Monday, March 24, 2025 On March 24, 2025, the Bali Provincial Government introduced Circular Letter (SE) Number 7 of 2025 , outlining a comprehensive set of new rules for foreign tourists visiting the island. Issued by Governor Wayan Koster in Denpasar , the circular formalizes a cultural code of conduct aimed at ensuring respectful, sustainable, and law-abiding tourism as Bali experiences a resurgence in international arrivals. Governor Koster emphasized that while a similar circular was issued in 2023, changing circumstances during his 1.
5-year hiatus prompted updates to streamline tourist behavior and preserve Balinese traditions, spirituality, and environmental integrity . Respect for Balinese customs made a central tourism mandate The updated circular mandates that all foreign tourists show genuine respect for temples, statues, and sacred religious symbols , particularly during ceremonial and ritual processions . Visitors are now formally expected to observe and honor local customs, traditional values, and cultural etiquette throughout their stay.
Tourists are required to wear modest and respectful clothing when visiting sacred sites, public areas, and tourist attractions. Additionally, respectful behavior is now obligatory across public spaces—from holy temples and restaurants to markets, roads, and recreational sites . Mandatory guide services and tourism levies introduced Under the new policy, every foreign visitor must be accompanied by a licensed local tour guide .