How to Legally Stay Long-Term in Asia as a Remote Work
So, you’ve decided to pack your bags, leave the cubicle behind, and work remotely from paradise. But here’s the catch: how do you actually stay legally long-term in places like Bali, Thailand, or Vietnam?
Visa-Free Stays Aren’t Enough
Most Southeast Asian countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options for 30 to 90 days. Great for holidays, not so great when you’re working and planning to stay a while. That’s where things get tricky for digital nomads who want to go beyond short stays.
What Are Your Options?
- Indonesia (Bali): In 2023, Indonesia announced plans for a digital nomad visa that lets you stay up to 5 years without paying local taxes—as long as your income comes from outside the country. While it's still rolling out, current options include the B211A visa or business visas that can be extended up to 6 months.
- Thailand: Thailand offers a Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa for remote workers and entrepreneurs. It’s valid for 10 years but requires proof of income and/or investment. If that’s too much, tourist visas and elite visas are alternatives.
- Vietnam: Currently lacks a formal digital nomad visa, but many remote workers use business or extended tourist visas, renewing every 3 months or doing occasional border runs.
- Malaysia: The DE Rantau Nomad Pass allows remote workers and freelancers to stay for up to 12 months, with possible renewals.
What About Taxes?
This is the part most people ignore. If you stay long enough in a country, you might become a tax resident. Each country has different rules (usually based on 183-day thresholds), so consult a tax advisor or do solid research before committing to a long-term stay.
Pro Tips for Staying Smooth
- Join local digital nomad groups on Facebook or Reddit for real-time info
- Always have a return ticket or proof of onward travel
- Keep your health insurance updated (travel + international coverage)
- Respect local customs—being a guest means staying humble
If you're working abroad or have experienced struggles while living in another country, share your journey and inspire others through your story.
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