Bali Tax Refund: Can You Get a VAT Refund in Bali?

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and wondering whether you can get a tax refund on your purchases, the answer is yes—but with some conditions. Indonesia offers a Tourist VAT Refund program that allows eligible foreign tourists to claim back Value-Added Tax (VAT) on certain purchases. However, not all goods or stores qualify, and there are specific rules to follow.

This guide breaks down the Bali tax refund process in simple terms, so you can make the most of your shopping while enjoying your stay.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, VAT refunds are available in Bali, but only for eligible foreign tourists shopping at registered stores.
• You must claim your refund before departing Indonesia and meet all purchase conditions.
• Refunds are processed at the airport via cash (up to IDR 5,000,000 / $300 USD / $480 AUD) or bank transfer.
• Other tax refund options exist for taxpayers and businesses, but they require submission through Indonesian tax authorities.

Also read: Tax Refund in Indonesia for Tourists and Businesses: A Complete Guide

Who is Eligible for a Bali VAT Refund?

The Tax Refund for Tourists scheme applies to foreign visitors who:

• Hold a foreign passport (non-Indonesian citizens or permanent residents).
• Stay in Indonesia for no longer than 60 days from their arrival date.
• Purchase goods from retailers displaying the “Tax Refund for Tourists” logo.
• Carry the purchased goods as accompanied baggage when departing Indonesia.

If you meet these criteria, you may be able to reclaim some of the VAT paid on eligible purchases.

Also read: Bali Tourist Tax Regulations 2025: Complete Guide

What Purchases Qualify for a VAT Refund?

Not all purchases in Bali are eligible for a VAT refund. To qualify, your purchase must:

• Be made at a registered retailer with the “Tax Refund for Tourists” logo.
• Have a minimum VAT amount of IDR 50,000 / $3 USD / $4.8 AUD per receipt.
• Have a total VAT amount of at least IDR 500,000 / $30 USD / $48 AUD across multiple receipts.
• Be made within one month before your departure from Indonesia.
• Be carried with you when leaving (goods shipped separately do not qualify).

Also read: Digital Nomad Tax in Bali: What You Need to Know

How to Claim Your Tax Refund in Bali

Follow these steps to get your VAT refund when departing from Bali:

1. Shop at Registered Stores

   • Look for the “Tax Refund for Tourists” sign before making a purchase.
   • Ask for a valid tax invoice and payment receipt at checkout.

2. Prepare Your Documents

   • Ensure you have your original passport.
   • Keep all valid tax invoices and receipts.
   • Double-check that purchases meet the minimum spending requirement.

3. Visit the Tax Refund Counter

   • Head to Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali’s main airport) before checking in.
   • Locate the Tax Refund counter in the departure terminal.
   • Show your passport, original tax invoices, and purchased goods for inspection.

4. Receive Your Refund

   • Refunds can be given in cash (up to IDR 5,000,000) or via bank transfer if exceeding this amount.

Also read: Is Bali a Tax Haven for Foreigners?

How Long Does the Refund Process Take?

Cash refunds are typically processed immediately at the airport. Meanwhile, bank transfers may take a few weeks, depending on the transaction process.

Also read: Bali Departure Tax: Do You Need to Pay When Leaving Bali?

Other Tax Refund Scenarios in Indonesia

Aside from the tourist VAT refund, Indonesia also provides tax refunds under different circumstances:

• Non-Payable Tax Overpayment Refund: If you paid taxes that you were not required to.
• Income Tax, VAT, and Luxury Goods Tax Refund: If you overpaid taxes beyond your actual liability.
• Corporate Taxpayer Refunds: Companies with excess tax payments can file for refunds with the Directorate General of Taxes (DGT).

These processes involve submitting refund applications to tax offices, providing tax payment slips (SSP or SSPCP), and undergoing possible audits.

Before shopping in Bali, make sure to check if the store participates in the Tax Refund for Tourists scheme and keep all necessary documents.

For those of you who need help with taxation in Bali and Indonesia, you can rely to InvestinAsia’s Indonesia tax consultant and compliance services.

Our experienced team of professionals is ready to assist you in every tax matter, such as:

• Accounting and tax reporting services in Indonesia
• Indonesia Payroll Service
• Indonesia LKPM Reporting Service
• Indonesia VAT Taxpayers Registration

Contact us now for FREE consultation and special package!

reference:

Tax Refund for Tourists -Directorate General of Taxes