down on offenders. Recently, the government shut down the controversial "Russian Village" at PARQ Ubud, an unauthorized expat community built on agricultural land. German national Andre Frey, the project’s founder, was arrested for lacking permits and misleading investors—highlighting a common issue on the island.

Moreover, foreign visitors are frequently deported for inappropriate behavior near sacred sites, illegal employment, reckless driving, and disrespecting local customs. The growing number of incidents has intensified calls for stricter regulations.

Government Actions to Control Tourism
As public dissatisfaction grows, Bali authorities are looking for ways to balance tourism with the well-being of locals and the environment.

2023: A proposal to ban tourist motorbike rentals was discussed to reduce traffic accidents.
2023: The construction of new hotels, villas, and nightclubs was suspended in overdeveloped areas.
2024: A one-time environmental fee of IDR 150,000 (€9) was introduced for visitors.
2025: A higher daily tax is under review to attract wealthier travelers.

Will a $100 Daily Tax Work?

Wayan Puspa Negara, director of a local tourism organization, estimated that a $100 per day tax would cost tourists nearly $725 for a one-week stay.

"A $100 daily tax would make Bali an ultra-exclusive destination, and many people would lose their jobs," warns Jens Erik Rasmussen, a travel journalist. Other experts also doubt the success of such a move, as Bali currently attracts visitors with its affordability rather than luxury offerings.

Other Southeast Asian Countries Implementing Tourist Taxes

Bali is not alone in exploring tourism taxes:

Thailand plans to introduce a 300 baht (€8.50) entry fee by the end of 2025 for all foreign arrivals, reports International Investment.

Would a high daily tax on tourists benefit or harm Bali’s economy? The debate continues.