Looking to establish a diving center in Bali? Nicknamed the ‘Island of the Gods’, Bali is projected to generate around USD 22.1 billion in foreign exchange due to tourism from their 2023 baseline of USD 14.63 billion.
In this article, we will take a look at the essentials of setting up a diving center in Bali including the key requirements, visa options, and mandatory certifications.
Key Requirements and Licenses for Setting Up A Diving Center in Bali
General Documentation for Application
For setting up a diving center, registering your business is a mandatory step to take. It ensures that you have a legal entity in the country for operations. To do so, you will require the following documentation for application:
- Article of Association
- Approval from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights
- Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB)
- Company Domicile Certificate (SKTU)
- Tax Identification Number (NPWP)
Business-Specific Licenses
Based on your business activities, there are specific licenses that are required to operate legally in Bali. Our experts at Emerhub can assist in identifying and obtaining the necessary licenses or certifications for your business. This includes obtaining:
- Tourism License (TDUP): Essential for all tourism-related businesses within Indonesia. Certifies that your business complies with local tourism regulations and standards.
- Tourism Business Certificate: After obtaining the TDUP, you are required to obtain this certificate within a specified period. Large businesses have two years, medium-sized businesses have four years and small businesses have six years.
- Environmental License UKL-UPL: For business activities with minor environmental impacts. This license ensures businesses take the necessary steps to monitor and mitigate any potential impacts.
Mandatory Diving Certifications in Bali
Establishing a diving center in Bali means that you will have to ensure that your employees obtain the proper licenses and certifications to dive safely and responsibly. These certifications are also important for offering diving courses legally and facilitating group activities safely.
| Certification Level | Minimum Age | Duration | Maximum Depth | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PADI Open Water Diver Certification | 10 years | 3-4 days | 18 meters | -Foundational certificate for divers to dive independently with a buddy upon course completion. -Includes diving theory, confined water training, and 4 open water dives. |
| PADI Scuba Diver Certification | 10 years | 2 days | 12 meters | -Beginner-level certification for those with limited time. -Allows diving under the supervision of a PADI professional -Includes theory and 2 open water dives. |
| PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Certification | 12 years | 2-3 days | 30 meters | -Expands diving knowledge and skills with 5 adventure dives -Includes deep diving and underwater navigation |
| PADI Rescue Diver Certification | 12 years | Varies (typically several days) | N/A | -Focuses on emergency and rescue techniques -Enhances safety awareness and response skills in diving situations |
| PADI Divemaster Certification | 18 years | Varies (typically several weeks) | N/A | -Professional level certification -Prepares divers to lead and supervise dive activities -Requires extensive training and experience |
Permitted Activities for A Diving Center in Bali & Best Diving Areas
When it comes to permitted activities, diving centers in Bali offer a wide range of water-based sports for everyone to enjoy in a safe and regulated environment. These activities include:
- Snorkeling Trips: Tours of vibrant coral reefs that are closer to the surface for those who are not comfortable with diving deeper.
- Night Diving: Allows divers to explore underwater life at night, unveiling different species of marine life that sometimes only appear at nighttime.
- Muck Diving: A specialized form of diving that focuses on small creatures and macro life within specific areas.
- Wreck Diving: Diving through famous historic wreckage sites, offering a mix of history and marine life.
- Eco Tours and Conservation: Activities focused on marine conservation like reef-clean ups and education on marine life.
- General Water Sports Activities: This includes parasailing, jet skiing, rafting, and more.
- PADI Certification Courses: Diving centers offer official certification courses for various skill levels.
If you’re looking for some of the best diving areas year-round to set up your business, several spots in Bali offer scenic dives and diverse marine life like:
- Menjangan Island: Has beautiful coral reefs and wall dives, it is a part of the Bali Barat National Park.
- Tulamben: Divers can explore the famous USAT Liberty Shipwreck, enjoy muck diving, and experience a variety of marine life.
- Padang Bai: Has multiple dive sites for you to explore like Shark Point and Blue Lagoon. Each diving spot is rich in marine life.
Visa Options for Adventure Tourism in Bali
For foreigners interested in exploring adventure tourism in Bali, there are a few visa options you can consider based on your plans and needs such as:
Visa on Arrival (VoA)
This visa is valid for 30 days and extendable for 30 days. It is perfect for short-term visitors looking to enjoy Bali’s tourism-based activities and is available for travelers from 97 countries. To obtain a Visa on Arrival, you will require a passport with 6 months validity and an outbound ticket from Indonesia.
Single Entry Visit Visa
Formerly known as the B211A, this visa is valid for 60 days but is extendable twice, allowing for a total stay of 180 days. It is the best option for those who are not eligible for a Visa on Arrival. It allows entry for tourists and travelers engaging in specific activities like visiting family, adventure tourism, and business conferences.
C6B Social Cultural Visa
The C6B Social Cultural Visa is valid for 60 days and is extendable up to 4 times for a total stay of 6 months. However, this visa requires sponsorship from an Indonesian citizen or entity and a letter from the sponsor stating the purpose of your visit while guaranteeing your transportation and living expenses. This visa covers individuals visiting Indonesia for cultural exchanges, sports activities, volunteer programs, family visits, and more.
Set Up Your Diving Center in Bali with Emerhub
Ready to start your Diving Center in Bali? Emerhub’s local experts will assist you in registering your company with the local government, obtain the necessary licensing, and advise you on the best visa options based on your intended activities and plans in Bali.
We’ll help you obtain the necessary documents and liaise with the local authorities. Fill out the form below and our representative will reach out to you.