Best Country in Asia to Work and Save Money: A Guide for Digital Nomads

Bali, Indonesia, offers digital nomads fast internet, affordable accommodation, and co-working spaces. Other top choices include Chiang Mai, Thailand; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. These locations provide reliable internet, low living costs, and vibrant expat communities.
Best Country in Asia to Work and Save Money: A Guide for Digital Nomads
Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri / Unsplash

If you're looking for a great country in Asia to get some work done while saving money, several destinations offer fast internet, affordable accommodation, and plenty of co-working spaces. This guide will help you find the perfect spot near Perth, Australia, to focus on your work.

Why Choose Asia?

Asia is known for its lower cost of living, diverse cultures, and growing infrastructure catering to digital nomads. Many countries in Asia offer excellent facilities for remote work, making them ideal for getting work done efficiently and comfortably.

Top Recommendation: Bali, Indonesia

Bali has emerged as a top choice for digital nomads due to its vibrant community, affordable living costs, and extensive co-working spaces. Its proximity to Perth, Australia, makes it a convenient choice for those needing to return frequently.

In Bali, you'll find reliable internet connections, particularly in areas popular with remote workers like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak. The island offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious villas, catering to various preferences and budgets. Co-working spaces are abundant, providing comfortable environments equipped with all necessary amenities to ensure productivity.

Beyond work, Bali offers a rich cultural experience with its beautiful landscapes, vibrant local culture, and numerous recreational activities, from surfing to yoga. The combination of work-friendly facilities and a high quality of life makes Bali an ideal destination for remote workers.

Additional Recommendations

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is renowned for its affordability and strong infrastructure, making it another popular destination for digital nomads. The city boasts widely available fast internet, and a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget apartments to upscale residences. Chiang Mai is also home to numerous co-working spaces and cafes that cater to remote workers, providing comfortable and productive environments. The city's laid-back atmosphere, combined with its vibrant expat community, makes it a great place to focus on work while enjoying a slower pace of life.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural experiences. The city provides high-speed internet and a range of affordable housing options. Kuala Lumpur's numerous co-working spaces are equipped with all necessary facilities to ensure a productive work environment. Additionally, the city's diverse culture and excellent public transportation system make it an attractive place for digital nomads seeking both convenience and adventure.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City is an emerging hub for digital nomads, known for its dynamic atmosphere and low cost of living. The city offers reliable and fast internet services, and a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. The growing number of co-working spaces in Ho Chi Minh City provides remote workers with various choices for their working environment. The city's energetic vibe, combined with its historical significance and culinary delights, makes it an exciting place to live and work.

Visa Considerations

Most Asian countries offer relatively easy tourist visa applications, making it convenient for digital nomads to live and work temporarily.

  • Bali, Indonesia: Tourist visas are typically easy to obtain, with visa-on-arrival options for many nationalities. This makes it a hassle-free destination for short-term stays.
  • Thailand: Offers visa exemptions and tourist visas with straightforward application processes. Thailand's flexible visa policies make it an attractive destination for remote workers.
  • Malaysia: Visa-free entry for many nationalities for stays of up to 90 days. Malaysia's welcoming visa policies are conducive to longer stays for digital nomads.
  • Vietnam: Offers e-visas and visa-on-arrival options for many travelers. Vietnam's visa policies are designed to accommodate the needs of remote workers and tourists alike.

Practical Tips

Before choosing a destination, it is important to research visa requirements for your nationality. Ensure that you have all necessary documentation and understand the duration of stay allowed. Additionally, booking accommodation in advance, especially in popular digital nomad hubs, can save you time and stress upon arrival. Researching co-working spaces in your chosen destination can help you find a workspace that meets your needs for internet speed and amenities.


Bali, Indonesia, stands out as a top destination for digital nomads looking to work and save money in Asia. With its fast internet, affordable accommodation, and numerous co-working spaces, Bali offers an ideal environment for productivity and comfort. Other great options include Chiang Mai, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City. By choosing the right destination, you can maximize your efficiency and enjoy a rich cultural experience while working remotely.

For more in-depth advice and resources, we recommend our other articles in our "Travel Tips and Miles" section.

As a bonus, we have a more in-depth guide for out top spot, Bali, below!

How Much Does It Actually Cost to Live in Bali as a Digital Nomad?
Living in Bali as a digital nomad can cost around $1,275 per month, including rent ($500-$800 for a one-bedroom villa), utilities ($50-$100), internet ($30-$50), food ($200-$300), transportation ($50-$70 for a scooter), and coworking space ($100-$200). Flights to Bali range from $500 to $1,200.

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