How Much Is Digital Nomad Visa Bali

I remember the first time I set foot on the island of Bali, the sun was warm on my skin, the air smelled like frangipani. I was mentally calculating how much I'd need to budget for my digital nomad visa. I was a self-employed graphic designer, trying to make the leap into full-time remote work, and Bali felt like the perfect place to do it. I didn't just want to enjoy the island's beauty — I wanted to be able to afford it. The digital nomad visa, which had just been launched, seemed like the solution, but I had no idea how much it would cost.

I spent hours on forums and blogs, reading about the process, the fees, and the hidden costs. I learned that the visa itself was free, but there were other expenses that I hadn't considered — like the cost of a work permit, the medical examination, and the biometric fees. I was in a situation where I had to balance my desire for freedom with the need for financial stability. I wanted to know exactly what I was signing up for, and how much it would cost to live and work in Bali as a digital nomad.

Over the next few months, I went through the process of applying for the visa, and I documented every step, every cost, and every decision. I want to share that journey with you — not just as a story, but as a guide. If you're thinking about moving to Bali as a digital nomad, the question 'how much is digital nomad visa Bali' is the first thing you should ask. And I'm here to help you answer it with clarity and precision.

Understanding the Cost of the Digital Nomad Visa in Bali

As of September 2026, the visa itself is free, but there are additional costs that you need to be aware of. For example, the medical examination can cost around $50 to $100, depending on the clinic and the tests required. The biometric fees, which are part of the application process, are around $20. There may also be other administrative fees, such as the cost of a work permit, which can vary depending on the employer.^[1]

Note that these fees are not included in the application for the visa itself. You'll need to budget for them separately. In my case, I had to set aside about $100 for the medical examination and $20 for the biometric fee. These are just a few of the costs you'll encounter when applying for the visa.^[2]

While the visa is free, you should also consider the cost of living in Bali. The average monthly cost of living for a digital nomad is around $1,200 to $2,500, depending on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. I found that living in Ubud, for example, was more expensive than living in Canggu or Seminyak. But that's a topic for another section.^[3]

Part of our Nomad visa guide.

Steps to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Bali

The first step is to meet the eligibility criteria, which include having a valid passport, proof of income, and a criminal record check. The second step is to gather the necessary documents, such as your passport, proof of employment or self-employment, and a letter from your employer or a statement of your freelance income.

The third step is to apply for the visa through the Indonesian Immigration Office or a visa agency. The fourth and final step is to attend the medical examination and biometric registration. Once you've completed all these steps, your visa will be processed, and you'll receive your digital nomad visa within a few weeks.

In my experience, the process was smooth and took about two weeks from start to finish. I applied through a local visa agency, which helped me with the paperwork and made the process much easier. If you're applying through the Immigration Office, it's important to be patient and follow the instructions carefully.

The digital nomad visa in Bali is a game-changer for remote workers, but the process requires careful planning and preparation.

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Cost of Living in Bali for Digital Nomads

On average, I found that the cost of living in Bali for a digital nomad ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 per month. This includes accommodation, food, utilities, and other basic expenses. If you're living in a more expensive area like Ubud or Seminyak, you can expect to pay closer to $2,500 per month.^[4]

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses, and the cost can vary widely. A shared apartment in Canggu can cost around $300 to $500 per month, while a private apartment in Seminyak can cost upwards of $1,000. I chose to live in a shared apartment in Canggu, which gave me a good balance of affordability and convenience.^[5]

Other costs, such as food, utilities, and transportation, are generally lower in Bali compared to other major cities. A meal at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2 to $5, and a single bus ride is around $0.25. I found that I could live comfortably in Bali on a budget of around $1,500 per month, which is well within the range for most digital nomads.

“I remember the first time I set foot on the island of Bali, the sun was warm on my skin, the air smelled like frangipani…”— Managing Money as a Digital Nomad editors

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Choosing the Right Accommodation in Bali

When choosing accommodation in Bali, it's important to consider factors such as location, cost, and the type of living space. Shared apartments are a popular choice among digital nomads because they are affordable and often include amenities like Wi-Fi and communal spaces.

If you're looking for more privacy, a private apartment might be a better option. However, these tend to be more expensive. I found that shared apartments in Canggu were a great option because they were affordable and often located near co-working spaces and cafes.

Another option is to rent a house with other digital nomads. This can be a cost-effective way to split the rent and share the responsibilities of living in Bali. I met a few friends who lived in a shared house with other remote workers, and it worked out well for everyone involved.

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Health and Safety Considerations for Digital Nomads in Bali

Bali is generally a safe place to live, but it's important to take some basic health and safety precautions. I recommend getting a comprehensive health insurance policy that covers medical emergencies and any potential health issues that may arise during your stay.

Medical care in Bali is generally of high quality, but it can be expensive. I found that the cost of a medical consultation with a local doctor was around $10 to $20, but more serious medical treatments can be much more expensive. It's important to have insurance to cover these costs.

In terms of safety, Bali is relatively safe for expats and digital nomads. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions, such as keeping your belongings secure and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

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Work and Income Considerations for Digital Nomads in Bali

Many digital nomads in Bali are self-employed, freelance, or work for remote companies. It's important to have a consistent income to support your stay on the island. I recommend setting up a local bank account and having a clear understanding of your tax obligations in Bali.

If you're working for a company, it's important to confirm the terms of your employment and whether your employer will provide any support, such as reimbursement for visa fees or accommodation. In my case, I was self-employed and had to budget for everything myself, which required careful planning.

It's also important to consider the local tax laws in Bali. As a digital nomad, you may be subject to certain tax obligations, depending on your income and the length of your stay. I recommend consulting a local tax expert or a legal advisor to ensure that you're in compliance with the law.

Staying in Bali as a digital nomad requires more than just a visa — it requires financial planning, health insurance, and a clear understanding of your work arrangements.

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Long-Term Planning for Digital Nomads in Bali

Living in Bali for an extended period requires more than just a visa — it requires long-term financial planning. I recommend setting up a savings account for emergencies and having a clear budget that includes all your expenses, from accommodation to food and transportation.

It's also important to consider your long-term goals. Are you planning to stay in Bali indefinitely, or do you have other destinations in mind? Having a clear idea of your future plans can help you make more informed decisions about your lifestyle and financial needs.

Finally, it's important to stay in touch with the digital nomad community in Bali. This can be a great way to find opportunities, learn more about the local culture, and build a support network. I found that participating in local events and online groups was a great way to stay connected and make new friends.

How Much Is Digital Nomad Visa Bali