Practical, step‑by‑step guidance for remote workers and founders planning a medium‑term stay in Bali.
Last updated: 6 Oct 2025 · General information only.
Step‑by‑step plan
A pragmatic sequence you can follow before and after arrival.
- Decide which accounts you need:
- Local IDR account for Indonesian bills, rent and local salaries.
- International account (multi‑currency or overseas bank) for client payments, savings and transfers.
- Check visa and residency implications: confirm your visa type supports work or receiving income.
- Prepare documents (passport, visa, address proof, local sponsor letter if needed). See “Documents & Requirements” below.
- Open an international/digital account before travel where possible (Wise, Revolut, or your bank) so you have a fallback.
- On arrival, open a local bank account at a branch (BCA, BNI, BRI, Mandiri are common) or use an Indonesian digital bank. Book an appointment if the bank requires one.
- Link accounts to e‑wallets (GoPay, OVO) and set up internet banking and mobile banking apps. Test small transfers and ATM withdrawals.
- Register for tax and social obligations as needed.
- Maintain documentation and notify your home bank of your move. Keep emergency access to an international card.
Documents & requirements
Requirements vary by bank and your residency/visa status so confirm locally before you go.
- Passport with valid visa pages and entry stamp. Some banks require a minimum remaining visa validity.
- KITAS/KITAP holders: bring the permit and the related paperwork (employer or sponsor documentation).
- Proof of address: tenancy contract, hotel booking, apartment letter or a local ID/utility bill if available.
- Tax ID (NPWP), often requested for higher transaction limits or credit services. If you don’t have one, ask the bank about limits without NPWP.
- Letter from employer or sponsor (sometimes required for expatriates opening an account).
- Local phone number for SMS OTP, and email for e‑banking activation.
- Biometric/photo at branch. Many banks require an in‑person visit to complete ID verification.
- If opening a business account: business registration (SIUP/TDP/OSS), authorised signatory ID and company NPWP.
Costs & budget notes
Typical ranges as of 2025. Confirm fees and exchange rates with your chosen providers.
| Item | Typical cost or note |
|---|---|
| Initial deposit (local bank) | IDR 50,000–250,000 (≈USD 3–15) for basic accounts; premium accounts higher |
| Monthly account fees | Often free for basic accounts; IDR 10k–50k for some card packages |
| ATM withdrawal (domestic) | Often free at own bank; IDR 5k–15k at other banks |
| ATM withdrawal (international card) | IDR 25k–50k plus currency conversion (your card issuer may charge extra) |
| Domestic transfers (bank transfer) | IDR 2k–10k per transfer; many apps offer free transfers between same‑bank accounts |
| International transfers | Varies widely: digital providers often cheaper than banks. Check FX margin and flat fees. |
| E‑wallet top‑ups | Often free from bank transfer; card top‑ups may incur small fees |
Note: Indonesian banks may have tiered service levels. Accounts with higher withdrawal or transfer limits often require additional documentation such as NPWP or proof of income.
Common pitfalls & how to avoid them
- Assuming all banks accept foreigners without proof; call ahead to confirm required documents and whether a sponsor is needed.
- Not having a local phone number; many banks use SMS OTP for security. Get a local SIM early.
- Relying solely on one international card; keep a backup in a different network (Visa/Mastercard) and a cash reserve.
- Ignoring FX margins; the cheapest transfer often uses specialist providers; check total cost (fee + exchange rate).
- Failing to register NPWP when needed; limits and tax reporting can affect transfers and investments.
- Leaving long gaps between transactions; accounts may be limited or frozen for inactivity; make small periodic transfers or payments.
- Using ATMs late at night or in poorly lit spots; use ATMs inside branches or malls for safety.
- Assuming e‑wallets fully substitute bank accounts; e‑wallets are great for daily spending, but larger payments and salaries often require a bank account.
FAQs
Can I open an Indonesian bank account as a tourist?
Short answer: sometimes. Some banks accept tourists with passport and temporary address, but many require a longer‑stay visa, sponsor or local address. Confirm with the branch before travelling.
Do I need an Indonesian phone number to use internet banking?
Most banks use SMS OTP; a local number is usually required for full functionality. You can start with a foreign number for some services, but expect limits and verification delays.
Which is better: a local bank or an international digital bank?
Both have roles. Local banks are essential for IDR payments, rent and local payroll. International/digital banks are typically cheaper for cross‑border transfers and multi‑currency needs. Many remote workers use one of each.
How do I receive client payments in USD/EUR?
Use an international business account, a multi‑currency digital provider, or invoice clients in your home bank account. Avoid sending large employer payments to an Indonesian IDR account without checking tax and reporting rules.
Are e‑wallets (GoPay, OVO) good enough for daily life?
Yes for daily spending, local food, transport and small bills. For rent, larger payments or salary deposits you’ll typically need a bank account.
What should I do if my card is blocked while in Bali?
Contact your card issuer immediately. Keep emergency numbers and an extra card. If the block is due to an unexpected country change, ask your bank to add Indonesia to your travel profile or to authorise transactions.