Rumors have been spreading fast across social media and travel forums, causing confusion among travelers planning a trip to Bali. Headlines claim that unmarried couples are now banned from staying together in hotels — but how true is this?
Let’s break down what the new law in Indonesia really says, how it applies in Bali, and what tourists actually need to know before booking their stay.
What Is the New Law in Indonesia?
In 2022, the government of Indonesia passed a revised Criminal Code (KUHP), which officially came into force in 2026. Among many legal updates, the law includes provisions related to:
- Sexual relations outside of marriage
- Cohabitation between unmarried couples
These provisions apply nationwide, including the popular tourist destination of Bali.
However, the way the law is written — and the way it is enforced — is widely misunderstood.
❌ Are Unmarried Couples Banned From Staying in Hotels in Bali?
Short answer: No.
There is no law in Bali that forbids unmarried couples from staying in the same hotel room.
Hotels are not required to:
- Ask for marriage certificates
- Verify marital status
- Report unmarried guests to authorities
Balinese officials and tourism authorities have repeatedly clarified that hotels will not act as law enforcers and tourists will not be stopped, questioned, or monitored during check-in.
⚖️ Why the Law Is Being Misinterpreted
The confusion comes from how the law defines offenses related to morality. While it technically criminalizes sex outside of marriage and cohabitation, these cases are classified as “complaint-based offenses” (delik aduan).
This means:
- Authorities cannot act on their own
- A complaint must be filed by a close family member, such as a spouse, parent, or child
- Random hotel checks or arrests are not allowed
For tourists — especially foreign visitors — this makes enforcement extremely unlikely.
🏝️ What This Means for Tourists Visiting Bali
If you’re traveling to Bali with your partner and you’re not married, you can relax:
✅ You can book hotels, villas, and resorts as usual
✅ No marriage certificate is required
✅ No checks at check-in
✅ No special restrictions for tourists
Bali remains heavily dependent on tourism, and local authorities are well aware that strict enforcement would seriously harm the island’s economy. In practice, Bali continues to operate as it always has for visitors.
🧘 Local Culture vs. Tourist Reality
While the law reflects conservative values present in some parts of Indonesia, Bali has its own cultural and social norms. The island has long balanced local traditions with international tourism.
That said, tourists should still:
- Respect local customs
- Avoid public disturbances
- Be mindful when staying in residential (non-tourist) areas
These are common-sense guidelines that existed long before the new law.
🧾 Final Verdict: Should Tourists Be Worried?
No.
The idea that unmarried couples cannot stay together in Bali hotels is a myth.
There is:
- No hotel ban
- No requirement to show marriage proof
- No active enforcement against tourists
Bali remains one of the most welcoming and romantic travel destinations in the world — for married and unmarried couples alike.
