Is Bali Open to Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a trip to Bali, you’re probably wondering if the island is open to tourism. The answer is yes and no. Let’s dive into the details.

Background

In March 2020, Bali closed its borders to international tourists due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision was made to prevent the spread of the virus and protect both locals and visitors. Since then, Bali has been working on ways to reopen its tourism industry safely.

The Current Situation

As of May 2021, Bali is not fully open to international tourists. However, there are some exceptions.

Tourists who have a valid visa or residency permit can enter Bali after obtaining approval from the Indonesian government. Additionally, travelers from certain countries who meet specific requirements can apply for a business visa or social-cultural visa.

Requirements for Entering Bali

Regardless of whether you have a visa or not, there are some requirements that all travelers must meet before entering Bali:

  • A negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure
  • A health certificate in English stating that you’re free of COVID-19 symptoms
  • A mandatory quarantine period upon arrival (usually in a hotel designated by the government)
  • Another PCR test on day 5 after arrival

The Future of Tourism in Bali

Bali’s government has announced plans to reopen the island to international tourists in July 2021 if everything goes according to plan. The reopening will be implemented gradually and will depend on several factors such as vaccination rates, COVID-19 cases, and readiness of tourism facilities.

Conclusion

In summary, while Bali is not fully open to international tourists yet, there are some exceptions for those with valid visas and residency permits. However, all travelers must meet specific requirements before entering Bali, including a negative PCR test result and a quarantine period.

The government plans to reopen the island to international tourists in July 2021. As always, it’s essential to stay informed of any updates or changes before planning your trip.