Over the last decade, Bali has become a top destination for solopreneurs and remote working parents, especially those moving to Bali with kids. With its breathtaking natural beauty, affordable cost of living, and family-friendly culture, Bali offers the perfect environment for families seeking a balanced work-life lifestyle while working remotely in Bali. If you’re considering relocating to Bali, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the move and settle seamlessly into your new island home, including tips on coworking in Bali.
Why Bali is Perfect for Solopreneurs and Remote Working Parents
What to Prepare Before Moving to Bali with kids
The Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bali
Coworking in Bali: Ten of the Best Spaces for Remote Workers and Families
Working Remotely in Bali
Before moving to Bali with kids, one of the most important steps for remote working parents is selecting the right visa for your family. The Remote Worker KITAS is the ideal option for those working remotely in Bali.
The KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas), or “Limited Stay Permit Card,” was introduced by the Indonesian government to position Bali as a top destination for remote workers. This visa enables digital nomads and remote professionals to live and work in Indonesia while enjoying the island’s diverse cultures and breathtaking natural environments.
To be eligible for the Remote Worker KITAS, you must have an employment contract with a registered foreign company and demonstrate a minimum annual income of US$60,000 through salary or bank statements. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed, allowing you to sponsor family members under the Dependent/Family KITAS. It’s essential to apply for this visa before entering Indonesia at an Indonesian embassy or consulate. A great benefit is that this visa has no tax obligations for remote workers in Bali.
Pro Tip: For the latest visa requirements, health protocols, and other essential information, visit Welcome Back to Bali, an initiative by the Bali Hotels Association.
Why Bali is Perfect for Solopreneurs and Remote Working Parents
Bali has become a top destination for solopreneurs and remote working parents with kids, thanks to its strong family-centric culture. In Balinese society, children are cherished as life’s greatest gift, and this welcoming attitude is reflected across the island, making it one of the most family-friendly destinations for those moving to Bali with kids. Whether you’re in a bustling town or a serene village, locals warmly greet children, helping families feel at home while living and working remotely in Bali.
Here are the key reasons why Bali is ideal for remote workers with kids:
1. Family-Friendly Community: Bali has a thriving expatriate community, including many families with children. This creates a supportive environment where parents can connect with others going through similar experiences. Popular Facebook groups like Our Year in Bali, Kids & Families in Bali, Moms in Bali, and Bali Nannies & Families and Instagram accounts such as @ouryearinbali, @semicuratedlife, and @littlebalilove provide helpful resources and networking opportunities and showcase the family-friendly lifestyle on the island.
2. Affordable Cost of Living: Bali offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to Western countries like Australia, the UK, and the US. Families in Bali can enjoy affordable housing, childcare, and education without breaking the bank. Many expats report a 20–40% reduction in their living expenses, which allows for a more balanced and comfortable work-life situation.
3. Diverse Daycare and Education Options: Bali is home to a growing number of daycare centers staffed by trained professionals who specialize in early childhood education. For older children, there are several international schools offering a variety of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), as well as Australian and British programs. These schools emphasize holistic development, creativity, and cultural awareness, ensuring a well-rounded education for kids.
4. Rich Cultural Experiences: Living in Bali provides endless opportunities for children to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage. From local festivals and traditional art workshops to museum visits and cultural performances, children can immerse themselves in diverse perspectives, enhancing their global understanding.
5. Outdoor Activities: Bali’s natural beauty offers an abundance of outdoor activities for families. Whether it’s beach outings, jungle treks, volcano hikes, or exploring rice terraces, Bali encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. It’s the perfect setting for parents who want their kids to appreciate nature and spend more time outdoors.
6. Child-focused Facilities: Bali offers a wide range of kid-friendly facilities, from the famous Bali Farm House in Bedugul to the newly opened AeroXSpace indoor adventure park. Families can also visit the children’s bookshop and reading room Si Kecil, or enjoy a day at Waterbom, Asia’s most sustainable waterpark. For more ideas, check out this list of 79 family-friendly activities on Honeycombers, a popular website for all things Bali-related.
What to Prepare Before Moving to Bali with Kids
Before you embark on your Bali adventure, there are several essential things to organize that will make your transition smoother. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, ticking off these key items will help you settle in with ease!
1. Visa Requirements: Ensure you research and apply for the correct visa that fits your family’s needs. For remote workers, the Remote Worker KITAS is an ideal option (details mentioned above), but there are also other visas available depending on your circumstances. Preparing this in advance will save you time and stress upon arrival.
2. Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is a must for expats living in Bali. Medical costs for foreigners without insurance can be quite high, especially for hospital stays or emergency procedures. Make sure your health insurance policy covers your family while living abroad.
3. Schooling Plans: If you’re moving with kids, look into Bali’s schooling options that match your preferences. It’s a good idea to enroll your children early to secure a spot. Start by asking for recommendations in one of the above Facebook groups, or consult the Our Year in Bali team for expert advice on choosing the right school. They have one of the most comprehensive lists of international schools on the island.
4. Accommodation Arrangements: Research family-friendly neighborhoods close to schools and healthcare facilities. Popular areas include Ubud, Sanur, and Canggu, which are known for their strong expat communities. Facebook groups like Bali Villa Rental and Sale, Ubud Housing & Rental, Sanur Community, and Canggu Community Housing – Villas & Apartments are excellent resources for finding suitable housing.
5. Cultural Awareness: Understanding Balinese culture and customs will help your family integrate and enhance your experience. Spend time learning about local etiquette and traditions. Start by reading cultural guides on Bali.com or Honeycombers, which offer insights into life on the island.
6. Health and Vaccinations: Consult with your healthcare provider regarding necessary vaccinations for Bali. Pay special attention to the rabies vaccine, as rabies is a public health concern in Bali. For detailed information on health services, refer to the Welcome Back to Bali website, which provides a comprehensive list of hospitals on the island.
The Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Bali
Bali offers a range of family-friendly neighborhoods, each with a unique mix of culture, amenities, nature, and activities. From tranquil beaches to exciting playgrounds, these areas are ideal for families seeking convenience, fun, and a supportive environment.
Sanur
Known for its laidback vibe, Sanur on Bali’s southeast coast is a favorite among families, and for good reason. As the home of the Livit Hub, Sanur offers a serene setting with its protected coastline, which features a calm, shallow lagoon ideal for young children. The paved beachfront walkway—Bali’s first—stretches from Sanur Beach to Mertasari Beach, and a second path with dedicated lanes for pedestrians and cyclists was recently added, making it perfect for family strolls and bike rides.
This family-friendly neighborhood is lined with cafes, restaurants, traditional warungs, and boutiques, and it comes alive on weekends as families gather to enjoy the relaxing seaside atmosphere. Families can relax at the beachfront playground near The Mercure, shaded by large trees and great for meeting other parents. Shotgun Social is another popular spot with a kid-friendly ambiance and outdoor playground, while rainy days can be spent at the Kids Soho indoor playground and activity center.
Daycare and Schools: Sanur is home to leading daycare centers such as Cheeky Monkeys and several reputable international schools. Bali Island School, located nearby in Renon, provides preschool, primary, and secondary education. For younger children, Tri Hita Alam Eco School in Renon offers a learning environment that emphasizes both engagement and environmental awareness.
Supermarkets: Families can easily access supermarkets like Popular Express on Jalan Tamblingan and Grand Lucky on the Bypass for imported goods, while Bintang Supermarket in Renon offers a wider variety and competitive prices.
Hospitals: Sanur is conveniently located near some of Bali’s top medical facilities, including Siloam Hospital and Prima Medika in Denpasar, ensuring access to quality healthcare for your family.
Ubud
Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, is renowned for its lush rice terraces, vibrant arts scene, and stunning highlands. Despite its growing popularity as one of the world’s top travel destinations, families continue to choose Ubud for its unique blend of culture and community. However, it’s essential to be aware of the traffic congestion in this small, charming town due to its narrow roads.
One of the main draws for families moving to Ubud is its proximity to the world-renowned Green School. Known for its emphasis on sustainability, creativity, and holistic education, the Green School even includes a coworking space for parents. Another popular schooling option is Pelangi School, an international, community-focused institution offering a creative and holistic education for children aged 18 months to 12 years.
For families seeking cultural immersion, Ubud provides endless opportunities. The Bali Culture Workshop offers hands-on activities such as traditional dance, puppet-making, gamelan music, and the preparation of daily offerings, all capped with a delicious Balinese feast and an evening shadow puppet performance. To dive deeper into Ubud’s history, consider joining a walking tour with Ubud Story Walks, which explores the town’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Supermarkets: For high-quality imported goods, visit Pepito Supermarket or Popular Market, while Bintang and Delta Dewata are great options for larger grocery runs.
Hospitals: Ubud offers reliable healthcare facilities such as the BIMCC Ubud Medical Center, which meets international standards, and Ubud Royal Medical, known for its excellent reputation.
Canggu
Located on Bali’s southwest coast, Canggu has rapidly become one of the top destinations for digital nomads, offering a vast selection of coworking spaces, many of which feature poolside desks and proximity to the beach. This thriving area is made up of six villages, each with its own distinct vibe. Batu Bolong and Berawa are bustling with beach clubs, cafes, and shops, while Echo Beach attracts surfers, and Pererenan offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Like other popular areas in Bali, Canggu is also infamous for its heavy traffic!
For families, Canggu is home to several international schools, including Canggu Community School, which provides education from early years to secondary and follows both the IB and Cambridge curricula. In addition, there are many daycare centers and a wide range of kid-friendly cafes, such as the beloved Made’s Warung in Berawa, which has a playground and offers plenty of activities for children throughout the week.
As the remote worker capital of Bali, Canggu is a well-known hub for digital nomads. The area is brimming with coworking spaces and work-friendly cafes, making it an ideal spot for those looking to combine work and lifestyle in paradise. However, be prepared to navigate the traffic that comes with this bustling community!
Supermarkets: Pepito Supermarket and Frestive Supermarket both have several branches throughout Canggu, making it convenient for grocery shopping.
Hospitals: Canggu offers reliable healthcare options, including BaliMed Canggu Clinic and Nusa Medica Clinic, both of which have strong reputations.
Coworking in Bali: Ten of the Best Spaces for Remote Workers and Families
There are countless reasons to consider joining one of Bali’s award-winning coworking spaces. Not only do these hubs provide essential resources like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and vibrant community events, but they also offer invaluable networking opportunities—connecting parents with like-minded professionals for collaboration and support. Here’s our curated list of Bali’s top 10 coworking spaces:
Sanur
1. Livit Hub: We may be a little biased, but there’s a reason Livit Hub consistently ranks among the best coworking spaces in Bali! Over the past few years, we’ve focused on accommodating remote-working parents, which is why we’ve partnered with Our Year in Bali, a relocation consulting service supporting families making the move. Additionally, we’ve teamed up with Boundless Life, a global company that builds communities for remote-working families by assisting with accommodation, coworking spaces, and experiential education. Located on a quiet backstreet off Jalan Tamblingan, Livit Hub spares you the notorious Bali traffic while keeping you close to Sanur’s soothing coastline.
2. Genius Cafe: Situated near Sanur’s beachfront, Genius Cafe offers a coworking membership with great discounts on its healthy, nourishing menu. It’s a popular spot for those who enjoy seaside working while indulging in fresh, wholesome meals.
3. Kidz Cafe Sanur: For parents who can focus while their kids play, Kidz Cafe Sanur is a fantastic option. Equipped with a safe play area, it allows parents to get a couple of hours of work done while their little ones stay entertained.
Ubud
1. Outpost Penestanan & Outpost Ubud: With two branches, Outpost is a top choice for coworking in Ubud. The Penestanan location is in the central village, while the Nyuh Kuning branch offers a more peaceful, secluded environment. Outpost is known for its high-quality facilities and strong community vibe, offering flexible workspaces from open desks to private offices.
2. Titi Batu Ubud Club: Ideal for parents with older kids who can swim or play independently, Titi Batu Ubud Club offers ample workspaces next to the lap pool. It also features a gym, sauna, and steam room, making it a great place for balancing work and wellness.
Canggu
1. Tropical Nomad Coworking Space: A favorite among digital nomads, Tropical Nomad offers a productive yet laid-back environment with open-air workspaces and private offices. Known for its focus on sustainability and wellness, it’s a popular choice for remote workers in Canggu.
2. ZIN@Work: Perfect for those who love a cafe atmosphere, ZIN@Work spans three distinct areas and blends traditional Bali charm with modern, natural comforts. It’s one of the premier free coworking spaces in Bali, making it a top pick for budget-conscious digital nomads.
3. Tribal Bali – Pererenan: Set amid lush greenery, Tribal Bali offers a peaceful mix of indoor and outdoor workspaces, private offices, and relaxation areas. This coworking space in Pererenan is ideal for those seeking a calm, nature-focused environment to stay productive.
Stories from the Community
The Our Year in Bali website showcases over 120 inspiring stories from expats who have embraced Bali as their new home. Here’s a wrap-up of a few remarkable journeys:
Laura, a French mother of two, came to Bali for a year-long adventure and ended up staying. Now residing in Sanur, Laura appreciates the comfortable lifestyle that Bali provides for her family. Her children are thriving as they learn new languages and are immersed in the island’s rich cultural diversity. Laura loves the warmth and hospitality of the Balinese people and finds that living in Bali has opened up new professional opportunities, making her more flexible in both work and life.
Saskia and her family transitioned from Ubud to Sanur after several years of living in Bali. She observed a significant rise in traffic and tourism in Ubud post-COVID and enjoys the more laid-back atmosphere of Sanur, with easy access to the beach. While she values Ubud’s vibrant remote worker community, she appreciates Sanur’s relative affordability. Saskia encourages families moving to Bali to immerse themselves in local culture and suggests learning basic Indonesian to enhance the experience.
Tess and Chad, a couple from Melbourne, Australia, made the move to Bali in 2021, seeking a life of creativity and freedom after becoming disillusioned with the daily grind and COVID lockdowns. Tess founded Kokosfell, a skincare brand inspired by Bali’s natural beauty, and runs Teens Unleashed, a mentoring program for teenagers. Chad manages his construction business remotely. The couple welcomed their second child in Bali and appreciate the island’s lower cost of living, quality education, and the sense of freedom it offers their family.
