Become a Digital Nomad in Bali: Visa Types, Guide & Requirements

September 10, 2025

You arrive in Bali for a quick holiday, planning only to sip coconuts by the beach, surf a few waves, and maybe do yoga in Ubud’s wellness retreat. Days turn into weeks, and suddenly you find yourself working from a café in Canggu, answering emails with an ocean view. Evenings are spent watching sunsets in Uluwatu, and weekends are spent exploring waterfalls in the north…

But then reality sets in—your tourist visa is about to expire.

What started as a short getaway now feels like a lifestyle you don’t want to let go of. You’re ready to stay longer, but where do you begin? Can you become a digital nomad in Bali? And most importantly, is it legal to work and earn an income here as a foreigner?

Stay Permit Visa for Becoming a Digital Nomad in Bali

Bali recognises the growing wave of remote professionals who want to live and work on the island. As a foreigner, you have two options for obtaining a stay permit visa that make it possible to stay legally, earn income abroad, and enjoy Bali’s unique lifestyle at the same time.

Stay permit visa options for foreigners to stay and earn in Bali:

✅ Remote Worker Visa (E33G)

This is a one-year stay permit visa designed for digital nomads who earn from overseas clients or employers.

Benefits:

Live in Bali for up to 12 continuous months.
Work remotely for overseas employers or clients.
Earn payment from outside of Indonesia.
Enjoy Bali’s lifestyle while maintaining your global career.

Dont’s:

Work for an Indonesian company as a direct employee.
Receive payments directly in Indonesia for local projects.
Engage in any business activities in Indonesia without proper permits.

Requirements:

Proof of employment or business activity outside Indonesia.
Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay.

Reading suggestion: How Affordable Lifestyle Attracts Expats in Bali

✅ Work and Holiday Visa (E35A)

The E35A, also known as the Work & Holiday Visa, is a special visa category available only to Australian citizens. It’s designed for travellers who want to experience life in Indonesia beyond tourism—by combining travel with short-term work.

Benefits:

Work part-time or full-time in Indonesia to fund your travels.
Explore Indonesia’s cultural and natural beauty as a tourist.
Visit friends and family around Indonesia.

Dont’s:

Treat it as a pathway to permanent residency or long-term work sponsorship.

Requirements:

Must be 18–30 years old at the time of application

Reading suggestion: What Every Foreigner Should Know to Stay Compliant in Bali

While Bali is welcoming to digital nomads, it’s important to remember that living here comes with responsibilities. Foreigners must respect local customs and traditions and strictly follow Indonesian laws and regulations. Deportation is a real consequence for those engaging in illegal work, overstaying visas, or acting against cultural values.

How to Pay These Tax Obligations

Choosing the right visa is the first step to making Bali your long-term home. Whether you’re applying to become a digital nomad in Bali, starting your own business with PT PMA, or transitioning with your family, professional guidance can save you time and unnecessary stress. Let Usaha Expat Bali help you with the entire visa application process so you can stay legally and focus on enjoying island life.

As a business owner, especially a foreign-owned business entity, avoiding these tax obligations can result in legal consequences, including: