Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Indonesia vs. Kyrgyz Republic
A comparison of remote work visas for Indonesia and Kyrgyz Republic.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: Indonesia vs Kyrgyz Republic
Introduction
As more people turn to remote work, the demand for digital nomad visas is on the rise. Two countries in Southeast Asia and Central Asia, Indonesia and Kyrgyz Republic, are offering unique programs to attract digital nomads. This post compares the details and requirements of the two programs to help you make an informed decision on where to base your remote work.
Indonesia
Second Home Visa
Indonesia's Second Home Visa is designed for those who want to stay in Indonesia for an extended period. Here are the details:
| Cost of Visa | Rp 3 million |
|---|---|
| Length of Stay | 5 or 10 years (awaiting confirmation from the authorities) |
| Income Requirement | The applicant is required to have at least Rp 2 billion or equivalent in a bank account owned by a Guarantor or a Foreigner |
Other Conditions or Requirements
- The applicant is not allowed to enter The local labour market
- The applicant will be allowed to carry out investment and other activities
- National passport with validity of at least 36 months
- Proof of funds 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
Kyrgyz Republic
Digital Nomad status
Kyrgyz Republic's pilot project "Digital Nomad" program is designed to attract remote workers and digital nomads to the country. Here is the information on the program:
| Cost of Visa | - |
|---|---|
| Length of Stay | The pilot project “Digital Nomad” shall be valid up to 31 December 2023. Thus, if foreign national obtain the “Digital Nomad” status in February of this year, then the status will be valid not for 12 months, but until 31 December 2023. |
| Income Requirement | - |
Other Conditions or Requirements
The “Digital nomad” status holders may be foreign nationals engaged in the following activities:
- software development, analysis, design and programming of information systems and software products, analysis of information needs and user problems;
- design and development, delivery and documentation of software, making changes to the software according to the task set by the user;
- exporting information technology, information systems and software;
- media art, including digital art, creation of virtual and augmented reality, mixed reality, 3D design;
- animation, graphic design, multimedia design;
- programming, IT product development, robotics and artificial intelligence;
- creation of computer and mobile games and cybersports.
In order to obtain the “Digital nomad” status, the applicant shall submit to the state authority in the sphere of labor, employment, and migration through the online portal the following documents:
- Application;
- The passport of the eligible foreign state;
- Digital picture of the face;
- Income statement or copies of a newly concluded contract, employment contract or service contract for the period from 2021-2022 and/or for the upcoming performance of works and services.
Conclusion
Indonesia's Second Home Visa and Kyrgyz Republic's "Digital Nomad" status program offer unique opportunities for remote workers and digital nomads to stay in the countries for an extended period. While Indonesia requires a higher financial commitment, it allows for a longer stay and investment opportunities. On the other hand, Kyrgyz Republic's program requires less paperwork and offers a more flexible stay, but is only valid until the end of 2023. Ultimately, the choice between the two programs will depend on personal preferences such as culture, cost of living, and length of stay, among others.