Dreaming of relocating to the tropical paradise of Bali, or more broadly to Indonesia? With its lush landscapes, vibrant culture and growing expat-scene, it’s no wonder many are making the move. But doing so well requires planning, paperwork and practical decisions. This article breaks down the key steps, from prepping your relocation plan and booking the flight, to visas, housing and more… to help make your transition smoother.
1. Plan your Move
Before you board a plane, you’ll want to set up a relocation timeline, budget and checklist. Research your destination region (Bali, Jakarta, or elsewhere in Indonesia), estimate living costs, healthcare and schooling (if relevant). Moving to Indonesia requires thinking about your visa type, housing and local integration ahead of time.
Make a folder (digital or physical) with important documents: passports, visas, insurance papers, accommodation contacts, bank info. Notify your home bank and postal system of your move.
Decide what you’ll bring, what you’ll sell or donate, and whether you will ship belongings or purchase new items once you arrive.
2. Book your Flights
Once your planning is set, it’s time to book your flight. Choose an arrival airport. For Bali this is typically I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar). Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months (a standard requirement for Indonesian entry).
On arrival, allow for time to clear immigration and customs, and arrange your first transport from the airport to your new accommodation. Having a local SIM, a ride-share or taxi arranged ahead of time helps reduce stress.
It’s wise to arrive with a few nights booked in temporary accommodation, giving you a base while you find longer-term housing.
3. Get a Visa & Legal Residence
One of the most important steps: getting the correct visa for your situation. Indonesia offers a range of residence permits. For example, the limited stay permit (commonly known as a “KITAS”) is available for work, investors, retirees or family reasons.
Here are key points:
- The official e-Visa portal allows you to apply online.
- Many long-stay visas require a sponsor (an Indonesian company, spouse or licensed agent) and additional documentation.
- Ensure you apply for the right type of visa (tourist vs work vs retirement) — using the wrong one can cause legal problems.
Take your time with this step. Having your visa, residence permit and local registration ready makes all the other steps much easier.
4. Find your Future House
Once your visa is ready, the next big step is finding your new home in Indonesia. Start by choosing where you want to live. Each area offers a different lifestyle: Canggu is popular with remote workers, Seminyak has a lively beach scene, and Ubud is calm and surrounded by nature. Research the neighborhoods, compare prices, and check what is included in the rent. Homes closer to the beach or city centers usually cost more, while inland areas offer better deals. Always check water, electricity, and internet connections before making a decision.
You can look for properties on local websites like Bali Treasure Properties, Ray White Indonesia, or Rumah123.com. Working with a trusted real estate agent can save time, especially if you do not speak Indonesian. Make sure the agent is registered and transparent about their fees. Many expats also find homes through social media groups or local recommendations. If possible, visit the property before signing anything.
Most rentals require a deposit of one to three months’ rent and often several months paid upfront. Always ask for a written contract that clearly states the rent, deposit, and responsibilities for utilities and maintenance. Keep copies of all payments and documents to ensure a smooth and secure move.
5. Move your Belongings
Moving your personal items to Indonesia can seem like a big challenge, but using a door-to-door relocation service makes the process much easier and safer. Professional movers can take care of packing, shipping, customs clearance, insurance… ensuring your belongings arrive securely and on time. This option is especially useful if you are relocating furniture or valuable items, as experienced handlers know how to navigate Indonesian import rules and documentation. With professionals managing every step, you avoid the stress of dealing with customs offices or damaged goods, and you can focus on settling into your new home instead.
Our Tip: If you want a trusted company to handle your move, Swift Cargo is one of the best choices. Known for being fast, reliable, and highly flexible, they provide complete international relocation services from pickup in your home country to delivery at your new address in Indonesia. Their team manages logistics, tracking, and paperwork with efficiency and care. You can request a quote directly on their website: https://cargo-swiftlogistics.com/.
6. Create your Perfect Life
With your residence and housing secured, it’s time to set up your local life: transport, banking, insurance, utilities and community engagement.
- Transport: Decide whether you’ll buy or rent a scooter, motorbike or car (common in Bali). Understand local driving laws and insurance.
- Banking: Many banks require a KITAS or residence permit to open an account. A local bank account makes salary payments, rent and daily living easier.
- Insurance & healthcare: Private health insurance is strongly recommended, especially since public facilities may not meet expat expectations.
- Utilities & internet: Confirm electricity, water, waste disposal, internet speed and reliability before committing to a lease.
- Integration: Learn some Bahasa Indonesia — while English is often spoken in tourist areas, local language helps deepen your experience and ease communication.
- Join local expat groups or community forums to build friendships and get practical tips on living in Indonesia.
Relocating to Indonesia can be one of the most life-changing and exciting decisions you’ll make, offering sunshine, culture, and fresh opportunities. The key is to proceed with clarity: plan patiently, get your visa right, choose housing wisely, and set up your local life with care. With the right preparation and partners (including trusted relocation services like Swift Cargo for your belongings), you can arrive ready to thrive. Your new home in Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia awaits.
