Moving to Bali: costs, grounds, and conditions

Bali is a unique island with an authentic culture, stunning nature, and a large community of like-minded people. Every year it attracts millions of tourists, some of whom want to stay here forever. The tropical climate, developed infrastructure in popular areas, and affordable cost of living make Indonesia an ideal place for freelancers, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and those who prefer warmth, the ocean, and fresh fruit all year round. However, relocation requires effort and knowledge of the country’s specifics. In this article, we will help you understand the sequence of steps for a successful move to the island of your dreams and assess the approximate cost of living.

Visa grounds for entry

Indonesia offers several options for legal stay in the country. Citizens of ASEAN member states can enter visa-free for a short period. For longer stays and for citizens of other countries, a tourist VOA visa is available, which allows staying on the island for up to 60 days.

Among long-term options, the D12 visa is the most in demand. It grants the right to stay in Bali for up to 180 days with the possibility of extension for another six months. The cost of such a visa is about 400 dollars per year. It is important to note that D12 does not provide permission for official employment.

For those planning long-term residence with the right to work, there is KITAS — temporary resident status. A special digital nomad visa has also been introduced.

Read more about visa types and their requirements in our guide:

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Initial expenses

A flight from CIS countries to Bali costs on average from 30,000 to 50,000 rubles per person. The price depends on the duration of layovers and the season. There are no direct flights to the island, so the journey takes from 12 hours.

Housing rent varies depending on the type of accommodation and the area. A room in a guesthouse with a shared kitchen costs from 250 dollars per month. A separate house or apartment will cost 600 dollars. A three-bedroom villa with a pool costs about 2,000 dollars, although some tenants share such housing between two families.

Before signing a lease agreement, it is necessary to inspect the property in person. Attention should be paid to the presence of mold, noise levels, proximity to roads, and access to infrastructure.

Utilities and connectivity

Utility bills are not included in the rent and amount to 50–150 dollars per month. The amount depends on the size of the property and the number of residents. When renting a villa, additional expenses for a gardener and pool maintenance may be required.

Home internet costs 35 dollars per month. Mobile internet with 5G connectivity costs 10–15 dollars per month.

It is more economical to buy a SIM card in the city rather than at the airport.

Transport and mobility

It is quite difficult to get around Bali on foot due to large distances between areas and the lack of sidewalks. Where sidewalks exist, they are often used as roadways. The most optimal option is to use personal transport, which is easy to rent on a long-term basis.

• Scooter rental costs from 70 to 300 dollars per month. This type of transport allows you to bypass traffic jams and requires minimal fuel costs.
• Car rental starts from 200 dollars per month. However, within the city there will almost always be traffic jams, and due to narrow roads, minor incidents are possible (such as damaged mirrors).

To drive, you will need an international driving license or a local one, which can be obtained upon arrival. A category A license is required to drive a scooter, and category B is required for a car.

Medical services

A doctor’s appointment for foreigners costs on average 50–100 dollars. When relocating for a long term, it is better to obtain insurance to reduce medical expenses and be protected in health-related matters.

Insurance depends on status: KITAS holders can obtain local insurance for 10 dollars per month. International insurance costs about 55 dollars per month.

Choosing an area to live

The most popular areas among expats are Canggu, Ubud, and Bukit, where infrastructure, cafes, coworking spaces, and an active community are well developed.

The choice of location depends on your lifestyle: Canggu attracts surfers and young people, Ubud suits those who value nature and tranquility, and Bukit is popular among families with children.

Conclusion

When planning a move to Bali, the main expenses are visa costs, rent, and transport. For the first months, it is advisable to set aside a certain amount as a safety cushion to settle in and not worry about unforeseen expenses. Carefully choose the rental area and a villa or apartment — then Indonesia will quickly become your second home. Over time, many of those who move to the island decide to purchase their own property, which can become a profitable investment with the right choice of a real estate specialist. The Housebook Bali catalog features verified properties from developers, and our managers can select optimal options to suit your needs.