Bali has become one of the top destinations for digital nomads and remote workers from around the world. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living, it’s no surprise that so many people are choosing Bali as their base for work and travel. However, before you pack your bags and head to the Island of the Gods, it’s important to understand the visa options available for digital nomads and remote workers. In this guide, we’ll explain how you can live and work in Bali legally, without any worries about your visa status.
Why Bali for Digital Nomads?
Bali is a haven for digital nomads and remote workers. The island offers a blend of beautiful landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle, and a thriving community of like-minded individuals. Whether you’re working from a co-working space in Ubud or enjoying a beachfront view in Canggu, Bali provides the perfect setting for both productivity and relaxation. It also has a low cost of living compared to other popular destinations like Europe or the US, making it an attractive option for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees alike.
Visa Options for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers in Bali
Indonesia offers a variety of visa options for digital nomads and remote workers, but navigating the process can be tricky. Here are the most common visa options that can suit your needs:
- Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival) The Tourist Visa or Visa on Arrival (VoA) is the most common visa used by short-term visitors. This visa allows you to stay in Bali for up to 30 days, and it can be extended for another 30 days, giving you a total stay of up to 60 days.
- Ideal for: Short-term stays or those just testing out Bali before committing to a longer-term stay.
- How to extend: You can extend your visa at the immigration office in Bali once for an additional 30 days.
- Social-Cultural Visa The Social-Cultural Visa is another option for those who want to stay in Bali for an extended period. This visa is typically used by people visiting family, engaging in cultural activities, or attending social events. While it’s not designed specifically for business purposes, many digital nomads use it for remote work.
- Duration: This visa is valid for 60 days and can be extended up to 6 months in total (30 days at a time).
- Ideal for: Remote workers who want to stay longer than the tourist visa allows and are not conducting business or generating income within Indonesia.
- How to extend: Extensions are processed locally in Bali, usually through a visa agency or directly with the immigration office.
- B211A Business Visa The B211A Business Visa is a more flexible visa that allows you to stay in Bali for up to 60 days and can be extended multiple times (up to six months total). While this visa is primarily for business purposes, it’s a popular choice for digital nomads because it can be used for remote work. This visa is particularly useful for those who need longer stays than the standard tourist visa allows.
- Duration: Initially 60 days, extendable up to 6 months.
- Ideal for: Remote workers or entrepreneurs looking to stay in Bali for a few months without a work permit.
- How to extend: You can extend this visa locally at the immigration office in Bali, typically every 30 days.
- Temporary Stay Permit (KITAS) A KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) is a temporary stay permit usually reserved for foreign workers employed by an Indonesian company. However, there are some categories that might suit digital nomads, such as the “working remotely” permit or the “business” KITAS.
- Duration: Typically valid for 6 months to 1 year, depending on the specific permit.
- Ideal for: Digital nomads who want to work remotely for a foreign company while living in Bali long-term, or those who want to start their own business in Bali.
- How to extend: This permit can be extended, though it may require additional documentation and approval from local authorities.
- Digital Nomad Visa (Future Option) Indonesia is considering implementing a “Digital Nomad Visa” that would officially allow foreign workers to work remotely for companies outside of Indonesia while residing in the country. While this visa is not yet available, it is something that’s been discussed by the government and may be introduced in the near future. The introduction of such a visa would make it easier for digital nomads to live and work in Bali legally.
- Duration: Expected to be valid for 1-2 years (once implemented).
- Ideal for: Digital nomads and remote workers who plan to stay in Bali for extended periods without the need for constant visa renewals.
Steps to Apply for a Visa in Bali
While the visa process can vary depending on your country of origin and the type of visa you’re applying for, the general steps are as follows:
- Determine the type of visa you need.
Depending on how long you plan to stay in Bali and whether you intend to work remotely or attend meetings, choose the most appropriate visa. - Gather your documents.
This may include a passport with at least 6 months validity, passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. For some visa types, you’ll need an invitation letter or sponsorship from a company or organization. - Submit your application.
Submit your application online or at the Indonesian consulate or embassy in your home country, or you can apply on arrival in Bali (for the Visa on Arrival). - Wait for approval.
Processing times can vary. Make sure to allow ample time for processing your visa. - Extend your visa if necessary.
For those on a tourist visa or business visa, you may need to extend your visa while in Bali. Visa agencies can assist with this process, or you can go directly to the immigration office.
Tips for Digital Nomads in Bali
- Work from co-working spaces.
Bali has a wide range of co-working spaces in popular areas like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak. These spaces offer fast internet, comfortable workstations, and networking opportunities with other remote workers. - Understand the visa rules.
Always stay on top of the latest visa rules and regulations, as Indonesia’s immigration laws can change. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, or being banned from re-entering the country. - Use visa agencies for assistance.
If you’re unfamiliar with the visa process or prefer not to handle the paperwork on your own, consider using a local visa agency in Bali. They can guide you through the application, extension, and renewal processes. - Keep track of your health insurance.
Make sure you have international health insurance that covers you while in Bali. It’s important to stay protected in case of medical emergencies.
Conclusion
Bali offers an amazing lifestyle for digital nomads and remote workers, with plenty of opportunities for both work and play. By choosing the right visa and staying informed about the latest regulations, you can enjoy your time on the island while continuing your remote career or business. Whether you’re looking to stay for a few months or a few years, there’s a visa option that can help you legally work and live in Bali. With the right preparation, your Bali adventure as a digital nomad will be an unforgettable experience.