How to apply for Indonesian digital nomad visa in Nigeria
Indonesian digital nomad visa: So, Indonesia has launched something pretty cool for people who work remotely and want to experience living in a different country. They’ve rolled out this thing called the Digital Nomad Visa, and it’s essentially a way for digital nomad people who work online and aren’t tied to a specific location to legally live in Indonesia for a longer period without worrying about visa runs every month or two.
How Long Can You Stay?
This visa lets you stay in Indonesia for up to six months at a time. But there’s a catch: you can’t just renew it when it runs out. Once your six months are up, you’ll need to leave Indonesia and apply again if you want to come back. It’s not like some visas where you can just extend your stay indefinitely; you’ll need to plan your exit and re-entry if you’re hoping to stay longer.
Particular people this is for
To get this visa, you need to prove that you have a steady income from outside Indonesia. Basically, the Indonesian government wants to make sure you can support yourself while you’re living there and that you’re bringing in money from other parts of the world. You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months left on it, proof of travel insurance (because, you know, things happen), and you need to show you’ve got some savings or a steady income. They’re looking for a bank balance of around Rp2,000,000,000 (which is about $130,000), and this money has to be in an Indonesian state-owned bank.
The Application Process
Applying is pretty straightforward and can be done online. You’ll need to gather up your documents, which include things like your passport, proof of income, and maybe details about where you’re planning to stay. Once you’ve submitted everything, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to hear back. So, it’s not an instant process, but it’s relatively quick compared to some other countries.
Why Indonesia?
Why would you want to pack up your life and move to Indonesia? Well, for starters, the cost of living is super low compared to many Western countries. We’re talking about much cheaper rent, food, and day-to-day expenses. On top of that, Indonesia, especially places like Bali, is absolutely beautiful. Imagine working from a beachside café or a coworking space surrounded by tropical greenery. There’s also a huge community of other digital nomads, so it’s easy to make connections and find people who are in the same boat as you.
Indonesia is really pushing to become a hub for digital nomads. They’ve got a lot to offer: great weather, affordable living, and a rich culture. But they also want to make sure that the people who come there can support themselves and contribute to the economy in a positive way, which is why they have those financial requirements in place.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
While you’re on this visa, you can travel to other countries, but you need to make sure you’re back in Indonesia before your visa expires. If you don’t, you could run into some legal issues. And remember, since the visa isn’t renewable, you’ll need to leave the country once your six months are up.
So, if you’re thinking about taking the plunge and becoming a digital nomad in Indonesia, this visa could be a great opportunity. Just make sure you’ve got everything lined up—your documents, your finances, and your travel plans—before you apply. It’s an exciting way to live and work in one of the most beautiful parts of the world while enjoying the flexibility that comes with remote work.
How to apply for the Indonesian digital nomad visa
Applying for the Indonesian Digital Nomad Visa involves a few key steps. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
- Gather Documents: Get your valid passport, proof of remote income, bank statement with Rp2,000,000,000 (around $130,000), travel insurance, and accommodation details.
- Fill Out the Application: Complete the online application form available on the Indonesian embassy or consulate website.
- Submit and Pay: Submit your application with all documents and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for Approval: Processing takes a few days to weeks.
- Receive Visa: After approval, you’ll get your visa, allowing a six-month stay.
- Enter Indonesia: Upon arrival, show your visa and other necessary documents, then settle in and start working.
This process is pretty straightforward if you have everything prepared(
Here are the benefits of working in Indonesia as a digital nomad
Working in Indonesia as a digital nomad comes with a ton of perks that make it a highly attractive destination for remote workers. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Low Cost of Living
Indonesia, especially outside of major cities like Jakarta, has a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries. This means your money can go a lot further. For instance, renting a comfortable apartment, enjoying meals out, and even leisure activities can be done at a fraction of the cost compared to places like the United States or Europe. According to recent estimates, living expenses in Indonesia can be up to 56.5% lower than in the U.S.(
Nurall).
2. Beautiful Environment
Indonesia is famous for its stunning landscapes, from the beaches of Bali to the jungles of Sumatra. Living here means you get to work from paradise, with opportunities to explore islands, dive in clear waters, hike volcanoes, or just relax on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. For nature lovers and those who appreciate a slower pace of life, Indonesia offers an unparalleled backdrop for remote work.
3. Thriving Digital Nomad Community
Places like Bali have become hotspots for digital nomads, creating a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. This means you can easily network, collaborate, and make friends with others who are also working remotely. There are plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and events tailored to digital nomads, making it easy to stay productive and connected(
4. Cultural Richness
Indonesia is incredibly diverse, with a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, crafts, and cuisine. As a digital nomad, you get the chance to immerse yourself in this cultural diversity, from attending local festivals to learning about different traditions and trying out various regional dishes.
5. Access to Modern Amenities
Despite being a tropical destination, Indonesia offers all the modern amenities you might need to work efficiently. Many areas have reliable internet, modern coworking spaces, and all the tech resources you need to maintain a productive workflow. Bali, in particular, is well-equipped with facilities designed specifically for digital nomads(
Nurall).
6. Work-Life Balance
The laid-back lifestyle in many parts of Indonesia, combined with the natural beauty and slower pace of life, makes it easier to strike a healthy work-life balance. You can spend your mornings working and afternoons surfing, hiking, or just relaxing. This balance can contribute to better mental health and overall well-being, which is a huge plus for remote workers.
7. Visa Flexibility
With the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa, Indonesia has made it easier for remote workers to stay longer without the hassle of frequent visa runs. This visa provides a straightforward legal framework for staying in the country, making it a convenient option for those looking to settle in one place for an extended period(
Overall, Indonesia combines affordability, natural beauty, a supportive community, and cultural richness, making it one of the best destinations for digital nomads looking for both productivity and adventure.
What are the requirements for the Indonesia digital nomad visa?
To apply for the Indonesia Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to meet several requirements to ensure that you’re eligible for the program. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements
1. Proof of Income
You must demonstrate that you have a steady source of income from outside Indonesia. This could be through employment, freelance work, or a business you own. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that you can support yourself financially while living in Indonesia without relying on local employment.
2. Minimum Bank Balance
Applicants need to show proof of a bank balance of at least Rp2,000,000,000 (approximately $130,000). This amount must be deposited in an Indonesian state-owned bank. This requirement is meant to ensure that you have sufficient funds to live comfortably in Indonesia without working locally.
3. Valid Passport
You must have a passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date you enter Indonesia. This is a standard requirement for most visas but is particularly important here given the length of stay that the Digital Nomad Visa allows.
4. Travel Insurance
You are required to have travel insurance that covers your entire stay in Indonesia. This should include coverage for medical emergencies, which is crucial given the extended duration of your stay.
5. Application Form
You will need to complete a visa application form, which includes details such as your personal information, travel itinerary, and accommodation details in Indonesia. It’s important to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date to avoid delays in the processing of your visa.
6. No Local Employment
You must agree not to engage in any local employment during your stay. The Digital Nomad Visa is specifically for remote workers who are employed or conduct business activities outside of Indonesia.
7. Accommodation Details
You might be required to provide proof of accommodation in Indonesia. This could be in the form of a hotel booking, a rental agreement, or any other legitimate accommodation arrangement.
8. Health Protocols Compliance
Given the global health situation, you may also need to comply with Indonesia’s health protocols, which could include vaccination requirements or COVID-19 testing, depending on the current regulations.
These requirements are designed to attract digital nomads who can contribute economically without taking local jobs, ensuring that their stay benefits both the visitors and the local communities.
Here are some local customs and traditions to honor while visiting Indonesia.
When you’re staying in Indonesia, respecting local customs and traditions is essential, especially since they play a big part in everyday life. Here are some of the most important ones to keep in mind.
1. Respect for Religion
- Islamic Practices: Indonesia is a Muslim-majority country, so it’s crucial to be respectful of Islamic customs. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. If you’re interacting with someone of the opposite sex, be mindful of physical contact, as it may be considered inappropriate, especially in conservative areas.
- Hindu Traditions in Bali: Bali, being mostly Hindu, has different practices. When visiting temples, both men and women should wear sarongs and sashes. Avoid public displays of affection, as they can be seen as disrespectful in religious spaces.
2. Modest Dressing
- Clothing Choices: Dressing modestly is important, especially outside tourist areas. For both men and women, covering shoulders and knees is advisable. This is particularly important when you’re around religious sites or in rural areas. Women should be cautious of wearing tight or revealing clothing, as it can draw unwanted attention.
3. Public Displays of Affection
- Keep It Private: In Indonesia, public displays of affection between couples, such as kissing or hugging, are generally frowned upon. It’s better to keep things low-key in public, whether you’re with your partner or even just friends of the opposite sex.
4. Greeting Etiquette
- Handshakes and Greetings: A handshake is a common greeting, but it should be soft and accompanied by a slight bow. When greeting someone of the opposite sex, especially if they’re Muslim, it’s polite to wait for them to extend their hand first. If they don’t, a smile and a nod are enough.
- Using the Right Hand: Always use your right hand when giving or receiving something, including handshakes. The left hand is traditionally considered impolite for these actions, as it’s associated with hygiene practices.
5. Respecting Personal Space
- Be Mindful: Indonesians tend to value personal space, especially between the opposite sexes. Avoid standing too close or making prolonged eye contact, as it can make others uncomfortable.
6. Visiting Homes
- Entering a Home: If you’re invited to someone’s home, always remove your shoes before entering. It’s a sign of respect and cleanliness. Bringing a small gift, like fruit or sweets, is also a nice gesture.
- Seating Arrangements: When seated, especially in more traditional settings, men and women might be seated separately. If this happens, just go with the flow—it’s a cultural norm in many places.
7. Social Interactions
- Talking to the Opposite Sex: When interacting with someone of the opposite sex, especially in more conservative areas, it’s important to be polite and respectful. Avoid any behavior that could be seen as flirtatious, as it can easily be misinterpreted.
8. Religious Sensitivity
- Temple Visits: If you’re visiting a temple, always be respectful. This includes dressing modestly, being quiet, and not touching anyone of the opposite sex in a religious context. Women should be particularly mindful of covering their shoulders and knees.
9. Local Laws
- Alcohol and Behavior: Alcohol consumption is restricted in some areas, and public drunkenness is frowned upon. Be mindful of local laws, especially when in more conservative regions. Also, avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion, especially with people of the opposite sex, as it can lead to misunderstandings.
By being mindful of these customs, you’ll show respect for Indonesian culture and make your stay much smoother and more enjoyable. It’s all about being aware of your surroundings and adjusting your behavior accordingly.
NB: The posts and information on this website are not legal advice.
