Bali has firmly established itself as a destination for digital nomads, attracting remote workers, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and creative professionals from around the world. With its affordable cost of living, vibrant co-working culture, reliable internet infrastructure, and international community, the island continues to be one of Asia’s most attractive places to live and work remotely.
However, one of the most common misconceptions among foreigners is that a 60 days visa tourist option or other short-term Bali visas automatically permits remote work. Under Indonesian immigration law, the purpose of your stay, the location of your employer, and the source of your income determine the appropriate visa. Choosing the wrong visa could lead to immigration sanctions, fines, deportation, or restrictions on future entry into Indonesia.
This complete guide explains the E33 Digital Nomad Visa, the eligibility requirements, processing time, and how to legally remain in Indonesia while working for a company outside Indonesia.
How to Work in Bali as a Foreigner: 2026 Legal Guide
For many remote workers, Bali offers the ideal balance between work and lifestyle. However, before planning your stay in Bali, it is important to understand that Indonesia does not currently issue a visa officially named the “Digital Nomad Visa.”
Instead, foreigners typically utilise long-stay residence permits that legally allow them to reside in Indonesia while continuing their employment or business activities outside the country.
The appropriate visa depends on several factors, including:
- Whether you work for an overseas company.
- Whether your income is generated outside Indonesia.
- The intended duration of your stay.
- Whether you plan to establish or invest in a business in Indonesia.
Foreign nationals should also note that working for an Indonesian company or receiving remuneration from Indonesian clients generally requires a Work KITAS, together with the relevant employment approvals under Indonesian labour and immigration regulations.
Read more about the Legal Compliance to Stay in Bali as a Digital Nomad here.
How to Work in Bali as a Foreigner in 2026
Indonesia distinguishes between working remotely for an overseas employer and working for an Indonesian business.
If your employer, clients, and source of income remain entirely outside Indonesia, you may qualify for one of Indonesia’s long-term residence permits designed for foreign professionals.
However, if you intend to work for an Indonesian company, receive Indonesian income, or undertake local employment, you will generally require a:
- Work KITAS (Limited Stay Permit);
- Approval from the Ministry of Manpower; and
- Approved RPTKA (Foreign Worker Utilisation Plan), where applicable.
Selecting the correct immigration status before relocating will help ensure your activities remain fully compliant throughout your stay.
Work Remotely with Indonesia’s Digital Nomad Visa
Although Indonesia has not officially introduced a visa called the Bali digital nomad visa, the government has introduced a Remote Worker Visa under Visa Index E33G, which has become the preferred type of visa for eligible remote professionals.
This E33G Remote worker visa is designed for foreigners who wish to live in Indonesia while working for a company outside of Indonesia or operating an overseas business. It is particularly suitable for employees of foreign companies, consultants, freelancers, and entrepreneurs whose income is generated abroad.
The visa falls under the Limited Stay Visa (VITAS) category. Once the visa application is approved, the visa allows applicants to obtain an ITAS (Limited Stay Permit), commonly known as a KITAS. It does not lead directly to a KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit).
With the appropriate immigration status, eligible foreigners can legally stay in the country while continuing their overseas employment, provided they comply with Indonesian immigration regulations.
Eligibility
Among Indonesia’s various visa programs, the Remote Worker KITAS is specifically intended for foreigners wishing to work remotely in Indonesia without entering the Indonesian labour market.
Applicants are generally expected to:
- Work remotely for a company established outside Indonesia.
- Receive income exclusively from outside Indonesia.
- Not undertake employment with an Indonesian company.
- Comply with Indonesian immigration regulations throughout their stay.
This visa is particularly suitable for remote employees, consultants, freelancers serving overseas clients, founders of international businesses, and other location-independent professionals.
Visa Validity
The E33G Remote Worker KITAS is generally issued with a 1 year validity, subject to prevailing immigration regulations.
During this period, holders may legally reside in Indonesia while continuing their overseas employment. Depending on the immigration regulations in force at the time, extensions or alternative long-term residence options may also be available.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances, but a typical application includes:
- A valid passport with the required validity period.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- Proof of employment with an overseas company or evidence of overseas business ownership.
- Documentation showing income is earned outside Indonesia.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources.
- Health insurance, where applicable.
- Additional supporting documents requested by the Directorate General of Immigration.
The processing time may vary depending on document completeness and immigration assessment. Applicants are encouraged to prepare all supporting documentation carefully to help avoid unnecessary delays.
FAQs about Digital Nomad Visa Indonesia
Is there an official Digital Nomad Visa in Indonesia?
Not officially by that name. Most remote professionals apply for the Remote Worker KITAS (Visa Index E33G), which is specifically designed for foreigners working remotely for overseas employers.
Can I work for an Indonesian company using the Remote Worker KITAS?
No. Working for an Indonesian company or receiving income from Indonesian sources generally requires a Work KITAS together with the relevant employment approvals.
Can I use a 60 days visa tourist while working remotely?
A 60 days visa tourist or tourist visit visa is intended primarily for tourism and other permitted visit activities. It should not be used as a substitute for the appropriate long-stay residence permit if your circumstances require a different immigration status. Applicants should always ensure they hold the correct visa for their intended activities.
Does the Digital Nomad Visa lead to permanent residency?
No. The Remote Worker KITAS is an ITAS (Limited Stay Permit) and does not automatically provide a pathway to KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) or Indonesian citizenship.
Can my family join me?
Yes. Eligible family members may apply for Dependent KITAS or other family-sponsored residence permits, subject to Indonesian immigration regulations.
Can I establish a business while holding the Remote Worker KITAS?
If you intend to actively establish or manage a business in Indonesia, you should consider alternative immigration pathways such as an Investor KITAS, depending on your investment structure and business activities.
Need a Visa or Got More Questions?
Whether you are planning to relocate to Bali, work remotely for an overseas employer, establish a business, or explore long-term residence options, choosing the right visa from the beginning is essential for maintaining compliance with Indonesian immigration regulations.
At LMI Consultancy, our immigration specialists assist expatriates, entrepreneurs, investors, and remote professionals with comprehensive visa and business advisory services. We provide support for Remote Worker KITAS (Visa Index E33G), Investor KITAS, Work KITAS, Second Home Visas, Golden Visas, family-sponsored residence permits, company incorporation, and ongoing immigration compliance.
If you’re planning your stay in Indonesia and need guidance on the most suitable visa, speak with one of our consultants today and claim your complimentary one-hour consultation. Stay updated and stay compliant with Indonesia’s latest immigration and business regulations with LMI Consultancy.
