Real estate clarity for international buyers.

How Foreigners Can Buy Property in Bali (2025 Guide)

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You can’t own land in Indonesia

But you can invest in Bali property legally and safely – if you know how.
Here’s how it works in 2025, without the legal fluff or broken promises.

First: What You Can’t Do

Foreigners are not allowed to own land under the Hak Milik (freehold) title.
If someone’s offering you this – walk away. It’s illegal unless you go through a local nominee (which comes with high risk).

So What Can You Do?

There are 3 legitimate ways foreigners can invest in property in Bali:

1. Leasehold (Hak Sewa)

  • You lease the land or property for 25 – 30 years

  • Often renewable up to 70 – 90 years total

  • You can resell or transfer the lease

  • Common for villas, residential land or commercial spaces

Best for: Residential use or passive income with minimal legal overhead

2. Right to Use (Hak Pakai)

  • Officially registered under your name (not through a company)

  • Valid for 30 years, extendable to 80 years

  • Must be used for residential living, not just investment

  • You must reside in Indonesia or have a KITAS/KITAP

Best for: Long-term residence or retirement setup

3. Company Ownership (PT PMA)

  • Foreigners can legally establish a PT PMA (foreign-owned company)

  • This company can purchase property under Hak Guna Bangunan (Right to Build)

  • Fully legal and secure for commercial use

  • Ideal for hotels, restaurants, shops or real estate portfolios

Best for: Business owners or serious investors

What About “Nominee” Agreements?

  • A local nominee agreement (buying under an Indonesian citizen’s name) may look easy but:

    • It’s not legally protected

    • The land is not really yours

    • You can lose everything in a dispute

We do not recommend this method. Ever.

Which Option is Right for You?

  • Want a villa to live in or rent out short-term? → Leasehold

  • Planning to retire or stay long-term? → Hak Pakai

  • Starting a business or investing at scale? → PT PMA

Still unsure? That’s what we’re here for.

Let’s Talk Before You Sign Anything

We help you:

  • Choose the right structure

  • Avoid scams

  • Work with trusted notaries and agents

  • Handle setup, permits, and due diligence

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