The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in nomadic lifestyles and hastened the trend toward remote working, which had already gained traction in various parts of the world.

Digital nomads are people who love to travel and make a living by working remotely. They only require a laptop and a reliable internet connection to complete their tasks. As a result, we typically find them in coffee shops or co-working spaces. Some digital nomads travel on their own, while others join digital nomad programs to travel in a more organized manner.

With the advancement of technology came the opportunity to earn a living solely through digital connection activities. People began to realize that they did not have to be in one place at all times and that they can now bring their work along with them as they travel. As a result, a digital nomad is now defined as someone who travels the world while working remotely.

Bali Becomes The Capital of Digital Nomads

Before the pandemic, Indonesia had considered issuing a 5-year remote working visa, particularly for digital nomads. But when COVID-19 struck, the debate was put on hold and now as the pandemic is coming to an end, the topic is being revisited.

Until Southeast Asia’s largest economy lifts most of its travel restrictions, Indonesia is allowing fully vaccinated visitors to enter without PCR testing or quarantine, as COVID-19 cases remain low and booster doses are being widely distributed. Indonesia’s government has reopened Bali beginning March 7, 2022, to local tourism industry players and international travelers, particularly digital nomads looking forward to sunbathing and enjoying the panoramic sunset on Bali’s beaches. Foreign travelers from 23 countries who have received a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can already apply for a visa on arrival and will only have to wait 24 hours until their on-arrival PCR tests come back negative before they can explore the beauty of Bali’s land and culture.

Tourist arrivals have increased significantly since then, especially in April 2022. Reopening borders around Bali to aid economic recovery has become commonplace. The most important feature of the remote worker visa is that digital nomads are not required to pay tax in Indonesia if their income is generated outside of the country.

Streamlined visa processing and more frequent flights would help the country attract workers from global companies which allow their employees to work from anywhere. Many digital nomads have said Indonesia — particularly Bali — is their “top of mind” destination for remote work when they are ready to travel.

Bali is at a unique and exciting crossroads. Bali’s opportunity is evolving into a different type of lifestyle destination where the three “S” of sun, sea, and sand is now replaced with serenity, spirituality, and sustainability leading to a higher quality of life and a greater impact on the local economy.

This visa reform may be implemented sooner than expected. With the G20 Summit approaching and world leaders from governments and industries flocking to the island to discuss the future of technology, trade, and global policy, the Indonesian government has the ideal opportunity to present such a historic initiative to the world.

Tens of thousands of remote workers would be drawn to Bali by a digital nomad visa. This would be a huge economic benefit to regions that are already catering to the needs of international visitors. It would also enable the establishment of new digital nomad hotspots. Areas such as Bali and Lombok, as well as many more rural parts of Java and Sumatra, have internet infrastructure but lack the international investment that Bali has. 

Speaking of serenity, spirituality, and sustainability, this is something that many remote workers want to achieve more of in their working style. The benefits of remote working to workers’ mental health and business profits are compelling.

A Guide for Digital Nomads in Bali

Whether you’re a new or experienced digital nomad, this guide will help you find the perfect balance of work and play in Bali. From co-working spaces and cafes to surfing and rejuvenation, you’re bound to come across some truly unique and inspiring places to work while living life to the fullest.

The good news is that being a digital nomad in Bali is relatively simple due to the abundance of options and opportunities. If you’ve been to Bali before, you will realize things are constantly changing and evolving, making it easy to overlook new and interesting options. If you’re stuck for ideas or inspiration, this is a great place to start. A digital nomad in Bali will be looking for three things: accommodation, a workspace, and a place to recharge and rejuvenate. These things can look very different depending on your preferences and budget, but rest assured that Bali has options for you regardless of comfort or budget.

Digital Nomads Boost Local Economy Growth

Bali’s reopening of borders allows remote workers the flexibility they seek, as well as the ability to settle in and become a true part of the local community. This also addresses some of the COVID concerns associated with frequent digital nomad travel. It alleviates any concern people may have about where to go next during a pandemic. Most importantly, digital nomad visas allow visitors to stay for extended periods, which benefits local economies and improves global trade.

Global Companies are Encouraged to Expand Remote Work Opportunities for Sustainable Income

While there are plenty of reasons employees benefit from remote work, employers can enjoy many similar benefits too. When employees are more satisfied with their roles, working environment and a better work-life balance, companies can become more profitable and productive.

Since remote work can be done virtually anywhere, employers can choose from the very best people when making their hiring decisions. There is no need to have an employee relocate if they have a strong internet connection and computer setup. There are significantly fewer costs associated with starting a remote company. With a non-remote company, employers need to pay for building rent, utilities, and office supplies. This can lead to a lot of savings for companies.

In other ways, companies that offer remote work options could improve their brand positioning. When people know that the employees at a company are happy, they may feel more inclined to be part of it. Likewise, those who are looking to apply for jobs may be more excited to apply for a company that offers more flexibility. Having employees who work from all over the country—and possibly the world—can be quite beneficial for employers. That’s because by hiring people from different areas, companies can gain unique perspectives and ways of thinking. Employers may also be able to learn more about different markets by having employees working in these locations.

JEDI Jobs Offers The Opportunity for Global Jobseekers and Employers

In JEDI Jobs, you can find remote jobs that are suitable for you. While global employers collaborate with us to find the best talent globally, we can provide opportunities for digital nomads to work from beautiful destinations and support local economic growth. Sign up now and let’s create a sustainable remote work environment!