Retirement in Bali: Top Places to Live, Healthcare, and Legal Requirements for Expats
Retirement is a chance to enjoy life more fully with more freedom, better balance, and less stress. Bali has become one of the top choices for retirees from around the world. The island offers a warm climate, a peaceful lifestyle, and a welcoming community, all at a lower cost than many Western countries.
But beyond the dream, it’s important to understand the practical side too, like where to live, how good the hospitals are, and what kind of visa or legal documents you need to stay long-term.
Here’s a full look at what makes Bali such a great place for expatriates to retire and what to prepare before making the move.
Relaxed Lifestyle in a Beautiful Setting
Life in Bali moves at a gentler pace. Mornings often start with a walk on the beach or a quiet cup of coffee surrounded by greenery. The days are warm and sunny, and the island is full of calm corners,from coastal towns to hillside villages. At the same time, Bali isn’t boring. There’s always something happening — art shows, music events, food markets, or yoga classes. For expats who still want to stay active and inspired, there’s no shortage of things to do. You can enjoy the calm of retirement without feeling disconnected from life.Affordable Living with Good Quality
One of Bali’s biggest attractions is how affordable it is. Many retirees find they can live very comfortably on their pension. Renting or buying a villa, eating out, hiring help at home, all of these are much more affordable than in places like Australia, Europe, or the US. Groceries, fuel, and day-to-day services are reasonably priced too. You can enjoy a fresh seafood dinner, a massage, and still have money left over compared to what you’d spend on just a meal in a big city back home.Friendly People and a Welcoming Community
One of the things people love most about Bali is the people. The Balinese are known for being kind, respectful, and welcoming. It’s not hard to feel at home here, even if you’re from a completely different background. There’s also a strong international community across the island. You’ll meet people from all over the world, some retired, some running small businesses, and others just enjoying a slower way of life. Many expats choose to live in places where the mix of locals and foreigners creates a friendly, open vibe.Living Close to Nature
For many retirees, health and well-being become more important than ever, and Bali is a place that naturally supports both. The island’s environment encourages outdoor living, clean eating, and movement. You can swim in the ocean, take daily walks through rice fields, join a yoga class, or just relax in your garden with a good book. Many people find that they sleep better, eat better, and feel more at peace after spending time here. Plus, the tropical weather means you can enjoy outdoor living all year round.
What We Offer
At Waluya Development Group, we go beyond traditional real estate, providing secure, high-value investment opportunities in Bali’s most sought-after locations. From fully owned land to high-yield rental returns, our developments are designed to maximize security, flexibility, and profitability. Here’s what sets us apart:
Fuly Owned Land With Flexible Opportunities
Unlike most developers who lease land, Waluya Development Group offers properties on fully owned land, ensuring security and flexibility in every investment.
Long-Term Leasehold Advantage
We provide 75-year leasehold options, significantly longer than the market standard of 30 years, giving investors extended security and peace of mind.
High Liquidity Investments
We carefully select prime Bali locations and craft innovative developments that maximize value, allowing investors to benefit from high liquidity
Effortless Passive Income
Waluya Development Group handles every aspect of renting your villa, so you can relax while your income grows.
Rapid Return on Investment
With Bali’s thriving demand for vacation rentals, oceanside properties can yield up to $5,000 in monthly earnings.
Top Areas in Bali for Retirees and Expats
Bali is a diverse island with different regions, each offering its own atmosphere, lifestyle, and pace. Here are some of the most popular areas where expats choose to live, and why:- Sanur – Calm, Classic, and Comfortable Sanur sits quietly on Bali’s southeast coast and is often described as the most retiree-friendly part of the island. Life moves at a gentle pace here. The streets are clean and safe, the beach is calm and perfect for morning walks, and the atmosphere is peaceful. This area is ideal for retirees who want a relaxed environment close to everything they need. Sanur has a strong community of long-term expats, plenty of grocery stores, restaurants, and reliable medical services nearby. Most people speak English, making daily life much easier. It is a favorite for those who want simplicity, comfort, and a strong sense of belonging.
- Ubud – Nature, Wellness, and Creative Living Located in central Bali, Ubud is surrounded by rice fields, forest, and traditional Balinese culture. It is known as the heart of arts, yoga, and wellness. For retirees who want a deeper connection with nature or a more reflective lifestyle, Ubud offers that in abundance. Ubud attracts people who enjoy organic food, quiet mornings, art, and natural beauty. It is home to writers, artists, and anyone seeking calm and creativity. While it is not a beach town, its green surroundings and peaceful energy make it one of the most popular retirement spots in Bali.
- Canggu – Lively, Social, and Modern Canggu has become one of the most talked about destinations on the island. It blends tropical scenery with a lively modern lifestyle. You will find stylish cafes, international restaurants, yoga studios, gyms, and boutique shops. It is popular among younger retirees and semi-retired professionals who want a social life and a more dynamic atmosphere. While Canggu can be busy and the traffic is often slow, many retirees enjoy the energy and community feel. It is a great place for those who like being around people from different countries and want to stay active, connected, and inspired.
- Berawa – Stylish and Convenient Berawa is a part of the greater Canggu area but has developed its own personality. It is slightly more refined and a little less hectic than central Canggu, making it attractive to retirees who want a balance of style and calm. You will find trendy cafes, beautiful villas, and easy access to essential services. The beach is close by, and many expats live here year-round. Berawa offers a lifestyle that is modern and comfortable, without feeling too crowded.
- Ungasan – Private, Quiet, and Elevated Ungasan sits on the Bukit plateau and is known for its sweeping views, fresh air, and privacy. It is less crowded than nearby Uluwatu or Jimbaran, and many luxury villas are found here, often with views over the Indian Ocean. For retirees, Ungasan offers a peaceful lifestyle with plenty of space and beauty. It is ideal if you want to live in a home with a view, away from the crowds but still close enough to beaches and essential services. The area also has good roads, private estates, and a growing number of cafes and wellness spaces.
- BIMC Hospital (Kuta & Nusa Dua) A private hospital known for its international quality, 24-hour emergency services, general care, and specialist doctors. Many expats use BIMC for routine checkups, minor surgeries, and emergencies.
- Siloam Hospitals (Denpasar) A reputable hospital chain with advanced facilities, English-speaking staff, and a wide range of services. Ideal for both outpatient and inpatient care.
- Kasih Ibu Hospital (Denpasar & Kedonganan) Well-equipped with international services, good for maternity, general surgery, and internal medicine.
- International SOS (Nusa Dua) Often used for emergency services and medical evacuation. While more expensive, it’s reliable and trusted. Most medical staff in these hospitals speak English, and many doctors are trained abroad. For complex procedures or serious illnesses, some expats still choose to fly to Singapore or Bangkok. However, for everyday care, Bali’s healthcare system is very acceptable, especially when paired with good insurance. Private health insurance is highly recommended. There are both international and local providers offering plans that cover hospitalization, general care, and even medical evacuation. The cost is much lower than in most Western countries and helps avoid unexpected expenses.
- Australia Close by and well-connected by flights, Bali has long been a favorite for Australians. Many Australians retire here to enjoy the beach lifestyle and better cost of living.
- Russia Many Russians are drawn to Bali for its warmer climate, freedom to work remotely, and relatively affordable lifestyle. Russian-owned cafes, fitness studios, and wellness spaces have also become more visible in these neighborhoods. Some even come for long stays with families, often investing in local businesses or renting high-end villas.
- United States American expats are drawn to Bali’s natural beauty, laid-back feel, and the chance to live more affordably without giving up comfort.
- United Kingdom British retirees often choose Bali for the warmer weather, lower costs, and the chance to enjoy a simpler, more relaxed life.
- France, Germany, and the Netherlands Many Europeans settle in Bali for its nature, peaceful vibe, and creative energy. Smaller towns and coastal areas often have a mix of European residents enjoying retirement.
- Japan and South Korea These countries have growing numbers of retirees in Bali as well, especially those looking for peace, nature, and a strong sense of community. With so many different nationalities represented, it’s easy to meet people and make new connections. Many expats build strong friendships that make life in Bali even more fulfilling.
Is Bali’s Healthcare System Good Enough for Retirement?
For many retirees, access to good healthcare is a non-negotiable. While Bali doesn’t have massive medical centers like those in Singapore or Jakarta, it still offers a strong and improving healthcare system, especially in popular areas where most expats live. Bali has several international-standard hospitals and clinics. Here are a few popular options among expats:Popular Countries Where Expats in Bali Come From
Bali attracts people from all over the world, but a few countries stand out when it comes to expat retirees:FAQ
We understand that investing in property comes with many questions. Below, you’ll find clear and concise answers to key aspects of our offerings, including payment structure, ownership options, property details, and construction timelines. Our goal is to provide you with transparency and confidence every step of the way. If you need further assistance, our team is always ready to help.
Payment Structure
Our payment schedule is designed to be flexible and structured as follows:
10% Deposit – Parked in an escrow account.
30% Down Payment – Due at the notary signing.
12% Quarterly Installments – Paid every quarter.
4% Monthly Installments – Paid every month.
Ownership & Extention
Buyers can choose between:
- Freehold ownership (available to Indonesian nationals or foreign buyers via a PT PMA
company structure). - 75-year Leasehold, which provides long-term security and flexibility for international
investors.
Significantly longer than the market standard of 30 years, giving investors extended security and peace of mind.
Property Detail & Location
Melasti Hills is located just five minutes from the pristine shores of Melasti Beach, one of Bali’s fastest-growing areas. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, luxury beach clubs, and growing tourism demand, making it an ideal location for investors seeking high returns and long-term value appreciation.
There are two types available for your Investments
- Kairos Aruna: 2-bedroom villa, 110m2 land, 192m2 floor area.
- Kairos Cahaya: 2-bedroom villa, 140m2 land, 214m2 floor area.
Each villa is designed with luxury, comfort, and functionality in mind.
Construction & Timeline
Construction is scheduled for completion latest 15 months after signing at notary. Buyers will receive regular updates throughout the process.
Legal Documents: What You Need to Live in Bali as a Retiree
To stay long-term in Bali, retirees need to follow Indonesia’s visa and immigration rules. Fortunately, there is a specific option for those aged 60 and above: the Retirement KITAS. Retirement KITAS (Limited Stay Permit)Eligibility:
- Age 55 or older who wish to reside in Indonesia for a maximum of 5 (five) years.
- A valid national passport that is still valid for at least 6 months before its validity period expires.
- Personal bank statement with a minimum amount of USD $2000 (two thousand United States Dollars) or equivalent within the last 3 months (including name, period date, and account balance).
- Proof of immigration guarantee in the form of a statement of commitment to deposit funds in your own account at a state-owned bank worth at least US$50,000 or equivalent (must be fulfilled within a maximum period of 90 days from the date of granting the Limited Stay Permit).
- Proof of income or allowances worth at least US$3,000 (three thousand United States dollars) per month.
- More detailed information on: 5 year limited stay visa for seniors (E33E) https://www.imigrasi.go.id/wna/permohonan-visa-republik-indonesia/klasifikasi-visa-tinggal-terbatas-indeks-e33e?golden_visa=1&all=1
Benefits:
- Legal long-term stay in Indonesia.
- Access to services like healthcare, banking, utilities.
- Ability to rent or lease property legally.
- Eligible to apply for a local driver’s license.
