How to Retire in Bali from Australia: Cost, Visa & Lifestyle Guide

baliinsightliving
May 27
3 min read

Thinking of retiring in Bali from Australia? Learn about the cost of living, retirement visa Indonesia, and the best places to retire in Bali for Aussies seeking a relaxed lifestyle.

Why Are Australians Quietly Retiring in Bali?

Retirement means different things to different people. For some, it’s downsizing to a smaller home. For others, it’s endless golf or finally reading all those books they bought but never opened. But there’s a growing group of people — especially Australians — who are trading all that for something entirely different: a simpler life in Bali.

And honestly? It makes sense.

This little island in Indonesia, known for its beaches, temples, and slow pace of life, has quietly become a top contender for people asking themselves one big question: Can I actually retire somewhere beautiful without draining my savings?

Turns out — yes. You can.

Read Related Topic [Can I survive in Bali on just my pension? ]

So, is it cheap to live in Bali?

Short answer: definitely cheaper than most places in the Australia. If you’re retiring and trying to make a fixed income work, the idea of spending less while living better is… pretty appealing.

A comfortable lifestyle living in Bali — including rent, food, transport, and even the occasional luxury like a massage or weekend getaway — can cost somewhere between $1,500 to $2,000 USD a month. For solo retirees, it could be even less.

You don’t need to pinch pennies to have a good life here. You just need to be intentional.

The vibe: What kind of life are we talking about?

Morning walks through rice fields. Late breakfasts with tropical fruit and local coffee. A routine that includes the occasional trip to the beach, not out of luxury — but because it’s 10 minutes away.

Life in Bali moves at its own pace. That can take some adjusting, but for many, it’s exactly what retirement should feel like — slower, softer, more grounded.

The best place to retire in Bali really depends on your personality. Love nature and a peaceful environment? Ubud. Want something quiet but close to amenities? Sanur. Prefer being around more expats and modern cafes? Canggu (though that one’s a bit more lively).

Can you actually retire there legally?

Yes, and it’s more accessible than most people think.

There’s a specific retirement visa in Indonesia option for foreigners called a Retirement KITAS. If you’re over 55 and have a stable monthly income (like a pension), you’re already halfway there.

Here are the retirement visa Bali requirements in a nutshell:

· You need to be 55 or older

· Show proof of regular income (usually around $1,500 USD per month)

· Have accommodation in Bali

· Get local sponsorship (easy with a trusted visa agent)

· Have valid health insurance

There are plenty of agents who help with this process and handle the paperwork. Yes, there’s a fee involved, but compared to the overall cost of living — it’s manageable.

The cost of retirement visa Indonesia depends on the agent and services, but it’s usually under $1,000 USD per year. Once you’re set up, it’s pretty straightforward to renew annually.

Can you retire in Bali from Australia?

Absolutely. Australians have been retiring (and semi-retiring) in Bali for years. The short flight and cultural familiarity make the transition smoother. Whether it’s full-time or just part of the year, more Aussies are realizing that retire in Bali from Australia is not just a dream — it’s doable.

And with expat communities already established, you won’t feel like you’re figuring it all out alone.

A few things to keep in mind

It’s not all palm trees and sunsets. Life here isn’t perfect. The internet can be patchy. Bureaucracy can be slow. You will have to adjust — to a different culture, a slower pace, and a rhythm of life that doesn’t always follow a schedule. Things don’t happen overnight here, and not everything works the way you might be used to back home.

But if you’re open to change, if you’re okay with letting go of some control and leaning into a simpler way of life, Bali gives you something most places don’t: a sense of peace that’s not just about the scenery — it’s how you feel when you wake up every day.

Final thoughts

Retirement doesn’t have to mean winding down — not in the traditional sense. For many Australians, it’s becoming a time to reimagine what life can look like. And Bali? Bali offers a version that’s affordable, meaningful, and deeply human.

It’s not for everyone, sure. But if you’ve ever caught yourself wondering whether there’s another way — a quieter, warmer, more present kind of life — maybe it’s time to explore it. Maybe Bali’s already waiting.