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Love travelling? Then the digital nomad life is the way to go. You can work as you see the world and earn while you explore. Bali is also a favourite of digital nomads from all over the world but did you know that there are a few rules and regulations that you need to adhere to?

Working in Indonesia as a foreigner without the proper papers and permits is illegal. Essentially, foreigners cannot work for any local Indonesian companies or do the job that a local can do. The government is very strict about this as they are looking to protect the locals and their sources of income.

Additionally, foreigners cannot just apply for a job at an Indonesian company for work that a local can do. This is why you’ll see that foreigners are usually hired only for top management positions and specialist positions or as consultants.

But the great thing about living the life of a digital nomad is that you can work for any international company from around the globe and live anywhere, Bali included! If you’re planning to stay on the island for longer than 6 months then it would be best to refer to an accredited and official visa agent to speak to them about your options for living long-term in Bali as a digital nomad.

Let’s take a look at some of the options that you can consider: 

Business Visa - You will have 60 days in Indonesia upon receiving your approved Business Visa. Remember that this would only be suitable for digital nomads who are not working for any Indonesian companies, but are conducting business in another country either for themselves or for an international company and receiving money in a foreign bank account.

Work and Stay Permit - A work and stay permit is called a KITAS and it would allow you to openly work in Indonesia. Once you receive your KITAS, you’ll be able to work and stay in Indonesia for up to 12 months. This is a great option for those who want to open an office in Bali, work with local companies, hire local staff and contract local vendors.

Investor Visa - This is perfect for digital nomads or foreigners who wish to open a company in Indonesia. This is called a PT Foreign Direct Investment Company (PT PMA). It is the only way to establish a foreign-owned company in Indonesia. There should be 2 directors, and one of them has to reside in Indonesia and oversee the day-to-day. Those who establish a PT PMA will get a Work KITAS as well as an official tax number, often referred to as NPWP.

Digital Nomad Visa - There have been whispers of an official Digital Nomad visa that would let you stay in Bali for up to 5 years. At this time, there is no official announcement from the authorities but you can always speak to your preferred visa agent or lawyer to ask more about this.

Digital nomads who work for a foreign company abroad and receive their income via a foreign bank can also apply for a work and stay permit so that they can live and work in Bali for longer than 6 months. Speak to your chosen visa agent to explore your options.

Bali Coconut Living is not a visa agency or an immigration lawyer, please refer all official inquiries to a trusted visa agent or an accredited immigration lawyer of your choice.

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Contact us now. Bali Coconut Living is a leading Seminyak-based villa property agent ready to assist you in buying, selling, and villa maintenance.

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