New Bali Rules in 2025: What Is Now Banned for Tourists and Expats

At the end of March 2025, Bali officially introduced a new set of behavioral regulations for foreign tourists, according to Euronews. Authorities tightened restrictions in response to multiple public incidents and growing complaints from local residents. The island continues to carry out strict inspections, which often result in deportations—and sometimes arrests—of foreign nationals.

Governor Wayan Koster emphasized that Bali is not just a holiday destination but a spiritual and cultural space that must be treated with respect. The new rules aim to encourage responsible behavior rather than to restrict rights.

Respect Local Culture—or Face the Consequences

According to the official Love Bali platform (lovebali.baliprov.go.id), tourists are expected to wear modest clothing in cultural zones, avoid littering, and refrain from using single-use plastics. Swearing in public and engaging in any unauthorized work or business activities are strictly prohibited. Driving requires an international driving permit, and travelers are encouraged to stay in licensed accommodations and only use official tour guides.

As Condé Nast Traveler highlights, Bali welcomed over 6.3 million international tourists in 2024. This influx has caused environmental degradation and increased incidents of cultural insensitivity. One of the most controversial cases involved a European couple taking barefoot photos on a sacred temple altar—sparking outrage online and expediting the implementation of stricter regulations.

Surge in Deportations and Social Media Surveillance

In 2024 alone, Bali saw a surge in deportations. According to The Bali Sun, 417 foreigners were deported in the first nine months—already surpassing the total for 2023. Nationalities included Australians (18), Russians (17), Americans (14), and others from the UK, Iran, Japan, Germany, and more, as noted by Antara News. Offenses ranged from visa violations and illegal employment to involvement in criminal activities. In June 2024, 103 Taiwanese citizens were expelled on cybercrime charges (Reuters).

To address such issues, Indonesia’s immigration authority launched a social media monitoring unit in November 2024. This team tracks content related to illegal work and visa fraud. As a result, ten foreigners were deported after their online activity revealed breaches of local laws.

Tourism Tax, Potential Daily Fee & Property Crackdowns

Since 2023, Bali has enforced a mandatory tourism tax of 150,000 IDR (approx. $10). This must be paid via the Love Bali website, and tourists should keep a QR code as proof. However, during summer 2024, authorities found that over 60% of visitors failed to pay. Spot checks have since been introduced.

In spring 2025, authorities began debating a proposed $100/day tourist fee, although it is not yet implemented. The goal is to pivot from mass tourism to a more premium, regulated model.

Crackdowns have also extended to foreign investors. The so-called “Russian Village” project was shut down, and its founder arrested for unauthorized construction and investment activities. Some types of real estate—especially entertainment venues and unlicensed hotels—have now been banned.

A New Era of Regulated Tourism

These new rules, combined with digital oversight, deportations, and property regulations, are part of a broader strategy by the Indonesian government. The aim is to protect cultural and social integrity, maintain legal order, and transition Bali toward a more sustainable tourism model. Authorities hope this will foster a more respectful and transparent relationship between foreigners and local communities.