Bali is fast becoming a top retirement destination, loved for its tropical beauty, warm hospitality, and relaxed lifestyle. Retirees enjoy a lower cost of living—often 30–40% less than in Australia—along with fresh local produce, affordable activities like yoga and swimming, and year-round sunshine.

Practical benefits add to the appeal: budget-friendly housing (many with pools and household staff to help with cleaning), good quality health insurance, and a growing choice of medical facilities, including the international hospital in Sanur. A thriving expat community and Bali’s rich Hindu culture also create a fulfilling and supportive environment.

With retirement visas available for those over 55 and Bali’s close proximity to Australia, it’s easy to stay connected with family or explore Asia.

At Our Year in Bali, we guide you through the transition, helping you prepare and settle with confidence and reassurance you are doing it the right way.

Have a Chat With Us — It’s Free

If you’re curious about retiring in Bali, we’re happy to talk it through with you.

You can book a free 30-minute call at a time that suits you. It’s a relaxed conversation — no pressure, no obligations. Just bring your questions and we’ll do our best to help you think things through, whether you’re in the early stages of wondering “could this work for me?” or already making plans to move.

Book a free discovery call

Retirement Visa

Indonesia provides a retirement KITAS (319), designed for individuals meeting the minimum age requirement of 55 years, offering an option for foreign nationals who wish to retire in Bali. This visa is valid for one year with multiple entries and is renewable annually.

Current visa cost is 13,000,000 million IDR for the first year (approx $1,300 AUD).

The application for this visa can be done either offshore or onshore in Bali. There are different requirements depending on which option you choose.

  • The application process includes the submission of the following documents:
    • Passport (minimum validity 6 months)
    • Personal bank statement with a minimum amount of USD 3000 and proving income or allowance with a value of USD 3000 per month.
    • Color photo for documents.
    • Address in Bali.

These requirements are essential for a smooth application and approval of the Retirement KITAS, facilitating your transition to retirement in Bali.

How long does it take to process a Retirement kitas?
Only 7-10 working days for offshore and 3-4 days express. Onshore similar time frame of up to 12 working days.

What other visas can I enjoy if I am 55 years of age or more?

Another excellent option, without the need to invest in property, is the 5-year Silver Hair Visa (E33E) for individuals aged 60 and above. This visa does require a commitment to deposit $50,000 USD into a local government-approved bank.

Can I still retire in Bali if I am under the age of 60 and do not meet the requirements?

Yes, we can offer alternate visas that many of our retirees are enjoying.

Are there vias that are longer than a 1-year visas and no age limit?

The second-home visa option allows for 5 years and the primary requirement for obtaining this visa is to demonstrate proof of funds, either through an Indonesian bank account owned by a foreigner with a minimum balance of USD 130,000 or through ownership of luxury real estate in Indonesia valued at least USD 1,000,000.

Read about visas
Book a Free Visa Call

Areas Suitable For Retirement Living

Numerous exceptional options await those considering retirement locations in Bali. Each area boasts an array of amenities, distinctive landscapes, high-quality supermarkets, accessible medical care, diverse dining options, engaging activities, and vibrant communities.

For example, common retirement areas include Sanur, Ubud, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran and the Bukit Peninsula, however others are keen to explore places like Candidasa, Lovina and Amed.  However, we have also helped secure properties and relocations for retirees to move to Seminyak and Nusa Lembogan.

Before settling in one location it may be a good idea to test the waters and live somewhere for a one year lease before committing to purchasing a long term lease.

Read about areas to live

Retirement Community

In addition to fostering connections within the thriving expatriate communities in Bali, retirees find a wealth of opportunities to engage in various social events, cultural activities, sports, hobbies, and special interest clubs. These avenues not only contribute to a vibrant retirement experience but also serve as platforms for building lasting friendships with like-minded individuals who share common interests.

Furthermore, the expansive network of Facebook and WhatsApp groups dedicated to specific locations, including the Sanur community, plays a pivotal role in enhancing retirees’ social connectivity. These groups not only facilitate communication and camaraderie within each community but also serve as valuable resources for sharing tips and information related to retirement.

Retirees can tap into these platforms to gain insights, seek advice, and stay informed about the wealth of resources available within their chosen retirement community.

Retirees Owning Property

As a retiree in Bali, you will have several different housing options and there are many different types of housing available to foreigners in Bali depending on your lifestyle and budget.

Bali’s real estate market presents a unique choice between two distinct property ownership models – Freehold and Leasehold.

The decision between freehold and leasehold properties hinges on individual preferences and investment objectives. Freehold properties provide long-term ownership and potential capital appreciation, making them attractive for secure and stable investments, while leasehold properties, requiring a lower initial investment, may be more suitable for shorter-term goals or budget-conscious investors.

Foreigners cannot directly own freehold property (the strongest form of land title ownership in Indonesia) in Bali unless they set up an Indonesian entity called a PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company).

Apart from freehold land, it is much easier and more popular to look at the lease system (Ha Pakai – right to use) and it is the most common foreign ownership method.  Leasehold can be registered in your own name with full rights of the property going to you for the period of lease.

At the end of the lease agreement the land and any Bali property on that land will return to the owner, however it is very unusual for this to happen as most local landowners will want to extend the contract before this happens and many agreements will have extensions written into the legal agreement.

Additionally, for those seeking community-oriented living, options like Amandaesa and various retirement housing villages being developed around the island cater to individuals looking for secure and communal environments tailored to their needs.

Learn More about Bali Property Investment

Assisted Living for Retirees

Assisted living in Bali is becoming an option for international retirees who want to maintain independence while receiving support with daily activities. Communities such as HoviCare, an eldercare provider with Finnish roots and more than 30 years of experience in senior and dementia care, offer supportive environments where residents can receive help with mobility, meals, and daily routines while maintaining as much independence as possible.

For retirees who prefer daytime support and structured activities, the HoviCare Day Care Centre in Teuku Umar provides social and cognitive programmes designed for older adults. Those looking for private residential assisted living can also explore Hovi Assisted Living in Saba, a purpose-built residence offering accommodation, daily care support, and wellness-focused programmes.

With the right planning around healthcare, insurance, and future care needs, assisted living in Bali can offer retirees both peace of mind and a high quality of life.

Learn More about assisted living

Affordable Health Care

Bali ensures accessible and cost-effective healthcare, marked by advancements in residential living and medical tourism. Medical services, including doctor visits, dental care, specialists and medications, are notably affordable.

Technology plays a role with medical apps like Halodoc’s to enhance accessibility, enabling convenient home delivery of medicines and online consultations with doctors.

The island has many expat-friendly hospitals and clinics, strategically located for retirees to address their health needs with ease. Providers such as Hovi Care cater to elderly care for seniors, offering services like rehabilitation, assisted living, and nursing support.

Hospitals such as BIMC Hospital Nusa Dua and Siloam Hospitals Denpasar, along with the international hospital in Sanur, contribute to Bali’s robust healthcare infrastructure. In case of more specialised needs, short flights to Singapore and Australia are viable options, underscoring the island’s commitment to ensuring residents’ well-being.

Although the quality of healthcare in Bali is generally good, it’s still important to ensure adequate medical insurance coverage.

Learn more about Healthcare & Insurance

Padma Care - Your Personal Health Advisor

Medical clinics in Bali offer a wide range of services, including general doctor consultations, dental care, and various specialised treatments. Many of these clinics operate 24/7, ensuring accessibility, affordability, and up-to-date international-standard medical care in the key expat areas of the island.

Our Year in Bali Partner with Padma Care

Padma Care helps expat families access high-quality healthcare at local rates. For 350,000 IDR (~$24 USD) per month per household, you get:

✔️ Daily access (7 days a week) to a Personal Healthcare Assistant and support team
✔️ Your dedicated Personal Health Advisor who knows your family
✔️ Expert doctor recommendations (vetted network of 108 specialists)
✔️ Negotiated local pricing at 7 hospitals and 11 clinics
✔️ Bills and treatments are carefully vetted so you don’t overpay or get unnecessary services
✔️ Guidance on navigating clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies with ease
✔️ Peace of mind knowing you’ll always have the right help at the right time

Most members recoup the annual membership cost on their first significant medical visit through negotiated savings alone. Even better: Padma Care can help you structure a smart insurance strategy—pairing a high-deductible international plan with affordable local care—that saves families $1,000s annually compared to traditional expat insurance.

Our Year in Bali Special Offer: Receive one month free when you sign up!

It only takes 10 minutes to register, and you can choose your start date. Still have questions? Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your family’s needs.

Sign Up Now
Book a Free Call

How can you help me retire in Bali?

We love helping retirees embrace an exciting new chapter in Bali! It all begins with a friendly Zoom call where we chat about your plans and answer any questions you have about the move. We’ll guide you through everything from housing and property investment to finances, cost of living, banking, healthcare, visas, transport, pet relocation, making friends, and so much more.

We understand the upcoming challenges you will face and make it a smooth as possible.

Explore our Relocation Rervices and book a Discovery Call to get the conversation started. We recommend planning and engaging our services at least 12 months in advance for a retirement move.

Relocation Services
Book a Free Call Now

What does retired in Bali look like

Kylie (53) and Dean (62) are self-funded retirees and former Our Year in Bali clients who turned a long-held dream into reality. After decades of visiting Bali — and marrying on the island in March 2023,  they made the decision to return the same year, this time to retire.

By November 2023, they had sold their belongings, relocated to Balangan, and settled into a quieter village lifestyle close to surf breaks, markets, gyms, and cafés. Now living in their renovated villa, their days revolve around surfing, yoga, community life, and enjoying the freedom that retirement was meant to bring.

Their journey offers a real, grounded look at what day-to-day retired life in Bali can be like when the planning and support are in place.

Kylie and Dean were also featured on Sunrise, sharing their retirement journey with a national audience.

Watch Kylie & Dean Sunrise Interview

Retiree Client Stories

Kylie and Dean’s story is just one of many.

Our Retiree Stories share the real experiences of Our Year in Bali clients from around the world who have successfully transitioned into retirement on the island. These are genuine journeys we’ve supported — from early planning and visa guidance to choosing where to live and settling into everyday life in Bali.

Inside these stories, you’ll discover the different paths retirees take, the adjustments they make, and what life looks like once the move is complete. You can watch these journeys unfold through real video interviews — starting with Kylie and Dean’s full retirement story below.

If you’re considering retiring in Bali, these stories can help you feel informed, reassured, and confident about taking the next step.

Watch Kylie and Dean Full Story on YouTube
Read about retiree stories

Meet Our Year in Bali Retirees

Book a Free Discovery Call

If you’d like to talk through your retirement plans in Bali, you’re welcome to book a free 30-minute Discovery Call.

This is a relaxed, no-pressure conversation where you can ask questions, explore your options, and understand how we can support your move. Whether you’re just considering retirement in Bali or actively preparing to relocate, we’re here to help you plan a lifestyle that feels fulfilling, practical, and truly yours.

Book a Free Call Now

Get your FREE Move to Bali Checklist

Moving to Bali for retirement comes with many considerations, and it’s normal to feel unsure about where to start or what to prioritise.

This free checklist brings everything together in one place. It walks you through the key steps you need to think about — from visas and housing to healthcare, budgeting, and settling into daily life — so you can plan your move with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re just exploring the idea of retiring in Bali or already preparing to relocate, this guide helps you see the full picture and move forward in an organised, manageable way.

Fill in the form below to receive your free Moving to Bali Checklist and start planning your move with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Bali is generally very safe. Violent crime is rare, and most risks are petty theft or traffic incidents.

To stay safe:

  • Keep valuables out of sight
  • Use registered taxis or Grab
  • Always wear a scooter helmet
  • Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food

Most retirees feel safer in Bali than in large cities back home

Learn more.

It’s possible with careful budgeting. You’ll live more comfortably in Denpasar, Candidasa, or Lovina than in popular tourist hubs.

Expect to:

  • Rent a modest home (no pool)
  • Cook most meals
  • Use a scooter or Grab for transport
  • Limit expensive leisure activities

A monthly budget of $2,000–$2,500 offers much more comfort.

Learn More. 

Sanur is the top choice for retirees who prefer not to drive. It’s flat, walkable, and well-connected via Grab.

Nusa Dua is another good option for higher budgets.

Avoid Ubud, Uluwatu, Candidasa, and Lovina unless you plan to drive or hire transport.

Learn more.

From quietest to liveliest:

  1. Candidasa – Ocean sounds only
  2. Lovina – Peaceful, small-town feel
  3. Nusa Dua – Quiet resort area
  4. Sanur – Gentle and calm
  5. Jimbaran – Relaxed except near the fish market
  6. Ubud – Calm evenings, active days
  7. Denpasar – Urban background noise
  8. Uluwatu – Varies by location
  9. Pererenan/Seseh – Mixed street by street
  10. Canggu – Often noisy
  11. Seminyak – Late-night nightlife

Learn More. 

Not necessarily. English is common in Sanur, Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, and Nusa Dua.

Still, learning basic Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) makes daily interactions smoother and helps you connect with locals.

You can learn with Apps, local lessons, and language schools.

Check our Bahasa Book in the Bronze Membership package.

Natural risks exist but are generally minor:

  • Earthquakes: Small tremors occasionally occur
  • Tsunamis: Low risk, but be aware of evacuation routes near beaches
  • Volcanic activity: Mount Agung may affect flights
  • Flooding: Some low-lying areas flood during rainy season

Most retirees stay informed and continue enjoying Bali’s relaxed lifestyle.

Yes, but it’s a detailed process. You’ll need:

  • A microchip and rabies vaccination
  • An Indonesian import permit (before arrival)
  • A health certificate from your vet
  • 3-6 days quarantine in Jakarta

Good vets are available in Bali, though finding pet-friendly housing can take extra effort.

Learn More 

Always have an emergency fund that covers:

  • A flight home ($800–$2,000)
  • Lease break fees (1–2 months’ rent)
  • Packing, storage, or shipping

Daily flights connect Bali with Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Australia, allowing departures within 24–48 hours.

For serious health issues, international health insurance will arrange evacuation or hospital transfer.

Learn More about Healthcare and Health Insurance in Bali

Yes, if you hold a valid visa (like a KITAS). Major banks such as BCA, Mandiri, and BNI allow expats to open accounts with proof of address, passport and Tax File Number. This needs to be done in person, and we assist with connecting you with great Bank Managers in our Silver membership.

Find the Right Relocation Package for Your Move

More Services

Book a Consultation Instead of a Full Package?

Our consultation service is perfect if you:

  • Want answers to specific questions without committing to a full relocation package
  • Need expert guidance at a specific stage of your journey
  • Prefer to handle the move yourself, but want insider knowledge
  • We are already in Bali and need targeted advice
  • Want to validate your plans before making big decisions
Book a personalized consultation
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