10 Essential Facts About Living in Lombok as an Expat: Costs, Visas & Daily Life in 2025

Introduction

Indonesia is well-known for its tropical beauty, and while Bali often steals the spotlight, Lombok has rapidly emerged as a top choice for foreigners seeking a more peaceful, affordable, and authentic experience. If you're considering living in Lombok as an expat, this complete guide will help you navigate the must-know aspects — from buying land to choosing a visa, understanding healthcare, and comparing the infrastructure with Bali.

1. Why Lombok? The Rising Star of Indonesian Islands

Lombok offers many advantages for foreigners who want a balance of nature, culture, and affordability. Unlike Bali, which is crowded in certain areas, Lombok gives you space, tranquility, and untouched natural landscapes. Many expats have found that living in Lombok as an expat brings a slower pace of life with lower living costs and fewer regulations that vary depending on local customs.

2. Visa Options for Long-Term Stay

To start living in Lombok as an expat, you'll need a valid visa. Common visa types include:

• Retirement Visa (KITAS Lansia): For those over 55 years old.
• Investor KITAS (for PT PMA owners): Requires a foreign-owned company.
• Work KITAS: If you're employed in Indonesia.
• Spouse KITAS: If you're married to an Indonesian citizen.
• Second Home Visa (for high-net-worth individuals).

Each visa type has its own requirements and benefits. Understanding which one fits your situation is essential to stay compliant and fully enjoy living in Lombok as an expat.

3. Real Estate and Property Ownership

Foreigners cannot directly own freehold land in Indonesia. However, you can legally control property in Lombok through:

• Hak Pakai (Right to Use) – suitable for residential properties.
• PT PMA (Foreign Investment Company) – allows lease or ownership under the company structure.
• Long-term Lease Agreements – typically up to 30 years with extensions.

Always conduct thorough due diligence, verify land certificates, and consult legal experts before committing to a property. For those living in Lombok as an expat, securing your investment legally is critical to avoid future disputes.

4. Cost of Living in Lombok vs. Bali

A major appeal of living in Lombok as an expat is its affordability:

Expense CategoryLombok (Avg/month)Bali (Avg/month)Rent (1BR villa)$250–$500$500–$900Local groceries$100$150Western groceries$150$200Utilities$60$80Transport (Scooter)$50$80

Overall, many foreigners find that living in Lombok as an expat costs 30–40% less than in Bali.

5. Healthcare Facilities and Insurance

While Bali has more international hospitals, Lombok is catching up. For expats living in Lombok, popular options include:

• RSUD Provinsi NTB (public hospital)
• Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga (private)
• Air ambulance & medevac services to Bali

It’s strongly recommended to have international health insurance that includes evacuation options. This ensures peace of mind while living in Lombok as an expat.

6. Internet and Infrastructure

Lombok’s infrastructure has improved thanks to Mandalika’s tourism development. In major areas like Mataram, Senggigi, and Kuta Lombok, you’ll find:

• Fiber-optic internet (up to 100 Mbps)
• Reliable electricity
• New roads and expanded airport
• Coworking spaces for remote workers

If you're living in Lombok as an expat and working remotely, most areas will now suit your lifestyle, especially compared to just a few years ago.

7. Community and Language

While the expat community in Lombok is smaller than in Bali, it’s growing. You'll meet retirees, digital nomads, surf enthusiasts, and long-term investors. English is commonly spoken in tourist zones, but learning a few Bahasa Indonesia phrases will greatly improve your experience living in Lombok as an expat.

8. Education for Families

If you’re living in Lombok as an expat with children, international schooling is limited but improving. Options include:

• Sekolah Alam Lombok
• Montessori schools in Mataram
• Some expats choose homeschooling or commute to Bali for high school years.

9. Culture, Religion & Etiquette

Lombok has a rich Sasak and Muslim heritage. Dress modestly outside tourist zones and respect local customs, especially during prayer times or festivals. This cultural awareness is key to adapting successfully living in Lombok as an expat.

10. Legal and Compliance Tips

To stay compliant while living in Lombok as an expat:

• Always register your address with immigration (STM)
• File taxes if you have income in Indonesia (NPWP required)
• Keep visa documents updated
• Avoid overstaying your visa
• Understand your land title and contract terms before signing

Legal missteps can lead to fines, deportation, or worse.

Conclusion: Is Lombok Right for You?

Living in Lombok as an expat can be incredibly rewarding — from serene beaches and surf culture to lower costs and a tight-knit community. However, success starts with compliance, legal clarity, and cultural respect. If you’re ready to make the move, do it the right way.

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