Digital nomads and remote workers can now work from Bali for up to six months without paying taxes, through the pre-existing B211A visa.
The government’s original idea for a longer-term digital nomad visa, potentially covering stays of up to five years, is still under consideration.
More than 3 000 foreigners have used the B211A visa to work as digital nomads since January.
“I am increasingly convinced that the number of foreign tourists who are interested in staying in Indonesia will increase and will automatically have an impact on economic revival,” said Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno, adding that he expected 4,4 million new jobs to be created in Indonesia by 2024. “Our goal is not only to regulate and control but to bring in quality tourists who have the potential to invest, open up business and employment opportunities.”
Digital nomads bound for Bali typically come from Russia, the United Kingdom and Germany, but the Minister says Indonesia intends to promote the new system in other countries, particularly Australia, Malaysia and Singapore.