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), accessible health insurance, and a growing choice of medical facilities, including a new 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.

Our founder Simone Collins recently shared insights on this trend in an interview on Sunrise. Watch the conversation on our YouTube channel for practical tips on retiring in Bali.

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

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

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
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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.

Retiree Client Stories

Choosing Bali for retirement is not just a relocation; it’s a journey into a vibrant and fulfilling chapter of life.

Discover the stories of those who have embraced Bali as their retirement haven, and let their experiences guide you in crafting your own Bali retirement story.

Read about retiree stories

Retired in Bali

We have so many retiree client success stories and we love to share Kylie (53) and Dean (62), a couple from Mermaid Waters on Australia’s Gold Coast, had been frequent visitors to Bali—Kylie for 30 years and Dean for the past decade. In March 2023, they married in Bali and, upon returning to Australia, decided to retire there to enjoy activities like surfing and yoga while still fit and healthy. They sold their belongings and moved to Balangan, Bali, in November 2023, choosing a quiet community close to surfing beaches and local amenities. Now settled in their beautifully renovated villa, they’ve embraced the Bali lifestyle, enjoying their new home, local connections, and everything the island has to offer.

Kylie & Dean were interviewed on Australian breakfast TV, Sunrise, Channel 7.

Watch their TV interview

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.

Visit our relocation services 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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bali safe for retirees?

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.

Can I retire comfortably on $1,500 per month in Bali

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. 

What’s the best area in Bali if I don’t drive?

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.

Which areas of Bali are quietest at night?

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. 

Do I need to speak Indonesian to live in Bali?

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.

Are natural disasters a concern in Bali?

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.

Can I bring my pet to Bali?

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 

What if I need to leave Bali quickly for an emergency?

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

Can I open a bank account 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.

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