Bali has always been a dream destination for Indian tourists. From honeymoon couples to backpackers, thousands of Indians fly to this Indonesian island every month for its beautiful beaches and affordable luxury. However, if you are planning a trip in 2026, you need to be aware of some major changes.
Bali’s government is planning stricter entry rules. The biggest news is that foreign tourists might soon have to show proof of funds—like bank statements—to enter the island. Along with this, there are new health screenings at the airport. Here is everything you need to know about these updates and how they affect Indian travelers.
The New Proposal: Show Money Before You Enter?
Reports from January 2026 indicate that the Bali Provincial Government is finalizing a new regulation. The goal is to shift from “mass tourism” to “quality tourism.”
What is the rule? Under the proposed plan, international tourists may be asked to show bank statements from the last three months upon arrival. This is to prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay.
Why are they doing this? Authorities want to stop foreigners from working illegally or running out of money while on the island. In the past, there have been cases of tourists causing trouble or disrespecting local culture because they could not afford basic services. By checking funds, Bali wants to ensure visitors are financially prepared.
Read more: Lucknow University News 2026
Why This Matters for Indian Tourists
India is the second-largest source of tourists for Bali, right after Australia. This new rule could impact many Indian travelers, especially budget travelers and students.
- For Luxury Travelers: If you have a steady income and savings, this rule will just be a small extra paperwork step.
- For Backpackers: If you travel on a tight budget, you might need to ensure your bank account looks healthy before you fly.
- The Good News: This is currently a draft proposal. It has not been officially enforced as a strict law yet, but it is expected to roll out later in 2026.
Important: New Health Screening at Airports
Apart from money matters, there is a health update. Due to recent health concerns in South Asia (specifically reports of the Nipah virus in parts of India), Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has tightened surveillance.
- Thermal Scanners: You will see thermal scanners at arrival terminals to check body temperature.
- Symptom Checks: If a passenger looks unwell or has a high fever, they may be stopped for a health check by the Quarantine Centre.
- No Ban: There is no ban on flights from India. Direct flights from cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are operating normally.
Don’t Forget the ‘Tourist Tax’
Many travelers forget that Bali already introduced a Tourist Levy in February 2024, which is still active in 2026.
- Cost: IDR 150,000 (approx. ₹800 – ₹900 INR).
- How to Pay: You should pay this online via the “Love Bali” website or app before you fly to avoid queues at the airport.
- Validity: This is a one-time fee per visit.
What Happens Next?
Currently, the “Proof of Funds” rule is in the final discussion stages. If you have booked tickets for February or March 2026, you likely won’t face this strict check yet. However, it is smart to carry a digital copy of your latest bank statement and proof of return tickets, just in case immigration officers ask.
Authorities have promised that the new rules will not make travel difficult for genuine tourists. They simply want to keep the island safe and orderly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the bank statement rule mandatory for everyone now?
Not yet. It is currently a proposal that is expected to be enforced later in 2026. However, immigration officers can always ask for proof of funds if they find something suspicious.
2. How much money do I need to show in my account?
The government has not set a fixed minimum amount yet. Usually, they look at your length of stay. If you are staying for a week, you should have enough to cover hotels, food, and travel.
3. Can Indians still get a Visa on Arrival (VoA)?
Yes, the Visa on Arrival facility for Indians is still available. You can pay for it at the airport or apply for an e-VoA online.
4. Is it safe to travel to Bali right now regarding the virus?
Yes, it is safe. There are no travel bans. The airport scanners are just a precaution to prevent any spread of infection.
5. What happens if I don’t pay the Tourist Tax?
It is mandatory. If you don’t pay the IDR 150,000 levy, you might face delays at the airport or issues when leaving the country.