Running a Spa in Bali and Lombok? Licenses, Therapists & Product Rules for Investment in 2026

The Booming Wellness Market: Why Regulation Matters for Every Spa in Bali and Lombok

Over the past decade, Bali and Lombok have transformed into Southeast Asia’s leading wellness destinations, attracting not only tourists seeking rejuvenation but also investors eager to tap into the region’s thriving spa and wellness economy. From luxury beachfront resorts to boutique holistic retreats, the spa industry has become a key pillar of the tourism ecosystem, blending cultural heritage, natural healing traditions, and modern wellness experiences.

But with this growth comes complexity. Many entrepreneurs underestimate how tightly regulated spa operations are in Indonesia. Beyond the relaxing ambiance and natural oils lies a web of licenses, therapist certifications, BPOM product approvals, and local compliance checks that determine whether a spa can operate legally. For foreign investors, navigating this legal terrain can be daunting, especially when local requirements differ across regencies.

This article explores everything you need to know to build and manage a fully compliant Spa in Bali and Lombok, from obtaining business and location permits to ensuring all products meet BPOM standards and all therapists hold valid certifications. By understanding the legal foundations early, investors and business owners can protect their reputation, maintain operational continuity, and earn long-term trust in Indonesia’s competitive wellness sector.

Navigating the Wellness Boom: The New Regulatory Landscape for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

The rapid expansion of Indonesia’s wellness and tourism sector has placed Bali and Lombok at the heart of Southeast Asia’s spa investment surge. Bali remains the benchmark for high-end spa experiences, blending traditional Balinese healing rituals with global wellness trends, while Lombok is emerging as the next frontier, offering quieter, nature-driven retreats for conscious travelers. This boom has brought not only opportunity but also heightened regulatory attention.

Operating a Spa in Bali and Lombok today requires navigating a multi-layered compliance environment. At the core lies Indonesia’s OSS Risk-Based Licensing (RBA) system, which governs business registration and operational permits based on assessed risk levels. Spa operators must ensure their NIB (Business Identification Number) and subsequent operational licenses align with local tourism and health regulations. Beyond that, local health and sanitation checks, environmental permits, and building safety approvals form part of the baseline requirements before any treatment bed can open for guests.

In addition, the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) has tightened its supervision under BPOM Regulation No. 18 of 2024, which mandates stricter labeling and advertising standards for cosmetics and spa products. This includes imported essential oils, scrubs, and creams, all of which must be officially registered before sale or use in spa treatments. Violations can lead to product seizures or even business suspension.

The regulatory framework also integrates with hygiene and workforce laws, requiring therapists to hold valid competency certifications issued by authorized institutions under the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. Together, these overlapping requirements reflect Indonesia’s broader move toward professionalizing the wellness industry and ensuring consumer safety.

For investors and operators, this means that compliance is not optional, it’s a core pillar of sustainability. The growing regulatory scrutiny ultimately elevates the credibility and global competitiveness of every licensed Spa in Bali and Lombok, ensuring the region remains a trusted wellness destination for years to come.

Building a Compliant Foundation: Business Setup & Licensing for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

Establishing a Spa in Bali and Lombok begins long before the first massage table is installed. The foundation lies in selecting the right business entity structure and securing the necessary permits through Indonesia’s increasingly digitalized licensing framework. For local entrepreneurs, a PT (Perseroan Terbatas) remains the standard choice, while foreign investors must establish a PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company) to operate legally. The PT PMA structure allows international ownership but requires a clear investment plan, minimum capital fulfillment, and alignment with Indonesia’s Positive Investment List (2021), which classifies spa businesses as open with certain conditions.

Once the structure is set, the next critical step is OSS (Online Single Submission) registration. Entrepreneurs must select the correct KBLI codes, most notably 96021 (Body Care Services) and 96022 (Massage & Reflexology Services) to ensure business classification matches spa operations. This impacts taxation, labor, and tourism compliance, so precision is key. 

Under the Tourism OSS Regulation, a spa must also obtain the Tourism Business Registration Certificate (TDUP) and Tourism Business Certification (TBC), both managed through the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. These licenses confirm that the establishment meets operational, service, and hygiene standards specific to the wellness industry.

Furthermore, a spa facility must comply with building and location requirements. Operators are required to secure a Building Permit (PBG), previously known as IMB and an Occupancy Worthiness Certificate (SLF) to verify the building’s safety for public use. Location approval also depends on zoning and land-use compatibility, meaning the property must fall under areas designated for tourism or commercial activity, especially in regulated regions of Bali and Lombok.

Failing to meet these prerequisites can lead to severe administrative penalties, including license suspension, re-registration orders, or even business closure. Establishing a spa may seem straightforward, but compliance is the true key to stability. In short, setting up a Spa in Bali and Lombok demands not only business ambition, but also careful legal precision to thrive within Indonesia’s structured wellness landscape.

Professional Standards & Staffing Compliance for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

Running a Spa in Bali and Lombok requires more than ambiance and aroma, it hinges on skilled, legally certified therapists and proper employment structures. Indonesian regulations mandate that all spa operators employ qualified local therapists who hold certifications from Lembaga Sertifikasi Kompetensi (LSK) or other accredited vocational institutions under the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. This ensures that all staff meet national competency standards in areas such as massage therapy, reflexology, and beauty treatments.

Foreign therapists may also be employed, but only under strict conditions. They must obtain a work permit (IMTA) and Limited Stay Permit (KITAS), with positions justified as providing training, expertise, or specialized services not easily found locally. Employers must also adhere to foreign manpower utilization plans (RPTKA) approved by the Ministry of Manpower.

When hiring, spa owners must ensure all employment contracts comply with Indonesian labour law, covering aspects like probation periods, overtime, salary structure, and termination rights. Registration under BPJS Kesehatan (health insurance) and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (employment injury and social security) is mandatory to protect staff welfare.

Health and hygiene standards play an equally vital role. Local Dinas Kesehatan (Health Office) regularly inspects treatment rooms, sterilization facilities, and sanitation practices to ensure compliance with wellness-sector safety norms. Every Spa in Bali and Lombok must maintain detailed hygiene records and display public signage outlining safety measures and certifications.

Operational safety measures, such as fire extinguishers, adequate ventilation, and ergonomic setups are also inspected periodically. Continuous training, staff re-certification, and adherence to updated regulations ensure that spas not only meet legal standards but also maintain the trusted reputation that Bali and Lombok’s wellness tourism depend on. In this way, compliance becomes both a legal duty and a business advantage for every Spa in Bali and Lombok.

Product Safety & BPOM Compliance Essentials for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

A key aspect of operating a Spa in Bali and Lombok lies in the legality and safety of all cosmetic, skincare, and essential oil products used or sold within the premises. Indonesia’s Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan (BPOM) strictly regulates the production, importation, labeling, and promotion of cosmetics to protect public health and ensure fair competition in the wellness industry.

Under the latest BPOM Regulation No. 18 of 2024, new standards govern cosmetic labeling, promotion, and advertising. Every product used in a Spa in Bali and Lombok, from massage oils to face masks, must include mandatory information such as product name, manufacturer details, batch number, expiry date, 2D barcode, and full Indonesian-language labeling. Promotional content must avoid misleading claims and adhere to approved safety statements.

For imported or private-label skincare products, spa operators must verify that their suppliers hold a valid API (Angka Pengenal Importir) and that all goods are registered in BPOM’s online system under a recognized Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH). The process includes documentation of formulation, packaging, and distribution channels to ensure full traceability. Failure to comply may lead to sanctions such as administrative fines, product confiscation, or even license revocation.

In 2024, BPOM reported seizing Rp8.91 billion worth of illegal cosmetics nationwide, highlighting the heightened scrutiny on spas and beauty establishments. For that reason, every Spa in Bali and Lombok must maintain meticulous product records, including BPOM registration numbers, supplier verification documents, and shelf audits.

Spa owners should follow this essential checklist:

1. Verify BPOM registration numbers for all in-use and retail items.
2. Partner only with licensed distributors or MAHs.
3. Audit product storage and stock rotation regularly.
4. Ensure labeling meets PerBPOM 18/2024 standards.
5. Train staff to identify and reject unregistered goods.

Ignoring BPOM regulations can jeopardize not just your inventory but your entire operational license. Ensuring full BPOM compliance protects your reputation, your clients’ health, and the long-term sustainability of your Spa in Bali and Lombok.

Local Compliance & Operational Permits Required for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

Running a Spa in Bali and Lombok demands more than an attractive location and skilled therapists, it requires full compliance with multiple local-level permits and operational standards. Each regional authority enforces its own inspection and approval process, particularly for health, safety, and environmental management.

The first essential document is the Health and Hygiene Permit from the Dinas Kesehatan (Health Department). This ensures that every Spa in Bali and Lombok providing body treatments, facials, or massages meets sanitation and facility standards, covering everything from treatment-room ventilation to sterilization equipment. Health inspections are routine, and non-compliance can result in temporary suspension.

Equally important is the Tourism Business Certificate (Tanda Daftar Usaha Pariwisata – TBC), which formally registers your spa as part of the tourism sector. This certification aligns with the Tourism OSS framework and is mandatory for any spa located in designated tourism zones across Bali or Lombok.

Building and safety requirements are also key. A Sertifikat Laik Fungsi (SLF) confirms your facility’s fire and structural safety, an absolute requirement for any public-facing business such as a Spa in Bali and Lombok. Environmental permits are equally crucial; spas using scrubs, oils, or aromatherapy products must manage wastewater and chemical residues in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Furthermore, zoning compliance must match the Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah (RTRW)—the local spatial plan to ensure your property’s land use is legally designated for tourism or commercial activities.

Finally, spa operators should maintain long-term lease agreements (minimum three years) and prepare for spot inspections, as both Bali and Lombok authorities have increased random audits of wellness businesses.

Adhering to these operational and local-level permits not only ensures a smooth-running Spa in Bali and Lombok but also strengthens your reputation as a compliant, trustworthy business in Indonesia’s fast-growing wellness industry.

Risk Management & Compliance Framework for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

For long-term sustainability, every Spa in Bali and Lombok must develop a structured risk management and compliance framework. Operating in Indonesia’s wellness and tourism industry means handling multiple regulatory layers, so prevention, documentation, and readiness are key.

The first line of defense is internal control. Spas must track product inventory, record sources of oils, lotions, and skincare items, and conduct supplier audits to confirm legality and BPOM registration. This traceability not only reduces the risk of counterfeit goods but also protects your operating licence when inspections occur.

Insurance coverage is another crucial pillar. A professional Spa in Bali and Lombok should have comprehensive policies that include guest injury or liability protection (e.g., for slips or allergic reactions), employee health and safety coverage, and product recall insurance in case of defective cosmetic use. Such coverage minimizes potential financial and reputational damage.

Next, conduct periodic audits both internal and external. Legal compliance audits help ensure business permits, BPOM registrations, and staff certifications are current. Building safety and hygiene inspections should also be performed regularly, particularly before high tourism seasons.

Staying informed about regulatory changes is essential. With Indonesia preparing to roll out the Government Regulation (GR) No. 28/2025 under the evolving risk-based licensing framework, business owners must monitor these transitions carefully to maintain alignment.

Finally, establish emergency and complaint-handling protocols, for example, responding quickly to guest incidents or adverse product reactions. More than a formality, these systems reflect a culture of compliance and care.

A Spa in Bali and Lombok that views compliance as an investment in trust, rather than a bureaucratic burden will thrive sustainably amid Indonesia’s increasingly competitive wellness sector.

Common Pitfalls & Case Notes for Operating a Spa in Bali and Lombok

Even with strong demand in wellness tourism, many operators still underestimate the regulatory depth of running a Spa in Bali and Lombok. Common pitfalls often stem from rushed setups, incomplete paperwork, or reliance on informal agents who promise “quick approvals.”

One major mistake is using unregistered cosmetic products, especially imported essential oils, scrubs, or creams without BPOM notification numbers. These can trigger product seizures and administrative penalties. Another frequent issue is the absence of an SLF (Sertifikat Laik Fungsi), the building safety certificate required for any public service business. Missing this document can result in immediate operational suspension.

A further compliance trap is misclassifying the business, registering as a “beauty salon” rather than a tourism-based spa service. This omission bypasses the Tourism Business Certificate (TBC) requirement under the Ministry of Tourism, making the business technically illegal. Additionally, hiring unlicensed therapists without Dinas Kesehatan certification remains a recurring cause of closure for many spas in both Bali and Lombok.

A recent example from Lombok illustrates these risks clearly: a mid-size spa was forced to halt operations after BPOM inspectors found that its in-house skincare line lacked notification numbers. Recovery took months, costing both revenue and reputation.

The lesson is simple, verify every layer before launch. Build a compliance checklist, allocate an annual budget for permits and audits, and always consult qualified legal or regulatory professionals. In the long run, these preventive steps protect not just compliance but also the credibility and growth potential of any Spa in Bali and Lombok.

Step-by-Step Opening Timeline for Establishing a Spa in Bali and Lombok

Launching a Spa in Bali and Lombok requires careful sequencing of administrative and operational steps to ensure full legal compliance before welcoming guests. Here’s a practical month-by-month breakdown:

Months 1–2: Foundation & Location Setup

Begin with entity formation, choosing between a PT (for local ownership) or PT PMA (for foreign investment). Secure a long-term lease agreement, preferably three years or more and confirm that your chosen site aligns with the local zoning plan (RTRW) for commercial or tourism use. At this stage, conduct a preliminary check of utilities, accessibility, and community permissions, as these affect long-term viability for a Spa in Bali and Lombok.

Month 3: Licensing & Health Compliance

Register your business in the OSS system, selecting accurate KBLI codes for spa operations. Apply for a building permit (IMB/PBG) and begin the health and hygiene permit process through Dinas Kesehatan.

Month 4: Operational Licences & Staffing

Obtain the Tourism Business Certificate (TBC) or TDUP, depending on your business classification. If your spa imports or retails skincare or essential oils, register them with BPOM. Begin recruitment and ensure all therapists receive proper training and certification.

Month 5: Soft Launch & Audit

Perform a pre-opening compliance audit, align all marketing materials with BPOM rules, and conduct a trial run.

Ongoing: Maintenance & Renewal

Annually renew your tourism licence, update product registrations, and provide continuous staff training to maintain excellence and compliance for your Spa in Bali and Lombok.

Conclusion & Strategic Next Steps for a Spa in Bali and Lombok

Operating a Spa in Bali and Lombok presents exciting opportunities in the booming wellness and tourism market, but success depends on more than ambiance and service quality. It requires strict adherence to multiple regulatory frameworks covering therapist certification, business licensing, product compliance, and operational safety.

Regulatory compliance is not optional when running a Spa in Bali and Lombok. It’s the foundation of long-term sustainability, protecting your investment from penalties, forced closures, or reputational harm. Every detail from BPOM product registration to valid tourism licences, ensures your spa operates within Indonesia’s legal framework while maintaining guest trust.

For business owners and investors, the smart move is to engage a professional compliance partner such as Synergy Pro. Their team can assist with full audits, licensing checks, and BPOM registration, allowing you to focus on growth while staying compliant.

Ultimately, allocate time and budget early, treat compliance as a strategic investment, and your Spa in Bali and Lombok will thrive with confidence and integrity.