10 Best Places to Work Remotely in Asia, Digital Nomad's Guide

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Since COVID-19 showed us how convenient remote work can be, more and more people are interested in finding the best places to work remotely. People who choose to work from anywhere, rather than a fixed office, are often referred to as digital nomads.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, a digital nomad refers to someone who does not have a permanent office or home and works from different countries, towns, or buildings using the internet.  

The term digital nomad was first introduced by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners in 1997 through their book The Digital Nomad. Meanwhile, Investopedia stated that the term digital nomad is widely known to portray people who make a living by working remotely while vacationing abroad. 

Here are the 10 best places to work remotely in Asia as cited from Asia Rising TV and The Digital Nomad. 

1. China

Known for its mouthwatering delicacies, China offers the best conveniences to the digital nomad across the borders. The country has a fair reputation within the investor community, boosting a higher chance to provide lower living costs. 

China tops the list of best places to work remotely primarily because a working visa isn’t a prerequisite for digital nomads, allowing more foreigners to have their work done during a vacation. 

2. South Korea 

More digital nomads are eyeing South Korea to work remotely for the country’s Digital Nomad Visa. The legal permit issued by the government grants international visitors to extend their stay while doing their remote work. 

The nation has a perfect fusion of cultural heritage and technological advancements, solidifying its fame as one of the best places to work remotely. 

3. Cambodia 

Situated near Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos, the Kingdom of Cambodia is the perfect sanctuary for people who love adventure. Lush jungle, picturesque scenery, and culturally infused architecture welcome foreign tourists with open arms. 

Cambodia has also grown into a digital nomad-friendly country with more co-working spaces established in the last years. E-visa submission facilitates tourists who wish to extend their stay hassle-free. 

4. Malaysia 

Digital nomads benefit from Professional Visit Passes in Malaysia as the legal paper has less strict employment categories. While an employment pass (EP) requires a minimum monthly wage at working age, Professional Visit Pass (PVP) allows younger people below 18 to apply. 

As cited from Malaysia’s official immigration site, Visit Pass (Professional) are issued to foreign nationals who wish to remain and provide specific professional visits for a short period in Malaysia. 

Digital nomads may explore the culturally rich lifestyle in Malaysia at a reasonable price under the safeguard of PVP.  

5. Singapore 

Singapore is renowned as one of the safest Asian countries featuring a number of office workers. Its efficient public transportation is coupled with hefty entertainment, leaving no room for locals alike to dwell in boredom. 

Digital nomads are eligible to enter the country with a Work Holiday Visa which grants foreigners a short period of stay. 

6. Vietnam 

Despite not having a particular umbrella for digital nomads, Vietnam ranks fairly high in the list of best places to work remotely due to its affordable living cost. Foreigners are offered a high quality of life featuring scenic scenery and flavorful delicacies. 

7. Philipines 

According to Visa Guide News, the Philippines is in the process of issuing digital nomad visas to boost its tourism. Unlike the other work permits, this visa specifically allows more tourists to work remotely from the country. Digital nomad holders will be eligible for a longer stay of up to 2 years. 

8. United Arab Emirates 

The UAE allows digital nomads to obtain Remote Working Visas. The only downside of having remote work in the UAE is its high standard of living.  

9. Japan 

Similar to the Philippines, Japan is preparing to issue a digital nomad visa which permits foreigners to work remotely for clients outside the country. Japan’s buzzing lifestyle will be perfect to accompany digital nomads. 

10. India 

India has a relatively low living cost that earns it a place in the best places to work remotely. The vibrant country offers attractive tourism with its majestic architecture.  

Digital nomads often regard low-cost living countries in Asia with efficient public convenience as the best places to work remotely. 

The Digital Nomad / Asia Rising TV

Editor's Choice: Work From Anywhere; Tips for Thriving as a Digital Nomad

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