The Complete Guide to Being a Digital Nomad in Bali (2024)
1. Why Bali?
Bali, Indonesia, is often regarded as one of the most iconic destinations for digital nomads. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Bali provides an ideal blend of work and play. Whether you’re nestled in the rice paddies of Ubud or soaking up the sun in Canggu, Bali offers an affordable lifestyle, solid infrastructure, and an ever-growing nomad community.
What makes Bali especially attractive is its affordability. It’s possible to live comfortably on a budget, while still enjoying a high quality of life. The island has no shortage of coworking spaces, cafes with reliable internet, and wellness options like yoga and surfing. English is widely spoken, especially in the main nomad hubs, and the Balinese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Overall, Bali’s tropical charm, coupled with its affordability, makes it one of the best places in the world for digital nomads.
2. Visa Options for Digital Nomads
Bali offers several visa options for digital nomads, making it relatively easy to live and work remotely. The most commonly used visa options include:
- B211A Tourist Visa: This visa is popular among digital nomads looking to stay short-term. It allows you to stay for an initial 60 days, with the option to extend for a total stay of 180 days. However, it’s important to note that, officially, working remotely while on a tourist visa is a grey area, so make sure to be discreet.
- KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit): For those looking to stay longer, the KITAS visa is a better option. There are several types of KITAS, including one for remote workers (freelancers) or foreign investors. This visa requires sponsorship from an Indonesian company or a local agent and allows for a stay of up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal.
- Digital Nomad Visa (Upcoming): Indonesia is working on a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, aimed at attracting remote workers to the country. While details are still being finalized, this visa is expected to provide long-term stay options without requiring sponsorship, making it easier for nomads to stay and work legally in Bali.
For updated visa options and to apply, visit the official Indonesian Immigration Portal.
3. Local Sentiment Towards Digital Nomads
Bali’s local community is generally welcoming to digital nomads, as tourism and expat culture are well-established on the island. Many locals have benefited from the influx of remote workers who contribute to the local economy by renting villas, dining in restaurants, and supporting local businesses.
However, as the digital nomad population grows, there have been concerns about over-tourism in certain areas, such as Canggu, where increased demand has pushed up rent prices. The local government has also been enforcing stricter rules on visa violations and digital nomads who overstay or work without proper documentation. It’s important to respect local customs, be mindful of the impact on housing markets, and contribute positively to the community.
4. Best Locations for Digital Nomads
Bali is a diverse island with various hotspots catering to digital nomads. Here are some of the best places to base yourself:
- Canggu: Known for its surf culture, Canggu is the most popular area for digital nomads. It’s packed with coworking spaces, cafes, and a vibrant social scene. However, rents have risen significantly in recent years, with villas costing between IDR 10 million – IDR 20 million/month (€600-€1,200 or $630-$1,260 USD).
- Ubud: Nestled in the hills, Ubud offers a more tranquil, nature-filled setting. It’s ideal for those who want to escape the hustle of Canggu. Ubud is home to yoga studios, wellness centers, and creative workshops, with rents ranging from IDR 6 million – IDR 12 million/month (€360-€720 or $380-$760 USD).
- Seminyak: A more upscale area with trendy restaurants, shops, and nightlife, Seminyak is great for nomads who want a more cosmopolitan vibe. Rents here are comparable to Canggu, ranging from IDR 10 million – IDR 18 million/month (€600-€1,100 or $630-$1,135 USD).
- Uluwatu: Famous for its beaches and surf spots, Uluwatu is a bit further from the main hubs but offers a slower pace of life. It’s perfect for nomads looking for a quiet beach town atmosphere, with rents ranging from IDR 8 million – IDR 15 million/month (€480-€900 or $500-$950 USD).
5. Internet and Coworking Spaces
Bali has improved its internet infrastructure significantly in recent years, but speeds can still vary depending on the area. Urban areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak tend to have more reliable internet, with speeds ranging from 20-100 Mbps. It’s worth investing in a backup internet solution, such as a SIM card with 4G data, to ensure constant connectivity.
Bali also has a thriving coworking culture, with spaces popping up all over the island. Some popular coworking spaces include:
- Dojo Bali (Canggu): One of Bali’s most famous coworking spaces, Dojo offers a beautiful, beachside location and a strong community vibe. Prices start at IDR 2.9 million/month (€175 or $185 USD).
- Hubud (Ubud): This jungle-themed coworking space is perfect for those who want to work in nature. Memberships start at IDR 2.5 million/month (€150 or $160 USD).
- Outpost (Canggu & Ubud): With locations in both Canggu and Ubud, Outpost is popular for its flexible membership options and social events. Memberships start at IDR 2.7 million/month (€165 or $175 USD).
6. Cost of Living
Bali offers a low cost of living compared to Western countries, though it can vary based on your lifestyle. Here’s a typical breakdown of monthly expenses:
- Rent: IDR 6 million – IDR 20 million/month (depending on the location and type of accommodation) = €360-€1,200 or $380-$1,260 USD.
- Groceries: Around IDR 2.5 million – IDR 4 million/month (€150-€240 or $160-$250 USD).
- Eating out: Street food and local warungs cost as little as IDR 20,000 – IDR 50,000 per meal (€1.20-€3 or $1.30-$3.15 USD). Dining at Western-style cafes or restaurants will cost more, ranging from IDR 100,000 – IDR 300,000 per meal (€6-€18 or $6.30-$19 USD).
- Coworking: Monthly memberships range from IDR 2.5 million – IDR 3 million (€150-€180 or $160-$190 USD).
- Transportation: Renting a scooter is the most common way to get around, costing around IDR 700,000 – IDR 1.2 million/month (€40-€70 or $45-$80 USD).
7. Healthcare and Safety
Bali has a mix of local clinics and international hospitals. For minor health issues, local clinics are affordable and accessible, but for more serious medical care, expats and nomads tend to use hospitals like Siloam Hospitals Bali or BIMC Hospital. It’s highly recommended to have international health insurance, which can range from IDR 1 million – IDR 2.5 million/month (€60-€150 or $65-$160 USD), depending on coverage.
Bali is generally safe for digital nomads, with low crime rates compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. However, petty theft and scooter accidents are common, so it’s essential to take precautions.
8. Currency and Exchange Rate
The local currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). As of October 2024, the exchange rates are approximately:
- €1 = IDR 16,500
- $1 = IDR 15,850
Here’s a comparison of local costs:
- Rent in Canggu: IDR 12 million/month = €727 or $758 USD
- Coworking space at Dojo: IDR 2.9 million/month = €175 or $185 USD
- Groceries: IDR 3 million/month = €182 or $189 USD
9. How Zazoo Helps Digital Nomads in Bali
Managing your finances while living abroad can be complicated, but Zazoo makes it simple. With multi-currency accounts, you can hold and exchange funds in different currencies, making it easier to manage your income, pay rent, or send money back home. Zazoo’s real-time international transfers allow you to move money between countries quickly and securely, so you never have to worry about financial hiccups while enjoying the island life in Bali.
Want to be the first to know when we go live? Pre-register now to get early access to Zazoo’s digital banking solutions and stay updated on our official launch. Manage your finances effortlessly, wherever you are!
