Key Takeaways
- Relocating to Bali in 2026 is realistic but requires preparation: You need a valid passport, updated vaccinations, the right visa, and a clear plan for housing before moving.
- Lifestyle and costs vary widely: Bali can be affordable or expensive depending on where and how you live, with monthly costs ranging roughly from $1,200 to $3,000+.
- Each nationality faces different adjustments: Australians benefit from proximity, Americans often come as digital nomads seeking slower life, and UK expats value the strong international community—but visas and healthcare planning matter for all.
Thinking about a fresh start in life by moving to Bali? You’re not alone.
More people want to relocate to Bali—not just for holidays, but to live, work remotely, and invest for the long term.
By last year (2025), it was estimated that around 3,000 digital nomads relocated to the Island of the Gods.
The number is even higher if we include expats who are already living here, as well as groups who move for different purposes, such as retirement or business investment.
This guide is here to give you deeper insight into what it’s actually like to move to Bali—from lifestyle and visas to costs and the best places to live for expats.
Requirement to Move to Bali
1. Check Your Passport Expiry Early
Indonesia requires your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. So, first thing first, take a close look at your passport’s expiry date.
If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before you travel. Passport renewals can take longer than expected, and delays can easily disrupt your plans.
2. Make Sure Your Vaccinations are Up to Date
Health prep is part of smart relocation planning. Check whether your routine and travel vaccinations are current.
A doctor or travel clinic can advise on common recommendations for Indonesia, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, or tetanus.
Taking care of this early helps you avoid entry issues and lets you settle in with peace of mind.
3. Apply for the Right Visa
Choosing the correct visa is essential if you plan to live in Bali legally. Your visa will depend on why you’re moving: remote work, business, retirement, or long-term stay.
What kind of visa do you need to live in Bali long-term? Here's the answer:
| Visa Type | Who It’s For | Typical Stay Length | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) | Long-term residents | 1 year (renewable) | Required for working, business, retirement, or family stay |
| Work KITAS | Foreigners working for an Indonesian company | 6–12 months | Requires sponsor and work permit |
| Investor KITAS | Business owners or investors | 1–2 years | No work permit needed; common for property or business investors |
| Retirement KITAS | Foreigners aged 55+ | 1 year (renewable) | Must meet income and housing requirements |
💡 Smart tips: Many expats use visa agents or consult the Indonesian embassy to reduce mistakes and stay compliant.
Read More: Do You Need a Specific Visa to Buy a Villa in Bali?
4. Plan How to Ship Your Belongings
Moving overseas means deciding what to bring and what to leave behind.
Shipping items to Bali requires planning around customs rules, costs, and local lifestyle needs (tip: you can pack less, as many everyday items are easy and affordable to buy locally).
Working with an international shipping company can make things easier. They can help with paperwork, customs clearance, and realistic cost estimates.
5. Find the Right Place to Live
Finding a home is one of the most important steps when relocating to Bali. Many expats prefer to stay in villas located in internationally popular neighborhoods such as Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak.
So how do you start your research? You can begin by exploring Bali's best areas to stay and price ranges that fit your lifestyle, budget, and goals.
It’s also important to consider specific conditions you may have. For example, if you have children, you may want to stay in an area close to international schools.
Many newcomers work with local real estate agents who understand expat rentals and local regulations, such as Bali Villa Realty. This can save time and help you avoid common mistakes, especially for first-timers.
6. Try Short-Stay First
Most people don’t need to buy a villa immediately. A smart way to relocate is by renting a villa in your selected area for a few months. This gives you time to truly learn about the area and see whether it suits you.
This process is very simple with Bali Villa Realty. We offer many long-term rentals (monthly and yearly villas) across Bali. Our properties are fully furnished and ready to use.
If you’re interested in viewing our listings, feel free to browse our available Villa for Rent page here.
And once you’re confident about your chosen area for long-term living in Bali, we also have villas for sale here.
How to Live in Bali Permanently from UK, USA and Australia
If you’re thinking about relocating to Bali from the UK, the USA, Australia, or elsewhere, a bit of preparation goes a long way. Below are key things to know based on where you’re coming from.
Relocating to Bali from Australia
For Australians, Bali is one of the easiest countries to relocate to. It’s close, flights are frequent, and living costs are often lower than back home.
This makes Bali popular with retirees, investors, digital nomads, and families seeking a change of pace.
Australians can enter Bali on a tourist visa for short stays, but anyone planning to stay longer will need a different visa type. Sorting this out early helps avoid overstay issues or last-minute exits.
Another major advantage is convenience. Direct flights from major Australian cities make it easy to travel back and forth when needed.
Read More: Buying Property in Bali as an Australian: Ownership Rules Explained
Relocating to Bali from the USA
Unlike Australians, Americans may feel that moving to Bali is like stepping into a completely different world.
The island offers a slower lifestyle that contrasts sharply with busy US cities. Many people are also drawn by the more affordable cost of living, especially for long-term stays or retirement.
Based on several reports and observations, many Americans who move to Bali are digital nomads. They choose Bali for a slower pace of life and lower living costs.
Cultural adjustment is also part of the move. Bali is largely Hindu, and daily life includes ceremonies and local traditions. Being respectful, learning basic Indonesian phrases, and staying open-minded can make settling in much easier.
Read More: Digital Nomad Bali Guide: Visa, Tips & Best Location for Global Workers
Relocating to Bali from the UK
For people from the UK, moving to Bali is also an attractive option. The island has a strong international community, making it easy to meet other expats and build new connections.
One of the first things UK expats should look into is visas, just like expats from other countries.
Healthcare is another key consideration. While Bali’s medical services are improving, many British expats choose international health insurance to ensure access to higher-standard care when needed.
Cost of Living in Bali
The cost of living in Bali 2026 depends on your lifestyle. A rough monthly range:
- $1,200–$1,500 → simple local lifestyle
- $1,800–$2,500 → comfortable expat life
- $3,000+ → premium villas and dining
Main expenses include:
- Rent
- Utilities & internet
- Transport (bike or car)
- Food & lifestyle spending
Read More: Cost of Property in Bali 2026: What You Need to Know
Problem Living in Bali for Foreigners
- Visa rules: Indonesian visas can be confusing and change often. Choosing the wrong visa or overstaying can lead to fines or forced exits.
- Property ownership limits: Foreigners cannot own freehold land directly. Buying property without understanding legal structures can cause serious financial risk.
- Language barrier: English is common in tourist areas, but many official matters use Bahasa Indonesia. Simple tasks can feel difficult without local help.
- Healthcare quality: Bali has good private clinics, but serious cases may require travel to another country. International health insurance is strongly recommended.
- Infrastructure issues: Power cuts, water problems, traffic, uneven roads, and floods are common in some areas. Living outside main hubs means fewer conveniences.
- Cultural differences: Local customs, ceremonies, and community rules are part of daily life. Not respecting them can create tension with neighbors.
- Cost surprises: Bali isn’t cheap if you want comfort. Imported goods, private schools, and quality villas add up quickly.
Is Relocating to Bali Worth It?
For many people, the answer is yes. However, based on our experience helping expats move to Bali, relocating here is only worth it with the right expectations.
Relocating to Bali in 2026 is not about rushing or simply buying a villa and packing your bags. We’ve seen expats leave Bali because their expectations didn’t match reality.
Like any country, Bali has downsides, such as traffic congestion in busy areas like Canggu. Public transportation is also limited.
Other issues to be aware of include methanol poisoning cases, flooding, Bali belly, and occasional criminal activity such as theft.
Our advice is to stay informed, follow local news, and always remain cautious wherever you are.
Conclusion
The key to a successful move is preparation. Understanding visa options, budgeting realistically, choosing the right area, and adjusting expectations will help you avoid common mistakes.
Many expats who thrive in Bali are those who take time to rent first, learn the local system, and adapt to how life truly works on the island.
If you need help finding the best properties for your personal home or investment, Bali Villa Realty is here to help. Contact our expert agents anytime if you have further questions.
FAQ
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Bali, but only under specific legal structures. Full freehold ownership is not allowed, so it’s important to follow Indonesian regulations and work with proper legal guidance.
Yes, it’s possible, depending on your lifestyle. A single person can live on USD $750–$1,000 with simple living, while a more comfortable lifestyle usually costs USD $1,500–$2,500 per month.
Yes. Immigration rules are stricter now, especially about passport condition. Even small damage, torn pages, or missing pages can lead to entry refusal, so make sure your passport is in good condition before traveling.
