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Bali’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and affordable lifestyle make it a magnet for digital nomads, expats, and investors alike. If you’re considering renting a property in Bali—whether it’s a villa in Canggu, a beachfront bungalow in Uluwatu, or a modern apartment in Seminyak—it’s important to understand how the process works to avoid pitfalls.

1. Leasehold vs. Freehold
Foreigners cannot legally own freehold land in Bali, but renting under a leasehold agreement is a common and safe alternative. Lease agreements typically range from one year to 25 years, with an option to extend. Always ensure the lease agreement is in writing and notarized to protect your interests.

2. Know the Legal Requirements
When renting, foreigners must rent in their personal name or through a registered Indonesian company (PT PMA). For long-term stays, you’ll need a proper visa—either a social, retirement, or investor visa, depending on your situation. Renting under the right visa is crucial to avoid immigration issues.

3. Use a Reputable Agent or Lawyer
Local knowledge is everything in Bali. A trusted property agent and legal advisor (like Bali Legals) can help you vet properties, check land titles, ensure zoning compliance, and draft rental contracts. Don’t rely on verbal agreements or informal terms, no matter how friendly the landlord may seem.

4. Due Diligence is Key
Before committing, check that the property has the correct permits—particularly the IMB (building permit) or PBG (the newer version), and that it’s zoned for residential or commercial use (depending on your purpose). Unpermitted buildings may face demolition or legal trouble.

5. Budget for Upfront Costs
Most rental contracts require full payment in advance for the term of the lease, especially for yearly or multiyear leases. In addition to rent, budget for taxes, maintenance, security deposits, and possibly agency fees.

6. Respect Local Customs and Laws
Bali has a rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Be mindful of local customs, maintain good relationships with neighbours, and always follow community rules (adat) to integrate respectfully.

Need Legal Help?
At Bali Legals, we specialise in guiding expats through the rental process safely and legally. Whether you’re leasing a villa or setting up a business, we’re here to make your Bali property journey smooth and stress-free.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation.

For assistance with renting a property in Bali, please contact us.

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Setting up a company in Bali, Indonesia, with the help of a legal service like Bali Legals can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and meet all the legal requirements. Bali is a popular destination for entrepreneurs, especially in industries like tourism, hospitality, real estate, and retail. Bali Legals, as a legal service provider, can assist with the necessary paperwork, registrations, and compliance requirements. Below is a general outline of the steps to establish a company in Bali:

1. Determine the Type of Company

There are various types of companies you can establish in Bali:

• PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company): This type of company allows foreigners to own and operate a business in Indonesia, but it requires a minimum investment and local Indonesian partners.
• Local PT (Perseroan Terbatas): A local company with majority Indonesian ownership. Foreigners can have a minority stake in this type.
• CV (Commanditaire Vennootschap): A limited partnership, often used by smaller businesses, with local ownership.
• Indonesian Representative Office: For foreign businesses wishing to establish a presence in Bali without operating directly.

2. Choose a Business Name

The business name must be unique and compliant with Indonesian regulations. Bali Legals can help ensure the name is available and properly registered with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Typically, you will need the following documents:

• Passport copies for foreign owners and directors
• Indonesian tax identification number (NPWP)
• Proof of address in Bali (for the company’s registered address)
• Bank reference letters (if required)
• Business plan (in some cases)

Bali Legals can assist you in ensuring that all your documents are properly prepared.

4. Register the Company with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights

Once you have the necessary documentation and your business name is approved, you will need to register your company with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights for legal recognition. This process involves drafting the company’s Articles of Association, which Bali Legals can handle.

5. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on the type of business, you may need to obtain various licenses and permits, such as:

• NIB (Nomor Induk Berusaha): Business Identification Number
• SIUP (Surat Izin Usaha Perdagangan): Trading Business License
• TDP (Tanda Daftar Perusahaan): Company Registration Certificate
• Other industry-specific licenses

Bali Legals can guide you through obtaining these licenses based on your specific business activity.

6. Register for Tax and Social Security

After the company is established, you must register with the tax office and obtain a tax ID number (NPWP) for the company. If you have employees, you must also register for BPJS (Social Security and Health Insurance).

7. Open a Corporate Bank Account

Once your company is legally recognised, you will need to open a corporate bank account in Bali. Bali Legals can help you navigate the banking system and ensure that your account is properly set up.

8. Hire Employees (if applicable)

If you plan to employ staff, you must comply with local labour laws and register employees with the appropriate authorities. This includes making social security and health insurance contributions (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and BPJS Kesehatan).

9. Ongoing Compliance

After the company is established, you will need to ensure ongoing compliance with local regulations, including annual reporting, tax filings, and other legal obligations. Bali Legals can provide ongoing legal and taxation services for your business.

10. Work with Bali Legals for Ongoing Support

Bali Legals offers comprehensive services for company formation, visa and work permit applications, contract drafting, legal advice and taxation services. We can assist with any legal issues that arise throughout the life of your business.

Key Considerations:

• Foreign Ownership: Foreign ownership regulations in Indonesia can be complex, so it’s essential to understand how much control you can have based on your business type.
• Investment Capital: The PT PMA requires a minimum investment, often around USD 250,000 (AUD 406,000), with at least 10% of this amount paid up before registering the company.
• Business Location: You need to have a registered address in Bali for your business.

If you choose to work with Bali Legals, you will benefit from our expertise in navigating the legal system and ensuring that your business complies with Indonesian laws, avoiding potential pitfalls.

For assistance with setting up a company in Bali, please contact us.

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When you’re dealing with legal matters in a foreign country, choosing the right translation service is crucial. In Bali, where both locals and expatriates coexist, understanding the language of legal documents can often be the key to ensuring smooth business transactions, personal matters, and compliance with regulations. Bali Legals provides professional translation services that ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and legal compliance. Here’s why Bali Legals should be your go-to choice for translation services in Bali.

1. Expertise in Legal Translation

Unlike standard translation services, legal translation requires a deep understanding of legal terminology and nuances. Bali Legals specialises in translating legal documents, such as contracts, agreements, permits, court filings, and more. Our team of certified translators has expertise in both Bahasa Indonesia and other languages, ensuring that every word is translated precisely and in line with the original legal intent.

Legal language can be complex, with specific terms that may not have direct equivalents in another language. Bali Legals ensures that these subtleties are captured, making your documents legally binding and accurate. Whether you need a translation for business, immigration, or personal matters, we provide a level of expertise that general translators simply cannot match.

2. Cultural Understanding and Local Knowledge

In addition to language fluency, legal translation requires a solid understanding of local customs, laws, and regulations. Bali Legals’ translators are not only proficient in multiple languages but are also familiar with the cultural and legal landscape in Bali and Indonesia. This local knowledge is essential when translating legal documents that might require additional context or adjustments based on regional laws.

Whether you’re dealing with property contracts, marriage certificates, or local regulations, Bali Legals ensures that your documents comply with Indonesian law and cultural expectations, eliminating the risk of misunderstandings or non-compliance.

3. Confidentiality and Professionalism

When handling legal matters, confidentiality is paramount. Bali Legals understands the sensitive nature of legal documents, and our team adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality. We ensure that all information remains secure and is only used for its intended purpose.

Furthermore, Bali Legals provides a professional and reliable service, working within the timeline that suits your needs. Whether you’re dealing with urgent legal situations or planning ahead, our team can accommodate a variety of requests while maintaining the utmost professionalism.

4. Wide Range of Translation Services

Bali Legals offers a broad spectrum of translation services tailored to meet the needs of both individuals and businesses in Bali. Our services include but are not limited to:

• Business Documents: Contracts, terms and conditions, agreements, and other legal business documents.
• Immigration Documents: Visas, residency permits, work permits, and other legal paperwork.
• Personal Documents: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and more.
• Court Translations: Translations of court filings, legal hearings, or testimony documents.

Whatever your legal translation needs are, Bali Legals can help ensure that your documents are accurate, timely, and legally valid.

5. Fast and Reliable Service

Bali Legals prides itself on delivering high-quality translations quickly and reliably. Legal matters often require urgent attention, and Bali Legals understands the importance of timely service. We offer fast turnaround times, even for large and complex legal documents, while maintaining the quality and accuracy of the translation. You can rest assured knowing your documents will be handled promptly and professionally.

6. Affordable and Transparent Pricing

Legal translation services can sometimes come with high fees, but Bali Legals is committed to providing transparent and competitive pricing. We offer clear pricing structures based on the type and complexity of the document, with no hidden fees. This makes our services accessible for both individuals and businesses in Bali, without the worry of unexpected costs.

7. Dedicated Customer Support

Bali Legals understands the importance of clear communication, especially when dealing with legal translations. We offer excellent customer support, ensuring that you can reach out with any questions, concerns, or revisions you may need. Our team is available to provide guidance and answer any inquiries throughout the translation process, giving you peace of mind and confidence in their services.

8. Trusted by Expats and Locals Alike

Bali Legals has built a reputation as a trusted translation service for both expats and locals in Bali. With our experience and commitment to quality, we have earned the confidence of individuals and businesses who rely on accurate legal translations to navigate the complexities of Indonesian law.

For translation services in Bali, please contact us.

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Running a business in Bali comes with endless opportunities—and a fair share of tax obligations. Navigating Indonesia’s tax regulations can be complex, especially for foreign entrepreneurs and small businesses. That’s where Bali Legals comes in. With years of experience and a deep understanding of local tax laws, our team offers comprehensive business tax services in Bali designed to keep your operations compliant and stress-free.

Why Professional Tax Services Matter

Indonesia’s tax system involves various requirements for businesses, including income tax, VAT (Value Added Tax), employee withholding tax, and annual reporting. Failing to meet deadlines or misinterpreting regulations can lead to penalties or even legal issues. Whether you’re a new startup, an established company, or a foreign-owned business (PT PMA), having expert tax support is not just helpful—it’s essential.

What We Offer

At Bali Legals, our business tax services cover all aspects of corporate taxation:

• Monthly & Annual Tax Reporting
  We ensure your tax obligations are submitted on time and accurately, including income tax, PPh21 (employee tax), PPh23, and VAT.
• Tax ID (NPWP) Registration
  We assist with registering your business and obtaining a Tax Identification Number, a legal requirement for operating in Indonesia.
• Corporate Tax Consulting
  Unsure about your tax bracket or allowable deductions? Our advisors offer clear, practical guidance tailored to your business model.
• Tax Planning & Optimisation
  Our team works to optimise your tax structure legally, helping you minimize liabilities and improve cash flow.
• Audit Assistance
  If your business is selected for a tax audit, we’re by your side to ensure everything is in order and represented properly.

Why Choose Bali Legals?

We combine legal knowledge with practical business experience. Our multilingual team understands both the legal landscape and the entrepreneurial mindset, making us the go-to choice for local and foreign-owned businesses across Bali.

Whether you’re launching a small café in Canggu or managing a rental business in Ubud, Bali Legals is your trusted partner in tax compliance. Let us handle the paperwork, so you can focus on growing your business.

Get in touch today to book a consultation and learn how our business tax services in Bali can support your success.

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Navigating the complexities of Bali’s real estate market requires a trusted legal advisor. Bali Legals offers real estate lawyers in Bali, providing comprehensive legal services to guide you through every step of your property journey.

With a deep understanding of Indonesian law and the intricacies of the Bali property market, our experienced team provides tailored solutions for both local and international clients. Whether you’re buying, selling, or leasing property, we are committed to protecting your interests and ensuring a smooth transaction.

Our Expertise Includes:

• Due Diligence: Thoroughly investigating property titles, legal status, and potential risks.
• Contract Negotiation: Expertly drafting and reviewing contracts to safeguard your interests.
• Transaction Management: Overseeing the entire buying or selling process, from offer to completion.
• Legal Advice: Providing expert guidance on all aspects of your real estate venture.

At Bali Legals, we believe in building long-term relationships with our clients based on trust and transparency. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional service and achieving successful outcomes.

Let us be your partner in realising your Bali property dreams. Contact us today for a consultation with one of our real estate lawyers in Bali.

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