It wasn’t the Valentine’s Day welcome of love and affection that tourists were looking for on 14 February when Bali introduced its new tourist tax.
It could have been worse, however. The government has stepped back from plans - for now – to increase Indonesia’s entertainment tax by up to 70%. This would have had an impact on many tourism-related business, including night clubs and spas.
As for the new IDR 150,000 (US$9.62) tourism tax, there are seven visa types that will be exempt from the tax. They are diplomatic and official visas, crew members, and holders of temporary or permanent stay permit cards. Holders of family unification visas, student visas, Golden Visas, and business-specific visas are also exempt.
However, to make things a little trickier, those seeking exemption will have to make an application online and await approval - or otherwise - through the Love Bali system. Click here for more details on making payment.
Love Bali online is also the place to go for those who are required to pay the tax.