For the diversity of travel alternatives, networking opportunities, and comparably inexpensive cost of living, many digital nomads choose Asia as their home (in some countries). In this article, we’ll talk about working remotely in Asia, working holiday visas, and whether or not you should work on a tourist visa.
Should a Tourist Visa be used to Work in Asia?
Digital nomads typically make use of 90-day tourist visas, which are based on passport privileges, or additional tourist visa options that allow you to remain even longer for non-work-related reasons, such as the:
- Thailand Study Visas and Six-Month Visas
- Indonesia Social Cultural Visa (B-211 Visa Budaya)
- Philippines Long Stay Visitor Visa
- Cambodia Retirement Visa
The hitch, of course, is that you shouldn’t be using these visas for employment. Many remote work organizations are unhappy with their employees engaging in technically unlawful conduct and in danger of penalties or even detention, even though many digital nomads have operated under this arrangement.
It’s essential to research the regulations in each country you work in if you’re a freelancer, owns your own company, or work for an employer there. For example, online work is a grey area in some countries, where it is a general rule that no labor is permitted. In addition, the definition of “work” varies depending on the country or immigration officer and how their regulations are applied.
The lifestyle of moving around and performing border runs, however, can quickly become weary and makes people susceptible to unexpected changes.
Digital nomads undoubtedly want a visa situation that lets them work abroad, be entitled to some residency rights within the country they are staying in, and with the possibility of extending their visa if they are settled because holding down full-time work duties while keeping an eye on your visa is not ideal.
Thus, the current visas for Asia are included below, which permit lawful employment. They can offer you a base in a strange, fascinating nation and the security you require.
We believe that this will need frequent updating due to the growing interest in remote work and the efforts being made by various nations to lure talent (and money).
Suitable Asia Visas for digital nomads
If you don’t qualify for working holiday visas, there are now very few legal opportunities to work in Asia. Nonetheless, as things are evolving quickly, ideally, this list will grow significantly over time.
Georgia Visa
We’ve also highlighted this excellent remote work visa option in our favorite European visas for digital nomads guide because Georgia is on the border of Asia and Europe.
Yet, it is recognized as an Asian nation and continues to be an excellent choice for anyone wishing to work remotely in a welcoming and vibrant country. You must demonstrate a least US$2,000 monthly salary and a yearly health insurance policy.
Georgia is the ideal destination for anyone wishing to travel off the beaten path because of its central location between Europe and Asia, incredible natural landscape for fresh air, delicious food, and low cost of living. In addition, the internet is quick and affordable.
Georgia has long been extraordinarily kind, allowing citizens of 98 nations to stay for up to a year. The “Remotely from Georgia” visa, now available in 95 countries, including the UK, USA, and Canada, enables you to operate your online business legally for up to a year with the option of an extension.
Apply online at the Remotely from Georgia website to obtain a Remotely in Georgia visa. Almost a thousand people have already filed for the key as of right now.
Japan Artist Visa
Self-sponsored Japan visas are among the more challenging to obtain and have a low acceptance rate, but given that many people dream of living in Japan for an extended period, they might be worthwhile to try. In addition, if you are qualified as an artist and have a degree, you should consider applying for a self-sponsored visa.
People under thirty also provide a working holiday visa, which is easier to apply for, has a far higher success rate, and may be helpful for an artist visa down the road. Composers, lyricists, painters, sculptors, craftspeople, authors, and photographers who participate in creative endeavors are among the several categories of creative arts educators.
Work visas for South Korean and K-Culture Visas
South Korea is the first country in East Asia to offer a dedicated visa that allows digital nomads and remote workers to live, work, and experience Korean culture firsthand. In addition, the country just announced the debut of its digital nomad-friendly workcation visa and K-Culture.
The program aims to attract top talent worldwide by introducing them to K-culture and enabling digital entrepreneurs to broaden their professional horizons beyond their native nations. Additionally, the visa gives digital nomads more freedom and assurance that they may maintain contact while taking advantage of South Korea’s potential. Up to two years will allow visitors to explore their interests in Korea.
Ultimately, this long-awaited action heralds a more digital future, elevating South Korea to the top of the list of travel destinations for digital nomads worldwide. Later this year, the visas are expected to be on sale.
UAE Remote Working Visa
The UAE can be the place for you if you need some time by the beach and scorching weather. For those wishing to discover more of the United Arab Emirates and the stunning natural surroundings of neighboring nations like Oman while taking advantage of the kind of luxuries available only in the UAE, Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a wealth of travel choices.
Anyone who enjoys brunch, shopping in top-notch malls, relaxing on exclusive beaches, or traveling to party islands will find it easy to get used to living in Dubai.
There are prohibitions on alcoholic beverages and pig items because it is a Muslim nation. But, it’s not difficult to drink excessively because hotel bars are the places to indulge, and Westerners are catered to by specialty shops that sell anything you would need that isn’t commonly accessible. On the other hand, most chain stores and eateries are accessible, and the wifi is excellent.
The drawback is that Dubai’s exorbitant cost of living is mirrored in the visa requirement that you must make $5000 per month from your employer or business. Also, you’ll require health insurance that is valid in the UAE.
Perhaps, there will be a lot more remote work Asia visas accessible shortly, given the continuously changing environment.