Bali, a jewel of Indonesia, has long captivated my heart, not just as a frequent traveller, but as someone who has raced through its scenic routes, met amazing clients, and soaked in its unique charm on multiple holidays. This island isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant community, Bali attracts not only tourists but also digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs from around the world. Imagine thriving in a co-working space with a view of lush rice terraces or brainstorming in a creative hub by the beach. It’s no wonder Bali has become a top destination for remote workers.
With a relatively low cost of living, warm climate, and welcoming local culture, Bali offers a desirable lifestyle for those looking to live abroad. To help make this dream a reality, Indonesia provides various residency options, including the Retirement Visa, Investor Visa, and the new Second Home Visa. Each caters to different needs and lifestyles for people wanting to make Bali their home.
Personally, the second home program for Indonesia / Bali is something which interests me and why I have written about it a lot. I can diversify my residency outside of Thailand. Should anything go wrong, it means I can spend more than 30 days in Bali, and I can enjoy a bit more of Bali life.
If you want to contact me, please use the button at the bottom of the page or my contact page.
Visas for Indonesia – Retirement Visa (KITAS Lansia)
The Retirement Visa is perfect for individuals aged 55 and above who wish to enjoy their retirement in Bali. It provides a renewable residency permit for retirees, allowing them to live in Indonesia without engaging in work.
Criteria and Requirements of the Retirement Visa
To apply for a Retirement Visa, you will need to:
- Age: Be at least 55 years old.
- Income: Demonstrate a stable income of at least USD 1,500 per month.
- Insurance: Have Indonesian health insurance.
- Accommodation: Secure a lease agreement for at least one year.
- Local Employment: Employ an Indonesian maid or helper.
Application Process
- Prepare Documents: Compile necessary documents such as passport, financial proofs, insurance policy, and an accommodation lease.
- Engage an Agent: Employ a licensed immigration agent to assist with the application process.
- Submit Application: The agent will submit your application to the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration.
- Processing Time: Typically 2 to 4 weeks.
- Receive KITAS: Upon approval, the Retirement KITAS is issued and must be renewed annually.
Investor Visa
The Investor Visa targets foreign entrepreneurs wanting to invest in Indonesia, offering temporary residency.
Criteria and Requirements for the Investor Visa
- Investment: Minimum of IDR 10 billion in an Indonesian company or investment portfolio.
- Business Registration: Register the business with Indonesian authorities.
- Employment Compliance: Adhere to local labour laws.
Application Process
- Prepare Business Documents: Business plan, financial documents, and legal registrations.
- Hire Consultant: A local consultant can assist with legal requirements and submission.
- Submit Application: Submit to the BKPM and local immigration.
- Processing Time: 4 to 8 weeks.
- Receive KITAS: Approved applicants are issued an Investor KITAS, valid for 1 to 2 years and renewable.
Platforms Expats can use in Bali
As an expat in Bali, I’ve also explored investment avenues to plan for the future. Here are a few platforms I’ve found useful:
Saxo Bank
- What It Offers: Saxo Bank is great for its diverse range of trading and investment products – everything from stocks to forex.
- Why I Like It: It provides sophisticated research tools, which help in making informed investment decisions, suited for both newbies and seasoned traders.
Ardan International
- Tailored Solutions: This platform excels in offering personalised investment management and retirement planning.
- User Experience: Known for great customer service, it’s ideal for expats who need tailored financial planning.
Novia Global
- Flexibility: Novia Global allows easy access to a variety of markets and investment options.
- Platform Perks: Its user-friendly interface and ability to customise portfolios make it suitable for individual and institutional clients.
These platforms cater to different needs, so it’s worth diving into what each offers to find the right fit for your financial goals.
Work Visa (KITAS)
For employment in Bali, a Work Visa requires sponsorship by an Indonesian employer and compliance with employment regulations. Valid for 6 to 12 months, it is renewable based on the employment contract.
Permanent Stay Permit (KITAP)
The KITAP provides long-term residency for those with previous KITAS status, particularly spouses of Indonesian citizens or retirees, offering five-year residency with indefinite renewals.
Second Home Visa
The Second Home Visa, a recent addition, offers a long-term residency option for affluent individuals wishing to reside in Indonesia without working. It provides individuals with the flexibility of a 5 or 10-year stay.
Key Benefits
- No professional activity is required.
- Flexibility for retirees and frequent travellers.
- Reduced need for frequent visa renewals.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Financial Proof: Maintain at least 2 billion IDR in an Indonesian bank account.
- Fund Usage: Funds must be readily available; investment in bonds is subject to policy discussions with financial advisors.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health and life insurance required.
- Clean Record: Background check with no criminal record needed.
Application Process
- Document Preparation: Collect required documents, including financial proofs and insurance.
- Submit Application: Applications can be submitted through authorised agents or Indonesian embassies and consulates abroad.
- Review and Approval: Undergo review by the Directorate General of Immigration.
- Issuance: Upon approval, the visa is issued, and professional services are recommended for smooth compliance.
Banks and Investment Options
For the Second Home Visa, applicants need to deposit the required 2 billion IDR in an Indonesian bank. Some known banks where you can open an account include:
- Bank Central Asia (BCA)
- Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI)
- Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI)
- Bank Mandiri
These banks offer various financial products and services. While maintaining the required funds in a bank account is mandatory, the option to invest these funds in government bonds or other secured financial instruments depends on bank policies and current regulations. It is advisable to consult with an immigration consultant or financial advisor in Indonesia to explore possible investment options.
Setting up a local bank account has proven beneficial:
Bank Central Asia (BCA)
- Pros: Vast ATM network and robust online services.
- Cons: Some language barriers; higher initial deposits can be required.
Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI)
- Pros: Excellent customer service and appealing rates.
- Cons: Fewer ATMs than some other banks.
Bank Mandiri
- Pros: Comprehensive branch and ATM network.
- Cons: Service can vary, and some fees tend to be higher.
CIMB Niaga
- Pros: Good customer service with a user-friendly platform.
- Cons: Smaller branch network compared to larger banks.
Conclusion
Bali offers diverse residency options to suit different life stages and goals—from retiring in peace to investing in business opportunities. The Retirement and Investor Visas cater to financial stability and business prospects, while the Second Home Visa allows wealthy individuals to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle without professional obligations. Understanding each visa’s requirements and procedures is essential, and engaging with local professionals can ensure a smooth experience. Bali’s vibrant lifestyle and serene environments await those ready to explore life’s new chapters on this enchanting island.
As I mentioned earlier, I am considering the second home visa for Bali and Indonesia for diversification and travel reasons. It suits me, if it’s something you are interested in, please contact me using the button at the bottom of the page.
Helpful blogs on Bali I have written:
- 5 Best Cities in Southeast Asia for Digital Nomads Earning Over $100k in 2024
- Places to Consider When Leaving the UK – My personal recommendations
- Residency in Malaysia: Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
- Thailand Residency – Full Guide for Expats 2024
The E33G Remote Worker Visa (often called the Digital Nomad Visa) is designed for those employed by overseas companies or running foreign businesses. It allows you to live in Bali for up to 1 year (renewable) but strictly prohibits earning income from Indonesian sources. For those who want to buy property or run a local business, the Investor KITAS (Index 313/314) is the gold standard. In 2026, the Investor KITAS requires a minimum shareholding value of IDR 10 Billion (approx. $640,000 USD) within a PT PMA company. While the Nomad visa is a lifestyle choice, the Investor KITAS is a business and residency “power play” that offers a path to permanent residency (KITAP) after 3–4 years.
The Second Home Visa is Indonesia’s answer to the “Golden Visa” for non-working expats and retirees. To qualify in 2026, you must demonstrate “proof of funds” by either holding $130,000 USD (approx. IDR 2 Billion) in a personal Indonesian bank account or by owning luxury real estate in Indonesia with a value of at least $1 Million USD. This visa grants you residency for 5 or 10 years and is highly favoured by HNWIs because it allows you to stay in the country tax-efficiently, generally, only the income you remit into Indonesia is scrutinised, provided you maintain your “Plan B” status correctly.
Yes. In 2026, the most common route to a KITAP (Permanent Stay Permit) for expats is through the Investor pathway. If you have held an Investor KITAS for several consecutive years (typically 3 to 5 years) and your PT PMA company remains compliant with the IDR 10 Billion capital requirement, you can apply to upgrade to a KITAP. This grants you a 5-year residency (often renewable for life) and significantly reduces your administrative burden at immigration offices, effectively giving you “permanent” status on the island.
