For many Indian travellers, Bali has become the go-to escape for sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife and a relaxed holiday mood. Over the past year, the island has seen a steady rise in visitors from India, with travel numbers touching a new high this summer as more people chose Bali for short breaks and long vacations alike.
The journey to Bali has so far been fairly smooth for Indian tourists, with visa-on-arrival and e-visa options allowing stays of up to 30 days. But this convenience may not remain the same for long. Starting in 2026, travellers could face additional entry requirements that go beyond just having a passport and valid visa.
The Bali government is planning to introduce new rules that would require international tourists to show proof of sufficient funds before entering the island. Officials say the idea behind this move is to encourage more responsible and well-prepared visitors, ensuring that tourists can comfortably support themselves during their stay. This rule is expected to apply to all foreign travellers, including those arriving on visa-on-arrival.
Local authorities have indicated that financial readiness will be an important factor while assessing visitors. Instead of a fixed amount, officials are likely to look at each traveller’s plans, including how long they intend to stay, where they will be travelling, and what kind of activities they plan to do. Bank statements from the past few months may also be requested as part of this assessment.
While this may sound new, proof of funds is already required for certain Indonesian visa categories, where travellers must show a minimum bank balance. What will change is that even tourists using the easier visa-on-arrival option for Bali could now be asked to meet similar conditions.
As Bali continues to attract record numbers of tourists, these changes signal a shift towards stricter entry checks. For Indian travellers planning a Bali holiday in the coming years, being financially prepared and having clear travel plans may soon be just as important as booking flights and hotels.
