Imagine swapping rainy UK mornings for sun-soaked beaches and lush green rice fields. Bali, Indonesia, isn’t just a dream destination for holidaymakers—it’s becoming an attractive spot for those who want to work remotely or even get paid to relocate. Yes, you read that correctly. Some programs, companies, and lifestyle shifts can make moving to this tropical paradise while earning money a reality. If you’ve been curious about how this all works and whether you could make the leap, this guide is here to break it all down.
From understanding why Bali is such a hotspot for expats to exploring whether you can get paid to move there, we’ll cover everything you need to know. Whether you’re looking for remote work or considering programs that assist with relocation, keep reading to discover how to turn this vision into your reality.
Why Move to Bali?
Before we explore the options of getting paid to move or work remotely, it’s worth understanding what makes Bali so appealing. Known for its stunning landscapes, affordable cost of living, and vibrant expat community, this Indonesian island has something for everyone. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a digital nomad, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Bali offers unique advantages:
1. Natural Beauty
Bali’s landscapes are postcard-perfect. From white sandy beaches like Uluwatu and Seminyak to iconic rice terraces in Ubud, the island offers breathtaking views daily. It’s the kind of place where finishing your workday means heading out to watch the sunset over the ocean.
2. Affordable Lifestyle
The cost of living in Bali is significantly lower than in most parts of the UK. You could rent a private villa with a pool for less than the cost of a London studio flat. Meals at local restaurants (called warungs) can cost as little as £1-£3, and transportation, such as renting a scooter, is equally budget-friendly.
3. Thriving Expat Community
Bali has become a hub for digital nomads, offering coworking spaces, networking events, and even communities built entirely for remote workers. Places like Canggu and Ubud are teeming with like-minded individuals looking to build careers or businesses while enjoying a slower-paced, tropical lifestyle.
4. Warm Weather All Year
Say goodbye to cold, bleak winters. Bali’s climate is generally warm and sunny year-round. While there’s a rainy season, many expats don’t mind it because the warmth and the lushness of the surroundings make it easier to handle.
5. Focus on Work-Life Balance
The culture in Bali promotes balance, wellness, and mindfulness. From yoga retreats to wellness cafes and meditation classes, the island fosters a lifestyle that combines productivity with well-being.
These factors alone make moving to Bali an attractive idea, but when paired with opportunities to earn an income or even get financial assistance to relocate, it’s a game-changer.
Can You Really Get Paid to Move to Bali?
The concept of getting paid to move somewhere isn’t entirely new. Some countries and organizations offer relocation programs to attract skilled workers or digital nomads to their regions, and Bali is no exception. Below, we’ll explore pathways that could help you offset the cost of relocation or even pay for your move entirely.
1. Remote Work Programs
Many companies worldwide have embraced remote work, allowing employees to live anywhere. Some of these companies even offer stipends for relocation or “workation” arrangements where employees get paid to move temporarily to a destination like Bali. If you already work for a remote-friendly company, it’s worth inquiring about whether they offer any support for relocations like this.
For example, some companies provide housing stipends, coworking space memberships, or even reimbursements for airfare when employees choose to work remotely from abroad for extended periods.
2. Digital Nomad-Friendly Visas
While not a way to directly get paid, Bali’s government has introduced plans for a long-term digital nomad visa that can make moving there more feasible for remote workers. This five-year visa proposal allows individuals earning income from outside Indonesia to live in Bali tax-free. Such arrangements put more money into your pocket while enabling you to enjoy tropical living.
3. Freelancing While Living in Bali
If you’re a freelancer or gig worker, moving to Bali can be financially savvy. Many freelancers experience higher quality of life thanks to Bali’s lower living costs. For example, web developers, graphic designers, and writers earning UK-level rates find that their money stretches significantly further in Bali, effectively reducing their working hours without sacrificing their income.
4. Relocation Incentives and Community Projects
While Bali itself doesn’t run government programs to pay foreigners to move there, opportunities do exist. For instance, some international startups in the sustainability or tourism industries might offer incentives to skilled individuals willing to relocate to Bali. This often includes positions in tech, teaching, or environmental preservation.
Additionally, participating in volunteering projects or teaching English in Bali can sometimes lead to organizations assisting with housing or other expenses. While it’s not the same as cash-in-hand relocation, it can certainly reduce the financial burden.
5. Building Passive Income Before You Go
Another popular approach among UK expats is building streams of passive income, like rental income from properties back home, affiliate marketing, or investments, before moving to Bali. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new lifestyle rather than working long hours, effectively “paying themselves to live there.”
How UK Residents Can Move to Bali
For UK residents aiming to make this transition, there are some practical steps to consider. Bali has its own unique visa and entry requirements, and preparation is key to a smooth relocation. Here’s a methodical guide to follow:
1. Secure a Visa
The Indonesian government offers various types of visas depending on your purpose for staying. For remote workers, the most popular options include:
- Social-Cultural Visa (B211A): Designed for short-term stays of up to 6 months.
- KITAS (Temporary Stay Visa): Common for working expats or retirees.
- Potential Digital Nomad Visa: If and when implemented, this will offer long-term tax-free living to remote workers earning overseas income.
Research the visa option that suits your intended length of stay and work arrangements. You’ll also need to budget for visa agents or immigration services to assist with the process.
2. Have a Financial Cushion
Even if you’re moving to Bali with the goal of working remotely or freelancing, it’s always wise to save enough to cover at least six months of expenses. This ensures you have a safety net as you adjust to island life and find your footing with work arrangements.
3. Set Up Remote Work Logistics
If you work remotely, make sure you’ve addressed key logistics:
- A stable income source
- Reliable internet (Coworking spaces in Bali often provide excellent connections)
- A time-zone-compatible work schedule
UK workers adjusting to Bali time may find themselves starting earlier in the morning to align with European working hours, but this can free up afternoons for relaxation or exploration.
4. Health Insurance and Vaccines
It’s essential to have travel or international health insurance that covers you while living in Bali. Check policies for coverage of common tropical illnesses or emergencies. Additionally, verify whether you need certain vaccinations (like typhoid or Hepatitis A) before moving.
5. Network Before You Go
Join expat forums or Facebook groups related to Bali living. UK expat communities in Bali are active online and provide valuable advice about finding housing, visa challenges, and adapting to the lifestyle.
Living the Dream
Once you’ve made the move, it doesn’t take long to adjust to Bali’s laid-back vibe. While there are challenges, such as navigating occasional power outages or adapting to a slower pace of bureaucracy, most expats agree the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages.
Whether it’s enjoying freshly brewed Balinese coffee in Ubud or an early morning surf session in Canggu, Bali offers a lifestyle that blends excitement and tranquility in perfect balance. For UK residents looking to work remotely, create a freelance career, or even explore ways to “get paid to move,” this tropical paradise opens doors to opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.
Are you ready to pack your bags and explore what life could look like on the Island of the Gods?