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So, you’ve fallen for Bali.
Maybe it started with a sunset in Uluwatu, or a morning walk along a jungle-fringed path, coffee in hand. At some point, a thought quietly dropped in: “Could I live here? Could I actually own something here?”
And then comes the big question: can foreigners buy property in Bali?
The short answer: yes. But it works a little differently than in other parts of the world. Bali has its own rhythm and within that rhythm, there are legal paths that make owning your own piece of paradise not only possible but increasingly common.
Especially in sought-after areas like Uluwatu, where lifestyle and investment go hand in hand.
The Basics: Can Foreigners Own Land in Bali?
While foreigners can’t directly own freehold land (known locally as Hak Milik), there are two well-established, legal ways for foreigners to acquire property in Bali: through a leasehold agreement or by setting up a PT PMA (a foreign-owned company registered in Indonesia).
Both allow you to buy, build, and enjoy villas in Bali. Whether as a lifestyle base, holiday home, or rental investment.
Leasehold: The Lifestyle-Friendly Option
If your dream is to buy a villa in Bali for personal use to live, unwind or spend part of the year soaking in ocean sunsets, then a leasehold is often the easiest route.
With a leasehold, you lease the land (usually for 25–30 years, with extension rights) but fully own and control the villa. It’s fast to set up, involves fewer requirements, and doesn’t require you to open a business or company.
Leasehold is perfect for those wanting a personal sanctuary or a family holiday base in hotspots like Uluwatu or Canggu, where villas with strong aesthetic appeal and views continue to hold their value.
Why leasehold makes sense:
- Lower upfront costs
- Faster and simpler to process
- No business registration needed
- Ideal for private or occasional use
If you’re not planning to operate a business, this route often feels the most relaxed and intuitive.
PT PMA: For the Investor or Entrepreneur
Now, if your goal is to rent out your villa, list it on Airbnb, or start a boutique hospitality business, then you’ll want to look at setting up a PT PMA: a foreign investment company in Indonesia.
A PT PMA allows you to legally lease land under Hak Guna Bangunan, build or own property, and operate revenue-generating activities. It also offers advantages when it comes to tax compliance, scalability, and visa eligibility.
Many property investors in Bali choose this route when they’re buying premium villas, especially in high-demand locations like Uluwatu where rental yields are strong and land is limited.
Why go the PT PMA route:
- Legally operate and profit from rentals
- Apply for full business licenses and stay permits
- Stronger long-term control and legal protection
- Ideal for high-value properties and scalable businesses
So Which Option Is Right for You?
It really comes down to your vision for owning property in Bali.
Are you buying a cliffside villa in Uluwatu as a peaceful escape or seasonal home? Then a leasehold may be all you need. But if your sights are set on earning income or expanding your footprint in Bali, PT PMA offers the framework to do it right and grow safely over time.
At Uluwatu Property, we help you navigate both paths. We listen to your goals and guide you step by step, from legal structure to keys in hand.
What Makes it Safe? (And Why Guidance Matters)
Buying property in Bali is different from what you might be used to, but it doesn’t have to be risky or overwhelming.
The key is due diligence. That means checking ownership titles, ensuring the land is zoned for your intended use, reviewing tax compliance, and making sure permits are in place.
It also means having local experts in your corner.
We work hand-in-hand with experienced legal and notary teams who specialize in helping foreigners buy property in Bali legally, securely, and confidently.
Whether you’re building your dream home or setting up a villa business in Uluwatu, we make sure the process is smooth, transparent, and fully above board.
Read more about our procedures and checklists regarding due diligence in our other article
Thinking About Making a Move?
Bali isn’t just a holiday anymore, it’s a lifestyle, a community, and an increasingly smart investment.
From luxury cliff villas to jungle-view hideaways, the Uluwatu property market is growing fast, with limited land and rising global demand. Whether you're relocating, retiring, or looking to buy a villa in Bali as an investment, now is a good time to explore.
Let’s make it happen the right way
Browse Our Listings: Find handpicked Bali villas that match your style and goals. From private retreats to high-yield rental properties in Uluwatu, each one is curated for lifestyle and potential. Need Legal or Tax Help? Our legal team is here to assist with ownership structures, compliance, zoning permits, and investment strategy.
