The Digital Nomad Visa Requirements of Costa Rica and Indonesia

Thinking about becoming a digital nomad in Costa Rica or Indonesia? Both countries have recently introduced digital nomad visa programs that allow remote workers to enjoy extended stays. In this blog post, we break down the visa requirements of both countries, to help you make an informed decision.

Costa Rica's Digital Nomad Visa

Costa Rica's Estancia para Trabajador y Prestador Remoto de Servicios visa is a new visa program aimed at attracting remote workers to the country. Here are the specifics:

Requirements

• Proof of income of at least US$3,000 per month; if travelling with dependents: US$4,000 per month
• Bank statements and affidavit to prove income
• Medical services policy that covers the applicant for the entire duration of his/her stay in the country; all members of the family group must be covered, if the applicant chooses to request their inclusion as beneficiaries
• Guarantee of coverage for medical expenses in cases of illness in Costa Rica for at least US $50,000.00
• No criminal records
• Request form and receipt of payment of fees
• Image of the passport page showing the person’s photograph and bio information, and the stamp showing entry into Costa Rica (if the person is already in Costa Rica), depending on the person’s nationality, consular visa or restricted visa

Additional Details

• Visa duration: 1 year + may be renewed for 1 additional year
• May not work for a Costa Rican employer or contractor
• Immigration will check whether this person has criminal records through the databases it has access to
• Exemption from income tax
• The Digital Nomads Law and its Regulations does not establish any duty to foreigners to contribute to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund.

Indonesia's Second Home Visa

Indonesia's Second Home Visa is a visa program that was designed to attract expats and retirees to the country but is now also applicable to digital nomads who wish to stay longer. Here's what you need to know:

Requirements

• Proof of fund of at least Rp. 2 Billion or equivalent in a bank account owned by a Guarantor or a Foreigner
• Recent colour photograph with white background and dimensions of 4cm x 6cm
• National passport with a validity of at least 36 months

Additional Details

• Visa duration: 5 or 10 years (awaiting confirmation from the authorities)
• Cost of Visa: Rp 3 million
• No income requirement
• Applicant is not allowed to enter the local labour market but is allowed to carry out investment and other activities
• Awaiting confirmation from the authorities on certain requirements such as health insurance, police clearance certificate, and itinerary schedule

Conclusion

If you're considering becoming a digital nomad in Costa Rica or Indonesia, it's important to compare the visa requirements of both countries. While Costa Rica's visa program requires proof of income, medical insurance, and has a shorter duration, Indonesia's program offers longer visa duration, no income requirement, and slightly lower cost. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your preferences and needs as a digital nomad.