Bali has evolved into a global hotspot for digital nomads. With its affordable cost of living, strong community of remote workers, and stunning natural beauty, this Indonesian island is more than just a vacation destination; it’s a thriving digital nomad hub.
Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee, Bali offers a unique blend of productivity and paradise. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Bali Digital Nomad, from visas and coworking spaces to where to live and how much it costs.
Why Bali Is a Top Destination for Digital Nomads
1. Affordable Lifestyle
Bali is known for its relatively low cost of living. A digital nomad can live comfortably on $1,200 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, food, coworking, transport, and leisure. With such affordability, Bali lets you enjoy a high quality of life without burning a hole in your wallet.
2. Reliable Internet and Coworking Spaces
While Bali once had a reputation for patchy Wi-Fi, that has changed. Cafes and coworking spaces now offer fast, stable internet. Some top coworking spaces include:
- Dojo Bali (Canggu) – A popular coworking hub near the beach.
- Outpost (Ubud & Canggu) – Designed for long-term remote workers.
- Biliq Bali (Seminyak) – Affordable and flexible coworking with hourly options.
3. Community and Networking
Bali is home to thousands of digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and creatives from around the world. Events like startup meetups, yoga retreats, marketing workshops, and creative writing sessions make it easy to build connections and learn from others.
Best Places to Live in Bali Digital Nomad
1. Canggu
Canggu is the most popular spot for digital nomads. It’s packed with coworking spaces, healthy cafes, yoga studios, and surf-friendly beaches. The vibe is laid-back yet productive, ideal for remote work.
2. Ubud
If you’re looking for tranquility, cultural depth, and a more spiritual experience, Ubud is your spot. Surrounded by rice paddies and temples, it’s a hub for writers, artists, and wellness enthusiasts.
3. Seminyak
A more upscale area, Seminyak blends beach club life with a modern urban feel. It’s less laid-back than Canggu but offers better nightlife, shopping, and higher-end accommodations.
4. Uluwatu
For surfers and nature lovers, Uluwatu is perfect. While coworking options are limited, many nomads still choose Uluwatu for its beaches, cliffside views, and escape from the busier towns.
Visa Options for Bali Digital Nomad
As of 2025, the following visa options are available for digital nomads:
1. Visa on Arrival (VoA)
- Valid for 30 days and extendable once for another 30 days.
- Cost: Around $35 USD.
- Not suitable for long-term stays.
2. Social-Cultural Visa (B211A)
- Allows a stay of up to 180 days (initial 60 days + extensions).
- Ideal for digital nomads wanting to stay 2–6 months.
3. Second Home Visa (Long-Term)
- Aimed at wealthy individuals, it requires financial proof.
- Offers up to 5–10 years of residency.
Important: Indonesia does not officially offer a “digital nomad visa” yet, but the B211A is the most commonly used by remote workers. Visa regulations may change, so always check with an immigration consultant or the Indonesian embassy.
Cost of Living for Digital Nomads in Bali
Here’s a breakdown of average monthly costs:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed villa) | $500 – $900 |
| Coworking space | $100 – $250 |
| Food & groceries | $250 – $400 |
| Transport (scooter) | $60 – $100 |
| Leisure & travel | $150 – $300 |
| Total (monthly) | $1,200 – $2,000 |
Tips to Save:
- Eat at local warungs instead of Western cafes.
- Rent long-term accommodations directly via Facebook groups or Bali-based property sites.
- Share housing with other digital nomads.
Top Coworking Spaces in Bali
1. Dojo Bali – Canggu
One of the pioneers in Bali’s coworking scene, Dojo is near Echo Beach and offers high-speed internet, ergonomic chairs, and a vibrant community.
2. Outpost – Ubud & Canggu
Outpost has multiple branches and is known for its coliving and coworking packages, perfect for new arrivals.
3. Tropical Nomad – Canggu
A large open-air coworking space with a beautiful tropical setting, fast internet, and weekly networking events.
4. Hubud (now merged with Outpost) – Ubud
It was one of Bali’s first coworking spaces, offering lush jungle views and proximity to yoga studios.
Where to Find Accommodation
- Airbnb – Great for short-term stays but often pricier.
- Facebook Groups – Try “Canggu Community Housing” or “Ubud Rentals.”
- Booking Monthly Villas – Local websites or WhatsApp property agents often have better long-term deals.
When possible, visit properties in person before signing anything. It helps avoid inflated prices and ensures internet speed and amenities meet your needs.
Transportation and Getting Around
The most common and convenient way to get around Bali is by scooter. Monthly rental costs around $60–$100, and fuel is cheap.
Don’t forget to:
- Wear a helmet at all times.
- Get an international driver’s permit before arriving.
- Consider GoJek and Grab (similar to Uber) for food delivery and ride-sharing.
Traffic in areas like Canggu can get dense, so plan your travel time accordingly.
Health and Safety Tips for Digital Nomads
1. Travel Insurance
Never travel without it. Consider providers like SafetyWing or World Nomads, which cater to digital nomads and cover both health and travel disruptions.
2. Vaccinations & Medical
Bali has decent international clinics in major areas. Carry medications for Bali belly and stay hydrated. Tap water is not safe to drink — always use bottled water.
3. Internet Backups
While coworking spaces have great internet, keep a portable hotspot or local SIM card with data as a backup. Telkomsel is the most reliable provider.
Building a Daily Routine in Bali
A typical digital nomad day in Bali might look like this:
- 7 AM – Morning yoga or surf session.
- 8 AM – Healthy smoothie bowl breakfast.
- 9 AM–12 PM – Focused work session at a coworking space.
- 12–1 PM – Lunch at a warung.
- 1–4 PM – More work or calls.
- 4–6 PM – Sunset at the beach or a coffee meetup.
- Evening – Social events, night markets, or live music.
Bali’s rhythm allows for a productive yet balanced lifestyle, which is why so many people extend their stay or return year after year.
Challenges of Being a Digital Nomad in Bali
While Bali is dreamy, it’s not perfect. Here are a few things to be aware of:
- Visa uncertainty – Long-term stay options are limited or costly.
- Infrastructure – Power outages or floods during the rainy season are possible.
- Traffic – Roads in Canggu and Seminyak are congested.
- Over-tourism – Bali can feel overcrowded in peak season.
- Time zone differences – Bali is UTC+8, which may not suit your clients or team in Europe or the U.S.
Making Friends and Networking
Bali is a social hub — you won’t be alone. Some ways to meet people:
- Attend coworking space events.
- Join Facebook groups like “Digital Nomads Bali” or “Canggu Nomad Girls.”
- Go to yoga retreats or surf camps.
- Take part in beach cleanups or sustainability initiatives.
Bali offers a fantastic mix of fun, mindfulness, and entrepreneurial energy.
Sustainable and Respectful Nomad Life in Bali
As a guest in Bali, it’s important to be mindful of your environmental and cultural impact:
- Support local businesses and artisans.
- Respect religious ceremonies and local customs.
- Use reusable water bottles and bags.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
Being a responsible traveler not only enriches your experience but also helps maintain Bali’s charm for future nomads.
Real Stories: Digital Nomad Profiles from Bali
To give you a real-world perspective of life as a digital nomad in Bali, we spoke with a few remote professionals who have made the island their temporary home. Their experiences highlight the diversity of paths that lead to Bali — and the variety of lifestyles you can build here.
Jessica Ramos — Freelance Graphic Designer from the U.S.
Base: Canggu
Time in Bali: 7 months
“I came to Bali after quitting my full-time agency job in L.A. I wanted to work for myself and needed a place that was both affordable and inspiring. Canggu ended up being the perfect fit — I spend mornings surfing, then work from Dojo or BWork. The digital nomad community is strong here. I’ve collaborated on projects just by chatting with someone at lunch.”
Top tip: “Rent a scooter for the month and learn to cook at least a few local dishes — it saves money and helps you feel at home.”
Ahmed Khan — Web Developer from Pakistan
Base: Ubud
Time in Bali: 4 months
“I work remotely for a startup in Dubai and needed a quiet place to focus. Ubud is more spiritual and peaceful than Canggu. I do yoga at 7 am and then head to Outpost Ubud to code until the afternoon. The slower pace helps me balance mental health with productivity.”
Top tip: “Avoid overstaying your visa. Use an agent to handle visa extensions so you don’t risk fines or stress.”
María López — Content Creator from Spain
Base: Seminyak
Time in Bali: On and off for 2 years
“I travel between Spain and Bali depending on the season. Seminyak suits me because I like nightlife, restaurants, and faster-paced city life. I batch my content film for a week, then edit the next, and Bali provides a lot of beautiful backdrops for my videos.”
Top tip: “Don’t just network online. Go to workshops or talks. The people you meet in person are often the ones who offer long-term opportunities.”
Jake Thomas — SaaS Entrepreneur from Australia
Base: Uluwatu
Time in Bali: 1 year
“I launched my startup from Uluwatu because I didn’t want distractions. There aren’t many coworking spaces here, but I work from my villa and hit the waves midday. Bali taught me that you don’t need a Silicon Valley office to build a successful product.”
Top tip: “If you plan to stay long-term, invest in good home internet and a quiet workspace. Uluwatu is a hidden gem if you’re self-disciplined.”
What We Can Learn from These Nomads
Despite having different backgrounds, industries, and routines, these digital nomads share some common takeaways:
- Flexibility is key. Everyone structures their day differently to suit their work and lifestyle.
- Community matters. Whether it’s through coliving, coworking, or social events, Bali makes it easy to connect.
- Balance is achievable. Most nomads come to Bali not just for work, but for wellness, creativity, and personal growth.
- Preparation pays off. Having reliable internet, the right visa, and a budget helps reduce stress during your stay.
FAQs About Bali Digital Nomad
Is Bali safe for digital nomads?
Yes, Bali is generally safe. Petty theft can occur, so lock your belongings and don’t leave valuables on your scooter.
Can I work legally in Bali as a digital nomad?
Remote work for overseas clients is tolerated under tourist or social visas, but you cannot work for a local company without a work permit.
What’s the best time to go to Bali?
The dry season (April to October) is the best. Avoid December–February if you dislike heavy rains.
Do I need to know Bahasa Indonesia?
It’s not essential, but learning basics like greetings or how to order food is appreciated and helpful.
Is Bali good for solo digital nomads?
Absolutely. The welcoming community, events, and coworking culture make it easy to make friends and feel at home.
Final Thoughts: Is Bali Right for You?
If you’re seeking a remote work destination with a mix of affordability, culture, and natural beauty, Bali is hard to beat. While there are challenges like navigating visa rules and occasional internet drops, the rewards are worth it. Whether you stay for a month or a year, Bali has the power to transform your lifestyle and your work-life balance.
Ready to pack your bags and become a Bali digital nomad? The island is waiting for you.
Hi there. My name is Abbas Khan. I’m passionate about finding smart ways to save and make money from anywhere in the world.
Learning how to earn remotely and manage my finances gave me true freedom, and now I want to help you do the same.
Join me as I explore money-saving hacks, income ideas, and tips to build a flexible, location-independent lifestyle you’ll love.