Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Living and Working Remotely from Bali

The rise of remote work after the pandemic has allowed thousands of professionals to redefine their lifestyle, prioritising flexibility, balance, and cultural immersion. Bali, Indonesia, has emerged as one of the top destinations for digital nomads thanks to its low cost of living, strong expat infrastructure, and inspiring natural surroundings. This article provides an in-depth guide for those considering a move to the island to live and work without sacrificing their career.

Why Bali Attracts Digital Nomads in 2025

Bali continues to be a digital nomad hotspot in early 2025 for a range of practical and personal reasons. Firstly, its affordability remains a key factor—monthly expenses including accommodation, food, and transport can range from £800 to £1,200 depending on lifestyle choices. High-speed internet, now common across major towns like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak, supports uninterrupted remote work.

The climate and culture of Bali offer a major lifestyle upgrade for many professionals. Tropical weather, yoga retreats, surf spots, and a spiritually rich environment help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Cafes and coworking spaces are designed to accommodate freelancers and remote employees, encouraging productivity and networking.

Finally, Bali fosters a strong international community. In Ubud, for instance, digital nomads organise weekly events, seminars, and mastermind groups. This sense of belonging and professional collaboration keeps remote workers motivated and socially engaged despite being far from home.

Visa Options and Legal Stay in Bali

As of February 2025, Indonesia offers several visa options suitable for remote workers. The most practical choice is the B211A visa, which allows a 60-day stay with the option of two 60-day extensions. Applicants must show proof of return travel, accommodation, and financial solvency.

For longer stays, the Second Home Visa launched in late 2022 remains active. It allows foreigners with a minimum of approximately £110,000 in savings to stay for up to 10 years. While not aimed specifically at digital nomads, it offers security for long-term residents who meet the requirements.

Another alternative is partnering with local visa agencies that handle sponsorship and renewal processes. These services typically charge around £250–£300 per extension but greatly reduce bureaucratic stress and ensure compliance with immigration laws.

Workspaces and Internet Connectivity in 2025

In 2025, Bali offers some of the most advanced coworking infrastructure in Southeast Asia. Coworking hubs like Hubud (Ubud), BWork (Canggu), and Dojo (Echo Beach) are equipped with stable fibre-optic internet, air conditioning, meeting rooms, and cafes on-site. Daily passes cost around £10, while monthly memberships range from £120–£200.

For those who prefer working from cafes, Bali’s hospitality culture supports this lifestyle. Many cafés such as Zest in Ubud or Crate Café in Canggu have dedicated laptop-friendly areas, abundant power outlets, and fast Wi-Fi (typically 50–100 Mbps). Café workers are welcome as long as they purchase food or drinks regularly.

In the rare event of power outages or slow internet in more remote areas, mobile networks such as Telkomsel and XL Axiata offer reliable 4G coverage. Nomads often keep a local SIM card with a generous data plan (£10–£15/month) as a backup option.

Cost of Living and Lifestyle Choices

Life in Bali remains budget-friendly even as tourism rebounds in 2025. Renting a private villa with a pool in Canggu can cost between £500–£1,000 per month. Budget-conscious travellers can opt for guesthouses or coliving spaces from as little as £200/month with communal kitchens and social areas.

Local meals at warungs cost around £1.50, while western-style restaurants may charge £4–£10 per dish. Transport is dominated by scooters, which can be rented for £40–£60 per month, with fuel costing less than £0.50/litre. Apps like Gojek and Grab provide convenient ride-hailing and food delivery.

For leisure, Bali offers beaches, rice terraces, temples, and active volcanoes. Weekend getaways to nearby islands like Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands are popular and inexpensive. Monthly expenses for a moderate lifestyle rarely exceed £1,200, allowing professionals to save or reinvest earnings.

Community and Personal Growth

Bali’s digital nomad culture goes beyond work-life balance; it encourages personal development. The island is home to wellness centres, yoga ashrams, breathwork retreats, and business masterminds. Many remote professionals report increased mental clarity and motivation after settling in Bali.

Social integration is also easy thanks to language classes, dance lessons, volunteering opportunities, and expat meetups. Online groups like “Digital Nomads Bali” on Facebook and weekly events at coworking hubs allow new arrivals to connect quickly and feel supported.

Importantly, the culture of continuous learning and open-mindedness shapes both professional and personal transformation. The island attracts freelancers, remote employees, and entrepreneurs working in fields ranging from e-commerce to creative arts and tech development.

Preparing for a Productive Stay

To maximise your time in Bali, preparing in advance is crucial. Researching visa requirements, vaccinations, insurance policies, and accommodation options helps avoid surprises. Joining local expat communities online before arriving can provide honest insights and practical tips.

It’s also wise to plan for financial continuity. International bank cards are widely accepted, but opening a local bank account or using services like Wise or Revolut ensures lower fees. Consider time zones if you work with European or American teams—adjusting your schedule may be necessary.

Finally, stay aware of legal regulations and cultural norms. Respecting local traditions, dressing modestly in temples, and minimising environmental impact are appreciated. Being informed and respectful contributes to a smoother and more enriching remote work journey in Bali.