Bali and Indonesia have a remote worker visa (E33G). This visa is a perfect fit for digital nomad or people willing to work and live remotely from Bali.
Digital Nomad Visa for Bali
- E33G Remote worker Visa
- D12 Multiple entry business Visa
- C2 Single entry Visa
Navigating the Visa Process
Before making your travel plans for Bali, it’s crucial to grasp the visa application procedures. A variety of visa options are available in Bali. Upon landing, you have the option to secure a 30-day Visa on Arrival for a short term stay. This Visa on Arrival is extendable up to 60 days.
For an extended visit up to six months, Digital nomads can look at the C2 Single entry visa for a visit up to 6 months, while people looking for a multiple entry solution will look at the D12 Multiple entry business visa.
For remote worker looking to stay and live in Indonesia the E33G is the most suitable option as it grants the applicant of a Limited Stay Permit (KITAS).
Bali Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Worker Visa E33G)
Eligible remote workers are granted the chance to reside and work in Bali with recognized status by acquiring the E33G remote worker visa (KITAS for Bali Digital Nomad Visa), which allows for a 1 year Limited stay permit (KITAS).
Requirements for application (source – Immigration):
- Passport valid for at least 6 (six) months.
- Personal bank statement with minimum amount USD $2000 or equivalent the last 3 months period (including name, date of period, and balance account).
- Recent photograph.
- Bank account that proves income in the form of salary or income worth at least US$60,000 per year;
- Employment contract with a company established outside the Indonesian Territory.
With this visa you can (source – Immigration):
- Carry out assignments from overseas company.
- Bring eligible family to live in Indonesia.
- Travel to and from Indonesia.
- Conducting activities related to tourism, and visiting friends or family.
D2 Multiple Entry Business Visa (1 or 5 years)
People travelling in and out frequently to Indonesia without living here will probably look into the multiple entry business visa D2.
Requirements for application (source – Immigration):
- Passport that is valid for at least 6 (six) months.
- Proof of living expenses of at least US$ 2,000 (two thousand United States Dollars) or equivalent.
- A recent color photograph.
- Any of the following documents:
- Information, invitations, or correspondence from government agencies or private institutions that Explain the relationship with the Applicant. Or
- Statement letter from the spouse or parents explaining the family relationship with the applicant and the activities to be carried out in Indonesia, attached with a family card / similar document.
With this visa you can (source – Immigration):
- Carry out activities related to business, meetings, or purchase of goods including but not limited to checking goods at the office, factory, or production site of goods.
- Discuss, negotiate, and/or sign business contracts.
- Conducting activities related to tourism, and visiting friends or family.
C2 Single Entry Business Visa (1, 2 or 5 years)
For digital nomad willing to stay in Bali 6 months and looking for a cheaper option can look a the single entry business visa.
Document Requirement
- Passport valid for at least 6 (six) months (for holders of travel documents other than passports such as emergency passports, documents of identity, etc. must be valid for 12 months).
- Personal bank statement with minimum amount USD $2000 or equivalent the last 3 months period (including name, date of period, and balance account)..
- Latest color photograph.
- Information, invitations, or correspondence from government agencies or private institutions that Explain the relationship with the Applicant.
With this visa you can (source – Immigration):
- Carry out activities related to business, meetings, or purchase of goods including but not limited to checking goods at the office, factory, or production site of goods.
- Discuss, negotiate, and/or sign business contracts.
- Conducting activities related to tourism, and visiting friends or family.
Read also : Employment Contracts in Indonesia: A Comprehensive Overview
Best Locations for Digital Nomads in Bali
Once your E33G visa is secured, the quest to pinpoint a perfect spot for your digital nomad adventure in Bali begins. The island boasts an array of towns and villages, each with its distinct allure and special features. Notably, Canggu stands out as Bali’s top pick for digital nomads due to its plethora of coworking spaces coupled with lively nocturnal activities that cater especially to those embracing backpacker culture.
Yet there’s more to Bali than just Canggu. For diversifying your experience consider:
- Uluwatu’s premium atmosphere flanked by luxury resorts
- Bingin Beach calling all surfers
- Sanur’s inviting diving spots
- Amed’s tranquil vibe ideal for peace seekers
If you are conscious about spending but still yearn proximity to the central attractions offered by these hubs for digital nomads like Canggu — look no further than neighboring locales such as Pererenan, Berawa, Umalas or Kerobokan where reasonably priced living options abound without sacrificing access to necessary facilities.
1. Canggu
Canggu has emerged as a top choice for digital nomads thanks to its beautiful beaches, lively café culture, and an abundance of coworking spaces. The local café scene is particularly appealing with fashionable venues such as ZIN Café and Kinship Studio fostering a communal atmosphere. Coworking spots in Canggu are designed to cater to varying preferences and come equipped with high-speed internet alongside perks like swimming pools and cafes on the roof. Notable examples include Outpost, Tribal Pererenan, and Tropical Nomad.
The area’s mix of relaxation options coupled with professional facilities makes Canggu an attractive locale providing both productivity and pleasure for digital nomads seeking out life on the tropical island.
2. Ubud
If it’s a more tranquil environment you seek, Ubud could be the ideal selection. It is renowned for its vibrant cultural and artistic heritage, along with being an excellent breeding ground for cultivating creative abilities. The locality thrives with activities related to yoga and spirituality, offering serene spots perfect for both practices amidst a robust community dedicated to wellness. Gastronomic delights abound in Ubud, as showcased by events like the celebrated Ubud Food Festival that draws culinary aficionados from across the globe.
Ubud presents an array of opportunities that cater to those visiting. One should bear in mind that traffic jams are prevalent in Ubud, which might influence your commute times and affect the overall quality of life there.
3. Uluwatu
For those seeking a beautiful beach, surfing vibe, and energetic setting, Uluwatu should be on your radar. This location is favored by digital nomads due to its sophisticated coworking spaces, dynamic nightlife, and high-end retail offerings.
To facilities geared toward collaborative working and enjoying lively evenings out, Uluwatu caters to digital nomads who have a penchant for island style experience.
Cost of Living in Bali for Digital Nomads
The low cost of living in Bali is just one of the many attractions for digital nomads, with monthly expenses ranging from $700 to $2500. This budget allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle that encompasses housing, travel, and recreational activities at a reasonable price.
For digital nomads looking for accommodation options in Bali, there’s quite a range – shared dorm rooms can go for as little as $5 per night while two-bedroom villas might cost about $550 each month. The prices vary depending on factors such as location and the facilities offered. When it comes to food expenses, grocery shopping could amount to approximately $25 weekly. Meanwhile eating out at modest eateries averages around only$1.66 per meal. In terms of getting around, they have several choices: local buses typically charge about $.50 for a single trip ticket. Taxi rides start off with base rates close to $2.18. Alternatively, motorbike rentals are available at roughly $50 monthly thanks to subsidized fuel costs.
1. Housing options
Digital nomads residing in Bali have a wide array of accommodation choices at their disposal, which include:
- Hostels
- Guesthouses
- Co-living spaces
- Simple villas
In the heart of Bali’s city center, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages out to about $500. In contrast, if you’re looking outside the city center, you might find similar living quarters for roughly $300 per month. The average utility bill in Bali—for essentials like water, electricity and heating—when living in a one-bedroom apartment is typically around $50 monthly.
Digital nomads who need to adhere to stricter budgets may opt for guesthouses or hostels as they are more economical. This choice often entails certain compromises such as shared communal areas and minimal facilities while also offering less privacy.
2. Transportation costs
In Bali, digital nomads can explore the island’s offerings through several budget-friendly transportation options. Scooter rentals are highly favored for their convenience and low cost, offering monthly rates around 650,000 IDR (approximately $45), or daily rates near 50,000 IDR. For those who prioritize comfort during transit, ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab serve as an accessible substitute.
For economical journeys across Bali, public buses present a viable solution with single-trip fares at roughly $0.50 and monthly passes priced between $14 to $17. Taxis in the area start off with a base fare close to $2.18 plus an added charge of about $1.10 per kilometer traveled.
3. Internet and Coworking Spaces
Digital nomads place a high value on reliable internet service as it is essential for their profession. Bali has become known for its ultra-fast web speeds, which attract many digital nomads in search of accommodation with strong internet connections. Coworking spaces on the island come equipped with several amenities that cater to these professionals, including:
- well-lit working environments
- private quarters
- cafes within the premises
- massage services
- robust internet connectivity
Renowned coworking space venues in Bali comprise establishments like Crate Cafe, District Canggu, ZIN cafe and Bali Bustle. These locales boast up to 70 Mbps Wi-Fi speed among other provisions designed specifically for those who make a living remotely. Thus, whether your preference lies in coffee shop settings or dedicated co-living or coworking sites while you work away from home—Bali provides ample options to suit any digital nomad’s style.
4. Internet Reliability and SIM Cards
In Bali, although Wi-Fi is accessible in many locations, the quality is inconsistent. Some places may offer high speeds but lack reliable connections. This poses a considerable challenge for digital nomads who depend on reliable internet for their work commitments. Acquiring a local SIM card serves as an effective alternative to secure consistent online access.
The primary service providers such as Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Smartfren, and IM3 ensure that at least 4G/LTE coverage reaches all key tourist spots within Bali. These SIM cards can be conveniently purchased either from airports or shops situated in areas frequented by tourists—making it hassle-free for visitors to stay connected during their travels.
Top Coworking Spaces in Bali
Bali’s coworking spaces are a fundamental part of the digital nomad lifestyle on this tropical island, providing dynamic communities and specialized workspaces. Renowned coworking locations in Bali include Hubud in Ubud, The Tropical Nomad Bali, Tribal Hostel, and IGDORE Indonesia.
Equipped with amenities like swift Wi-Fi connections, cozy seating arrangements, along with extras such as relaxation zones, print stations, libraries and some even boast a rooftop yoga studio for an enhanced experience.
Moreover, these shared office environments mirror the local emphasis on well-being activities such as yoga and surfing by incorporating them into their ethos to create distinctive workplaces that align with Balinese culture.
Networking and Building Community
The lifestyle of a digital nomad does not have to be an isolated one. Building connections and fostering a sense of community are essential elements for those living this modern work-travel life. For those stationed in Bali, it’s advisable to join specialized Facebook and WhatsApp groups aimed at digital nomads in the region. Such platforms are invaluable for staying connected with peers, networking effectively, and obtaining insights into frequently asked questions. Attending local meetups, workshops, and social events presents ample opportunities for digital nomads to engage with their contemporaries on the island.
In Bali’s entrepreneurial circles there is a vibrant network that offers encouragement, shares motivational experiences, and provides guidance tailored specifically to such professionals’ unique needs. Resources like Digital Nomads Bali serve as hubs where updates about island happenings can be found along with advice suited for maintaining productivity while enjoying tropical surroundings.
- Some valuable local resources include:
- Bali Best Things like that.
- Bali Digital Nomads
- Bali Expats
- The Nusa Dua
These individuals often exchange recommendations through direct conversations among themselves, which is yet another avenue through which they can access information relevant to their mobile livelihoods within the expatriate community there.
1. Joining Facebook groups and Nomeo
Facebook groups offer a networking platform for individuals working in similar domains. Groups like ‘Bali Digital Nomads’ and ‘Expats in Bali’ are specifically tailored to the needs of the digital nomad population. By becoming a member of these Facebook communities, one gains entry to an abundance of tips and insights pertinent to residing and executing remote work in Bali.
2. Participating in local events
Participating in community gatherings is an excellent networking strategy for digital nomads. These gatherings range from informative workshops to convivial meetups, creating opportunities not only to broaden one’s knowledge but also to forge new professional connections. Take the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival as an example. It stands as Southeast Asia’s preeminent literary festival and serves as a platform for digital nomads to interact with worldwide intellectual communities.
Enrolling in cooking courses presents a culturally enriching experience that allows individuals to dive into the world of classic Balinese gastronomy while simultaneously establishing bonds with other culinary aficionados.
Summary
For digital nomads in search of the perfect balance between work and play, Bali presents an idyllic setting. The island is not only renowned for its breathtaking vistas and gracious locals, but also boasts high-speed internet connectivity and a low cost of living, making it an ideal spot for those pursuing the digital nomad lifestyle. Whether you’re embarking on your initial adventure as a digital nomad or seeking a fresh destination to settle in, Bali should be at the top of your list. Don’t hesitate—start arranging your relocation to this enchanting island paradise now!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bali good for digital nomads?
Absolutely, Bali is an excellent choice for digital nomads due to its perfect combination of paradise living and connectivity.
Does Bali offer digital nomad visa?
Yes. Indonesia has a digital nomad visa called the E33G remote worker visa. Applicant can get a KITAS with this visa.
Where do most nomads live in Bali?
In Bali, nomads predominantly reside in the areas of Canggu and Ubud, where they are drawn to the serene ambience, an array of cultural experiences and a thriving tourism sector.
The cost of living in Bali can be quite affordable, with monthly expenses potentially being as low as $520.
Do you need a visa to work remotely in Bali?
Indeed, as a digital nomad, it is permissible to legally work remotely from Bali with a remote worker visa for a period of up to 1 year. You also have other option such as the business or tourist or multiple entry business visa.
Why is Bali a popular destination for digital nomads?
Bali has become a favored spot for digital nomads, attracting them with its cost-effective living, robust high-speed internet connectivity, dynamic expatriate community, breathtaking scenery, and diverse range of leisure options. This location provides an ideal blend for combining work remotely with pleasure.
