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Malaysia
AsiaSoutheast Asia

Is Malaysia, Thailand or Indonesia the best place in Southeast Asia to become a digital nomad?

  • According to a June report by the Migration Policy Institute, more than 25 countries globally offer remote work visas
  • Currently, only three countries in Southeast Asia offer visas specifically for digital nomads: Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia

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Southeast Asian countries are rolling out digital nomad visas for people who make at least $2,000 a month. Photo: Shuttestock/File
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Southeast Asia, famous for its tropical weather, beautiful beaches, and low cost of living, draws in millions of tourists every year. For some tourists, it’s also the ideal place to live – and work remotely.
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According to a June report by the Migration Policy Institute, more than 25 countries globally offer remote work visas. That includes Portugal, which requires that remote workers make at least US$2,750 a month, as well as Spain, Italy, and Malta.
Currently, however, only three countries in Southeast Asia offer visas specifically for digital nomads: Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about applying for a digital nomad visa in Southeast Asia.

02:45

Digital nomads flee coronavirus-hit Manila for beach resorts

Digital nomads flee coronavirus-hit Manila for beach resorts

Malaysia

Applications for Malaysia’s DE Rantau Nomad Pass opened on October 1. Applicants to Malaysia’s digital nomad visa are required to have an annual income of at least US$24,000. It costs 1,000 Malaysia ringgit, or US$215, to apply for the visa.

The visa allows remote workers to stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months, with a three-month minimum stay requirement, according to the Malaysia Digital Economy official website. It can be extended for up to 12 additional months, and the spouse and children of remote workers are also allowed to live in Malaysia during the course of the visa’s validity.

Not all digital nomads are eligible for the visa – only freelancers and independent contractors who work in digital industries like IT and online marketing, and remote workers who are employed by non-Malaysian companies, are eligible.

A digital nomad next to the ocean in Malaysia. Photo: Getty Images/File
A digital nomad next to the ocean in Malaysia. Photo: Getty Images/File

Thailand

Thailand launched the Long-Term Resident Program in September, which is meant for four categories of foreign applicants: “Wealthy Global Citizens,” “Wealthy Pensioners,” “Highly-Skilled Professionals,” and “Work-from-Thailand Professionals,” according to the visa’s official website. Remote workers can apply under the last category.

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