Bali has been a popular destination for digital nomads for many years, mainly because of its affordable lifestyle, beautiful environment, and flexible visa options. However, recent policy changes in Indonesia show a clear shift away from allowing long-term, low-cost stays for remote workers. The focus is now on regulating who can stay longer and ensuring they meet higher financial and legal standards.
In 2026, updated visa rules, income requirements, and tax policies are changing how foreign remote workers live in Bali.
1. More Strict Digital Nomad Visa Conditions
Indonesia now provides a Remote Worker Visa (E33G), which allows foreigners to live in Bali while working for companies outside the country. However, the eligibility rules are stricter than before.
Applicants are expected to have:
- Proof of employment with a foreign employer
- A relatively high annual income (about $60,000 or more)
- Valid health insurance
- Financial records such as bank statements
Because of these requirements, the visa is now aimed more at high-earning professionals rather than budget travelers. The permit is usually valid for one year and designed for legal, long-term stays.
2. Increased Tax Rules and the 183-Day Requirement
Another major change involves taxation rules for long-term residents.
Under the 183-day rule, anyone staying in Indonesia for more than 183 days in a year may be treated as a tax resident.
This means:
- Foreign income could become taxable locally
- Tax filing may be required in Indonesia
- Greater financial compliance is expected
This reduces the earlier appeal of staying long-term without tax obligations.
3. Crackdown on Budget Long-Stay Methods
In the past, many digital nomads stayed in Bali using tourist visas and repeated extensions or border runs. While tourist visas still exist, they are no longer intended for long-term remote work.
Authorities are now paying closer attention to ensure that visitors are using the correct visa type for their activities. Long stays without proper documentation are becoming harder to maintain.
4. Rising Costs for Legal Long-Term Living
Staying in Bali legally as a remote worker has become more expensive due to several factors:
- Increased rental prices in popular areas
- Visa application fees and financial requirements
- Additional tourism-related charges
- Higher demand from global remote workers
Although Bali remains more affordable than many Western countries, the cost advantage for long-term low-budget living is shrinking.
5. Shift Toward Higher-Value Tourism
These changes are part of a wider strategy to reshape tourism in Bali.
The government is now prioritizing:
- Visitors with higher spending power
- Skilled professionals and investors
- Sustainable and controlled tourism growth
- Reduced pressure on overcrowded areas
The aim is to improve tourism quality rather than simply increasing visitor numbers.
Conclusion
Bali is still open to digital nomads, but the environment has changed significantly. New visa rules, stricter income requirements, and stronger tax enforcement are making it harder for low-budget remote workers to stay long term.
Overall, Bali is moving away from being a low-cost digital nomad hub and toward attracting more financially stable and regulated long term visitors.
