ย Where Can You Legally Work Remotely?
Asia has become one of the best regions for digital nomads. With a low cost of living, fast internet, and diverse cultures, many remote workers are choosing Asia as their base. Some countries offer dedicated digital nomad visas, while others have alternative options that allow remote workers to stay legally.
This guide covers six Asian countries that officially offer digital nomad visas. We’ll break down eligibility, visa costs, and length of stay, along with alternative visa options for those who donโt meet the primary requirements.
II. Digital Nomad Visa Overview โ Quick Comparison
| Country | Visa Name | Length | Income Requirement | Cost | Alternative Options |
| Indonesia ๐ฎ๐ฉ | Digital Nomad Visa (KITAS) | 5 years | $3,000/month | Varies | Business Visa, Social Visa |
| Malaysia ๐ฒ๐พ | DE Rantau Nomad Visa | 3โ12 months | $24,000/year | $220 | MM2H Retirement Visa |
| Sri Lanka ๐ฑ๐ฐ | Digital Nomad Visa | 1 year | $2,000/month | $500 | Tourist Visa (180 days) |
| Taiwan ๐น๐ผ | Gold Card Visa | 1โ3 years | Varies by field | $100โ$310 | Entrepreneur Visa |
| Thailand ๐น๐ญ | Long-Term Resident (LTR) | 10 years | $80,000/year | $600+ | Smart Visa, Tourist Visa |
| UAE ๐ฆ๐ช | Remote Work Visa | 1 year | $5,000/month | $287 | Freelancer Visa |
Official Visa Sources
- Indonesia ๐ฎ๐ฉ โ Immigration Indonesia
- Malaysia ๐ฒ๐พ โ MDEC Malaysia โ DE Rantau Visa
- Sri Lanka ๐ฑ๐ฐ โ Sri Lanka Immigration
- Taiwan ๐น๐ผ โ Taiwan Gold Card Program
- Thailand ๐น๐ญ โ Thailand BOI โ LTR Visa
- UAE ๐ฆ๐ช โ UAE Government โ Remote Work Visa
III. Country Breakdown โ Digital Nomad Visa Details
1. Indonesia ๐ฎ๐ฉ โ 5-Year Digital Nomad Visa
Indonesia, especially Bali, is a top destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, strong expat community, and vibrant coworking spaces.
- Length: 5 years
- Income Requirement: $3,000/month
- Cost: Varies
- Official Source: Immigration Indonesia
2. Malaysia ๐ฒ๐พ โ DE Rantau Nomad Visa (3-12 Months)
Malaysia offers fast internet, modern infrastructure, and low living costs, making it a great spot for digital nomads.
- Length: 3 to 12 months
- Income Requirement: $24,000/year
- Cost: $220
- Official Source: MDEC Malaysia
3. Sri Lanka ๐ฑ๐ฐ โ 1-Year Digital Nomad Visa
Sri Lanka is a great option for budget-conscious digital nomads looking for a tropical setting and low costs.
- Length: 1 year
- Income Requirement: $2,000/month
- Cost: $500
- Official Source: Sri Lanka Immigration
4. Taiwan ๐น๐ผ โ Gold Card Visa (1-3 Years)
Taipei is known for its ultra-fast internet, excellent healthcare, and tech scene.
- Length: 1-3 years
- Income Requirement: Varies by profession
- Cost: $100-$310
- Official Source: Taiwan Gold Card Program
5. Thailand ๐น๐ญ โ 10-Year Long-Term Resident Visa
Thailand is a top choice for digital nomads, with affordable living and strong communities in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
- Length: 10 years
- Income Requirement: $80,000/year
- Cost: $600+
- Official Source: Thailand BOI
6. UAE ๐ฆ๐ช โ 1-Year Remote Work Visa
Dubai offers zero income tax, world-class infrastructure, and strong business opportunities.
- Length: 1 year
- Income Requirement: $5,000/month
- Cost: $287
- Official Source: UAE Government
IV. Conclusion
Asia is quickly becoming one of the top regions for digital nomads, with six countries now offering dedicated digital nomad visas. Whether you’re looking for long-term residency, low taxes, or affordability, there’s a visa that can match your needs.
Before applying, always double-check visa requirements with official sources, as immigration policies can change.
