Bali to Require Tourists to Prove Savings Before Visiting

Bali is considering a new rule that would require foreign tourists to prove they have enough money to support themselves during their stay, potentially by submitting three months of bank statements.

The proposal was announced by Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, as part of a broader push toward what officials are calling “quality tourism.” The idea is to discourage low-budget travelers who may struggle to cover their expenses, while protecting local communities, infrastructure, and cultural sites from overtourism.

If the plan moves forward, it wouldn’t just apply to short-term visitors. Tourists entering Bali on an eVisa on arrival, as well as those holding KITAS or KITAP permits, could all be asked to show financial proof. Alongside bank statements, travelers may also need to provide details such as their length of stay, return ticket, and a basic outline of planned activities.

If approved by Bali’s regional legislature, the regulation could come into effect as early as 2026. That said, there are still major questions around whether it can realistically be enforced. Immigration rules in Indonesia are set at the national level, and critics point out that once a visa has been issued or entry approved by immigration, it’s unclear whether a provincial government can impose extra requirements.

The proposal has received support from within Bali’s provincial government and from Indonesia’s tourism leadership, but it hasn’t been universally welcomed. Critics warn it could create privacy issues, add friction to travel planning, and put off visitors entirely, at a time when Bali is already trying to balance tourism growth with sustainability.

Some have suggested simpler alternatives, such as stricter enforcement of the existing Bali Tourism Tax or improving infrastructure and services to naturally attract higher-spending travelers, rather than screening tourists upfront.

For now, nothing has changed. Travelers heading to Bali are not required to show bank statements on arrival, though immigration officials can still ask for proof of onward travel and sufficient funds if they choose.

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