Bali to Introduce Stricter Tourist Regulations in 2026 for Quality Tourism Push

New Entry Requirements for Foreign Tourists

Beginning in 2026, the Indonesian island of Bali will introduce more stringent entry requirements for foreign tourists. The new regulations will primarily focus on assessing visitors' financial capacity and their planned activities during their stay. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster sustainable and high-quality tourism on the popular destination.

Under the proposed policy, foreign visitors may be required to demonstrate adequate financial resources, including a review of their savings account balances over the previous three months. Bali Governor Wayan Koster stated that while there would be no fixed minimum balance, the required funds would be assessed relative to the tourist's intended length of stay and planned activities. Tourists will also need to provide detailed information regarding their itinerary and the duration of their visit.

Rationale Behind the Policy Shift

The provincial government's decision stems from a desire to shift Bali's tourism model from one focused on sheer numbers to one prioritizing quality and sustainability. Governor Koster highlighted that the policy aims to address various challenges, including incidents of unruly tourist behavior, visa misuse, environmental strain, and overcrowding. He emphasized that the goal is to ensure tourists contribute positively to the local economy and respect Balinese culture and laws.

Koster noted that similar checks are applied in other countries, stating, 'This is to ensure everything is under control, just like when we travel to other countries, with policies like those in other countries, we will do the same.' The move also seeks to prevent situations where tourists run out of money, become stranded, or engage in illegal activities.

Implementation and Context

The new measures are outlined in a draft regional regulation titled 'Regional Regulation on the Implementation of Quality Tourism,' which is reportedly 'nearly complete.' It is expected to be submitted to the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) for enactment during 2026. While the policy is still in its draft form, it signifies a significant change in Bali's approach to international visitors.

The announcement follows a period of record-breaking tourism, with Bali recording 7.05 million foreign tourist arrivals by air in 2025, alongside approximately 71,000 visitors by sea. This surge, while beneficial for economic recovery post-pandemic, has also brought to light the need for stronger governance and a more managed approach to tourism.

Conclusion

Bali's impending stricter tourism regulations for 2026 mark a pivotal shift towards a more sustainable and quality-focused tourism model. By implementing checks on financial capacity and planned activities, the Indonesian province aims to attract visitors who will contribute positively to the island's economy and help preserve its unique cultural and natural heritage for future generations. This policy reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability over short-term gains in visitor numbers.