Bali is the digital nomad capital of the globe. The Island of the Gods is a top choice for digital nomads ranging from influencers to content creators, and social media managers to remote professionals from all industries and sectors.

At the moment, it is hard for digital nomads to stay in Bali for an extended period. They must either obtain work or establish a company or non-profit organization. They must then go through the expensive and time-consuming procedure of getting a KITAS visa, which is a form of a temporary resident visa.

Alternatively, they must enter Indonesia on a social or tourist visa, which is valid for only 60 days at a time and can be extended. Many people, including immigration officers, are caught in the between.

Prior to the pandemic, Indonesia was considering establishing a 5-year remote working visa, specifically for digital nomads. The debate was put on hold when Covid-19 hit, but as the pandemic comes to an end, the question is being reconsidered.

This occurs as Australia's new Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, arrives in Java for a meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo. Trade relationships, climate change, and a reciprocal visa deal that would favor both Australian and Indonesian travelers are all on the agenda.

The most important component of the remote worker visa is that digital nomads would not be compelled to pay tax in Indonesia if their income was generated outside.

If any form of revenue is to be created in Indonesia, the individual must apply for a business KITAS or the D212 Multiple Entry Visitor Visa, which permits travelers to undertake work-related activities, visit family and friends, and travel as a tourist.

Sandiaga Uno, Indonesia's Minister of Tourism, has acknowledged that the remote working visa is being discussed. In an interview with the South China Morning Post, he stated, "...Now that the pandemic is over and all the ministries are engaged and coordinating, from the health side to the immigration office, we believe that now is an excellent time to revive this proposal."

He went on to describe how Bali is at a unique and fascinating crossroads. "In the past, the three S were: sun, sea, and sand," he said of Bali's ability to shift into a new type of resort. We are shifting the emphasis to serenity, spirituality, and sustainability. This way, we get good quality and have a greater impact on the local economy.'

This visa reform may be implemented sooner than expected. With the G20 Summit nearing and international leaders from governments and companies flocking to the island to talk about the future of technology, trade, and global policy, the Indonesian government has the ideal opportunity to propose such a significant project to the world.

Tens of thousands of remote workers would be drawn to Bali and Indonesia as a result of a digital nomad visa. This would be a huge economic boost to areas that are currently catering to the needs of foreign visitors. It would also enable the establishment of new digital nomad spots. Lombok and many other rural regions of Java and Sumatra have internet infrastructure but lack the overseas investment that Bali enjoys.

Speaking of Uno's concept of tranquility, spirituality, and sustainability, this is something that many remote employees strive for in their working environment. The advantages to workers' mental health and business revenues are compelling, and there is a global shift towards working remotely.

If Indonesia introduces a digital nomad visa, it will be one of the first in South East Asia. Thailand has been attempting to create a remote worker visa for several years but has yet to do so. The visa category is becoming more popular throughout Europe, while many require workers to demonstrate a certain income and pay local taxes.