What is the Bali B211a Visa?
The B211a is a single-entry e-visa that allows you to stay in Indonesia for up to 180 days (6 months). It's designed for tourism and specific business activities and must be applied for before you arrive in the country. As a single-entry visa, it's important to remember that if you leave Indonesia for any reason, your visa will be terminated, and you'll need to re-apply to return.
Tourist vs. Business B211a: Which One is for Digital Nomads?
This is a critical distinction for remote workers. The Indonesian government offers two streams for the B211a visa, and choosing the right one is essential to remain compliant.
Tourist B211a Visa: This is the correct choice for most digital nomads. If your work is for a company located outside Indonesia, or you are managing your own foreign-registered business and serving international clients, you are considered a tourist. You are not engaging in the local Indonesian economy, and your income is foreign-sourced.
Business B211a Visa: This visa is for individuals conducting specific, short-term business activities within Indonesia, such as attending conferences, holding meetings with Indonesian partners, or inspecting investments. It does not permit local employment.
For the typical digital nomad, the Tourist B211a is the appropriate and recommended path.
Bali B211a Visa Requirements (2025 Update)
The application process is straightforward, but you need to have your documents in order. Here’s what you’ll need:
Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least 12 months of validity for a 180-day visa application or six months for a 60-day visa.
Proof of Funds: While the official requirement can be showing a bank statement with at least $10,000 USD, this is often bypassed when using a visa agent. The agent acts as your sponsor, providing a guarantee letter to immigration on your behalf. This is a common and recommended 'hack' to simplify the process.
Onward Ticket: You may need to provide proof of an exit flight from Indonesia, confirming you plan to leave before your visa expires.
Passport Photo: A recent, standard passport-sized photograph (e.g., 4x6 cm).
As of mid-2023, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer a requirement for entry into Indonesia.
The B211a Application Process Step-by-Step
While you can apply directly through the official Indonesian immigration website, the system can be complex and prone to issues. For a seamless experience, most seasoned digital nomads recommend using a professional visa agent or immigration lawyer.
Choose a Sponsor/Agent: Select a reputable visa agency in Bali. They will guide you through the process and act as your official sponsor.
Gather Your Documents: Prepare digital copies of your passport's biometrics page, cover, and any signed pages, along with your passport photo.
Complete the Application: Your agent will handle the application submission on your behalf after you provide them with the necessary information.
Pay the Fee: The cost typically ranges from $100 to $400 USD, depending on the service and visa duration. Your agent will provide a clear breakdown of costs.
Wait for Approval: The process usually takes between 7 and 14 business days. Once your e-visa is approved, you will receive it via email.
Upon approval, you have 90 days to enter Indonesia. Your visa's validity period (e.g., 180 days) begins on the day you arrive in Bali.
Crucial Tax Implications for Digital Nomads in Bali
This is the question on every digital nomad's mind: Do I have to pay tax in Indonesia?
For most digital nomads on a B211a visa, the answer is often no, provided you follow the rules. Indonesia's tax system is based on residency. You are generally considered a tax resident if you stay in the country for more than 183 days within a 12-month period.
Since the B211a visa has a maximum stay of 180 days, you remain a non-resident for tax purposes. As a non-resident, you are only taxed on income sourced from within Indonesia. Because your work is for foreign companies or clients and your income is paid into your overseas bank account, it is considered foreign-sourced income and is therefore not subject to Indonesian income tax.
This setup allows you to live in Bali and work remotely without creating a local tax liability, making it a highly attractive 'tax-free' destination for digital nomads. However, it is always wise to consult with a tax advisor to discuss your specific situation.
