Understanding the 'Nomad Visa'
The visa you are looking for is officially called the E33G Remote Worker Visa. Launched in 2024, it is Indonesia's answer to the global remote work trend, designed for professionals who earn their income from outside the country. This is not a tourist
visa; it's a temporary stay permit (KITAS) that allows you to legally reside in Indonesia for one year, with the possibility of an extension. The key condition is that you cannot work for or receive payment from any Indonesian company or individual. Your work must be for a company or clients based abroad. While a 5-year visa has been discussed, the current E33G offers a one-year stay.
Checking Your Eligibility
The Indonesian government has set clear financial requirements to ensure applicants can support themselves. The main hurdle for many is the income threshold: you must prove an annual income of at least USD 60,000. This is a strict requirement. In addition to this, you will need to show a bank statement from the last three months with a minimum balance of at least USD 2,000. You must also have an employment contract with a company that is registered and based outside of Indonesia. This visa is not suitable for freelancers without a formal employment contract.
Required Documents Checklist
Preparation is key to a smooth application. Before you start the online process, gather the following documents. You will need a digital copy of your passport, which must be valid for at least six more months. You will also require a recent, passport-style color photograph with a white background, and an up-to-date CV or resume. Your proof of income is crucial, so have your bank statements showing the required USD 60,000 annual income and USD 2,000 balance ready. Finally, you'll need a copy of your employment contract with your foreign employer.
The Application Process Step-by-Step
The application is handled entirely online through Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration website. First, you'll create an account on the official e-Visa portal. From there, you will select the E33G visa category and fill out the application form, uploading your prepared documents as requested. After submitting the form, you will be prompted to pay the visa fee, which is approximately IDR 7,000,000 (about USD 430). The standard processing time is around 14 working days, after which you should receive your e-Visa via email if successful. Once issued, you must enter Indonesia within 90 days.
Arriving in Bali and Activating Your KITAS
Receiving the e-Visa is the first major step, but the process isn't complete until you arrive in Indonesia. At immigration, you will present your e-Visa. This allows you to enter the country and begin the final step: activating your temporary stay permit, or KITAS. This typically involves a biometrics appointment at a local immigration office. Once this is done, you will be issued your official one-year electronic KITAS (e-KITAS), which formalizes your legal residence as a remote worker in Bali. With this permit, you can come and go from Indonesia freely as long as it remains valid.
A Note on Taxes and Agents
A major benefit of this visa is that your foreign-sourced income is not taxed in Indonesia. However, be aware that if you stay in the country for more than 183 days in a 12-month period, you may be considered a tax resident under international law, which could have implications. While you can apply for the visa yourself online, many nomads choose to use a visa agent. Agents can help ensure your documents are correct and manage the process, though their services come at an additional cost. This can provide peace of mind, especially for first-time applicants navigating the system.
