Planning a Diving Course in Bali? Read This Before You Fly
Bali has become one of the world’s most popular destinations for diving enthusiasts. From crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs to famous dive spots such as Nusa Penida and Tulamben, the island attracts thousands of foreigners every year who want to experience diving in Indonesia. Many visitors come not only for short diving trips, but also to join diving courses, certifications, and professional dive training programs that can last for weeks or even months. However, before flying to Bali for a diving course, there are several important things you should understand—especially regarding visas, stay duration, and legal requirements during your time in Indonesia. Why Bali Is One of the Best Places to Learn Diving Bali offers a unique combination of affordable diving courses, experienced instructors, and world-class dive locations. Some reasons why many foreigners choose Bali for diving courses include: Warm tropical waters year-round Internationally recognized diving schools Various certification programs from beginner to professional level Affordable training costs compared to many other countries Access to famous dive spots around Bali and nearby islands Whether you are a beginner or planning to become a professional diver, Bali offers many options for different experience levels. Best Diving Areas in Bali Bali offers many diving locations suitable for different skill levels and interests. Some of the most popular diving areas include: Nusa Penida Famous for manta rays, crystal-clear water, and dramatic underwater scenery. This area is especially popular among experienced divers. Tulamben Home to the iconic USAT Liberty shipwreck, one of Bali’s most famous dive sites. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. Amed Known for its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for beginner divers and training courses. Menjangan Island Located in West Bali, this area is known for beautiful coral reefs and excellent underwater visibility. Each diving area offers a different experience, which is why many divers choose to explore multiple locations during their stay in Bali. Choosing the Right Visa for a Diving Course in Bali One of the most overlooked aspects when planning a diving course in Bali is choosing the correct visa. Many foreigners assume that all short-term stays can simply use a tourist visa. While this may work for short recreational trips, longer courses or structured training programs may require more attention to your visa type and stay duration. The right visa often depends on: How long you plan to stay Whether the course is short-term or intensive The activities included in the program Understanding your visa options before arriving in Indonesia can help you avoid unnecessary problems later. What Visa Is Suitable for a Diving Course in Bali? The most suitable visa depends on the duration and structure of your diving program in Bali. For short recreational trips, some foreigners may enter Indonesia using a VOA (Visa on Arrival) or C1 Visa if the stay duration is relatively short. However, for foreigners joining longer diving programs, certifications, or structured training courses, a Short Course Visa may be a more suitable option depending on the nature of the program and length of stay. Choosing the correct visa is important to ensure your activities in Indonesia remain compliant with immigration regulations while avoiding unnecessary issues during your course. Because every situation can be different, it is always recommended to understand the most appropriate visa pathway before arriving in Bali. How Long Will You Stay in Bali? This is an important question because many diving courses are longer than people initially expect. Some examples: Beginner certifications may only take a few days Divemaster or professional programs can last several weeks or months Some students continue extending their stay after completing the course Because of this, many visitors eventually need to extend their visa while already in Bali. Planning your stay duration carefully from the beginning can save time, money, and stress. What Should You Prepare Before Coming to Bali? Before starting your diving course in Bali, it is important to prepare several things in advance. Some important preparations include: Choosing a certified diving school Checking your passport and visa validity Preparing travel or health insurance Bringing appropriate swimwear and personal equipment Ensuring you are physically fit for diving activities Some diving schools may also require basic medical information before starting certain certification programs. Preparing properly before arriving in Bali can help make your diving experience smoother and more enjoyable. Common Mistakes Foreigners Make Many foreigners planning diving courses in Bali make simple mistakes that later create visa or immigration issues. Common mistakes include: Choosing a visa with insufficient stay duration Waiting too long before extending a visa Assuming visa extensions are instant Not understanding visa limitations In some cases, people become so focused on their diving schedule that they forget to monitor their visa expiry date. Why You Should Plan Your Visa Early Visa planning is just as important as choosing the right diving school. Applying for the correct visa early helps: Avoid overstay penalties Prevent interruptions during your course Reduce unnecessary stress during your stay Ensure your activities remain compliant with Indonesian regulations This becomes especially important for foreigners joining longer diving programs in Bali. Can You Stay in Bali After Your Diving Course? Yes—many foreigners who initially come to Bali for a diving course eventually decide to stay longer. After completing their course, some people continue traveling around Indonesia, while others choose to enjoy Bali’s lifestyle, remote-working environment, or wellness communities for an extended period. Because of this, it is common for visitors to: Extend their current visa Explore long-term stay options in Bali However, it is important to ensure that your visa remains valid and suitable for your activities in Indonesia. Planning your visa properly from the beginning can make it much easier if you later decide to stay in Bali longer than originally planned. Bali Is More Than Just Diving Many people arrive in Bali for a diving course and end up staying much longer than expected. The island offers: International communities Remote-working lifestyle opportunities Wellness and fitness culture
Why Global Entrepreneurs Choose Bali in 2026
In recent years, Bali has become one of the top destinations for entrepreneurs, remote business owners, and international professionals looking to relocate from major global cities such as Dubai. As global conditions become increasingly uncertain, many entrepreneurs are starting to prioritize not only business opportunities, but also quality of life, flexibility, and long-term personal wellbeing. In this situation, Bali offers something that is becoming harder to find in many fast-paced cities: peace, balance, and a more relaxed lifestyle. Today, relocating to Bali is no longer just a trend among digital nomads. More established business owners and global entrepreneurs are now seriously considering Bali as a long-term base for living and working remotely. Why Entrepreneurs Are Moving From Dubai to Bali Dubai remains one of the world’s strongest international business hubs. However, the fast-paced environment and high-pressure lifestyle have encouraged many entrepreneurs to explore alternative locations that offer better work-life balance. For many foreigners, Bali provides: A calmer and more peaceful environment Lower living costs compared to major global cities A strong international and entrepreneurial community Modern cafes, coworking spaces, and remote-working infrastructure A healthier and more flexible lifestyle This combination has made Bali increasingly attractive for entrepreneurs who want to maintain productivity while improving their overall quality of life. Why Bali Is Becoming a Global Relocation Hub Bali is no longer viewed only as a tourism destination. Over the past few years, the island has developed into a global hub for: Remote workers Startup founders Investors Online business owners Creative professionals Areas such as Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak have become popular among foreigners looking to combine business activities with lifestyle and wellness. For entrepreneurs managing international businesses remotely, Bali offers the flexibility to stay connected globally while enjoying a more balanced daily life. Two Main Options to Relocate to Bali Legally For entrepreneurs planning to move from Dubai to Bali, there are generally two common legal pathways depending on their business goals and long-term plans. 1. Setting Up a PMA Company in Bali One option is establishing a PMA (Foreign-Owned Company) in Indonesia and operating the business locally according to Indonesian regulations. This option is suitable for entrepreneurs who: Want to actively run a business in Indonesia Plan to hire local employees Intend to operate long-term in Bali Want a legal structure for local business activities A PMA company allows foreigners to legally conduct business operations in Indonesia while building a more permanent presence. 2. Relocating With a Digital Nomad Visa While Maintaining a Business in Dubai Another increasingly popular option is maintaining the main company and business operations in Dubai while personally relocating to Bali using a Digital Nomad Visa or remote-worker-related stay permit. This option allows entrepreneurs to: Continue operating their overseas business remotely Relocate themselves or their team members to Bali Enjoy Bali’s lifestyle without moving the entire company structure to Indonesia For many entrepreneurs, this setup provides greater flexibility while keeping their international business operations running from abroad. Best Areas in Bali for Entrepreneurs and Remote Workers Different areas in Bali offer different lifestyles depending on personal preferences and business needs. Canggu has become the center of Bali’s startup and remote-working scene, filled with coworking spaces, cafes, gyms, and international communities. Ubud is more popular among entrepreneurs seeking a quieter environment focused on wellness, creativity, and balance. Seminyak offers a more upscale lifestyle with luxury villas, restaurants, beach clubs, and easy access to business facilities. Many entrepreneurs choose their location in Bali based on the type of lifestyle and working environment they prefer. Important Things to Consider Before Relocating to Bali Before relocating, it is important to properly understand Indonesian immigration and business regulations. Some important considerations include: Choosing the correct visa or stay permit Understanding legal business activities in Indonesia Planning long-term stay arrangements Considering tax and company structure implications Every entrepreneur’s situation is different, so selecting the right visa pathway is essential. Why More Entrepreneurs Choose Bali in 2026 As remote work continues to grow globally, Bali has become one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs seeking a better balance between business and lifestyle. Compared to many major cities, Bali offers: More flexibility Lower operational and living costs Better lifestyle balance Strong international networking communities A unique combination of productivity and relaxation For many business owners, Bali represents not only a place to live, but also a new way of working and building a sustainable lifestyle. Conclusion The rising trend of entrepreneurs relocating from Dubai to Bali reflects a larger global shift toward flexibility, lifestyle-focused living, and remote business operations. Whether through setting up a PMA company in Indonesia or relocating with a Digital Nomad Visa while maintaining business operations in Dubai, Bali continues to attract global entrepreneurs looking for new opportunities and a better quality of life. For professional guidance regarding visas, stay permits, and relocation options, E-Visa Bali is ready to help make your move to Bali smooth, legal, and stress-free.
Do Foreigners Need BPJS in Bali? Here’s What You Should Know
For many foreigners living in Bali long-term, healthcare is one of the most important things to consider. Besides private insurance, many expats also ask about BPJS, Indonesia’s national healthcare and social security program. However, not all foreigners in Indonesia are eligible to obtain BPJS, and the rules can vary depending on the type of stay permit they hold. If you are planning to live in Bali using a ITAS or long-term visa, here is what you should know about BPJS eligibility in Indonesia. What Is BPJS? BPJS is Indonesia’s national social security and healthcare system managed by the government. There are generally two types: BPJS Kesehatan → healthcare coverage BPJS Ketenagakerjaan → employment-related social security BPJS allows eligible residents to access healthcare services in Indonesia at relatively affordable costs compared to many other countries. Can Foreigners Get BPJS in Bali? Yes, some foreigners living in Indonesia can obtain BPJS, especially those holding certain types of ITAS or long-term stay permits. However, eligibility depends on the immigration status and purpose of stay in Indonesia. Currently, foreigners who commonly qualify for BPJS include holders of: Investor ITAS Working ITAS Spouse of Indonesian Citizen ITAS These stay permits are generally considered eligible because they are linked to long-term residency, employment, or family sponsorship in Indonesia. How Much Does BPJS Cost for Foreigners? BPJS is generally considered affordable compared to many international healthcare systems. The monthly contribution depends on: The type of BPJS program The selected healthcare class Employment or sponsorship status Because regulations and contribution amounts may change over time, foreigners are encouraged to confirm the latest requirements before registering. Can BPJS Replace Private Health Insurance? While BPJS can help reduce healthcare costs in Indonesia, many foreigners still choose to combine it with private insurance. Private insurance is often preferred for: International coverage Faster access to certain hospitals English-speaking medical support Broader healthcare flexibility For this reason, many long-term foreigners in Bali use BPJS as basic healthcare coverage while maintaining additional private insurance protection. Retirement KITAS and BPJS One important thing many foreigners are not aware of is that Retirement ITAS holders can generally no longer obtain BPJS under current practice. Because of this, many retirees in Bali rely on: Private international health insurance Travel insurance Private healthcare providers This is an important consideration for foreigners planning retirement in Bali, especially for long-term healthcare planning. Why BPJS Is Important for Long-Term Foreigners Many expats consider BPJS beneficial because: Healthcare costs are relatively affordable It provides access to hospitals and clinics in Indonesia It can support long-term residency planning Monthly contributions are generally lower compared to private insurance plans However, many foreigners still choose to combine BPJS with private insurance for broader international coverage and faster access to certain healthcare facilities. Things to Consider Before Applying Before applying for BPJS, foreigners should consider: Whether their ITAS type is eligible The registration requirements Coverage limitations Differences between BPJS and private insurance Each foreigner’s situation can be different depending on their visa and long-term plans in Indonesia. Conclusion BPJS can be a useful healthcare option for foreigners living in Bali long-term, but eligibility depends heavily on the type of ITAS or stay permit you hold. At the moment, holders of Investor ITAS, Working ITAS, and Spouse of Indonesian Citizen ITAS are generally eligible for BPJS, while Retirement ITAS holders typically cannot obtain BPJS anymore. Because immigration and healthcare regulations may change over time, it is always important to understand your options carefully before choosing your long-term stay pathway in Indonesia. For professional assistance regarding KITAS and long-term stay options in Bali, E-Visa Bali is ready to help you choose the most suitable solution for your needs.
Bali Property Business Guide for Foreign Investors (2026)
Bali continues to attract foreign investors looking to enter the property market, especially in sectors such as villas, hospitality, and short-term rentals. With the island’s strong tourism industry and growing international demand, many foreigners see Bali as an attractive location for property-related business opportunities. However, property business regulations in Indonesia are very different compared to many other countries. Before starting a property business in Bali, it is important to understand the legal structure, licensing requirements, and operational rules that apply to foreign investors. This guide explains the basic things foreign investors should know before starting a property business in Bali in 2026. Is Bali Property Still a Good Investment in 2026? Despite changing global conditions, Bali continues to attract investors from around the world. Several factors continue to support Bali’s property market, including: Strong tourism demand Growth of remote workers and long-stay foreigners Increasing interest in villa rentals International lifestyle appeal For many investors, Bali offers not only business opportunities, but also long-term lifestyle value. However, proper legal planning and business structuring remain essential before entering the market. Can Foreigners Own Property Businesses in Bali? Yes, foreigners can legally operate a property-related business in Bali, but the business must be structured correctly according to Indonesian regulations. In most cases, foreign investors need to establish a PMA (Foreign-Owned Company) to legally conduct property business activities in Indonesia. A PMA allows foreigners to: Operate business activities legally Manage property-related operations Generate income in Indonesia Employ staff and run commercial activities Without a proper company structure, operating a property business in Bali can create legal and operational risks. Can Foreigners Buy Property in Bali Directly? One of the most common questions among foreign investors is whether foreigners can directly own property in Bali. In Indonesia, foreigners generally cannot own property under Hak Milik (Freehold Ownership/SHM), as this type of ownership is reserved only for Indonesian citizens. However, foreigners can still legally purchase property under their own name for personal residential use by using a different type of land right known as Hak Pakai (Right to Use). In this process, the property title must first be converted from Hak Milik (SHM) into Hak Pakai before it can be legally held by a foreigner. This option is commonly used by foreigners who want to live in Bali personally and do not intend to commercialize the property. On the other hand, if the property is intended for commercial purposes—such as villa rentals, hospitality businesses, or property resale activities—the business operation generally needs to be conducted under a PMA (Foreign-Owned Company) structure. Properties operated under a PMA are intended for commercial and business activities, meaning the property is used for purposes such as renting, hospitality operations, or other income-generating activities. Because Indonesian property regulations can be complex, understanding the correct ownership and business structure is very important before purchasing property in Bali. Why Property Should Be Under a PMA For foreigners running a commercial property business in Bali, the property operation should generally be managed under the PMA company structure. This is especially important for activities such as: Villa rentals Hospitality businesses Commercial accommodation operations Property management services Using a PMA structure helps ensure that the business activities remain compliant with Indonesian investment and licensing regulations. Planning to List Your Property on Airbnb? Many foreign investors in Bali plan to market their villas or properties through platforms such as Airbnb. However, operating short-term rentals commercially requires proper licensing. If you plan to list your property on Airbnb or similar booking platforms, your business generally needs to have an NIB (Business Identification Number). The NIB is an important business license issued through Indonesia’s business licensing system and is commonly required for operational and administrative purposes. Without proper licensing, operating short-term rental businesses may create compliance issues in the future. Important Things to Consider Before Starting Before investing in Bali property businesses, foreigners should carefully consider: The correct company structure Business licensing requirements Property zoning regulations Tax obligations Operational permits for short-term rentals Understanding these aspects early can help avoid legal complications and ensure smoother business operations. Common Mistakes Foreign Investors Make Some common mistakes include: Purchasing property without proper legal structure Operating Airbnb rentals without business licensing Using nominee arrangements without understanding the risks Assuming property regulations are the same as other countries Because Indonesian property and investment regulations can be complex, proper planning is essential. Why Bali Remains Attractive for Property Investors Despite the regulations, Bali remains one of the most attractive destinations for foreign property investors because of: Strong tourism demand Growing expat and remote-worker communities High interest in villa rentals and hospitality businesses Long-term lifestyle and investment appeal For many investors, Bali offers both business potential and lifestyle opportunities. Conclusion Starting a property business in Bali can offer exciting opportunities for foreign investors, but it is important to follow the correct legal and business procedures from the beginning. In general, foreigners need to establish a PMA company, and commercial property operations should be managed under this company structure. Additionally, businesses planning to operate short-term rentals through platforms such as Airbnb typically need an NIB and proper operational licensing. For professional guidance regarding PMA setup, visas, and business licensing in Bali, E-Visa Bali is ready to help you navigate the process smoothly and legally.
