If you're planning a trip to Indonesia and love shopping as much as I do, then listen up — because this travel tip will help you stretch your Ringgit even further! 💸 As a Malaysian traveler, I was excited to find out that Indonesia offers tax refunds for tourists on eligible purchases. From stylish batik and artisanal crafts to electronics and fashion, you can actually claim back some of the tax you paid — and the process is easier than you think.
Whether you're heading to Jakarta, Bali, or Yogyakarta, knowing how Indonesia's VAT refund system works can save you a good chunk of money. 👜🎨📱
✨ Ready to shop smart in Indonesia?
👉 Book your flight to Indonesia now on Trip.com
👉 Check hotel deals in Bali here
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about tax refunds in Indonesia — how it works, how much you can get back, who qualifies, and a step-by-step guide based on my own travel experience. Let's make sure you don’t miss out on the savings! 🛫💼
🧐 What is a Tax Refund in Indonesia?
source from https://www.vecteezy.com/
According to the Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes, tourists who shop in Indonesia pay VAT (Value Added Tax), which is typically 11%.
As a non-Indonesian tourist, you’re eligible to get a portion of this VAT refunded, either at the airport before departing or through designated refund counters. It's like getting cashback just for shopping!
💰 How Much is VAT in Indonesia?
VAT is 11% — quite high compared to some countries. So, yes, it’s definitely worth applying for a refund.
🔙 How Much Can I Get Back?
Typically, you’ll get up to 10% of the purchase price back (after fees). I spent around RM2,200 on shopping in Jakarta and Bali — and got back nearly RM170. 🎉
Cheap Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Bali
- Sehala
- Pergi Balik
- direct cheapest
KUL17:553j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:05Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Kha, 26 Feb|Batik Air MalaysiaDKK 259DKK 33523% off23% offDKK 335DKK 259 
KUL13:203j 15mTanpa hentiDPS16:35Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Ahd, 22 Feb|AirAsia X Berhad (Malaysia)DKK 274DKK 33518% off18% offDKK 335DKK 274
KUL19:403j 5mTanpa hentiDPS22:45Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Ahd, 22 Feb|AirAsia IndonesiaDKK 274DKK 33518% off18% offDKK 335DKK 274- KUL16:453j 10mTanpa hentiDPS19:55Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Rab, 7 Jan|Batik Air MalaysiaDKK 278DKK 278
- KUL16:453j 10mTanpa hentiDPS19:55Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Sel, 6 Jan|Batik Air MalaysiaDKK 278DKK 278
- KUL17:003j 10mTanpa hentiDPS20:10Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Ahd, 1 Mac|Batik Air MalaysiaDKK 282DKK 282
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiDPS2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Bali|Mon, Jan 5|Batik Air MalaysiaCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
Tambang penerbangan yang dipaparkan dari ${{departCityName}} ke ${{arrivalCityName}} adalah berdasarkan harga purata daripada pelbagai syarikat penerbangan untuk 3 bulan seterusnya, mengikut pangkalan data Trip.com terkini.
👤 Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund?
Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
Nationality | Non-Indonesian (yes, Malaysians qualify!) |
Stay Duration | Less than 60 days in Indonesia |
Minimum Purchase | IDR 500,000 (~RM150) per receipt at one store |
Refund Deadline | Must leave Indonesia within 1 month of purchase |
Item Condition | Items must be new and unused at time of refund |
🛍️ How Do Tax Refunds Work in Indonesia?
It’s easy! Just shop at participating stores, keep your receipts and refund forms, and claim your refund at the airport before departure.
Look for shops displaying the “VAT Refund for Tourists” sign. Once you spend at least IDR 500,000 (about RM150) in a day at a single store, you can ask for a tax refund form.
Refunds are claimed at designated counters in major international airports like Soekarno-Hatta (Jakarta), Ngurah Rai (Bali), or Juanda (Surabaya).
Cheap Hotels in Bali
5 star
Great99 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|22.98km dari pusat bandar
A Peaceful Jungle Paradise – Worth the Escape
Ayung Resort is a hidden gem tucked away in the lush jungle of Ubud. While the location is a bit remote — with travel into central Ubud taking up to an hour due to the single road access — the truth is, you won’t want to leave the resort at all.
The views are absolutely breathtaking, overlooking the mountains and the serene beauty of the surrounding jungle. The entire resort is designed to bring peace and tranquility, with incredible attention to detail in both the architecture and landscaping.
The on-site restaurants were excellent, the service impeccable, and the range of facilities and activities meant everything you needed was right there. Whether you’re after a relaxing escape or a deep connection to nature, this place delivers a 10/10 experience.
Highly recommended for anyone looking to unwind and soak in the true beauty of Ubud without the crowds.DariDKK 490
Great379 Ulasan
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km dari pusat bandar
This hotel is truly amazing; you could easily spend your whole Bali trip just enjoying the resort. My positive impression of InterContinental definitely started with this stay. Next time I visit, I might try a different hotel, but this one will always be my Plan B. The hotel's ecosystem is also very well-maintained, and they even have squirrels. The only downside is that the street outside the hotel is incredibly busy with too many cars, making it quite dangerous. If you plan to walk to the shops, you need to be extremely careful. It's best to take a taxi if possible. However, Bali's traffic is generally like this unless you stay at a hotel right in a commercial area.DariDKK 872
Great419 Ulasan
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km dari pusat bandar
The design of the whole hotel is beautiful especially the view of the swimming pool area. The breakfast is good and the food delivery at room is also delicious. The staff are very polite and helpful. There is also table tennis table provided for playing. Upon request of late check out, prompt arrangement is made to the convenient of the customer. Worth staying while at Uluwatu.DariDKK 1,041
Great403 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|15.95km dari pusat bandar
Adorable hotel, really lovely setting, plush gardens, two nice pools, although no pool side service available, not a big deal as pool was just metres from my room. Free daily soft drink mini bar. Huge bed, comfortable size room with all the necessities. Didn’t have breakfast but did order room service, it was good and a reasonable price. Good size supermarket a couple of doors down, many restaurants and shops outside, close to monkey forest, kekak dance place, yoga barn, and the museum/palace are about 20 mins walk. Solo traveller, felt safe.DariDKK 604
Great254 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|10.22km dari pusat bandar
Had a great staycation at Discovery Kartika Plaza. Even though the hotel shows its age, it was pretty well maintained due to the recent renovation. The hotel facilities are quite extensive and the prices (room and food) are affordable for a 5 star hotel. There’s a pedestrian access directly to the Discovery Mall next door and Kuta Beach. While this hotel does not currently have a private beach, one is currently being built with completion due in 1 year.
Some suggestions from me for further improvements: even though I’m of an average height, I found the twin bed to be a tad too small (my feet went beyond the edge). I also think that smart tv in every room should be a standard nowadays, especially if this hotel is marketing itself to be family friendly. Please also check that the room amenities are in good condition (the shower tap in my room was broken), and lastly, while the breakfast is pretty good, I think the varieties could be extended more (e.g. Indomie bar, made-to-order food/drink bar)DariDKK 465
Great242 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|18.62km dari pusat bandar
We stayed for two nights at Element by Westin Ubud Bali. The staff were very friendly and helpful, making us feel welcome throughout our stay. While the facilities were a bit dated, the warm service really made up for it. Breakfast was decent, though a bit underwhelming for a 5-star hotel.DariDKK 560
Business travel
Very Good368 Ulasan
Seminyak Bali|6.6km dari pusat bandar
Got a room superior which has a problem with the aircon that doesnt work , complain and they move me to deluxe .
Good job Sense Hotel
seminyakDariDKK 101
Very Good326 Ulasan
Sanur Bali|7.01km dari pusat bandar
I had a truly wonderful stay at this beachfront hotel. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm, welcoming, and attentive to every detail, ensuring a smooth check-in and a comfortable experience throughout. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from a beautiful, clean beach with stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean.
The room was spacious, well-maintained, and thoughtfully furnished, with a comfortable bed and a balcony that offered a fantastic sea view. I appreciated the modern amenities and the cleanliness of both the room and the common areas. The hotel also offers easy access to nearby restaurants, cafes, and shops, which made exploring the area very convenient.DariDKK 417
Very Good302 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|10.42km dari pusat bandar
Ah, ”Eden Hotel” in Bali! It seems you're likely referring to one of the Grandmas Plus Hotels in Bali, specifically Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak or Grandmas Plus Hotel Airport. They are popular budget-friendly options in Bali.
To give you a good review, I can summarize what people generally say about them, but if you stayed at a specific Grandmas Plus Hotel, let me know which one (e.g., Seminyak, Airport, Legian), and I can tailor the review even more.
Here's a general overview of what people often say about Grandmas Plus Hotels in Bali, combining common feedback:
Grandmas Plus Hotels, Bali (General Review)
Overall Impression: Generally, Grandmas Plus Hotels are well-regarded as excellent value-for-money options, especially for budget travelers, solo travelers, and those looking for a convenient location. They often receive high ratings for their service and cleanliness.
What people like most:
* Excellent Location: This is a consistent highlight.
* Seminyak: Very close to Seminyak Beach (often cited as a 5-minute walk) and within easy walking distance to shops, restaurants, and bars. This makes it ideal for those wanting to explore the vibrant Seminyak area.
* Airport: Convenient for early flights or quick stopovers due to its proximity to the airport.
* Friendly and Helpful Staff: Many guests praise the staff for being amicable, attentive, and going out of their way to ensure a comfortable stay. They often mention the staff's smiles and willingness to help.
* Cleanliness: The rooms and common areas are consistently described as sparkling clean and well-maintained.
* Value for Money: Guests frequently mention that the price paid for the amenities and location is a great deal.
* Breakfast: Often receives positive remarks for being good, and sometimes even offering a ”different gourmet food selection” daily.
* Amenities: While generally basic, they offer essential amenities. Some locations have a pool, and many have a connected restaurant/bar. In-house spas are also mentioned as a plus.
* Comfort Rooms (after checkout): Some hotels in the chain offer a ”comfort room” which is a nice touch for guests with later flights.
What people like least (or areas for improvement):
* Room Size: A very common comment is that the rooms can be ”compact,” ”small,” or ”cramped,” especially for families. While well-designed and clean, they might feel a bit tight for some.
* Noise: Depending on the room location, street noise, music, or bar noises can be audible, especially in Seminyak, which is a lively area.
* Bathroom Ventilation/Issues: Some reviews mention a lack of exhaust fans in bathrooms, or occasional issues like drainage smells or spots on tiles.
* Pool Size/Quality: For the Seminyak location, the pool is sometimes described as ”tiny” or ”very poor” and can get crowded.
* Limited Amenities: While good for the price, some guests might miss certain features like mini-fridges or electric kettles in the rooms (though free mineral water is usually provided).
Would I recommend this hotel?
Based on common reviews, yes, I would recommend Grandmas Plus Hotels, especially if you are:
* A budget-conscious traveler.
* Looking for a hotel with an excellent, central location (Seminyak) or close to the airport.
* Prioritizing friendly service and cleanliness over spacious rooms or extensive luxury amenities.
* Traveling solo or as a couple (larger groups or families might find rooms a bit small).
They are often described as a great base for exploring Bali, offering a comfortable and practical stay without a hefty price tag.DariDKK 113
Very Good669 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|9.39km dari pusat bandar
The hotel was clean and had a pleasant atmosphere, and the staff were kind and very friendly. However, during breakfast, I asked the male chef for an omelet near the end of service time, and he seemed irritated. When I spoke to him, he snapped “Huh?!” at me in a loud voice and then ignored me afterward, which was quite unpleasant. Aside from that, the food quality was good for the price, and I was satisfied overall. The location was excellent — close to a shopping mall, market, and the beach. As for amenities, there were no razors, hairbrushes, or conditioner, and the hair dryer was very weak, but considering the low price, it was understandable.DariDKK 321
Very Good323 Ulasan
Seminyak Bali|6.77km dari pusat bandar
IReview Title: Serious Safety Concerns – Money Lost in My Room
I have stayed at Diprima Hotel Petitenget Seminyak four times, but this last visit was very disappointing and worrying. During my stay, money disappeared from my own room. This has never happened before, but it has completely ruined my trust in the hotel.
Room safety and security should be the top priority, yet I felt unprotected as a guest. After this incident, I cannot recommend this hotel to anyone, and unfortunately, I will not be returning again.'m concerned about room safety. My money wasDariDKK 138
Very Good453 Ulasan
Seminyak Bali|7.98km dari pusat bandar
Staff are nice, hotel is near the beach and accessible. Wifi is good and is not sporadic. I love my entire stay for a week I think. Food and morning breakfast buffet is awesome too! They vary everyday and they are not the same. Close to Mexicola but has not experienced the noise or whatsoever. My entire stay was really pleasant. Accessible to grabs and gojeks too! Will def stay here when Im back in Bali!DariDKK 161
Breakfast
Great299 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|21.46km dari pusat bandar
Kenran Resort Ubud is a hidden gem in the heart of Bali that completely exceeded my expectations. Tucked away in the lush jungle, the resort offers the perfect balance of tranquility, luxury, and nature — a real escape from the busy world.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles and exceptional service. The staff were not only professional but genuinely kind and attentive throughout my stay. Every detail was carefully taken care of.
The room was stunning — spacious, clean, and tastefully designed with traditional Balinese touches. My favorite part was the private balcony with a view of the jungle and river — it was pure serenity waking up to the sounds of nature.
The infinity pool is absolutely beautiful and surrounded by greenery, making it a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the peaceful vibes. The on-site spa was another highlight; I had one of the most relaxing massages I’ve ever experienced, with the sound of the river in the background adding to the calm atmosphere.
Breakfast was delicious every morning, with plenty of fresh options and great coffee. The restaurant also served amazing local and Western dishes throughout the day, all beautifully presented.
Overall, Kenran Resort is a dream. Whether you’re visiting Bali for the first time or returning for a quiet getaway, this resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience. I’ll definitely be coming back.DariDKK 581
Amazing906 Ulasan
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km dari pusat bandar
The Hotel is stunning and catches your eye when you enter through its massive lobby. The staffs are super friendly and welcoming and they will greet you and ask you how are you doing any where you bump into them in the Hotel Area. The hotel is designed in such a way that you have to walk a lot to reach the lobby specially if you have booked the Ocean Court Deluxe room like we did. The walk is not too enjoyable though which is one thing I didn't like about the hotel. The amenities are decent and the service is really of high standard. It has a lot of activities to do within the hotel area which is another big plus for this hotel. Overall a decent stay here for us.DariDKK 2,176
Great159 Ulasan
Nusa Dua Bali|14km dari pusat bandar
awesome experience at Holiday Inn Nusa Dua! the staff were very friendly and service oriented. They even arranged a small cake and handwritten note to help celebrate our anniversary. it also has a decent beach front with access to neighbouring hotels which was great for a walk along tbe beach. breakfast food (and dinner too) was also great!DariDKK 570
Amazing123 Ulasan
Sanur Bali|6.62km dari pusat bandar
The most perfect hotel of this trip – everything from the service to the rooms and breakfast was outstanding. My only regret is that we only stayed for one night. Sanur Beach was incredibly chill. Bali made such a fantastic first impression on me that I had no interest in visiting any of the popular 'influencer' spots. On my next visit, I absolutely must stay at Andaz for a few more nights.DariDKK 1,325
Very Good135 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|8.5km dari pusat bandar
The owner of Four Points by Sheraton Bali is SOOOOO blessed to have all these hard working professionals! Not only were they kind, they got everything done in a very efficient manner. The room was super clean and the food was awesome! I just hope the shower head gets stronger water pressure. Also, it's a bit of walk to Kuta Beach, but there are so many restaurants, coffee shops, and massage shops nearby. Four Points by Sheraton Bali made my stay very enjoyable :)DariDKK 417
Very Good208 Ulasan
Uluwatu Bali|19.75km dari pusat bandar
I have stayed at this hotel multiple times and I really like the area and the rooms. However, service—especially around the pool—has consistently been disappointing, and this visit was no exception. The staff don’t seem properly trained in customer service.
The pool area also needs serious attention—it feels unsafe, with broken decking creating hazards. On this stay, I had to call maintenance twice for room issues: a leaking ceiling that left the floor slippery and dangerous. The pool towel policy is also poorly thought out: guests are forced to sign out towels with their name and room number and must return them, but in reality, anyone could write down a random room number and walk off with towels. It makes little sense and doesn’t actually prevent misuse.
regular guests or membership don’t appear to receive any recognition or value for their loyalty if they don’t book directly. Early check-ins are never considered, no matter how often you stay.
Overall, I do enjoy the property and the location, but the ongoing issues with service, safety, and maintenance are making me think about exploring other options.DariDKK 211
💸 Types of Tax Refunds in Indonesia
1. Airport Tax Refund
- Show your original passport, boarding pass, and VAT refund form
- Items must be unused and available for inspection
- Visit the VAT Refund Counter before check-in
- After verification, refund is given in cash (IDR) or to your credit card
2. Downtown Tax Refund Counters (Limited Availability)
- Some tourist-heavy areas like Kuta (Bali) have refund counters
- Refund is processed electronically, credited to your card
📝 Note: There’s no in-store immediate refund like in Korea — all refunds are processed at the airport or designated refund office
📊 Summary Table
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
VAT Rate in Indonesia | 11% on most products |
Refund Amount | Up to 10% (after service fees) |
Minimum Spend | IDR 500,000 per receipt at same store |
Refund Points | Airport counters (Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, etc.) |
Eligible Stores | Look for "VAT Refund for Tourists" sticker |
Refund Methods | Cash (IDR) or credit card |
1 Day - 2GB/Day
- Data2GB Daily
- Validity1 Day
- PriceFrom RM3.87
7 Days - 2GB/Day
- Data2GB Daily
- Validity7 Days
- PriceFrom RM24.17
10 Days - 30GB
- Data30GB
- Validity10 Days
- PriceFrom RM59.1
🧭 How Do I Get a Tax Refund in Indonesia?
✅ Step 1: Shop at VAT-Refund-Participating Stores
Look for the “VAT Refund for Tourists” sign. Popular areas include Seminyak, Ubud, Grand Indonesia Mall, Plaza Indonesia, and Sarinah.
✅ Step 2: Show Your Passport at Checkout
Ask the cashier for a tax refund form. Your passport is required for processing.
✅ Step 3: Keep Your Receipts, Refund Form, and Items
Don’t open or use the items before flying. You’ll need to show them at the airport.
✅ Step 4: Arrive Early at the Airport
Get to the airport at least 3 hours early — refund processing can take time, especially during peak travel periods.
✅ Step 5: Visit the VAT Refund Counter
Go to the VAT Refund for Tourists Counter before check-in. Show:
- Original passport
- Boarding pass
- Refund form and receipts
- Purchased items (unused)
If all’s good, the officer will process your refund in cash or credit card. 🧾💳
💡 Tips for Tax Refunds in Indonesia
- 📷 Photograph your receipts in case you misplace them
- 🧴 Keep items sealed until after refund claim
- 🏪 Shop in large department stores — easier to get refund forms
- 💳 Request credit card refund for higher-value purchases
- 📅 Claim refund within 1 month of purchase
- 👕 Combine same-day receipts from the same store
🧳 Final Thoughts on Tax Refunds in Indonesia
After experiencing it myself, I can honestly say — the Indonesia tax refund system is totally worth it! Whether you’re shopping for batik, local crafts, or modern fashion brands, that extra cashback can go toward your next adventure or a final treat at the airport. 🎁🍜
As a budget-savvy Malaysian traveler, I found the process clear and easy, especially at major airports. Just remember to shop at participating stores and go early for your refund — then enjoy the extra savings!
Planning your next trip? Don’t forget to:
👉 Book flights to Indonesia now on Trip.com
👉 Check top hotel deals in Bali or Jakarta
👉 Pre-book your Indonesia eSIM for instant connectivity
Selamat berbelanja, and happy travels! ✈️🌴
🙋♀️ FAQs About Indonesia Tax Refund
❓1. Who is eligible for a tax refund in Indonesia?
To qualify, you must: Be a non-Indonesian citizen Stay in Indonesia less than 60 days Spend at least IDR 500,000 (approx. RM150) in a single receipt Depart Indonesia via an international airport Have the original receipt, refund form, and unused items❓2. What kind of items qualify for a tax refund?
Most tangible goods meant for personal use, such as: Clothing & fashion accessories 👗 Souvenirs, handicrafts, artwork 🎁 Electronics, gadgets 📱 Cosmetics, skincare 🧴 ❌ Services, food & beverages, hotel stays, and used/opened items are not eligible.❓3. How much is the refund?
You can get up to 10% back (after admin/service fees). Example: Spend IDR 1,000,000 → Get ~IDR 90,000–100,000 back.❓4. Where can I claim the refund?
At designated VAT Refund counters in major international airports: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta) Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali) Juanda International Airport (Surabaya) 📍 Go BEFORE immigration check-in for customs approval.❓5. What documents do I need to bring?
Original passport Original receipt(s) Refund form from the shop Unused items (may be inspected) Boarding pass or flight ticket❓6. How is the refund paid?
Refunds can be received as: Cash (IDR) Credit card refund (Rare cases) Bank transfer Note: Cash refund is usually faster, but card refunds may be better for large amounts.❓7. How long does the process take?
The refund process can take 20–60 minutes, depending on airport traffic and number of receipts. Go at least 3 hours before your flight.❓8. Can I get a refund at the store?
No. Unlike some countries (e.g., Korea), Indonesia does not offer in-store or instant VAT refunds. All refunds must be claimed at the airport or specific refund counters.❓9. What if I lost my receipt or didn’t get the refund form?
Unfortunately, no refund can be issued without the original documents. 👉 Tip: Always ask for a refund form when shopping and take photos of your receipts.❓10. Can I combine multiple receipts to reach the IDR 500,000 minimum?
No. The IDR 500,000 minimum applies per receipt and must be from the same store on the same day.