Many people wondering about how to move to Bali. The laid-back living in Bali, stunning coastal beaches, and breathtaking nature make Bali a dreamy place to reside in. The thriving expat community, rich cultural heritage, and relatively affordable living costs are also key factors that intrigue people to live in Bali. In this article, we will try to provide you with comprehensive and basic information on how to move to Bali. Let’s dive in!

We hope you enjoy this article.
Need more expert guidance and hundreds of top properties in Bali?
Why Consider Moving to Bali?

Why you need to consider moving to Bali ? Because Bali has always been on the top list of traveller destinations for the last few decades. Due to its stunning beaches, green landscape, and rich cultural heritage, Bali has a unique mix of vibrant social life and natural beauty.
Bali’s appeal lies in its diversity—from bustling areas like Seminyak and Canggu to tranquil spots such as Ubud and Sidemen. The island is known for its wellness retreats, yoga studios, surf beaches, and artistic communities, making it a haven for those seeking personal growth and a deeper connection with nature. The warm tropical climate is what people are seeking, and the relatively affordable cost of living in Bali also plays a significant role in intriguing expats around the globe to visit Bali.
Bali has a diverse appeal, from the bustling tourist hotspots with beach clubs, trendy cafes, and sports to quiet and wellness retreats. Places like Seminyak and Canggu have been popular for their unmatched nightlife and vibrant tourist lifestyle. Places like Ubud offer a quieter area with art galleries, wellness retreats, and more of cultural activities than in the busy areas. Bali has breathtaking nature complemented with ever-growing yoga studios and wellness centres.
Bali is also known for its strong spiritual traditions and community-driven culture. Living in Bali allows you to experience festivals, temple sacred ceremonies, and other activities related to the spiritual beliefs of the locals. The blend of spirituality and community cultivates a sense of belonging that many people find comforting and enriching.
Brief Overview of Bali
Bali is not just a vacation must-visit place, but also a popular destination among expats around the world. Digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs are drawn to the island’s balanced life between nature and growing tourism. The diverse landscape that includes rice terraces, volcanic mountains, and pristine beaches, adds a lot more plus points to the island’s appeal.
Canggu is a popular centre for digital nomads, complemented with coworking spaces, cafes, and beach clubs. Ubud, on the other hand, intrigues those interested in spirituality, arts, and wellness. Seminyak is known for its upscale restaurants and vibrant nightlife, while Uluwatu offers some of the best surf spots and cliffside villas.
For those who prefer quieter areas, Sidemen and Amed provide peaceful escapes with stunning mountain and coastal views. Every region has a distinctive character, allowing expats to choose the lifestyle that best suits their needs. Whether it’s the vibrant beach clubs of Canggu or the serene rice fields of Ubud, Bali offers something for everyone.
You can learn to invest in land for sale in Bali while also navigating you’re moving to Bali process.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Bali?

Understanding how much does it cost to move to Bali involved is a crucial answer to the question of how to move to Bali. There are options to fit various budgets and they’re very accessible and easy to navigate.
Initial Moving Costs
Shipping Belongings
Moving your belongings to Bali can be costly depending on the amount of goods you wish to bring. Many expats opt to downsize and travel with minimal items. For those shipping larger containers, prices can range from $1,500 to $5,000, this is highly influenced by the country of origin and the volume of the goods you’re sending. Air freight is faster but more expensive, while sea freight offers a more affordable option for non-urgent items.
Visa Application Fees
Visa costs vary depending on the type of visa you apply for. A tourist visa (valid for 60 days) typically costs around $50, while a social-cultural visa (extendable up to six months) can cost approximately $250. Long-term like KITAS Visa Bali (Temporary Stay Permit) or Retirement Visa can range between $500 and $1,200, including agent fees. Hiring an immigration agent to assist with the process is common and recommended to avoid complications. For more information about official visa applications, please check The Official e-Visa Website for Indonesia.
Relocation Services
Relocation services are preferred by expats because it simplifies the moving process. These services can give you assistance in visa applications, housing searches, and even school for children. This may add to the initial cost but also reduce the amount of stress you’ll endure during the moving process.
Cost of Living Breakdown
Accommodation (Renting, Buying)
Villa for rent in Bali costs around $500 to $3000 USD per month depending on the location and amenities. Areas like Ubud and Canggu offer a variety of accommodations, from one-bedroom villas starting at USD 500 per month. Beachfront villas may be more expensive, especially in areas like Seminyak and Uluwatu. If you’re interested in buying your property, leasehold properties are popular, with prices varying based on land size, location, and leasehold period. Learn more about leasehold villas for sale.
Co-living Spaces
Co-living spaces in Bali offer a more affordable accommodation option. These spaces offer shared amenities with prices starting at $300 USD to $800 USD per month.
Food and Dining
Dining options in Bali are relatively affordable. With $2-$5 USD you can enjoy a delicious meal from the local warung. Upscale dining or Western-style restaurants can range from $10 USD to $30 USD per meal. Grocery shopping is affordable especially if you buy the locally produced ones from the local vendors. Imported goods might be pricier and are only available in certain supermarkets. Bali’s market scheme provides fresh seasonal fruits, vegetables, and even seafood.
Utilities and Services
Electricity and water bills for a small villa typically cost around $50 to $100 per month. Internet services are affordable, with high-speed plans costing roughly $30 to $50 per month. Mobile data plans are also inexpensive and widely available.
Healthcare and Insurance
Bali has reputable medical facilities, but most expats prefer international health insurance. Monthly premiums can range from $100 to $300, depending on coverage. Routine doctor visits cost approximately $20 to $50. Emergency services and specialized treatments may require travel to neighbouring Singapore or Australia for advanced care.
Problems With Living in Bali
It can be quite challenging to move to Bali but with careful and meticulous preparation, you can navigate your way through.
Language Barriers
Although many Balinese people speak basic English, learning a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia can be helpful for everyday interactions.
Networking and Integration
Bali has plentiful expat networks and social events that help newcomers integrate. Joining yoga classes, surfing groups, or local volunteering activities can facilitate friendships and connections within the community.
Conclusion
It is indeed an exciting opportunity to embrace a fresh lifestyle while moving to Bali. However, this moving process needs to be followed by a thorough preparation. Bali’s affordability, breathtaking beauty, and lovely community intrigue people around the world. To achieve a smooth shift, it is important to know how to navigate visa applications and learn how to adapt to a brand-new culture. Take the time to carefully plan your move to Bali and make sure you consult with professionals to create a hassle-free and seamless moving experience.
Source and reference :
https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/
https://www.welcomebacktobali.com/
https://asiantigersgroup.com/
Need More Expert Guidance in Buying Property in Bali?

As a leading authority in the real estate industry, Balitecture provides complete assistance throughout the process. A team of experts specializing in A-Z property services is committed to helping you every step of the way.
Set a free consultation with us!
We also have you covered with extensive property listings. This includes Bali land for sale, villas for sale, villas for rent, and other properties available for lease and sale. Plus, villa management can help you make the most of generating income from your property.
Discover Bali villas for lease and sale here.
Discover Bali lands for lease and sale here.
Find the best features and benefits of villa management here.