Bali bans foreign tourists from using crypto for payment

By Hoang Vu May 29, 2023 | 11:59 pm PT

Patrons are seen inside a coffee shop in Bali, Indonesia, March 2022. Photo by Reuters

Authorities in Bali, Indonesia will crack down on foreign tourists using crypto to pay for services in hotels, restaurants, tourism destinations, shopping centers, and other places.

"Foreign tourists who behave inappropriately, carry out activities that are not allowed in their visa permit, use crypto as a means of payment, and violate other provisions will be dealt with firmly," Bali Governor Wayan Koster said at a press conference on May 28, as cited by Antara news agency.

He reminded tourists that Indonesia’s law prohibits the use of currencies other than the rupiah as a means of payment, with punishments including a jail term of up to a year and a fine of 200 million rupiah (US$13,360).

The warning came after Indonesian authorities found that a number of businesses including restaurants, meditation studios, and motorbike rental companies are accepting payment in crypto.

Famous for its beaches and ancient temples, Bali has become a top tourist destination in recent years thanks to its generous visa policies.

It has been cracking down on foreigners violating public order following a recent string of untoward incidents.

Immigration authorities have deported almost 125 people in the first five months of this year, most of them for overstaying their visa.