Bali Business Visas | Starting a Business in Bali

If you’re an entrepreneur considering starting a business or expanding your operations in Bali, understanding Bali business visas and requirements is crucial. Bali offers several visa options for foreign business owners, each with its own specific eligibility criteria and benefits. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the Bali business visa landscape:

1. Business Visa (B211)

The Business Visa (B211) is a popular choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business presence in Bali. It allows you to stay in Indonesia for up to 60 days per visit, with multiple entries permitted. However, this visa does not grant you the right to work or earn income within Indonesia. It serves as a temporary stay permit for business-related activities such as attending meetings, exploring investment opportunities, or conducting market research.

2. Limited Stay Visa (VITAS)

For those planning to stay longer and engage in business activities, the Limited Stay Visa (VITAS) may be more suitable. This visa allows you to stay in Indonesia for up to one year, with the possibility of extensions. To be eligible for a VITAS, you must have a sponsoring Indonesian company or organization that will support your business activities. The VITAS allows you to work and earn income legally in Bali, making it a preferred option for entrepreneurs seeking long-term business opportunities.

3. Investor KITAS

The Investor KITAS (Limited Stay Permit for Investors) is specifically designed for foreign investors who plan to establish or invest in a business in Bali. To qualify for an Investor KITAS, you need to meet certain investment thresholds set by the Indonesian government. The Investor KITAS grants you a longer stay in Indonesia (up to two years) and allows you to work and earn income from your business activities. It also provides a pathway to permanent residency, offering more stability for your entrepreneurial endeavors.

4. Multiple Business Visas

For those who frequently travel in and out of Indonesia for business purposes, the Multiple Business Visas (MBV) can be a convenient option. The MBV allows for multiple entries and stays of up to 60 days per visit, valid for one year. It offers flexibility for entrepreneurs who need to make frequent trips to Bali without the need for a new visa every time. However, it’s important to note that the MBV does not grant you the right to work or earn income within Indonesia.

Consulting Professionals and Visa Agents

Navigating the Bali business visa process can be complex, and it’s advisable to seek guidance from professionals like ourselves, who specialise in Indonesian immigration laws. We can provide you with up-to-date information, assist with the visa application process, and ensure compliance with all necessary requirements.

Need help with Bali business visas? Get in touch with Bali Legals to discuss your visa requirements.

Please follow our Facebook page and Instagram account for all the latest news and information.

See our Google Reviews.

Can a Foreigner Start a Business in Bali?

Yes, a foreigner can start a business in Bali, Indonesia. However, there are specific regulations and procedures that must be followed. Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Legal Structure: Foreigners typically set up a business in Indonesia through a Foreign Investment Company (PT PMA – Penanaman Modal Asing) or by establishing a local partnership with an Indonesian national.
  2. Required Documents: To register a business, you will need various documents, including a business plan, identification, and other legal paperwork. It’s advisable to work with Bali Legals to navigate the requirements.
  3. Investment Requirements: There may be a minimum investment requirement for a PT PMA, which can vary based on the type of business. You will also need to acquire the necessary licenses and permits specific to your business sector.
  4. Type of Business: Certain sectors may have restrictions or requirements for foreign ownership. It’s essential to understand these regulations based on the nature of your business.
  5. Local Partner: If you choose to go into a partnership with a local Indonesian, this can sometimes simplify the process, but it requires careful legal agreements to protect your investment.
  6. Tax Implications: Be aware of the tax regulations applicable to foreign businesses in Indonesia, which may include corporate tax, VAT, and others.
  7. Cultural and Business Practices: Being aware of local customs and business practices can facilitate smoother operations.
  8. Consultation: It’s highly recommended to consult with Bali Legals as we specialise in foreign investments to ensure compliance with Indonesian laws.

In summary, while starting a business in Bali as a foreigner is possible, it involves navigating several legal and regulatory requirements.

If you are looking to start a business in Bali, please contact us.

Please follow our Facebook page and Instagram account for all the latest news and information.

See our Google Reviews.

Why Choose Bali Legals for Translation Services in Bali

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.

Please follow our Facebook page and Instagram account for all the latest news and information.

See our Google Reviews.

New Years Eve in Bali

New Year’s Eve in Bali is celebrated with a blend of traditional Balinese customs and modern festivities, creating a unique atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that Bali also observes the Balinese New Year (known as Nyepi) based on the Balinese Saka calendar, which falls on a different date each year and is a very distinct celebration from the Western New Year. Here’s how both are celebrated:

1. Western New Year’s Eve (December 31st)

For the Western New Year (December 31st), Bali hosts vibrant celebrations that attract both locals and tourists:

  • Beach Parties: The beaches of Bali, particularly in popular tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Jimbaran, are often the centre of New Year’s Eve festivities. These beaches come alive with lively parties, fireworks, music, and dancing. Clubs and bars along the coast host special events, many featuring international DJs or live performances.
  • Fireworks: Fireworks are a key feature of Bali’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, especially in upscale areas like Nusa Dua, Seminyak, and Sanur. The Bali skyline lights up as locals and tourists ring in the New Year with spectacular pyrotechnic displays.
  • Gala Dinners: Many high-end resorts, restaurants, and hotels host lavish gala dinners that include a mix of Balinese and international cuisine, entertainment, and live music performances. These events are often part of special packages that include a countdown to midnight, making it an elegant and festive way to celebrate.
  • Cultural Performances: While Western-style parties dominate, many venues in Bali also offer cultural performances, such as traditional Balinese dance or music, which provide a taste of the island’s rich heritage.
  • Fire Dancing and Barong Parades: In certain areas, especially in more traditional or tourist-heavy parts of Bali, fire dancers and Barong parades can be seen as part of the celebrations. These performances often serve as both entertainment and a form of blessing for the upcoming year.

2. Nyepi – Balinese New Year (March-April, varies)

Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, is a completely different affair compared to Western New Year’s Eve. It’s a day of silence, self-reflection, and spiritual renewal. The celebration typically lasts for several days and includes several key events leading up to the day of Nyepi:

  • Ogoh-Ogoh Parade: The night before Nyepi (usually called “Melasti”), Bali holds a grand parade featuring Ogoh-Ogoh – large, colourful statues made of bamboo and paper that represent evil spirits. These effigies are paraded through the streets and then burned in ceremonial fires. The destruction of the Ogoh-Ogoh symbolizes the casting out of evil spirits and negativity from the island.
  • The Day of Silence (Nyepi): On the actual day of Nyepi, the entire island comes to a standstill. The airport, businesses, and most public spaces shut down. Locals remain inside their homes or temples, engaging in meditation, prayer, and reflection. It is a day dedicated to silence, rest, and contemplation. Even tourists are expected to adhere to the customs and stay inside their accommodations (except for essential activities like medical emergencies).
  • Nyepi’s Four Prohibitions: On Nyepi, there are “Catur Brata Penyepian” (Four Prohibitions), which include:
    • No travel (lontar): People are not allowed to leave their homes or go out on the streets.
    • No work (karya): Work and business are suspended.
    • No entertainment or celebrations (lampah): All forms of entertainment, including music, loud noises, or social gatherings, are forbidden.
    • No lighting (genah): Lighting is kept to a minimum, and the island is in near darkness.
  • After Nyepi: Once Nyepi is over, the island gradually comes back to life with rituals of purification and renewal. The day after Nyepi is celebrated with Ngembak Geni, which involves family gatherings, visiting friends, and forgiving one another for past mistakes.

Bali’s celebration of Western New Year’s Eve is filled with vibrant parties, fireworks, and cultural performances, especially in tourist hotspots like Seminyak and Kuta. However, the more spiritual and introspective Balinese New Year (Nyepi) stands in stark contrast, marked by silence, self-reflection, and the cleansing of evil spirits. Both celebrations offer a fascinating glimpse into the diverse culture of Bali, blending contemporary fun with deep-rooted traditions.

Please follow our Facebook page and Instagram account for all the latest news and information.

See our Google Reviews.

Merry Christmas from Bali Legals – Thank You for Your Support in 2024!

Merry Christmas from Bali Legals – Thank You for Your Support in 2024!

As the year comes to a close and the holiday season is upon us, the team at Bali Legals would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks to all of our clients. This festive season is the perfect time to reflect on the year gone by, and we are truly grateful for the trust and support you’ve shown us throughout 2024.

A Year of Growth and Gratitude

This year has been filled with growth, new challenges, and meaningful connections, and it wouldn’t have been possible without each of you. Whether you’ve come to us for legal assistance with property transactions, business matters, visa issues, or navigating Bali’s ever-changing legal landscape, we’ve been privileged to work alongside you.

At Bali Legals, we strive to provide professional, transparent, and reliable legal services, ensuring that every step of your journey here in Bali is guided with care and expertise. From the first consultation to the final document, we aim to make the legal process as seamless and stress-free as possible, and your ongoing trust in our services has been the greatest reward.

Thank You for Choosing Us

To all of our clients—whether you’ve worked with us for years or have recently joined the Bali Legals family—we want to extend our deepest thanks. Your continued support means the world to us. We are inspired by your stories, and it’s an honour to be a part of your journey here in Bali.

As Bali continues to grow and evolve, so too do we. We are committed to providing top-notch legal services, offering expert guidance, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. Your feedback, loyalty, and trust drive us to constantly improve and innovate.

Wishing You a Joyous Holiday Season

As we celebrate the holiday season, we hope you find time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the festive spirit with your loved ones. Whether you’re spending Christmas here in Bali or with family and friends elsewhere, we wish you peace, happiness, and good health in the coming year.

May 2025 bring new opportunities, success, and joy to you and your loved ones. Thank you again for choosing Bali Legals—we look forward to continuing to serve you in the year ahead!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Bali Legals!

With warmest wishes,
The Bali Legals Team