Bali’s crackdown on ‘low-quality tourism’ in 2026: What visitors should know
Bali is planning to introduce a major step in how it manages international tourism, with new screening measures set to take effect in 2026. The island’s government says the goal is to curb what it calls “low-quality tourism” and protect Bali’s culture, environment and public order after years of overcrowding and visitor misconduct.
Under the proposed policy, foreign visitors arriving in Bali may be required to show proof of adequate financial means before being allowed entry. This could include a review of bank savings from the previous three months. Authorities also plan to assess how long tourists intend to stay and what activities they plan to undertake on the island.
Bali Governor Wayan Koster said the measures are part of a push to ensure that tourism brings sustainable benefits to local communities rather than straining infrastructure and social norms.
“One aspect of quality tourism is the amount of money in visitors’ savings accounts over the past three months,” Koster said at a tourism event in Gianyar, adding that visitor behaviour and purpose of travel would also be considered.
Why Bali is doing this
Bali has struggled with the side effects of mass tourism, including traffic congestion, environmental damage, illegal work by tourists, and rising cases of disrespectful behaviour at cultural and religious sites. Officials say budget travellers who overstay visas or seek informal work have added pressure to public services.
By tightening entry requirements, the provincial government hopes to attract visitors who can afford longer, more responsible stays and who contribute more consistently to the local economy.
Who could be affected
The policy is expected to apply mainly to international tourists, particularly those planning extended stays. Short-term holidaymakers may face fewer checks, but authorities have not yet released detailed guidelines.
Digital nomads, long-stay tourists and backpackers are likely to be most affected, especially if they cannot demonstrate sufficient funds or clear travel plans.
Officials stress that the policy is not meant to discourage tourism, but to reset it. “This is about quality, not quantity,” Bali authorities say.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
