Bali is an island that almost everyone knows. The place needs no introduction as it is one of the top tourist destinations filled with picturesque places and delicious food spots.
For the digital nomads, here’s some good news. Bali has recently launched the Digital Nomad Visa, and it’s actually beneficial for those who would like to work from Bali, take time and explore what the island has to offer.
Here’s everything you need to know about Bali’s new Digital Nomad Visa.
Wondering if you need a visa for Bali? Check on iVisa.
What Is The Bali Digital Nomad Visa?
The Digital Nomad Visa, otherwise known as the B211A visa, now allows people to work and live in Bali for up to six months tax-free.
So basically, if you are an entrepreneur, a freelancer, self-employed, or a remote worker, you can move to Bali and work from there.
The Digital Nomad Visa was made a reality by the Indonesian government in expectation of permanent investors and expats in Bali, thus aiming to give a significant boost to the country’s GDP.
Launched in October 2022, the visa allows remote workers to stay in the country for 6 months. To apply, you will have to fill out the application, with the support of a visa agent, before entering Indonesia and submit the required document for the B211A visa.
Don’t worry; everything is explained in detail below.
There is also a much anticipated long-term Digital Nomad Visa in the works for Bali, which is set to be made available towards the end of 2022.
However, this visa will require you to have approximately USD 130,000 in savings. This visa will allow you to live and work in Bali for up to 5 years.
Who Is Eligible To Apply For The Bali Digital Nomad Visa
For you to apply and get a successful response for the Digital Nomad Visa that Bali offers, you will have to meet the following criteria:
- Traveling to Bali for purposes such as tourism, social and cultural activities, business, commercial activities, family visits, or journalism.
- You are entering Indonesia through one of the following airports: Ngurah Rai International Airport of Bali, Soekarno Hatta International Airport of Jakarta, Tanjung Pinang Haji Fisabillilah International Airport of Tanjung Pinang, Surabaya Juanda International Airport, International Airport Hang Nadim of Batam and the port of Batam.
- You must be a citizen of a country that is not on this list: Afghanistan, Guinea, Israel, Kamerun, Liberia, Nigeria, North Korea, and Somalia. This list of 8 countries cannot apply at the moment due to travel restrictions.
Even if you meet all of the requirements above, you are not guaranteed to receive your visa.
Bali Digital Nomad Visa Application Process
Here’s an overview of the digital nomad visa application process.
Documents
The following documents are mandatory:
Financial Proof
This proof shows that you are financially independent. You are required to provide a bank statement to prove that you have the USD 2,000 required to receive this visa.
Proof Of Onward Travel
In order to successfully enter the country on the B211A visa, a traveler must show proof of onward travel from Indonesia. This can be in the form of a return flight, or a flight booked to another destination at the end of the visa duration.
Other Documents
- A passport valid for at least 12 months
- Letter of sponsorship from a sponsor (this can be organized through your visa agent)
- 2 color passport photos
How Long Can You Stay In Bali With The Digital Nomad Visa
The B211A visa lasts for 60 days and can be extended twice at the immigration office in Bali, giving you a maximum stay of 180 days in Indonesia.
How To Apply For The Bali Digital Nomad Visa
The application process is straightforward but requires a visa agent to apply for you, rather than applying yourself.
You will need to contact a visa agency in Bali that will apply on your behalf as the visa requires a Sponsor in the form of a corporation domiciled in the Republic of Indonesia.
Visa agents can apply on the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration at www.imigrasi.go.id.
The processing of the visa can take approximately 4 working days once the application is complete. However, it can take a couple of weeks for your visa agent to get the documents together and upload them onto the website.
It is recommended that you give yourself about a month to wait for the visa.
The visa cost is RP 6,000,000 ($382.64) The fee is essential for the processing of the paperwork you have submitted. So, in case your application is rejected or results in a failure, you won’t be getting a refund.
If you want to apply again, you will have to pay $382.64 again.
And that’s detailed and crips info on how to get your hands on your Digital Nomad Visa. Count at least 4 weeks to get your visa, and then keep this in your mind and plan the rest of your trip. T
his way, even if it takes a month, you can comfortably pack for Bali without any stress.
Best Places To Live In Bali For Digital Nomads
Bali is an excellent country for digital nomads. It has a lot of beautiful places where you can work and live comfortably.
Here are some of the best places in Bali for Digital Nomads.
Canggu
Canggu is one of the top places to live in Bali. It has become more and more popular over the years because it’s a great destination for expats and digital nomads.
You’ll find multiple coworking spaces around Canggu, great cafés to work from, nice beach bars, and plenty of good restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian options.
Kerobokan
Kerobokan is located right next to Canggu north of Seminyak. It can be a good alternative for someone who wants to spend most of their time in Canggu during the day but seeking something quieter at night.
Usually, you’ll be able to find cheaper accommodation there.
Pererenan
Pererenan is located on the other side of Canggu, so further away in the direction of Tanah Lot.
Many expats and digital nomads rent villas in Pererenan because it’s quieter and more affordable than in Canggu. Also, there are more villa options there.
Ubud
Ubud is located inland, so it won’t be a good option for someone who wants to be close to the beach. Although, you’ll find a couple of coworking spaces as well as nice cafés and restaurants to work from.
Ubud is known for its spiritual vibes where you can participate in sound healing sessions, yoga classes, static dances, cacao ceremonies, and more. Also, accommodation tends to be cheaper in Ubud than in Canggu.
Uluwatu
Uluwatu or even Jimbaran, are two locations in the South of Bali. They are very popular amongst expats who are into surfing. In fact, this is where you’ll find the best surfing waves in Bali.
You’ll find nice cafés and restaurants as well as several surfing schools in this area. You will also find the most beautiful beaches in Bali in this area.
Sanur
Sanur is another destination where many expats decide to live. Sanur is mostly popular for expats and digital nomads who love scuba diving or freediving.
Sanur attracts expats who don’t like busy areas and instead, prefer something quieter, and more relaxing.
Location on the east coast of Bali, you’ll have quick access to the Nusa Islands, the Gili’s, and Lombok, which makes it a good base if you want to explore other Indonesian islands.
Cost Of Living In Bali
Living in Bali is comparable to other hot spots in Southeast Asia. You can live a great comfortable life in Bali without spending too much.
While you could easily live in Bali for about USD 300 per month if you live in a hostel, you can have your own place for about 1000-1500 per month. It depends on the destination chosen and your lifestyle.
Bali is the kind of place where you can live well without spending too much, but it can also be expensive if you’re tempted by expensive restaurants or bars.
Many expats living in Bali love it because you can live here on a tight budget (been there, done the living cheaply in Bali thingy) or forget about the money factor and simply enjoy your life without overthinking too much.
You can find cheap monthly rent or stay in a hostel. It’s entirely up to you!
Same regarding the food, you could either cook your own food or eat local food to save money – or you could also appreciate great meals in one of those Western restaurants.
I managed to live for USD 10 a day for quite a long time, and I can also surprise myself and spend USD 30 a day on days when I have more money.
Final Thoughts On Digital Nomads in Bali
Bali is a great country for digital nomads. It has a lot to offer in terms of infrastructure, food, and culture.
And, it’s much cheaper to live here than in other Western European countries.
If you’re thinking of becoming a digital nomad, Bali is definitely a place you should consider. Just be prepared for the visa process, which can be a bit of a hassle.
Besides that, Bali is an excellent place to live and work as a digital nomad.
Not sure if Bali is the right destination for you? Read one of the following guides:
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