PUBLISHED August 26th, 2025 05:50 pm
Indonesia is a standout destination for modern nomads. It blends natural beauty, rich culture, and practical convenience. With thousands of islands, the country offers endless variety. Balis rice terraces provide peace and inspiration. The wild landscapes invite adventure. Cities like Jakarta and Yogyakarta have coworking hubs and strong internet. Creative communities thrive in urban centres.
Luxury Cruises – Where Fun and Work Connect
Working remotely on a cruise ship offers a balance of work and adventure. The sun-drenched deck is an invigorating and productive workspace, while the limitless ocean view enhances calm or holds your attention on work. Today’s cruise ships provide incredible accommodations, excellent amenities, and reliable connectivity to accomplish work tasks.
If you’re considering a more luxurious experience, a Komodo luxury cruise can potentially visit some of the most beautiful and inspiring marine environments in the world. Each day, there will be time to visit new ports (or hide away!), be active with something water-related, or hang out by the pool.
Remote Work in Indonesia
Indonesia has recently made remote work more accessible for foreigners by introducing the Remote Worker Visa (E33G). Working from Indonesia was a legal grey area in the past, with foreigners advised to secure a work and stay permit through a local sponsor. The new E33G visa streamlines the process, allowing digital nomads and remote employees to live and work in the country legally.
Applications can be completed online through the government visa portal, requiring:
- Proof of employment
- Valid passport
- Digital photograph
- Evidence of at least USD 2,000 in funds
- An employment contract showing a minimum annual salary of USD 60,000
How to Choose Your Visa
Selecting a visa type for remote work in Indonesia will depend on the needs of the individual, but also on how long they will be in the country. The Remote Worker Visa is the best route for those intending to base themselves remotely in some of Indonesia’s most favoured hub cities, such as Bali or Jakarta, or even in one of the quiet regions, as this visa permits a one-year Additional Temporary Stay permit that allows multiple ‘exits’ and re-entries into the country.
Best Cities for Digital Nomads In Indonesia
Living and working remotely in Indonesia offers a chance to combine professional life with exploration in one of the world’s most diverse countries. Here, digital nomads can find cities that fit their work needs while providing the perfect backdrop for adventure.
Each destination offers its unique rhythm, from volcanic views to historic temples and tropical beaches. Whether seeking a vibrant urban hub or a peaceful retreat, Indonesia delivers a mix of affordability, culture, and quality of life.
Bandung
Bandung is a relaxing retreat with cool temperatures in the highlands of Java. Labelled the “Paris of Java,” Bandung offers colonial elegance amid mountains and tea plantations. Coworking spaces like Eduplex and Block71 Bandung have great setups and good communities. Renting housing is reasonable, and prices for co-living or furnished units start around IDR 6 million (USD 400) per month.
Bandung has an interesting creative side, with boutique shops for fashion and designer markets. Furthermore, Bandung has great nearby escapes such as Tangkuban Perahu crater, and other nearby options for natural hot springs at Ciater. So, after work, you are just minutes away from an escape to nature.
Denpasar
Being the capital of Bali, Denpasar isn’t under the tourist microscope like hotspots such as Canggu and Ubud, but it still offers plenty of modern conveniences. With its close proximity to beaches like Sanur and co-working spaces such as Dojo Bali and Kinship Studio, Denpasar’s connectivity is undeniable, complete with fast internet access for remote workers.
Staying here can also support the local economy, whether through studio rentals (from IDR 8 million or USD 540) or co-living options that offer greater flexibility. Plus, there’s no shortage of cultural gems to explore, from Pura Jagatnatha to bustling traditional markets. If you’re planning to explore more of Bali beyond the usual tourist trail, this might be the perfect place to start: explore travel experiences across Bali.
Surabaya
Indonesia’s second-largest city combines modernity with cultural depth. The city, known as the “City of Heroes” for its role in independence, offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle that other tourists don’t inundate. Many coworking spaces, such as SUB Co and EV Hive, are affordable and productive work environments, starting around IDR 2 million (USD 130) for monthly rates.
Surabaya has a reasonable cost of living, so renting and eating are budget-friendly options and a great option for a city to reside in. It is also centrally located to allow for easy weekend trips to places such as Mount Bromo or the beaches of Madura Island, so you can still be in nature. The evenings can be spent at speakeasy bars or local events where you build street cred with the community.
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, often affectionately called “Jogja,” is the cultural capital of Indonesia. It’s a relaxed, vibrant city brimming with art, history, and creativity. Two major temple complexes, Borobudur and Prambanan, lie just a short drive away. The city also fosters a growing community of creative professionals who thrive in co-working hubs like Antologi Collaborative Space and Ruang Tengah. And if you’re hungry to explore the city through your taste buds, don’t miss our local street food guide to Yogyakarta, where you can eat your way through Indonesia’s cultural hub.
Jakarta
Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, is the perfect destination for digital nomads who want to immerse themselves in a fast-paced, metropolitan vibe. As a bustling metropolis, it boasts excellent transportation, solid infrastructure, and reliable internet connectivity. Coworking spaces such as GoWork, UnionSPACE, and WeWork make working in the city both collaborative and efficient. Central-area rentals start from IDR 9 million (USD 600), with coliving options also available for those seeking a community-driven lifestyle.
When it’s time to unwind, dive into the city’s vibrant F&B scene with our comprehensive dining guide to Jakarta, featuring the best restaurants, cafés, and bars around town.
Why Should Digital Nomads Consider Indonesia?
Indonesia has a lot to offer digital nomads, and they are a great option for long-term residence. The visa options are great for any work situation, including extended tourist visas or the B211A, a six-month stay. The cost of living is also low compared to other countries, even in popular areas.
Internet speed/reliability and coworking spaces are abundant in many areas (Bali and Jakarta, especially), and even in quieter areas, co-living spaces offer a stable connection. There is also a healthy nomadic community all over the country that regularly holds meetups and events for both professional and social reasons.