Indonesia Remote Worker Visa: The Digital Nomad's Guide to Bali

What is the Remote Worker Visa?

The E33G Remote Worker Visa is Indonesia's official digital nomad visa, designed for location-independent professionals who want to live in Bali while working remotely for foreign employers. Launched as part of Indonesia's push to attract remote workers, this visa provides a legal pathway for digital nomads who previously had to rely on tourist visas or business visas.

Unlike traditional work permits that require local employer sponsorship, the Remote Worker Visa allows you to maintain your employment with overseas companies while enjoying life in Bali legally.

Visa Duration and Validity

The E33G Remote Worker Visa offers:

• Initial validity: 1 year (12 months)

• Multiple entry: Unlimited entries during the validity period

• Extendable: Can be renewed for additional periods

This makes it ideal for digital nomads who want to establish a base in Bali without the constant visa runs required on tourist visas.

Who is Eligible?

The Remote Worker Visa is designed for professionals who:

• Work remotely for companies registered outside Indonesia

• Are employed by or contracted with foreign entities

• Earn income exclusively from overseas sources

• Can demonstrate stable remote employment

This includes remote employees, freelancers with foreign clients, entrepreneurs with overseas businesses, and contractors working for international companies.

What You Can Do on This Visa

Permitted Activities:

• Work remotely for your overseas employer

• Travel freely into and out of Indonesia with unrestricted re-entry

• Bring eligible family members (spouse and children)

• Engage in tourism and leisure activities

• Make non-employment investments in Indonesia

• Open a bank account

• Rent long-term accommodation

What You Cannot Do

The Remote Worker Visa has strict restrictions:

• No employment with Indonesian companies

• No providing services to Indonesian clients

• No earning income from local Indonesian sources

• No running a business that operates within Indonesia

Violating these restrictions can result in visa cancellation, fines, and potential deportation. If you want to work with Indonesian clients or run a local business, you need a PT PMA company and a work permit (KITAS) instead.

Required Documents

To apply for the Remote Worker Visa, prepare:

Passport Requirements:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity

• At least 2-3 blank pages for stamps

• Clear, undamaged passport pages

Financial Requirements:

• Bank statements from the past 3 months

• Minimum balance of USD 2,000 (or equivalent) shown consistently

• Statements should be in English or officially translated

Employment Documentation:

• Employment contract or agreement with foreign employer

• Letter from employer confirming remote work arrangement

• Proof of company registration in home country

Other Requirements:

• Recent passport-sized color photograph (white background)

• Completed visa application form

• Health insurance with Indonesia coverage

• Return ticket or proof of onward travel (in some cases)

Application Process

Step 1: Gather Documents

Collect all required documents and ensure they meet specifications. Bank statements should clearly show your name, account number, and transaction history.

Step 2: Online Application

Submit your application through the Indonesian immigration online portal or through an authorized visa agent. You will need to upload digital copies of all documents.

Step 3: Pay Visa Fees

Pay the applicable visa fees online. Keep your payment receipt as proof.

Step 4: Receive Approval

Once approved, you will receive a visa approval letter (telex) via email. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days.

Step 5: Enter Indonesia

Present your approval letter at immigration upon arrival in Indonesia. Your passport will be stamped with the Remote Worker Visa.

Step 6: Complete Registration

After arrival, complete local registration requirements including obtaining a temporary residence card if staying in one location.

Estimated Costs

While official government fees vary, expect approximate costs of:

• Visa application fee: USD 250-350

• Processing/agent fees: USD 100-300

• Health insurance (annual): USD 300-800

• Total first-year cost: USD 650-1,450

These costs are significantly lower than establishing a company and obtaining a work permit, making it an attractive option for remote workers.

Remote Worker Visa vs Other Options

Tourist Visa (B211):

• 60 days, extendable to 180 days

• Technically does not permit work

• Requires visa runs

• Lower cost but less stability

Work Permit (KITAS):

• Requires Indonesian employer sponsor

• More expensive (USD 1,500-3,000+)

• Allows local employment

• Better for those working with Indonesian companies

Second Home Visa:

• 5-10 year validity

• Requires USD 130,000+ in Indonesian bank

• For high-net-worth individuals

• More flexibility but higher financial requirements

Tips for Remote Workers in Bali

1. Choose the right location - Canggu, Ubud, and Sanur are popular digital nomad hubs with reliable internet and coworking spaces.

2. Get proper health insurance - Ensure your policy covers Indonesia and includes medical evacuation.

3. Set up a local bank account - Makes paying rent and daily expenses much easier.

4. Join the community - Bali has a thriving digital nomad community with regular meetups and networking events.

5. Understand tax implications - You may still have tax obligations in your home country; consult a tax professional.

6. Secure stable internet - Consider backup options like mobile data plans for important meetings.

How MyBali.biz Can Help

Navigating Indonesian visa requirements can be complex. Our visa services include:

• Remote Worker Visa application assistance

• Document preparation and verification

• Application submission and tracking

• Renewal processing

• Advice on the best visa option for your situation

If your situation changes and you need to establish a local business, we can also help with PT PMA formation and work permits.

Contact us for a free consultation to determine the best visa pathway for your remote work lifestyle in Bali.