More countries in Asia have recently joined the long list of countries worldwide offering digital nomad residency visas.
These programs offer the opportunity for American remote workers to explore new cities, beaches and communities and to immerse yourself in a different culture whilst staying connected to work.
In this article, we provide an overview of the top 5 digital nomad visas in Asia, helping you find the right fit for your next adventure
1. Japan’s digital nomad visa
Japan launched its Digital Nomad Visa in 2024. With its ancient temples, mesmerising landscapes and high-tech cities, Japan offers digital nomads an exciting opportunity to explore one of the world’s ancient and most exotic cultures.
The Digital Nomad visa is valid for six months, which is double the length of time of a tourist visa, however some people can find the relatively short duration and high income requirements limiting.
Requirements
● Duration: 6 months non-extendable, however reapplication is allowed after 6 months outside the country.
● Employment: Remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed freelancers.
● Income requirement: Annual income of at least 10 million Japanese yen (which is around $68,000).
● Insurance requirement: Medical insurance covering at least 10 million yen.
● Application fee: Around 3,000 JPY (about $20 USD).
● Official Website: Japan Ministry of Justice Immigration Services Agency
2. Malaysia digital nomad visa
Modern Malaysian cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Penang have excellent connectivity, thriving expat communities, great public transport, as well as delicious local cuisine. Malaysia’s DE Rantau Nomad Pass is especially appealing for American tech professionals, allowing them to live and work in the country for up to 12 months, with the opportunity to renew for another year.
Beyond city life, Malaysia boasts stunning beaches, dense rainforests, and easy access to other Southeast Asian destinations.
Requirements:
● Duration: Valid for 12 months, with an option to renew for another 12 months.
● Employment: Open to digital freelancers, independent contractors, and remote workers in tech and non-tech industries.
● Income requirement: Minimum annual income of USD $24,000 for tech professionals and USD $60,000 for non-tech professionals. Must provide active project contracts or employment contracts lasting more than three months.
● Insurance requirement: Health insurance valid in Malaysia for at least three months.
● Application fee: RM 1,000 (around $220) for the main applicant, RM 500 (around $110) per dependent.
● Official Website: Malaysia DE Rantau Nomad Pass – MDEC
3. Indonesia
Bali has been a favorite spot for digital nomads for years, thanks to its low cost of living, large community of overseas Americans, beaches, cafes, and coworking spaces. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with a lively social scene makes it a perfect hotspot for remote workers.
To attract more digital nomads, Indonesia launched the Remote Worker Visa (E33G) on April 1, 2024. This visa lets foreigners live in Indonesia whilst working remotely for companies based outside the country.
Requirements:
● Duration: Valid for 12 months, with an option to then renew for another 12 months.
● Employment: Open to remote workers employed by companies registered outside of Indonesia.
● Income requirement: Minimum annual income of USD $60,000, and proof of financial stability with a bank statement showing a minimum of USD 2,000 for the past 3 months.
● Insurance requirement: Health insurance valid for the duration of the stay in Indonesia.
● Application fee: Around USD $150.
● Official website: Link to Indonesia eVisa
4. Thailand
Thailand has been increasing in popularity for remote workers, particularly in locations such as Chiang Mai, due to its relaxed atmosphere, affordable living costs and bustling coworking scene.
The new Digital Nomad Visa, which launched in July 2024, known as the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), makes it easier than ever to live and work in Thailand.
Requirements:
● Duration: Valid for 5 years, with multiple entries allowed. Maximum stay of 180 days per entry.
● Employment: Open to remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads.
● Income requirement: Proof of savings of at least 500,000 baht (approximately USD $14,500) for the past 3 months. Employment documentation from a company outside Thailand or a professional work portfolio for freelancers.
● Application fee: 10,000 Thai Baht (approximately USD $280).
● Official Website: Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) – Thai eVisa
5. Taiwan
Taiwan launched its Digital Nomad Visa in January 2025 with the aim of attracting foreign digital professionals, as well as boosting tourism and the economy.
There are also plans to introduce investment and entrepreneurship opportunities for Digital Nomads in Taiwan, as well as a collaboration between South Korea and Japan to make travelling between these countries as seamless as possible.
Taiwan boasts a low cost of living, a welcoming atmosphere and a lively culture, explaining why it is fast becoming a top location for Americans abroad.
Requirements:
● Duration: Initial stay of up to six months, with the possibility of extension based on program performance.
● Employment: Open to remote workers from countries eligible for Taiwan’s visa-exempt entry.
● Income requirement: Ages 20–29: Annual income of at least USD $20,000; Ages 30 and above: Annual income of at least USD $40,000, or proof of prior issuance of a digital nomad visa from another country.
● Financial requirement: Bank deposits averaging USD $10,000 over the past 6 months.
● Insurance requirement: Valid medical and hospitalization insurance coverage.
● Income requirement: Generally between USD $100 $310, depending on nationality.
● Official Website: Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs
Choosing the right digital nomad visa
Each visa and country has different criteria and benefits, so the best option for you will depend on your situation and preferences.
It is important that you consider factors including the cost of living in the country you’re planning to move to, local tax rules and visa duration when making your decision. It is also important to check that you meet all of the requirements for the visa and you prepare the necessary documentation.
If you have any questions, or need any advice or help, we recommend that you seek advice from an immigration attorney. Consulting an expert can help you to get prepared, ask any questions which you need answered as well as giving you peace of mind if you have any uncertainty.
Note also that all Americans are still subject to US tax reporting requirements while living abroad, and these along with local tax rules affect your ability to invest and your financial planning strategies. This means it’s important to seek advice from expat specialist financial planning and tax professionals before you set off on your adventure abroad to avoid any unwanted surprises down the road.
Digital Nomad visas nonetheless provide an incredible opportunity to explore a new country in Asia while enjoying the freedom of working remotely.
If you have any questions about financial planning as an American living abroad, get in touch.
This article is for informational purposes only; it is not intended to offer advice or guidance on legal, tax, or investment matters. Such advice can be given only with full understanding of a person’s specific situation.
