Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Indonesia vs. Sri Lanka
A comparison of remote work visas for Indonesia and Sri Lanka.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements in Indonesia and Sri Lanka
If you're a digital nomad looking for a new adventure, Indonesia and Sri Lanka offer unique destinations that can fuel your wanderlust. Both countries have proposed new visa programs for digital nomads that could make it easier for you to live and work abroad.
Indonesia's Second Home Visa
Indonesia's Second Home Visa program is aimed at attracting foreign visitors to the country and boosting the economy. The visa is awaiting confirmation from the authorities, so some details may still change. Here's what we know so far:
| Visa Name | Second Home Visa |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Local Employment | No |
| Allowed Business Activities | The applicant will be allowed to carry out investment and other activities |
| Additional Requirements | 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 |
While the income requirement may seem high, the visa allows for investment and business activities, which could make it an attractive option for digital nomads looking to start a business in Indonesia. However, it's important to note that the applicant is not allowed to enter the local labour market.
Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa
Sri Lanka has proposed a Digital Nomad Visa program that aims to attract foreign freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to the country. While some details of the program have not been disclosed yet, here's what we know so far:
| Visa Name | Digital Nomad Visa |
|---|---|
| Cost of Visa | Proposed: US$600 |
| Length of Stay | Proposed: 1 Year with an option to renew |
| Income Requirement | Condition not disclosed yet |
| Local Employment | Local employment is not allowed. The applicant must be working/ rendering services to a foreign entity. |
| Allowed Business Activities | Proposed: Tax exemption for earnings Condition not disclosed yet. |
| Additional Requirements | Proposed: A special security clearance should be obtained by the individuals from Sri Lankan embassies in their respective countries Proposed: Bank statements to prove income. |
While Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa is still in the proposal stage, it has the potential to be an attractive option for digital nomads looking to experience the country's rich culture and natural beauty. As with any new visa program, it's important to keep an eye on updates and changes as they are released.
Conclusion
While Indonesia and Sri Lanka offer unique experiences for digital nomads, it's important to carefully consider the visa requirements and restrictions before making a decision. Indonesia's Second Home Visa program has a high income requirement but allows for investment and business activities, while Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa is still in the proposal stage and some details have not yet been disclosed.
Ultimately, the decision to live and work abroad depends on personal preferences and priorities. Both Indonesia and Sri Lanka offer exciting opportunities for digital nomads looking to explore new cultures and landscapes, so do your research and choose the destination that best fits your needs.