Best Countries in Asia for Digital Nomads
Asia is a top destination for digital nomads, offering a mix of affordability, strong internet, great culture, and vibrant communities. Here’s a guide to the best countries for digital nomads in Asia, covering costs, visa options, internet speed, and lifestyle.
1. Thailand
🌟 Why Thailand?
Thailand is one of the most popular digital nomad hubs, thanks to its low cost of living, great infrastructure, and thriving nomad community.
Best Cities for Nomads
Chiang Mai – Affordable, quiet, and full of coworking spaces.
Bangkok – A fast-paced city with excellent amenities.
Phuket – Beach lifestyle with good internet and cafes.
Cost of Living
Rent (1-bedroom apartment): $300–$800/month
Coworking Space: $50–$150/month
Meals: $1–$5 per meal at street markets
Internet & Infrastructure
Average speed: 200+ Mbps in major cities
Plenty of coworking spaces and cafés with fast WiFi
Visa Options
Tourist Visa (60 days, extendable to 90 days)
Smart Visa (up to 4 years for remote workers & entrepreneurs)
Education Visa (for learning Thai, long-term stay)
2. Indonesia (Bali & Jakarta)
🌟 Why Indonesia?
Bali is one of the world’s top digital nomad destinations, offering a tropical lifestyle, affordable costs, and a strong nomad community.
Best Cities for Nomads
Bali (Canggu, Ubud) – A paradise for remote workers with many coworking spaces.
Jakarta – More urban, great for networking with professionals.
Cost of Living
Rent: $400–$1,200/month in Bali
Coworking Space: $50–$200/month
Meals: $2–$6 per meal
Internet & Infrastructure
Average speed: 50–100 Mbps (Bali), 150+ Mbps (Jakarta)
Coworking spaces like Dojo Bali & Outpost offer reliable internet
Visa Options
Tourist Visa (up to 60 days, extendable)
New Digital Nomad Visa (potentially offering 5 years tax-free status)
3. Vietnam
🌟 Why Vietnam?
Vietnam is one of the cheapest yet most exciting places for digital nomads, with excellent food, strong WiFi, and a growing community.
Best Cities for Nomads
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Fast internet, cheap cost of living, lively atmosphere.
Hanoi – Traditional charm with modern comforts.
Da Nang – Beach city with a laid-back lifestyle.
Cost of Living
Rent: $300–$700/month
Coworking Space: $50–$150/month
Meals: $1–$4 per meal
Internet & Infrastructure
Average speed: 100–300 Mbps
Many coworking spaces and coffee shops with fiber-optic internet
Visa Options
Tourist Visa (up to 90 days, extendable)
Business Visa (longer stays possible, often used by remote workers)
4. Malaysia
🌟 Why Malaysia?
Malaysia is a hidden gem for digital nomads, offering modern infrastructure, fast internet, and a mix of cultures.
Best Cities for Nomads
Kuala Lumpur – Big city life with great coworking spaces.
Penang – Slower pace, rich history, and good internet.
Cost of Living
Rent: $400–$1,000/month
Coworking Space: $50–$150/month
Meals: $2–$6 per meal
Internet & Infrastructure
Average speed: 100–500 Mbps
Excellent public transport and modern coworking spaces
Visa Options
Tourist Visa (90 days for many nationalities)
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) – Long-term visa option
5. Georgia (Bonus: Transcontinental Option)
🌟 Why Georgia?
Georgia is technically in the Caucasus, between Europe and Asia, but it's an excellent option for digital nomads due to its visa policy and affordability.
Best Cities for Nomads
Tbilisi – A growing nomad hub with great cafes and coworking spaces.
Batumi – Seaside city with a relaxed vibe.
Cost of Living
Rent: $300–$800/month
Coworking Space: $50–$150/month
Meals: $3–$7 per meal
Internet & Infrastructure
Average speed: 50–100 Mbps
Free WiFi in many public places
Visa Options
One-year visa-free stay for many nationalities
Final Thoughts
For beach lovers, Bali and Phuket are top choices. If you prefer big cities with modern infrastructure, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok are great. For budget-conscious nomads, Vietnam and Georgia are excellent options.
Best Overall?
Most Affordable: Vietnam
Best for Beaches: Bali, Phuket
Best for Long-Term Stay: Thailand, Georgia
Fastest Internet: Malaysia, Thailand
Where do you see yourself working from next?
