Thinking about spending your retirement somewhere warm, calm, and full of beauty? Many people dream of Bali — a tropical island with green rice fields, blue oceans, and sunsets that never get old.
But before you pack your bags and move, it’s good to understand what life in Bali is really like. That means learning about daily living, local culture, visa rules, costs, and healthcare.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about retiring in Bali. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture and feel ready to decide if Bali is the right place to start your next chapter.
Key Takeaways
- Bali offers a peaceful, affordable lifestyle with warm weather and a friendly expat community.
- Living costs start around $1,500/month, depending on your lifestyle and housing choice.
- Retirement KITAS visa requires you to be 55+, show financial proof, have insurance, and hire local staff.
- Top retirement areas include Sanur, Canggu, Ubud, and Nusa Dua, each with its own charm.
Why Retire in Bali?
Many expats choose Bali for their retirement, but it’s always smart to understand the pros and cons of living on the island before making the move.
Pros:
- Affordable lifestyle. It’s not as cheap as it used to be, but living in Bali still costs much less than in most Western countries.
- Warm, tropical weather. You can enjoy sunshine and pleasant temperatures all year round.
- Diverse scenery. From golden beaches to green mountains and even active volcanoes, Bali has something for everyone.
- Plenty to do. You’ll find gyms, golf courses, hospitals, supermarkets, and more—so you won’t have to give up your favorite routines or hobbies.
- Lots of retiree communities. There are lots of other retirees from all over the world here. You can join clubs, volunteer, or just meet up for coffee. It’s easy to make new friends and stay social.
Cons:
- Far from home. Friends and family will be a long flight away, which can feel tough at times.
- Language barrier. Not everyone speaks English, so learning a bit of Bahasa Indonesia will help you get around.
- Different healthcare system. While Bali has good medical options, it may take time to adjust, especially if you need regular treatments like dental care or dialysis.
Retirement Visa Bali Requirements
Most foreigners retiring in Bali apply for a Retirement KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas)—a temporary stay permit valid for one year and renewable annually for up to five years. This visa also allows unlimited re-entry during its validity period.
To qualify, retirees must meet several requirements each year, including:
- Proof of financial stability. At least USD 3,000 per month in income or a USD 50,000 deposit in an Indonesian state-owned bank.
- Active health insurance coverage.
- Employment of two local staff members.
- A written pledge not to work while in Indonesia.
- Applicants must also be at least 55 years old.
After holding a Retirement KITAS for five consecutive years, retirees can apply for a Retirement KITAP, which grants permanent residency (though work is still prohibited under this permit).
Alternatively, retirees may consider the Second Home Visa, which isn’t classified as a retirement visa but allows long-term residence in Bali. To qualify, you must either:
- Deposit IDR 2 billion (approximately USD 126,000) in a government bank, or
- Own a Hak Pakai–titled luxury property valued at a minimum of IDR 5 billion (around USD 315,000).
Best Places to Retire in Bali
Here are some of Bali’s most popular spots for retirees:
- Sanur – A calm seaside town known for its relaxing vibe and scenic beachfront walkway.
- Canggu – The island’s trendiest area, filled with cafés, shops, and modern conveniences.
- Ubud – Considered the cultural and spiritual center of Bali, rich with temples, art galleries, and nature.
- Jimbaran – Famous for its beachfront seafood restaurants and a more laid-back environment.
- Nusa Dua – Home to upscale resorts and some of Bali’s finest golf courses.
- Candidasa – A charming coastal village that attracts many retirees for its quiet and traditional atmosphere.
Read More: Want to Live in Bali Long-Term? Best Place to Build a Villa
Step-by-Step Guide to Retiring in Bali
Some of our clients are retirees who’ve already made Bali their home, and they’ve shared some helpful tips for anyone who wants to follow the same path.
1. Visit and Experience Bali First
Before you think about long-term rentals or paperwork, spend a few months living here. Bali is beautiful, but it’s actually not for everyone—and it’s better to know that before starting the visa process.
While visiting, try to live the way you plan to as a retiree, not as a tourist. This will give you a real sense of what daily life feels like, from grocery shopping to getting around.
2. Review Your Finances and Plan Ahead
You’ll need to show proof of financial stability to qualify for a retirement visa. Generally, you should have at least $1,500 per month to cover living expenses.
Keep in mind that retirees aren’t allowed to work in Indonesia, so make sure your savings or pension can comfortably support you.
3. Find a Place to Live
Once you’re confident about your budget and lifestyle, the next step is housing. You can rent or lease a villa, but remember that foreigners cannot legally own land in Bali.
If you plan to buy property, always consult a trusted legal advisor before signing any agreements, and inspect the property in person.
Looking for a peaceful place to enjoy your retirement? Explore our curated villas here
4. Plan How You’ll Get Around
To drive legally in Bali, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country’s license. After you receive your visa, you can apply for a local license (just make sure to do this within 6 months of arrival).
You can rent or buy a car or scooter, but if driving isn’t for you, expect to rely on ride-hailing apps like Grab, GoJek or Maxim since Bali doesn’t have much public transport.
5. Arrange Health Insurance
Medical care in Bali is improving and generally affordable, but it’s still important to have good health insurance in case of emergencies. Talk to insurance brokers or financial planners who specialize in expat coverage to find a plan that fits your needs.
6. Hire Local Staff
Part of the visa requirement includes employing at least one or two Indonesian citizens. Many retirees hire a housekeeper, driver, or cook, and the cost is reasonable—minimum monthly wage in Bali is around 3 million IDR (about $180 USD).
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Property Management in Bali
7. Prepare Your Documents
This is often the trickiest step. You’ll need to gather all the required paperwork for your Retirement KITAS application. Using a professional visa agent can save you time and stress. They’ll guide you through every requirement and check that everything is in order.
8. Apply for Your Retirement Visa
Once everything’s ready, you can submit your visa application. This can be done either in Indonesia or from your home country. If you apply while in Bali, note that you’ll need to leave and re-enter once your visa is approved.
Read More: Bali Bridging Visa Guide: Extend Your Stay Easily
Cost of Living in Bali for Retirees
The cost of retiring in Bali really depends on your lifestyle and choices. Most retirees can live comfortably in Bali with around $1,500 USD per month, assuming modest housing and reasonable spending.
If you’re planning to bring personal belongings, keep in mind that import taxes and shipping fees can add up quickly.
You’ll also need to consider the cost of your flights to Bali, visa (expect to spend around $800–$1,000 for your visa), health insurance, household staff salaries, rental fees, and daily living expenses.
Read More: Actual Cost of Living Comfortably in Bali for Expats
FAQ
Yes. If you stay in Indonesia for more than 180 days in a year, you’re considered a tax resident. For KITAS holders, tax residency starts from the day the visa is issued. Income tax rates range from 5% to 35%, and you’ll need a local tax number (NPWP) to open a bank account.
To enter Indonesia, your passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for a minimum of six months from your arrival date. If your passport doesn’t meet these requirements, you may be denied entry at the border.
Both are great options. Bali offers a relaxed island lifestyle, villa living, and strong expat communities. Thailand is generally cheaper with excellent healthcare and more city choices.
Conclusion: Bali is a Good Place for Retirement
Retiring in Bali can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. But finding the right home is the key to making it truly yours.
That’s where Ilot Property Bali can help. Whether you’re looking for a ready-to-move-in villa or want to build your dream retirement home from the ground up, our team of local experts will guide you every step of the way—from choosing the best location to handling all the details.
Still have questions in mind? Click the link below to claim your free consultation with our expert agents—no obligation. Let’s talk about your plans and see what fits your goals best.
