Bali Insights
Guides, news and stories to help you live, work and invest confidently in Indonesia
How to Set Up an Import/Export Business in Indonesia
Indonesia offers excellent opportunities for international trade, but obtaining the right licenses involves much more than opening a PT PMA. Learn how import and export permits work, the differences between API-P and API-U, how to activate your import status through OSS, and what ongoing compliance is required to keep your business operating smoothly.
Why Is Alcohol So Expensive in Bali?
Bali may have a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, but imported alcohol often comes with a hefty price tag. This article explores the taxes behind those higher prices, explains why some international brands are produced locally and sold for less, and outlines the licensing requirements for businesses that want to sell alcohol legally in Indonesia.
Bali and Indonesia in Numbers
From population growth and urban expansion to tourism trends and environmental pressures, the numbers behind Bali and Indonesia tell a compelling story of change. Jakarta’s rise as the world’s largest urban area, Bali’s rebound in international arrivals, and the ongoing challenges of waste management and infrastructure all reflect a region in transition.
Want to Open a PT PMA? How Tax Rules Have Changed
A comprehensive guide to Indonesia’s new PT PMA tax rules, outlining the 2026 regulatory changes that impact foreign investors, including the end of the 0.5% MSME tax incentive for new companies and the shift toward a corporate tax system based on net profit and revenue thresholds.
Is Being an Influencer Illegal in Bali? What You Need to Know about Posting on Social Media as a Foreigner
For many of us, posting on social media is second nature. It’s normal to share a photo of your villa, talk about a cafe you love or list a spare room to see if you can make a little extra money from it. However, in the eyes of Indonesian immigration, some of these everyday posts could actually be classed as work and considered a violation of your visa. Read on to find out what the rules are and how they apply to you.
Bali Makes Most Business Types Unavailable to Foreign Investors
As of May 13, 2026, a sudden Indonesian OSS platform update has completely blocked foreign investors (PT PMAs) from registering Low-Risk and Lower-Medium-Risk business codes (KBLIs) using a Bali address. Triggered by an official directive from the Governor of Bali to curb "paper-only" compliance, popular sectors like consulting, real estate, and retail are now off-limits under the standard automated path
The Real Cost of Living in Bali: Hidden Costs You Should Budget For
If you are planning on moving to Bali, you've probably considered the cost of rent, food, transport, trips, and healthcare. However, life is full of surprises, and more often than not, moving to another culture and country will come with its own unexpected costs. In this article, we'll explore the hidden costs of living in Bali in 2026.
Buying an Existing Business in Bali: What You Need to Know Before You Take the Plunge
If you've spent any time in Bali, you might have seen some businesses for sale, or been approached by a fellow entrepreneur with an opportunity to invest in or buy one. Before you make a decision, read on to find out what you need to know about buying an existing business in Bali.
Will Bali Allow Skyscrapers?
Bali is reviewing a proposal to increase its building height limit from 15 to 45 meters in selected zones, a move that could significantly reshape the island’s property market, tourism development, and investment opportunities. While supporters argue it may improve regulation and reduce illegal construction, critics warn of potential environmental strain and the risk of losing Bali’s cultural identity.
How to Open a Restaurant in Bali as a Foreigner in 2026
Opening a restaurant in Bali as a foreigner is a promising opportunity, but it requires careful planning and compliance with Indonesian regulations. With the right structure and guidance, however, establishing a successful restaurant business in Bali is entirely achievable. Read on to learn more.
Looking to Close Your Company (PT PMA) in Bali? Here’s How
Closing a PT PMA in Bali, Indonesia? Learn the step-by-step legal process, including AHU, OSS, and NPWP requirements, to ensure a smooth and compliant company closure.
Is Bali Still Worth It? The Real Cost of Living in Bali vs. Thailand and Vietnam in 2026
If you still haven’t decided which Southeast Asian hub is for you, this article will help you understand the cost of living in Bali, Thailand and Vietnam, three of the most popular destinations among Western expats looking to relocate from the UK, US or Australia. Each of these has its own unique culture and lifestyle, so read on to find out which would suit you and your budget best.
Do Digital Nomads and Expats Need to Pay Taxes in Bali? (2026 Tax Guide)
Confused about taxes in Bali? Whether you’re a digital nomad or expat, this 2026 tax guide explains everything, from residency rules to NPWP benefits, so you can stay compliant and stress-free before the March 31st deadline.
Your Top 10 Questions Answered by Bali Solve 2026 Guide
After years of running a visa agency in Bali, we’ve had our fair share of questions, and some of them get asked over and over again. If there’s something you’ve been wondering about visas, setting up a business or living in Bali - you might find the answer in this article, as we dive into your top questions over the last year.
Bali's Airport Is Getting a Major Upgrade: What You Need to Know
Every year, Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport handles 24 million passengers, and for 2026 and beyond, there are plans for much more. The Indonesian Ministry of Transport has confirmed its goal of expanding Bali’s currently only airport, Ngurah Rai, as well as building a new one in North Bali. Here’s what you need to know about the plans to increase connectivity and the number of visitors to the island in the coming years.
Rental Business or Villa Owner in Bali? These Important Regulation Changes May Affect You
If you’re listing your Bali villa on Airbnb or Booking.com, there are some major regulation changes that may affect you. Unlike in the past, online travel agencies will now need you to put your NIB (Business Identification Number) to continue operations, or else face removal. But what's behind these changes and what do you need to do? Read on to find out everything you need to know before the deadline on the 31st of March 2026.
Legal Myths Expats Still Believe in Bali
Think your structure is legal because your agent said so? Think again. From Investor KITAS limitations to nominee risks and Airbnb tax obligations, here’s what foreigners in Bali must understand to stay compliant.
Going Through Customs in Bali: Everything You Need to Know
After a long plane journey the last thing you want to do is explain yourself at the airport, deal with someone rummaging through your luggage or have to pay taxes on something you already own. So, if you’re heading to Bali soon, read on to find out everything you need to do when going through Customs to avoid these kinds of headaches at Ngurah Rai Airport.
Which Visa Do You Need for Bali? The Ultimate Guide For 2026
Planning to visit Bali or considering a longer stay? Whether you're coming for a quick holiday, testing out the digital nomad lifestyle or thinking about making Bali your new home, you're going to need a visa. Here's Bali Solve's ultimate guide to all the visa options available in Indonesia in 2026.
Why Bali’s Biggest Landfill is Closing
Every day, over 1,000 tonnes of waste disappears from South Bali’s streets, only to be taken and dumped in a massive landfill site near Sanur, called TPA Suwung. The landfill has been open since 1984 - but this 40-year routine is expected to end quite soon.
Let’s work together