Bali seems like an ideal place to live, but newcomers often make mistakes that can lead to financial losses, visa problems or everyday difficulties. In this article, we will analyze the TOP-10 main mistakes and how to avoid them.
Ignorance of visa rules
❌ Mistake: People come on a tourist visa and think that they can live in Bali without extending or applying for a long-term visa.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Understand the types of visas. For long-term residence, the following are suitable:
B211 (up to 6 months)
D12 (up to 2 years, multiple entries, without frequent extensions)
KITAS (work or investment visa)
✔ Keep track of visa extension dates – an overdue visa can result in fines or deportation.
Trusting scammers when renting housing
❌ Mistake: Paying rent without checking the housing and documents. Some “landlords” disappear after receiving the advance payment.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Never pay rent remotely.
✔ Inspect the house in person, check the owner’s documents.
✔ Use trusted agencies.
Ignoring health insurance
❌ Mistake: Arriving in Bali without insurance and facing huge medical bills.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Buy insurance with coverage of $50,000 (SafetyWing, Allianz).
✔ Remember the main hospitals: BIMC, Siloam, Kasih Ibu.
Driving without experience
❌ Mistake: Beginners immediately rent a bike without knowing how to ride, which often leads to accidents.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Take a bike driving course.
✔ Use a helmet and an international driving license (IDP).
Ignorance of local traditions and culture
❌ Mistake: Loud noise at night, disrespect for temples, failure to observe traditions.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Learn the basics of Balinese culture and religion.
✔ Dress modestly in temples, do not take photos in sacred places.
Mistakes when planning a budget
❌ Mistake: People think that Bali is “cheap to live”, and then face unexpected expenses.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Optimal budget for a comfortable life: $1,500-2,000 per month.
✔ Have a financial cushion of at least $5,000.
Ignoring the local climate and insects
❌ Mistake: Living without mosquito nets, air conditioning and protection from the heat.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Use nets and repellents.
✔ Install an air conditioner or a powerful fan.
Lack of knowledge of Indonesian bureaucracy
❌ Mistake: Trying to solve everything yourself, not knowing local laws and procedures.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Work through trusted lawyers and agencies.
Buying real estate without legal verification
❌ Mistake: Buying land or a villa without due diligence leads to problems with the law.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Check the owner and documents.
✔ Work through lawyers and agencies.
Mistakes when choosing a district
❌ Mistake: Choosing a place to live based on beautiful pictures from Instagram.
✅ How to avoid:
✔ Live in different districts for 1-2 months before long-term rent.
✔ Canggu is better for freelancing, Ubud for nature, Sanur for families.
Conclusion
Mistakes of beginners in Bali can cost nerves, money and even health. To avoid problems:
✔ Study visas, documents, prices.
✔ Work through trusted specialists.
✔ Plan your budget and test different areas.
💡 Planning a move? Prepare in advance – and Bali