Have you chosen Bali as your next digital nomad destination? If yes, you’ve made a good choice. Bali has been a top tourist destination for years. It boasts pristine beaches, friendly locals, gorgeous landscapes, and good internet infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads.
In this article, we covered everything about the Bali digital nomad visa, how to apply for one, the requirements, costs, and other important information you need to enjoy your stay on the beautiful Island.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is a legal permit that allows holders to work remotely and live in a foreign country for a specific period. The visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs whose work isn’t tied to a location.
While the phrase “digital nomad visa” is common, it isn’t usually used by governments that issue them. Most countries have unique names for the program. For instance, Georgia calls its digital nomad visa “Remotely from Georgia,” while Bermuda calls theirs the “Work from Bermuda certificate.”
Most digital nomad visas come with a 12-month duration, with some allowing holders to extend their stay or even apply for permanent residency if they meet certain criteria. To apply for a digital nomad visa, digital nomads must visit the nearest consulate or embassy of the host country.
What is the difference between a Digital Nomad Visa and a Regular Work Visa?
The main difference between a digital nomad visa and a regular work visa is the client’s location or business the holder is allowed to work for. While a digital nomad visa enables remote workers to work legally for foreign clients or businesses, a regular work visa is the opposite.
This visa allows holders to work for local businesses registered in the host country. It prevents them from working for foreign clients, just as digital nomad visa holders are barred from working for local businesses.
In addition, a digital nomad visa has a specific duration, usually 12 months (extendable). A regular work visa lasts five to 10 years and remains valid, provided you stay employed in the host country.
Does Bali have a digital nomad visa?
No, it doesn’t. Bali authorities and the Indonesian government plan to launch a five-year digital nomad visa but are silent about developments regarding the new visa. However, as a remote worker, you can still visit Bali and work remotely using the B211a business visa.
This remote work visa comes in two types: the offshore B211a visa and the onshore B211a visa. The offshore visa allows holders to stay for 60 days with the option to renew the visa twice to stay for up to six months. You can apply for the onshore visa before the expiration of your Onshore. Doing so will give you an extra 60 days, and if you extend it, you can stay for an extra 180 days.
You should note that the B211a visa is a single-entry visa, meaning if you visit another country during your stay, your visa is automatically terminated.
Advantages of Living and Working in Bali
Are you looking to apply for a B211a? Here are some reasons why you’d be making a good choice.
1. it’s a Tropical Island.
Bali is a tropical paradise, an Island with exotic natural beauty capable of leaving your mouth agape and your heart beating excitedly.
Its picturesque landscapes, lush forest, diverse wildlife, majestic temples, and sandy beaches are enough to attract even the most reluctant digital nomad. It’s no wonder it is considered a top tourist and digital nomad destination worldwide.
Bali offers so much adventure, fun, and entertainment that visiting the Island should be on every digital nomad’s bucket list. If you enjoy beach clubs, are a nature lover, or are a beach person, don’t miss the chance to visit Bali.
2. Affordable Cost of Living
Bali is a tropical paradise. But that’s not the only fascinating thing about the Island.
Did you know that rent in Bali is, on average, 79.8% lower than in New York? The beautiful Island boasts affordable transportation, food, accommodation, and entertainment. In Bali, living a comfortable life for 40%-60% less than what you would spend in your home country is possible. If you are a frugal spender, you can spend around $75-$1,000 per month.
PS: Things are more expensive in the city center than outside.
3. Supportive Expat Community
Bali has a thriving expat community with friendly individuals who can help you settle in easily. So, if you feel lonely or have questions, access one of their Facebook groups, such as Uluwatu Community or the Canggu community, and table your query. You can also connect with many digital nomads like yourself.
4. Friendly Locals
If you want to enjoy your stay in Bali, you need the support of the expat community and the warmth of its locals. The Balinese people welcome digital nomads and expats with big smiles and open arms. Their friendly nature helps you integrate easily into the local culture.
5. Cheap and Reliable Internet
Bali offers thrilling adventure, fun, and reliable internet service to boost your efficiency and productivity as a remote worker. With a median download speed of 31.62 Mbps and a median upload speed of 24.51 Mbps, Bali’s high-speed internet infrastructure is enough to cater to your internet (online) needs.
Wait, there is more.
The Island also boasts high-speed Wi-Fi scattered across hotels, cafés, and co-working spaces, making it easy to work on the go. Its Wi-Fi and cable fees are affordable (Wi-Fi is $28.29/month, and cable is $35/month). Unfortunately, there are some areas in Bali with slow internet speed. But overall, the internet speed on the Island is great.
6. Warm Weather
Bali’s warm weather is a breath of fresh air for those from countries with cold weather. While some months, like December to March, are humid, overall, the weather in Bali is conducive. You can visit beaches and have fun most days without fearing cold winds or unexpected downpours. The best time to visit Bali is between April and September.
7. Easy Access to Some Asian Countries
Bali is an Island located in the center of Southeast Asia. Digital nomads in the country can access the rest of Indonesia and, if they like, facilitate travel to other Asian countries like Thailand, Singapore, Laos, etc.
8. Multiple Coworking Spaces
Tired of working at home, in cafes, or at train stations? If you are looking to work in a professional environment, you can visit one of the many coworking spaces in Bali. There are many options in Canguu and Ubud. And if you want to visit the most popular coworking space in Canggu, Tropical Nomad is where you should be. At the same time, the most popular co-working space in Ubud is Outpost.
9. Fantastic Food
Are you a food lover? If yes, you’d love Bali.
Bali’s delicious local cuisine is a delightful treat for your taste buds
The best part? Her meals are very affordable.
That’s not all. Bali is also home to many restaurants offering different types of international dishes, whether Thai, Mexican, Italian, or Indian, name them! No matter your food preferences, Bali restaurants have got you covered. And if you are a vegan, many vegan restaurants are waiting to receive you.
10. Surfers Delight
Bali and its surrounding islands contain pristine beaches, ideal for surfing enthusiasts. No matter when the urge to surf comes, whether in the morning, noon, or night, there are always exciting waves to ride on. If you are big on surfing, we recommend living in Uluwatu. It boasts an amazing surfing culture and is more serene than Seminyak or Ubud.
Things to Consider Before Applying for a B211a Visa
Before you apply for a B211a visa, which is often mistaken for a Bali digital nomad visa, there are a few things to consider. We have highlighted them below.
Are you eligible?
Only eligible individuals are advised to apply for the B211a visa, which isn’t a Bali digital nomad visa. To be eligible, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Have enough money at your disposal ($2,000 minimum bank balance)
- Have the required documents
- You intend to stay in Indonesia for six months
- Your home country isn’t among the visa-free and visa-on-arrival countries
- Work remotely for a foreign client or business
Will you pay taxes?
No. While digital nomads pay taxes in some countries, digital nomads who use the B211a business visa or a visa on arrival aren’t required to pay taxes. However, you’ll have to pay taxes if you spend more than 183 days in Bali and possess a different visa, like the Temporary Stay Permit (KITAS), including an Indonesian tax ID number (NPWP).
Is Bali safe?
Yes, Bali is safe for expats or those working remotely. However, you must be cautious of petty thieves like bag snatches and pickpockets, who will likely target foreign tourists. To avoid being a victim of theft in Bali, ensure you:
- Don’t walk alone at night, as petty theft is on the rise during this time
- Don’t use drivers on the side of the road. Use apps like Go-Jek or Grab instead.
- Don’t carry too much cash. Divide your cash stash, one portion in your wallet, one in your hotel, and one in your pocket to avoid losing them all should you fall victim to theft.
Also, as you research popular destinations in Bali, you may want to do the same on dangerous locations in the neighborhood where you are residing. Alternatively, you can ask locals or other digital nomads you trust.
The cost of living
The cost of living in Bali is low compared to some other countries. For instance, in Bali, you can live on $750-$2600 monthly, which is unrealistic in some European countries. Accommodation, transportation, utilities, and even food are quite cheap in Bali.
With as little as $2 to $5, you can buy food at local eateries and street food stalls. For mid-range restaurants, expect to spend $5 to $15 per meal, while premium meals cost $15 and above.
Internet connection
Digital nomads need a reliable internet connection to carry out their remote work efficiently, and Bali doesn’t fail in that aspect. While its internet connection isn’t as fast as that of Qatar (189.98 Mbps) or Singapore (181.47 Mbps), it’s reliable enough to cater to digital nomads’ online needs.
Moreover, there are many public areas with free Wi-Fi. However, note that not all areas in Bali boast impressive internet connections. So be sure to choose a place that has one. Ubud, with an average download speed of 41.51 Mbps, is one area you should check out, as it is home to many tech startups and digital nomads.
How to Apply for a B211a Visa
So, you’ve made Bali your preferred destination for your remote work. Before you do, you need to apply. The application process is easy, provided you provide the necessary documents and meet the criteria. Here is how to apply for the visa:
Step 1: Gather all the required documents:
Before you visit the Indonesian government’s official immigration website for your B211a visa application, you must collect all the necessary documents (they are listed below).
Step 2: Complete the online application:
Register and create an account on the government’s official immigration website to proceed with your application. Complete the online application to get the B211a visa.
Step 3: Pay the application fee:
After submitting your visa application, proceed to pay the application fee. Wait for your application to be approved: It takes seven to fourteen days to process a B211a visa application.
If your B211a visa application is approved, the immigration office will present your new visa. Once received, you have up to 90 days to enter Bali. Failure to enter the country within this timeframe will result in you applying for another B211a visa. Seek help if the application process is proving to be difficult.
B211a Visa Requirements
Before applying for the Indonesia digital nomad visa (B211a visa), you need to meet the following visa requirements:
A valid passport: A passport valid for 12 months from the date you enter Indonesia is needed to apply for the B211a visa.
A passport photo: You need a passport photo of 3cm x 4cm or 4cm x 6cm, taken within the last three months. Plus, it should have a white background.
Proof of funds: You must provide bank statements showing a $2,000 minimum bank balance. The funds assure the Indonesian government that you can cater to your needs in the country. You can hire a professional service to apply for you. If you do so, they’ll be your sponsor, and you won’t have to show proof of funds.
Return ticket: You need a return ticket showing that you’ll return to your home residence.
Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance or travel insurance with health financing. Your health insurance should cover potential Covid-19 treatment in the country.
Next, check out the cost of applying for this alternative version of the Bali digital nomad visa.
How Much Does the B211a Visa Cost?
Here are the fees associated with a B211a visa, a business visa, and an alternative version of the Bali digital nomad visa or the Indonesia digital nomad visa.
- A single-entry visa with 60 days validity costs 2,000,000 Rp per head or $131.23.
- A single-entry visa with a 180-day validity costs 6,000.000 Rp per head or $393.70.
- Single-entry tourist visa with a 60-day validity cost: 1,500,000 Rp per head or $98.43.
You’ll have to pay an extra fee if you use the services of a travel agency.
Conclusion
Bali is the perfect travel destination for digital nomads looking for a location that allows them to unwind and have fun while working remotely. The Island’s captivating natural beauty, vibrant culture, serenity, and breathtaking landscape offer digital nomads a unique and unforgettable experience.
While we wait for the official digital nomad visa, remote workers can live and work in Bali on a B211a visa. And while in Bali, respect the local culture and people. We hope this guide is a roadmap to acquiring a B211a visa and enjoying your stay on the stunning Island of Bali.
FAQs about the Bali Digital Nomad Visa and Living In Bali
Which countries aren’t eligible for the B211a visa?
Countries like Afghanistan, Guinea, Israel, Kamerun, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, North Korea, and Sri Lanka are not eligible for the B211a visa.
Does Bali have a digital nomad visa?
No. It has a second home visa, which isn’t suitable for digital nomads.
However, there have been talks about a longer-term digital nomad visa, which will last up to five years. This visa, which will be the official Indonesia digital nomad visa and require applicants to submit a valid passport, will exempt holders from paying taxes.
Remote workers can apply for the B211a, a suitable visa for digital nomads looking to work in Bali. Note that, like most digital nomad visas, the visa bars digital nomads from working for an Indonesian company or local clients.
How long can I work in Indonesia as a Digital nomad?
The B211a business visa allows digital nomads to reside and work in Indonesia for 60 days (starting from the day they enter Indonesia). You can renew the visa twice, each time for 60 days.
How long does it take for the B211a visa to process?
It takes seven and fourteen days for the B211a visa to be processed and approved. Holders have just 90 days to enter Indonesia after getting their visa. When you arrive in the country, your time begins to count.
Is Bali a good place for digital nomads to visit?
Yes, it is.
Bali’s weather, low cost of living, internet connection, and picturesque landscapes make the Island ideal for remote workers looking to have fun while doing their business. It boasts of co-working spaces that make working remotely enjoyable. What’s more, Bali also offers the best beaches and Islands. Unfortunately, due to existing visa regulations, digital nomads aren’t allowed to stay for a long time.
Can you work remotely in Bali (Indonesia) on a Tourist Visa?
No, working remotely in Bali on a Tourist visa is illegal. Tourist visas are designed for visiting friends and family, for leisure, or for participating in activities like short study programs. You won’t be allowed to work remotely in Bali with a tourist visa. Get a B211a visa instead.
What are the best places to live as a digital nomad in Bali?
Some of the best places to live as a digital nomad in Bali are Canguu, Kuta, Sanur, and Seminyak. Ubud is a popular destination in Bali, making it one of the best places to visit. Ensure you research the estimated monthly costs and coworking space before choosing a place to settle down.
What are you prohibited from doing while in Bali on a B211a visa?
Digital nomads on a B211a visa cannot work for local clients or businesses in Bali. Doing so violates your visa terms and could result in costly immigration fines or deportation.
We hope you enjoyed this article. If so, you might enjoy these resources:
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- Spain Digital Nomad Visa: The Ultimate Resource for Remote Workers
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