Living in Bali after retirement as a French citizen

Bali, nicknamed the “Island of the Gods”, has long been a magnet for visitors with its natural beauty, spiritual culture and soothing atmosphere. Today, this little Indonesian jewel is attracting more and more French retirees in search of a peaceful, sunny and affordable place to live. But if the idea of spending happy days in Bali is seductive, it requires rigorous preparation: administrative formalities, residence requirements, adaptation to the local way of life… This article provides you with a complete guide to retirement in Bali.

Why choose Bali for your retirement?

Choosing Bali for your retirement means above all opting for a deeply soothing lifestyle, punctuated by the mildness of the tropical climate and the spectacular beauty of the surrounding nature. Far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities of the West, the island offers a unique blend of wild beaches, rice terraces, majestic volcanoes and traditional villages. This serene, almost timeless atmosphere appeals to those who want to slow down the pace and make the most of each day.

But there’s more to Bali than its scenery: it’s also a land deeply marked by spirituality and tradition. Hindu ceremonies, omnipresent in daily life, colorful offerings placed on sidewalks, sacred dances and local handicrafts bear witness to a living culture, offering curious retirees an inexhaustible source of discoveries.

Last but not least, the warm welcome of the Balinese people makes this island a particularly good place for expatriation. The sense of hospitality, the natural friendliness of the locals and the growing presence of expatriate communities greatly facilitate integration, even for those who don’t speak Indonesian. For many, retirement in Bali means finding a new balance between comfort, serenity and human richness.

Comparison chart – Retirement living in Bali

Visas and administrative formalities for retired life in Bali

Moving to Bali in retirement is not something you can improvise: it requires not only sound logistical and financial preparation, but also compliance with a number of administrative obligations, particularly in terms of visa, health insurance and tax status. Indonesian legislation offers several options for foreign retirees wishing to settle legally on the island, depending on the duration and profile of the applicant.

What visas are available for French retirees wishing to live in Bali?

The Indonesian authorities currently offer two types of retirement visas for French people wishing to settle permanently in Bali:

Visa E33F – Retirement Visa classique

This visa is intended for people aged 55 and over, and is the most affordable way to start an expatriation to Bali.

• Duration: 1 year, renewable annually
• Conditions

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This is the visa recommended for a gradual installation, with the possibility of renewal until permanent resident status is obtained.

Visa E33E – Silver Hair Visa

Launched more recently, this visa is aimed at retirees with higher incomes who want greater administrative stability.

• Minimum age: 60
• Duration: up to 5 years, with possible renewal
• Stricter financial conditions

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• Required documents

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This visa is suitable for more affluent retirees looking for a long-term solution without having to renew their status every year.

Other options for testing out life in Bali before settling down

Before taking the step of moving permanently, it is possible to stay in Bali on a temporary visa:

• Tourist Visa (B211A): valid for 60 days, renewable twice, for a total of 180 days maximum. Ideal for a period of exploration.
• D-12 pre-investment visa: valid for 1 to 2 years, intended for people wishing to invest or prepare for a long-term expatriation without yet making a commitment. This visa does not entitle the holder to work, but does authorize prolonged presence in the country.

Administrative formalities after arrival in Bali

Once you’ve settled in Bali on a long-term visa, such as the KITAS Retirement or Silver Hair Visa, there are a number of administrative formalities you’ll need to complete before you can live legally and peacefully in Indonesia.

As soon as you arrive, you must register with the local authorities, in particular the immigration office and the district chief(banjar). This step is essential to formalize your presence as a foreign resident and to comply with Indonesian regulations.

It is also necessary to open an Indonesian bank account. This will enable you to receive your pension, pay your local expenses and, in some cases, prove that you have the funds required to maintain your visa. Some local banks require a valid visa to open an account, making it an essential step in the settlement process.

Furthermore, to drive legally in Bali – be it a scooter or a car – you’ll need to obtain an Indonesian driving license (SIM). Contrary to popular belief, the international license is not recognized for long-term stays. The procedure for obtaining one may be simplified if you hold a KITAS, but it remains compulsory to avoid penalties in the event of a roadside check or accident.

Finally, if you reside in Bali for more than 183 days a year, you will be considered a tax resident in Indonesia. In this case, a declaration to the Indonesian tax authorities is required. It’s crucial to understand the implications of this status, particularly with regard to double taxation between France and Indonesia, in order to secure your international tax position.

“Jean, 67, who has lived in Ubud since 2022, appreciates the peace and quiet, the proximity to nature and the cultural activities. He chose the E33F visa and lives comfortably on €1,500 a month.”

To sum up, visas for retirement in Bali

Health in Bali and international health insurance for retirees

When considering retirement in Bali, it’s crucial to anticipate the question of health care. Indonesia’s healthcare system, while developing, is still far from European standards, particularly in the public sector. Public hospitals suffer from a lack of qualified staff and modern equipment, and often have very long waiting times, even for common pathologies. Private medical establishments, on the other hand, offer a superior quality of care, but medical costs are particularly high, especially in the case of emergencies, hospitalization or specialized interventions.

To avoid unpleasant financial or logistical surprises, we strongly recommend that you take out international health insurance before you leave. This coverage will enable you to benefit from rapid access to the best private clinics on the island, or even to be evacuated to Singapore or Australia if necessary. Health insurance for expatriates in Bali not only guarantees optimum reimbursement of medical expenses, but also the peace of mind you need to enjoy your retirement in the tropics.

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Cost of living: how much should you budget?

Bali appeals to many French retirees thanks to a cost of living that is significantly lower than in France. With a well-managed budget, it’s possible to live comfortably, even on a modest pension.

Rents vary according to standing: expect to pay between €600 and €1,500 for a villa with pool in popular areas (Canggu, Ubud), or €180 to €300 for a room in a guesthouse.

Eating out is very affordable: a meal in a warung costs €1 to €3, compared with €10 to €20 in a Western restaurant.

Services are also inexpensive: cleaning lady(~180 €/month), massage(~6 €), private chauffeur(~250 €/month). A scooter can be rented for €50/month, with a full tank of gas costing less than €5.

International health insurance represents an expense of €100 to €200 per month, essential for accessing private clinics or organizing an evacuation in case of need.

Please note: some imported products, such as cheese and wine, remain expensive.

When it comes to healthcare, you need to budget around €100 to €200 per month for a good international health insurance policy tailored to expatriates. A medical consultation in a private clinic generally costs between €30 and €50, while hospitalization costs can quickly escalate in the event of heavy treatment or transfer abroad, making it all the more important to be well covered.

Indicative monthly budget

These estimates include accommodation, food, transport, insurance, leisure and miscellaneous.

Where to retire in Bali as a French citizen? The best regions for expatriates

Despite its relatively modest size, Bali offers a wide variety of places to live, each with its own attractions, ambience and lifestyle. Your choice of location will strongly influence your day-to-day experience. Here’s an overview of the most popular areas for French retirees and expatriates to settle in Bali.

Ubud: retreat to the heart of culture and spirituality

Located in the central highlands, Ubud is considered Bali’s cultural and spiritual center. Surrounded by lush green rice paddies, ancient temples and tropical forests, the town is particularly attractive to retirees seeking serenity, personal development and immersion in Balinese culture. Ubud is also a mecca for yoga, meditation and local crafts. The town’s active French-speaking expatriate community facilitates integration and exchange.

Canggu and Seminyak: modernity, beaches and dynamic social life

For those who prefer to live by the ocean, Canggu is a must-see destination. This coastal village has become a trendy seaside resort, with beaches ideal for surfing, stylish cafés, modern restaurants and a well-developed infrastructure. Popular with digital nomads and young retirees, Canggu offers a dynamic lifestyle with a strong international presence.

Nearby Seminyak offers a more upscale environment. More chic and cosmopolitan, this town is renowned for its luxury boutiques, designer villas and festive establishments. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a sophisticated, lively lifestyle, while enjoying the pleasures of the Balinese coast.

Sanur and outlying areas: calm, comfort and budget control

More peaceful and authentic, Sanur appeals to retirees looking for a quiet, family-friendly and secure living environment. Located on the southeast coast, this seaside resort offers a fine combination of tradition and modernity, with its quiet beaches, seaside promenades and well-developed amenities. Sanur is often recommended for those wishing to live in Bali on a more moderate budget while maintaining a good level of comfort. The less touristy outlying areas of the island also offer great opportunities for a more authentic and affordable lifestyle.

Taxation of French retirees living in Bali: what you need to know

Moving to Bali for retirement means understanding the applicable tax rules. Fortunately, France and Indonesia have signed a bilateral convention to avoid double taxation, which clarifies the distribution of tax according to the type of income received.

Taxation of retirement pensions

Under this convention, retirement pensions paid by France remain taxable in France, even if the beneficiary lives abroad. As a result, French pensioners living in Bali continue to be taxed according to French tax regimes for their pensions, whether from the general scheme or complementary funds.

Taxation of other income

However, for passive income, such as property income, dividends or interest, the situation may differ. If you are considered a tax resident in Indonesia – i.e. you spend more than 183 days a year in the country, or your permanent home is located there – you are in principle subject toIndonesian tax on this income, according to local rules.

In this case, a tax declaration in Indonesia is mandatory. The tax treaty between the two countries avoids double taxation, but specific procedures may be required to benefit from tax exemptions or credits.

Ready to take the plunge?

Living in Bali in retirement is an adventure as rewarding as it is demanding. With the right level of preparation, it’s possible to set up home in a paradise-like setting, at a reasonable cost of living, while enjoying an exceptional quality of life. Whether you’re attracted by the calm of Ubud or the vitality of Canggu, Bali has something for everyone.