How Foreigners or Expats Can Legally Own Property in Bali?

Secure Investment Options with Full Assistance

Bali’s real estate market is booming, and as a foreigner or expat, you have several legal options to own or lease property securely. Whether you’re looking for a luxury villa, commercial investment, or long-term residence, here’s how you can legally invest in Bali’s property market.

1. Freehold Ownership for Foreigners Married to Indonesians

Foreigners who are legally married to an Indonesian citizen can own freehold property (Hak Milik) under their spouse’s name. However, to protect their investment, they should sign a prenuptial (before marriage) or postnuptial (after marriage) agreement to ensure that the property remains secure.

Benefits:

Full freehold ownership under the Indonesian spouse’s name.
Legal protection through a properly drafted agreement.
No need for lease extensions or company setup.

2. Setting Up a PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company)

A PT PMA (Perseroan Terbatas Penanaman Modal Asing) is a foreign-owned company in Indonesia that allows foreigners to legally own and control property under Hak Guna Bangunan (HGB) or Hak Pakai (Right to Use).

Benefits:

Legally secure property ownership for business and investment.
Can purchase land and develop projects without an Indonesian partner.
Long-term ownership with renewable 30-year terms under HGB or Hak Pakai.

3. Using a Nominee Agreement (Risky & Not Recommended)

Some foreigners use an Indonesian nominee to hold property on their behalf, signing private agreements to ensure control over the asset. However, this method is not legally recognized and carries significant risks.

Risks & Drawbacks:

No legal protection – The property is in the nominee’s name.
High legal risk – If the nominee claims ownership, it may be difficult to contest.
Not a secure investment – No official rights or ownership recognition for the foreign buyer.

How We Can Help – From Concierge Services to Legal Assistance

We don’t just sell property—we provide full assistance to ensure a smooth, secure, and hassle-free transaction for foreign buyers and investors.

Concierge Services – We handle everything from initial inquiries to securing legal ownership.
Legal Support – Assistance with setting up PT PMA, Hak Pakai, leasehold agreements, and prenuptial/postnuptial contracts.
Due Diligence & Documentation – Ensuring land certificates, zoning regulations, and tax compliance are in order.
Multilingual Support – Our native French, Arabic, and English-speaking team offers free professional assistance, ensuring clear communication and understanding at every step.

For safe and legal property ownership, a PT PMA is the best option for business investments, while marriage to an Indonesian citizen provides access to freehold ownership with proper legal safeguards. Let us guide you through the process—from paperwork to property management—so you can invest with confidence in one of the world’s most desirable locations: Bali!

Guide to Legal Property Ownership for Foreign Investors in Bali

Important Notice for Foreign Buyers

No, foreigners cannot directly own freehold property (Hak Milik) in Indonesia, including in Bali. However, there are legal alternatives for foreign buyers to invest in property:

1. Leasehold Ownership (Hak Sewa)

✔ Foreigners can legally lease land or property for up to 25 years, with extensions available up to 80 years.
✔ Lease agreements must be notarized and registered for legal protection.
✔ Ideal for villas, commercial properties, and rental investments.

2. Right to Use (Hak Pakai)

✔ Allows foreigners to own property under their personal name, but only for residential use.
✔ Requires a KITAS or KITAP (long-term stay permit).
✔ The initial period is 30 years, extendable to 80 years.
✔ Can be used for existing villas or new builds.

3. Buying Through a Foreign-Owned Company (PT PMA)

✔ Foreigners can own land and property legally under a foreign-owned company (PT PMA).
✔ Allows ownership under Hak Guna Bangunan (HGB) for commercial and residential purposes.
✔ The property can be leased, developed, or resold.
✔ Recommended for long-term investors and business projects.

4. Nominee Agreement (Risky & Not Recommended)

❌ Some foreigners try to buy property under an Indonesian nominee’s name, but this method is legally risky and offers no real ownership protection.

Best Option for Foreign Buyers

For personal use, Hak Pakai (Right to Use) is the best legal option.
For investment & business, setting up a PT PMA is the safest and most flexible solution.

Our Commitment to Transparency

At PT ADI JAYA UTAMA RAYA, we believe in honest and legal real estate transactions. We strongly advise and warn foreign buyers about local regulations to ensure that your investment is safe, legal, and secure. Beware of misleading agents or unofficial agreements that do not comply with Indonesian law.

For guidance on legally purchasing or leasing property in Bali, contact us today!

Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate Development

Investing in Bali’s real estate market can be challenging, especially for foreigners, but with us, you get a fair and transparent deal, no inflated prices, no hidden fees.

Unlike 99% of real estate agencies that see foreign investors as a cash cow, we do things differently. We are the only company in Bali that sells land and properties to foreigners without taking a commission, because the property owner is the one who pays us.

Our goal isn’t just the sale; we value long-term relationships and genuine service. With professional integrity and a commitment to fairness, we help you invest with confidence and peace of mind.

At PT ADI JAYA UTAMA, we bring expertise and dedication to real estate development, offering high-quality residential and commercial projects tailored to meet the needs of investors, homeowners, and businesses. Whether you are looking to buy, build, renovate, or invest, we provide end-to-end solutions that ensure value, sustainability, and excellence.

We specialize in buying, selling, leasing, and developing properties and land across Indonesia. Whether you’re looking for residential, commercial, or investment properties, our expert team ensures smooth transactions with professional guidance.

Our Real Estate Services

Buying & Selling Land & Properties
We help individuals and investors purchase and sell land, villas, apartments, offices, hotels, and commercial buildings with market expertise and legal support.

Property Valuation & Market Insights
We analyze the real estate market to determine accurate property valuations, ensuring fair and competitive pricing for buyers and sellers.

Legal & Administrative Assistance
From ownership transfers, property certificates (SHM, SHGB), and permits to foreign investment guidance, we handle all legal procedures for a secure transaction.

Rental & Leasing Services
Looking for a rental or need tenants? We assist in renting out properties, including villas, apartments, offices, and commercial spaces.

Investment Advisory & Development
We provide strategic insights on land acquisition and property development for local and international investors.

Marketing & Promotion
Our marketing team leverages online platforms, social media, and real estate networks to promote your property and attract the right buyers.

With deep industry knowledge and experience, we ensure a secure, profitable, and hassle-free real estate experience.