So, you’ve decided to conquer Bali — surfing, endless beaches, and all that. But here’s the issue — you need a local bank account to properly manage your life on the island, and you don’t have a residence permit. Don’t worry! In 2024, it’s still possible to open an account, even without resident status. Here’s what you need to know:
1. The Bank That Will Help You
Tourists don’t have many options: the only bank that will open an account without a residence permit is BNI. Other banks like Permata, Mandiri, and Maybank used to be options, but not anymore. So, all roads lead to BNI.
2. How to Do It?
You have two options: either go through a guarantor or find an agent.
Agents are people who know all the ins and outs of opening accounts. They’re usually busy, so plan ahead. You can find one through friends, social media, or local chats.
A guarantor is an Indonesian who has had an account with the bank for at least six months with a balance of at least 10,000,000 IDR. This is pretty common, and many travelers find a guarantor at the bank entrance or even ask about them inside the bank. The service fee is around 500,000 IDR.
Using an agent is easier since they handle all the paperwork. Here’s how it works:
- Contact an agent. You can find one via chats or personal recommendations. Message them, and they’ll let you know when you can meet.
- Send your details. The agent will need a photo of your passport, contact information, and a local phone number. You’ll also need to fill out a form — standard procedure.
- Meeting at the bank. Bring your passport and a phone with a local SIM card — you’ll need both.
- Opening the account. Choose the type of account: IDR (rupiah) or multi-currency (if you plan to use dollars). Sign the documents, and the account is yours.
- Deposit. You’ll need to deposit about 700,000 IDR. This amount won’t disappear but will be frozen until the account is closed.
- Getting the card. First, you’ll get a simple card without your name. After a couple of weeks, you can pick up the personalized one. Convenient, right?
3. Limits and Details
Now for the important details:
- Card purchases: Up to 100 million IDR per day (approximately $6,250).
- Cash withdrawals: Up to 14 million IDR per day (around $875).
- Transfers: 200 million IDR per day ($13,500) via the Bi-Fast system.
- And yes, if your card is inactive for more than six months, your account may be frozen. So, make sure to use it from time to time.
4. What Other Cards Work in Bali?
Forget about your Russian VISA/MasterCard/MIR cards — they’re useless in Bali. The only alternative is UnionPay, but it also comes with many limitations. Online payments are out of the question, but it’ll work for offline use.
Tip: Before your trip, let your bank know that you’ll be using your card in Indonesia, so you don’t find yourself in an awkward situation.
5. Bank Mobile Apps
Indonesian banks are also getting into digital tech. They have apps, but they’re not as advanced as those in Russia. For example, the Permata app is available on iOS and Android, gives access to multi-currency accounts, and even supports PayPal.
6. What About Crypto?
On Bali, you can easily exchange crypto for local rupiah through crypto exchanges. Just sign up, set up your payment methods, buy USDT, and sell it for rupiah via P2P. Voilà — you’ve got local cash!
7. Waluetta — The Service for Finding the Fastest and Most Cost-Effective Transfer Methods
Waluetta is an innovative service that helps you quickly and efficiently find the best ways to make international transfers.
The idea is simple: you select a country, currency, and payment method, and the system gives you a step-by-step guide on how to transfer money in the best possible way. It’s a real game-changer for those who don’t want to overpay on fees and are looking for the most convenient transfer options. Pretty cool, right?
Support this project and try it out yourself — vote for Waluetta and see how easy and convenient it is to transfer money!
Important Tips
Withdrawing a large amount of cash in Bali can be a challenge. ATMs allow you to withdraw a maximum of 1.5–3 million IDR per transaction. If you need more, you’ll have to repeat the process multiple times.
If you want to buy something online — no problem. Pay for flights, accommodation via Booking or Airbnb, and use local services like Gojek and Grab.
Conclusion
Opening a bank account in Bali in 2024 is totally doable. Just remember, agents are the way to go. If you do everything right, within a couple of weeks, you’ll have your card — and maybe even a dollar account to go with it!