Bali Announces ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ That Lets You Work On Island Tax-Free

Photo 214387632 © Lila Koan | Dreamstime.com

After about two years of being cooped up at home, the idea of working in the tropics all year round—with the sun’s warmth pouring down on your skin—might sound like a dream to you. Soon, you’ll be able to do just this, and better yet, it won’t be expensive.

In hopes to rekindle Bali’s heyday in tourism, Indonesia is planning a “digital nomad visa” that could position the province as a prime destination for remote work. Its scenic views, warm climate, culture, and low living costs are a bonus, of course.

At present, anyone hoping to work in this travel destination would have to apply for either a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VoA), a tourist visa that can be extended to 60 days, and a business visa good for 180 days.

The new digital nomad visa, which is still in the works, will be valid for five years—making it the longest-lasting of its kind across the globe. Plus, the permit will entitle holders to live in Indonesia tax-free, so long as their income hails from outside of the country, according to Bloomberg.

The remote work visa is being introduced as part of the nation’s aspirations to rebrand as an eco-friendly destination based on serenity and spirituality, instead of one of sun, sand, and sea, tourism minister Sandiaga Uno told the news outlet. With this permit, Indonesia also hopes to draw 3.6 million foreign travelers and create a million new jobs for locals.

To enhance the appeal of working in Indonesia and Bali, the government intends to implement a relatively simple application process and welcome more flights into the country.

[via Euronews, NDTV, Bloomberg, cover photo 214387632 © Lila Koan | Dreamstime.com]