What is expat life in Bali like?

Short answer

Expat life in Bali mixes a warm climate, a lower cost of living than Western Europe and strong communities in Canggu, Ubud, Sanur and the Bukit. The trade-offs are traffic, rainy-season flooding, waste problems and strict visa rules: you need a long-stay permit such as the E33G remote worker visa or a retirement KITAS, and you cannot work locally without a work permit.

In detail

Each area has its own feel. Canggu and Pererenan suit young remote workers and surfers, Ubud attracts yoga and wellness lovers, Sanur is calm and popular with families and retirees, and the Bukit (Uluwatu, Bingin) is quieter but spread out. Most people get around by scooter or with Grab and Gojek.

Residence depends on your situation. Remote workers earning at least USD 60,000 a year from abroad use the E33G visa (one year). People aged 55 and over with at least USD 3,000 a month in income can apply for a retirement KITAS. Working for an Indonesian company requires an employer-sponsored work KITAS. Foreigners cannot own land freehold, so most rent or take a long lease.

Daily life runs to the Balinese calendar: ceremonies, road closures for processions and Nyepi, the day of silence when the whole island stops for 24 hours. Villas and houses sit inside a banjar, the local community council, which may ask residents for a contribution to security or ceremonies.

Private clinics and hospitals such as BIMC and Siloam cover most needs in the south, but serious cases are sometimes evacuated to Singapore or Jakarta, so international health insurance is essential. Staying more than 183 days a year can make you an Indonesian tax resident.

Good to know

Try a one to three month stay before signing a long lease.
Use a licensed visa agent and keep copies of every permit.
Take tax advice in your home country and in Indonesia before moving.

On Bali Reply

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Sources

Rules and prices in Indonesia change often. Always check official sources before you travel.