As someone who has lived in Bali for 2 years as a digital nomad, I want to share some 2025 updates and practical experiences. Bali remains one of the world's most popular digital nomad destinations, but recent policy changes and cost increases have significantly changed the landscape. Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced remote worker, this guide based on real experiences will help you avoid common pitfalls.
2025 brings more digital nomad-friendly policies to Bali, with the new E33G visa making long-term residence possible. However, living costs have also increased, especially in popular areas. This guide is based on the latest policies and actual experiences to provide you with the most accurate information.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Visa Options
For Chinese citizens, there are several visa options:
- Visa-free entry: 30 days, non-extendable, suitable for short trips
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): 30 days, extendable once for 30 days, cost approximately $35
- B211 Visit Visa: 60 days, multiple extensions possible, total maximum 6 months
- B213 Visit Visa: 1-year multiple entry, 30 days per visit
Visa Recommendation
For digital nomads planning to stay in Bali for 2-6 months, we recommend applying for the B211 visa. Although the initial cost is higher (approximately $200-300), it's more economical and convenient in the long run.
Entry Process
- Ensure passport validity exceeds 6 months
- Prepare departure ticket (recommend purchasing changeable tickets)
- Apply for visa on arrival or use pre-applied visa at the airport
- Complete customs declaration form
- Undergo entry inspection and fingerprint recording
Accommodation Choices and Area Recommendations
Best Places for Digital Nomads
Ubud
Known as Bali's cultural center, famous for its peaceful atmosphere, abundant yoga classes, and healthy lifestyle. Suitable for digital nomads who enjoy natural environments and spiritual practices.
- Pros: Rich cultural atmosphere, fresh air, relatively low living costs
- Cons: Far from beaches, relatively inconvenient transportation
- Monthly rent: $300-800
Canggu
The most popular beachside area for digital nomads, with excellent beaches, vibrant nightlife, and numerous coworking spaces.
- Pros: Close to beaches, active digital nomad community, complete internet facilities
- Cons: Higher living costs, strong tourist atmosphere
- Monthly rent: $400-1200
Sanur
A relatively quiet beachside area, suitable for digital nomads who prefer a calm working environment.
- Pros: Quiet and comfortable, beautiful beaches, complete infrastructure
- Cons: Limited nightlife options, relatively lacks youthful energy
- Monthly rent: $350-900
Accommodation Types
- Villa (standalone house): $500-1500/month, suitable for long-term residence
- Guesthouse: $200-600/month, good value for money
- Kost (local apartment): $150-400/month, most economical choice
- Hotel long-term rental: $300-800/month, complete services but lower value
Detailed Living Costs
| Category | Budget Level | Mid-range Level | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (monthly) | $200-400 | $400-800 | $800-1500 |
| Food (daily) | $5-10 | $10-20 | $20-40 |
| Transportation (monthly) | $50-100 | $100-200 | $200-400 |
| Entertainment (monthly) | $50-100 | $100-300 | $300-600 |
| Total (monthly) | $450-800 | $800-1500 | $1500-2800 |
Internet and Work Environment
Internet Conditions
Bali's internet infrastructure is at an upper-middle level in Southeast Asia:
- Average speeds: 20-50 Mbps download, 5-15 Mbps upload
- Major providers: Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat
- Monthly cost: $15-30 (unlimited data plans)
- Coverage: Good coverage in main urban and tourist areas
Internet Tips
We recommend preparing SIM cards from multiple providers as backup and investing in a high-quality portable WiFi device. Some remote areas may have unstable internet, so always test internet speed when choosing accommodation.
Recommended Coworking Spaces
- Hubud (Ubud): Bali's most famous coworking space, $100-150/month
- Dojo Bali (Canggu): Modern facilities, strong community, $120-180/month
- Outsite (multiple locations): Global chain, membership-based, $200/month
- BWork (Sanur): Quiet environment, suitable for focused work, $80-120/month
Daily Life Tips
Transportation
- Motorbike rental: $50-80/month, most flexible transportation
- Grab/Gojek: Ride-hailing apps similar to Uber, reasonable prices
- Bicycle: Eco-friendly choice for short distances
- Car rental: $200-400/month, suitable for long-term residents
Health and Safety
- Purchase travel medical insurance, recommend World Nomads or SafetyWing
- Pay attention to food safety, avoid street food and tap water
- Sun protection is essential, UV intensity is high
- Carry insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites
Banking and Finance
- ATMs are widely distributed but have high fees ($3-5 per transaction)
- Recommend using Wise or Revolut digital bank cards
- Cash is still the main payment method, especially for small purchases
- Some merchants accept Alipay and WeChat Pay
Cultural Adaptation and Social Tips
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect local religious customs, dress appropriately when entering temples
- Avoid using your left hand to give items or point at others
- Learn basic Indonesian greetings
- Be patient, local efficiency is relatively slow
Social and Networking
- Attend digital nomad meetups and events
- Join Facebook groups: Digital Nomads Bali, Bali Digital Nomads
- Participate in yoga classes and surfing activities
- Use Meetup to find like-minded friends
Practical Resources and App Recommendations
Essential Mobile Apps for Minimalist Digital Setups
- Gojek/Grab: Ride-hailing and food delivery services
- Google Translate: Language translation tool
- Speedtest: Internet speed testing
- XE Currency: Exchange rate converter
- Maps.me: Offline maps
- Notion/Obsidian: All-in-one workspace for minimalist digital nomads
- 1Password: Essential for secure password management
Useful Websites
- NomadList: City information and digital nomad community
- Facebook Groups: Local information exchange
- Airbnb/Booking: Accommodation booking
- TripAdvisor: Restaurant and attraction recommendations
Conclusion
Bali provides an ideal living and working environment for digital nomads. Through proper planning and adequate preparation, you can enjoy a high-quality remote work life in this tropical paradise. For those seeking minimalist digital setups for digital nomads, Bali's reliable internet and coworking spaces make it easy to work efficiently with just a laptop and minimal gear. Remember, successful digital nomad life is not just about working in a different place, but also about embracing new cultures, building new connections, and personal growth.
We hope this guide helps you start a wonderful digital nomad journey in Bali. Remember to keep an open mind and enjoy this unique life experience!