In May 2025, Bali experienced a significant increase in Indian tourists, with 67,995 visitors arriving compared to 49,658 in April, reflecting a remarkable rise of 36.93% within just one month. This surge can be attributed to Bali’s allure as a prime travel destination, known for its stunning sandy beaches, rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, vibrant nightlife, wellness centers, and delectable cuisine.
While Indian travelers currently enjoy visa-on-arrival options or an electronic visa valid for up to 30 days, new regulations are set to change the landscape for entering Bali. The local government has announced plans to implement stricter entry requirements beginning in 2026, including a mandate that travelers provide proof of sufficient funds. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of tourism on the island.
Governor Wayan Koster has emphasized the importance of ensuring that visitors possess the financial means to support their stay, stating, “One aspect of quality tourism is the amount of money in visitors’ savings accounts over the past three months.” The new requirement will involve ascertaining tourists’ financial capabilities, planned activities, and the duration of their stay.
Under the upcoming regulations, travelers seeking visa-on-arrival will need to present documentation demonstrating their financial stability. While no specific minimum amount has been stipulated, authorities will evaluate travelers based on the length of their visit and planned activities, setting individual financial thresholds accordingly. It’s advisable for travelers to prepare details of their itinerary and return tickets, as these will be crucial during the verification process. Furthermore, travelers should ensure they have bank statements available that reflect their savings over the past three months.
This move follows a record year for Bali’s tourism, with approximately 7.05 million tourists arriving by air in 2025, alongside another 71,000 arriving by sea. The island has seen a steady increase in visitor numbers since the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, tourism associations encouraged the Bali government to open its borders to foreign visitors to boost the economy, leading to a sharp rise in arrivals that has posed various challenges, including infrastructural stress, environmental concerns, traffic congestion, and waste management issues.
Governor Koster underscored the necessity of these new regulations, drawing parallels between Bali’s approach and practices adopted in other nations regarding tourist entry. He acknowledged the complexity of these challenges but stressed the importance of patience and planning.
As travel to Bali becomes more stringent, prospective visitors should be prepared for these new requirements, ensuring a smoother entry process and contributing positively to the tourism ecosystem on this beautiful island.