Bali has long been one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved destinations. But in 2025, the island is implementing a series of new regulations aimed at preserving its unique culture, promoting responsible tourism, and improving the experience for both visitors and locals.
If you’re planning to visit—or already living in Bali—these updates are important to understand, especially for those investing in property or managing long-term stays. The changes, outlined by the Bali Provincial Government and detailed in a recent Social Expat article (2025), signal a broader shift toward mindful travel and respectful coexistence.
What’s New?
As of 2025, foreign tourists visiting Bali are expected to follow new behavioral guidelines, many of which emphasize cultural respect, sustainability, and legal compliance. The Bali government has released an official list of dos and don’ts, available in multiple languages, and is taking active steps to make tourists more aware of local expectations.
Some of the most notable rules include:
- Respecting Sacred Spaces: Visitors are reminded not to climb sacred trees, enter temples without proper attire, or take inappropriate photos at spiritual sites.
- No Illegal Stay or Work: Tourists are not allowed to work or conduct business activities on tourist visas. This includes offering freelance services, selling goods online, or working remotely without the correct permits.
- Dress Modestly in Public Areas: Swimwear is restricted to beaches and pool areas only. Tourists are asked to dress respectfully in villages, markets, and places of worship.
- Driving Regulations: Operating vehicles without an Indonesian license or proper documentation is strictly prohibited. Helmets are mandatory for motorbike riders.
- Local Etiquette: Tourists are encouraged to follow basic manners, such as not raising voices in public, littering, or disturbing ceremonies.
These may sound like common-sense rules, but their formal enforcement is new—and necessary—after a growing number of cases involving disrespectful behavior, illegal stays, and traffic violations by foreigners in recent years.
Why This Matters for Expats and Property Seekers
For expats planning to relocate or purchase property in Bali, understanding and adhering to these rules isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s about becoming a part of the community in a way that’s respectful and sustainable.
Many of Noble Properties Asia’s clients choose Bali not just for its beauty, but for the lifestyle and culture. But a meaningful life on the island means going beyond the tourist lens. It requires a commitment to respecting local traditions, navigating legal frameworks carefully, and integrating responsibly into the environment.
For those staying long-term, especially digital nomads or remote professionals, it’s crucial to ensure that your visa status matches your intentions. Working remotely on a tourist visa is no longer just a grey area—it’s clearly flagged as a violation under the new guidelines. Visa agents and legal support are more important than ever to ensure proper compliance.
In terms of property, short-term rentals and ownership structures are also under greater scrutiny. Whether you’re purchasing a villa, setting up a co-living space, or subletting your unit, transparency and proper documentation are non-negotiable. Local partners, legal consultants, and property managers can help you navigate these regulations confidently.
A Step Toward Responsible Tourism
The introduction of these new rules shouldn’t be seen as a crackdown—it’s a long-overdue realignment between Bali’s tourism appeal and the values of its people.
Bali continues to welcome tourists with open arms, but with a clearer request: come not just to consume, but to connect. As Social Expat reports, the Bali government wants to build a tourism model that uplifts communities, protects spiritual spaces, and ensures the island can thrive for generations to come (Social Expat, 2025).
Living in Bali is more than a dream—it’s a responsibility.
Explore how Noble Properties Asia can help you find a home that honors local culture and supports long-term, conscious living. Visit noblepropertiesasia.com for property insights, legal support, and relocation guidance tailored to today’s Bali.
Source:
Social Expat. (2025, April 16). Bali’s New Rules: What Every Foreign Tourist Visiting Bali Should Know. Retrieved from https://www.socialexpat.net/bali-new-rules-what-foreign-tourist-visiting-bali/
