Comparing Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: United Arab Emirates vs Indonesia

Introduction

Are you considering becoming a digital nomad and traveling to the United Arab Emirates or Indonesia? These two countries have created virtual working programs as part of their efforts to attract digital nomads. In this blog post, we will discuss the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa for the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced the Virtual Working Programme (VWP) in March 2021. The cost of the visa is US$611, which includes application fees, processing fees, pre-application medical exam, and emirates ID. The applicant must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must have health insurance with UAE coverage validity. Proof of employment from the current employer with a one-year contract validity is required. Additionally, the applicant must have a minimum salary of US$5,000 per month, along with the last month's payslip and the past three months' bank statement. Business owners must provide proof of ownership of their business and should have an average monthly income of US$5,000 along with the preceding three months' bank statement.

Virtual Program Limitations

Virtual Program document holders and their dependents are not allowed to perform work for a local employer in Dubai or provide any services to any person or entity carrying out business in Dubai.

Virtual Program Renewal

The VWP is valid for one year, renewable upon re-application.

Indonesia

Indonesia's Second Home Visa offers digital nomads the opportunity to stay in the country for up to 5 or 10 years, depending on the program. The applicant is required to have proof of funds of at least Rp. 2 Billion or equivalent in a bank account owned by a Guarantor or Foreigner. The visa fee is Rp 3 million, and the applicant must possess a national passport with a validity of at least 36 months and provide a recent color photograph with a white background and dimensions of 4cm x 6cm. Additionally, the applicant cannot enter the local labor market but will be allowed to carry out investment and other activities.

Second Home Visa Limitations

The applicant is required to have at least Rp 2 billion or equivalent in a bank account owned by a Guarantor or a Foreigner. The applicant cannot enter the local labor market.

Second Home Visa Renewal

The length of stay is 5 or 10 years (awaiting confirmation from the authorities), but renewal details are not yet available.

Conclusion

United Arab Emirates and Indonesia offer unique opportunities for digital nomads with their Virtual Working Programme and Second Home Visa programs, respectively. The requirements for obtaining these visas differ in terms of eligibility criteria and costs. It's crucial to consider these factors before making a decision on which program to apply for as a digital nomad.<./p>