Providers
What to know in Bali
- To marry legally in Indonesia, both partners must share one of the recognised religions (Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism); the religious ceremony is then registered at the civil registry (Catatan Sipil), or at the KUA for Muslim couples. Same-sex marriage is not recognised.
- Typical documents: passports, birth certificates, divorce or death certificate if relevant, a certificate of no impediment from your embassy, photos and sworn translations into Indonesian; two witnesses are needed and there is a waiting period of about 10 working days.
- Many couples hold a symbolic ceremony in Bali and marry legally at home. French citizens marrying abroad must first obtain a certificate of capacity to marry from the French consulate and then have the marriage transcribed.
- Villa events usually involve a villa event fee, a contribution to the local banjar (community) and strict rules: live music often stops at 11pm and amplified music at midnight, with fireworks and sky lanterns banned at many villas.
- The rainy season (November to March) makes a marquee or indoor backup essential for outdoor events.
Indicative prices
- Legal ceremony and paperwork in Bali: about AUD 2,000 (around IDR 21 million), 2025 estimate
- Average Bali resort wedding: about AUD 17,000 for 50 guests (2025 survey)
- Villa event fee: from about USD 1,000 at some luxury villas, plus a banjar fee (example: IDR 6 million per event for 25 or more guests)
- Wedding catering at a villa: from about USD 30 per person (Indonesian menu), plus service and tax
Indicative ranges collected in 2026 from public sources. Always ask for a written quote.
How to choose
- Check with your embassy that your home country will recognise a marriage registered in Indonesia before you start the paperwork.
- Ask the villa for its written event rules (guest limit, curfew, banjar fee, vendors allowed) before you pay a deposit.
- Choose a planner who lists exactly which permits and fees they handle, and get a detailed quote with “++” items shown.
- Book key vendors 9 to 12 months ahead for peak months, and pay deposits by a traceable method.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners legally get married in Bali?
Yes, but both partners must share a religion recognised in Indonesia and hold a religious ceremony, which is then registered with the civil registry (or the KUA for Muslim couples). You need passports, birth certificates, a certificate of no impediment and sworn translations. Many couples prefer a symbolic ceremony in Bali and a legal one at home.
How much does a wedding in Bali cost?
An Australian survey from 2025 put the average Bali resort wedding at about AUD 17,000 for 50 guests. Villa weddings add an event fee and a banjar fee, and catering starts around USD 30 per person. Costs depend heavily on the venue and season.
Do I need a permit for a party at a villa in Bali?
Usually the villa handles local permission and charges an event fee plus a contribution to the banjar, the village community. Unannounced parties can lead to complaints, police visits and fines from the villa. Always declare an event to the villa in advance.
What time does music have to stop at Bali villa parties?
It depends on the villa and the village, but many villas require live bands and DJs to stop at 11pm and all amplified music by midnight. Check the villa’s written rules before booking entertainment.