Digital Nomad Visas & Remote Work Visas
Remember when the idea of working remotely as a digital nomad first emerged? We were all like, “Say what now?” But fast forward to today, and it’s become a legit lifestyle choice for many of us. We’re packing up our laptops and jetting off to all corners of the world to work from paradise-like locations.
But hold on a minute, it’s not all smooth sailing. Working on a tourist visa with limited facilities and a ticking clock can put a damper on the fun. That’s where digital nomad visas and remote work visas come in.
Countries around the world are stepping up and offering remote workers the chance to live and work abroad with ease.
But with so many countries offering digital nomad visas, how do you decide which one to choose? Fear not. We’ll walk you through all the need-to-know details about digital nomad visas, aka remote work visas. So, let’s dive right in!
In this guide, we’ll cover the following topics:
- The definition of a digital nomad visa
- European countries with digital nomad visas
- Freelance visa countries around the world
- Tips on living abroad
…and a lot more!
🌍🎒 Key Takeaways on Remote Work Visas
- Meet the digital nomad - the tech-savvy traveler who works from all corners of the world, not just from their country of residence.
- Thanks to digital nomad visas and remote work programs, being a digital nomad is legal! So pack your bags, grab your laptop, and hit the road!
- Remote work visas are available for both workers and students, but costs and requirements vary. Make sure to have proof of income handy to make the process smoother.
- Being a digital nomad is awesome - imagine long vacations mixed with work. But don't forget, it can be tough too. It's not easy building meaningful relationships when you're always on the move.
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?
Are you a freelancer or entrepreneur dreaming of working from a beach in Bali? Getting a traditional visa can be tricky since it usually requires a work contract or invitation letter. And a tourist visa won’t cut it if you want to stay longer to work.
Enter the digital nomad visa, aka remote work visa, a magical travel permit that lets you work remotely and legally in another country. No tedious paperwork or work contracts required! Plus, you get to stay for a longer duration and soak up all the sunshine.
Each country has its own unique policies and regulations, but one thing’s for sure – with a digital nomad visa, you can work independently and remotely without breaking any laws. So, let’s dive into which countries offer this awesome visa and start planning our next work-cation!
Digital Nomad Visa Countries
Andorra | Dominica | Mexico |
Anguilla | Dubai | Montenegro |
Antigua and Barbuda | Ecuador | Montserrat |
Argentina | Estonia | North Macedonia |
Aruba | Georgia | Norway |
Bahamas | Germany | Panama |
Barbados | Greece | Romania |
Belize | Hungary | Saint Lucia |
Bermuda | Iceland | Seychelles |
Cabo Verde | Indonesia | South Africa |
Cayman Islands | Italy | Spain |
Croatia | Latvia | Sri Lanka |
Curaçao | Malta | Taiwan |
Cyprus | Mauritius | Czech Republic |
Digital Nomad Visas in European Countries
Many European countries are now providing a seamless experience for digital nomads all across the world. So, here is a detailed guide to getting a digital nomad visa in 10 European nations.
Let’s get started.
Croatia
Overview
- Cost of program: €80 - €130
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €2,250
- Internet speed: 78.48 Mbps
Croatia is one of the countries with digital nomad visas. To stay and work in Croatia for an extended period, an individual must apply for a residency permit. This program is effective from January 1, 2021, onwards and offers a temporary residence. Although it is a residency permit, it is still called the remote visa or the digital nomad visa.
Requirements
- Evidence you are a digital nomad
- A valid passport
- Government-issued background check from your country of origin (New From 2021)
- OIB identification number
- A valid private/travel health insurance
- A valid rental contract
- Proof of adequate funds to support yourself
- Two Passport photos
- Application Fee
How To Apply
- Apply at the Croatian embassy or consulate in your country, if you need a visa to enter (non-EU nationals).
- Apply at the nearest Croatia police station if you do not need a visa to enter Croatia (EU nationals).
After you apply to the embassy, an officer will see whether you have met the requirements. Wait patiently while they process the application; it can take up to a month. Once approved, you will receive a blue envelope or a phone call. Then hush to the police station, and provide them with your passport photos, fingerprints, and signature. In return, you will get a white card, which is temporary proof of your residence. Three weeks later, you will obtain your new residence permit, aka Croatia digital nomad visa.
Since the digital nomad visa is not a permanent residence permit, you cannot stay in Croatia for more than 90 days. Therefore, you need to leave the country for 90 days after the expiration of your first permit. A digital nomad cannot work in any registered Croatian company.
Czech Republic
Overview
- Cost of program: Free
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €5,587
- Internet speed: 95.23 Mbps
The Czech Republic has a low cost of living and fast wifi and is an excellent digital nomad option. Besides, with the Czech Republic Long Term Visa, you can stay in Prague for business for one year.
Requirements
- Proof of accommodation to qualify for the program.
- Document confirming the purpose of the stay
- All documents must be provided in their original form or as a notarized copy and translated into the Czech language.
- You may be asked to show the Criminal History Background/ Affidavit.
How To Apply
- The visa application must be requested in person at a Czech consulate or embassy.
- While you fill out the application, an interview will be conducted along with its written record in the Czech language.
- The applicant has to sign it. In case he doesn’t understand the language, he can get an interpreter.
The processing time significantly ranges from 90 to 120 days.
Estonia
Overview
- Cost of program: €80 - €100
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €3,504
- Internet speed: 86.56 Mbps
Estonia’s digital nomad visa permits remote workers to live in Estonia and work legally for their employer or their own company registered abroad. With this visa, eligible workers can live and work in the country peacefully.
Requirements
- You need to perform your work duties remotely using telecommunications technology.
- You must have an active employment contract with a registered company inside or outside Estonia.
- Conduct business or work as a freelancer for clients outside Estonia.
- Evidence that your income satisfies the minimum threshold of €,3504.
How To Apply
- Firstly, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria to get a remote visa.
- You will quickly get the application form online. The state fee is 80€ (Type C) and 100€ Type D) for a short stay and extended stay visa, respectively.
- Submit the application at the nearest Estonian Embassy or Consulate. Do not forget to bring copies of the required documents.
- It takes around a month to review the application.
Additionally, Estonia’s e-Residency program is a digital residency program that offers many attractive benefits to entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
Germany
Overview
- Cost of program: €100
- Length: 6 months - 3 years
- Income to prove: Funds to prove self-sufficiency, plus an address in Germany
- Internet speed: 138.05 Mbps
German Freelance “Freiberufler” Visa is perfect for any digital nomad who wishes to work in Germany. Besides, it is granted for three months initially but can be extended for three years. Besides, you will have to prove that the profession you have chosen to pursue defines whether you are eligible to get a freelance visa in Germany or not.
Furthermore, the country also offers an artist visa, which can only be obtained in Berlin.
Requirements
- Some of the liberal freelance options in Germany you can choose from are healthcare, law, tax and business counseling, scientific/technical, linguistic, and information transmitting.
- Register your freelance activity with the German tax office.
How to Apply
- Complete the national visa form application with the fee
- Keep all essential documents like passports, the latest biometric photographs, travel insurance, financial documents, and business strategy documents for business owners.
- Make a visa appointment. The process can take up to two months.
- Depending on your place of work, get a residence in Germany.
After you arrive in the country, register your living address, and open a bank account in Germany. Finally…you can implement your freelance visa plan.
Greece
Overview
- Cost of program: €75
- Length: 1- 3 years
- Income to prove: €3,500
- Internet speed: 39.46 Mbps
If you’re a digital nomad, note that Greece Digital Nomad Visa is another popular option. If you meet the criteria, you can be granted a 12-month residence permit, which is renewable for two more years.
Requirements
- Your monthly income is €3,500 (net)
- You’re either self-employed or have a work contract with a company that is based outside of Greece
How To Apply
Applications are done through Greek consulates abroad. If you’re already in Greece, you can also make an application through the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.
Iceland
Overview
- Cost of program: €50
- Length: 6 months
- Income to prove: €6,460
- Internet speed: 180 Mbps
In order to bring extra money to stimulate its economy, Iceland launched a new visa program for teleworkers. This is a remote workers visa, a long-term visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country for six months. To get an Iceland remote work visa, the digital nomad will have to satisfy a few conditions and requirements.
Requirements
- An individual will be eligible only if he earns $7,360 a month or $88,000 a year.
- Successful applicants must have permanent employment by foreign companies.
- They must meet additional health insurance requirements.
- No language-proficient document is required.
How To Apply
- Fill out the application form L-802 and collect all the required supporting documents.
- Submit a copy of the applicable certificates along with the application to the Directorate of Immigration
- The processing fee must be paid before submitting the application.
- The officer will review the application and, upon finding the applicant eligible, approve the visa.
- The process will take three-four weeks.
Portugal
Overview
- Cost of program: -
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €2,800
- Internet speed: 166.00 Mbps
Portugal is emerging as one of the world’s leading tech industries and is onSave every digital nomad’s watchlist. The country has a developed infrastructure and internet speed, attracting foreign business owners and digital nomads to relocate to the country.
Requirements
- Passport photo
- Passport and copies of your previous visas
- Flight reservation details
- Proof of average monthly income in the last three months (€2,820)
- Proof of accommodation
- Employment contract
Besides,
- Demonstrate that your skills are required in the country.
- Register yourself as a freelancer.
- Receive your NIF (“Número de Identificação Fiscal”), which is a taxpayer identification number.
How To Apply
- An EU national only needs to apply for a Residence Certificate from the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service.
- US and third-country nationals need to fill out the visa application form at the embassy or consulate in their home country.
The application process usually takes two weeks to three months.
There is also a Portugal Startup Visa available for entrepreneurs.
Spain
Overview
- Cost of program: $140
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €2,151
- Internet speed: 207.62 Mbps
Spain grants a non-lucrative visa to remote workers. It allows foreigners to stay in Spain for one year after they enter the Spanish territory.
Requirements
- You will have to agree to not work as a Spanish employer in the country or set up your own country
- Proof that you have sufficient funds and can survive in Spain by working remotely.
- You must have an insurance policy contract that is valid for one year since you cannot access the public healthcare system.
How To Apply
- Start the application process and gather the required documents.
*Required Documents must be translated
*Assemble Your Application Package
*Present Documents at a Visa Appointment and Pay Fees - Send the application with the documents to the Spanish consulate in your country.
You will receive the green signal from the government office within a month of this process.
Malta
Overview
- Cost of program: €300
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €2,700
- Internet speed: 150.52 Mbps
Malta grants a nomad residence permit to remote workers. With this visa, you’re allowed to stay in the country for one year.
Requirements
- You have a work contract with a company outside of Malta and can prove that your duties can be performed remotely, or
- You’re a freelancer who provides services to foreign clients other than in Malta.
- Your monthly income is a minimum of €2,700 (gross of tax)
How To Apply
- Start the application process and gather the required documents.
*Required Documents must be translated
*Present Documents Via Email - You will receive your approval from the Agency within a month of this process.
Norway
Overview
- Cost of program: €600
- Length: 6 months - 3 years
- Internet speed: 173.88 Mbps
- Great customer support: accessible in different languages via phone and email
If you desire to work in Norway as a remote worker, you require proper visas and work permits as established by immigration law.
Requirements
Any EU national can arrive in Norway and start working without any visa. However, he will have to register himself with the police and provide his employment contract within three months of his existence in the country.
Besides, anyone applying for the Norway digital nomad visa must prove that their pay and working conditions are not lower than is normal in Norway.
How To Apply
- Collect all the documents, including a valid passport.
- You need a signed cover letter from the Application portal.
According to the circumstances, you might have to explain your current working situation and the proposed ones. For instance, whether you’ll work less than full-time or for multiple employers.
Depending on that, you will be issued a part-time, fixed-term, and seasonal workers visa.
Anguilla (UK Territory)
Overview
- Cost of program: $,2000
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: -
- Internet speed: 5-10 Mbps
Now, you can also relish the work-life on the British Caribbean island of Anguilla. It is currently accepting applications from people wanting remote work visas in the pursuit of an extended stay. The visa length is nine months to one year.
Requirements
- The applicant must not have a criminal background.
- Form a company in Anguilla that employs you to get your work permit.
- Rent a long-term apartment
- Health insurance coverage
- An income of at least $50,000
How To Apply
- While you fill out the application, attach all valid documents like a passport, statement of Net Worth and bank references, police checks, character letters of reference, medical exam, etc.
- The application fee is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a family.
Antigua and Barbuda
Overview
- Cost of program: $1,500
- Length: 2 years
- Income to prove: $50,000
- Internet speed: 20.95 Mbps
Antigua and Barbuda have launched a long-stay visa program, named the “Nomad Digital Residence.” Anyone who wishes to work remotely will have access to modern amenities, including a sound telecommunications infrastructure in the country.
Requirements
- The application fee (non-refundable) has to be paid while applying for the visa.
The declaration has to be provided that the individual’s expected income will be no less than US$50,000 - You also might be asked to provide a police clearance for each applicant over the age of 16.
How To Apply
- The application is to be submitted at the official website along with a passport photo of each applicant, a copy of the main passport page,
- A certificate of medical insurance coverage for the period of their intended stay.
The fee is as follows:
- Single applicant: US$1,500.00
- Couple US$2,000.00
- Family of 3 and over: US$3,000.00
After the application submission has been successful, you will receive a confirmation through email.
Australia
Oveview
- Cost of program: $20-$140
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: -
- Internet speed: 87.86 Mbps
To work remotely in Australia for a short-term period, you can apply for a Visitor visa. It permits the individual to work in the country, but, not in an Australian company.
Requirements
- An applicant can apply for a visitor visa with work rights.
- Visa holders can apply for a. Australian Tourist stream visa that allows them to work in minimal circumstances.
- This visa doesn’t allow the holder to re-enter the country once he leaves.
- You must have a compelling reason to work in Australia.
- You shall also be asked to submit proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) and health insurance.
How To Apply
- Determine the category of work you are eligible for and satisfy all the requirements (skills as well as documented)
- Fill out the application online and pay the fee.
Barbados
Overview
- Cost of program: $2,000
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: $50,000 per year
- Internet speed: 111.99 Mbps
Barbados provides short-term as well as long-term permits for digital nomads. Barbados Welcome Stamp will let you work from a beautiful holiday destination.
Requirements
- The applicant’s annual income must be at least $50k.
- All applicants need to have health insurance.
- Applicants will have their backgrounds checked.
- The cost of the process is $2,000 for a single person and $3,000 for a family.
How To Apply
- Present a detailed cover letter along with a C-1, C-2, C-3 type of application form according to the permit type you are applying for.
- Attach all the required documents.
- Pay the fee while processing the application as it will not be accepted before it.
- Applications will be processed within a week.
Bermuda
Overview
- Cost of program: $263
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: Enough funds to support yourself
- Internet speed: 73.6 Mbps
‘Work From Bermuda’ visa officially welcomes digital nomads and remote working professionals to work from the island.
Requirements
- It permits you to work in Bermuda for one year
- Work From the Bermuda program only costs $263.
- The applicant must be at least 18 years of age
- You must present a clean criminal record
How to Apply
The application process is simplified, and once it is approved, you can enter Bermuda within a week. The entire application filing and payment process for Bermuda Digital Nomad Visa are completed online within one hour.
Cayman Islands
Overview
- Cost of program: $1,469
- Length: 2 years
- Income to prove: $100,000 (annually)
- Internet speed: -
The Cayman Islands offer two types of work visas. The temporary work permit is granted for six months and takes 5-10 business days to process. Besides, a Gainful Occupation License (GOL) is granted for periods of up to three years.
Requirements
- Before arriving in the Cayman islands, every individual needs to have a work permit.
- The person must not be in the country while the application is being submitted.
- The person must have a basic understanding of English.
How to Apply
Apply for the application to the Cayman Islands Government Department of Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman. Provide specific documents and complete the application form – Part 1, employee section, and Part 2 employer section.
Costa Rica
Overview
- Cost of program: $250
- Length: 2 years
- Income to prove: $2,500
- Internet speed: 60.70 Mbps
Costa Rica is targeting potential remote workers or digital nomads as it launches the digital nomad visa program. This visa terminates after 12 months and you can renew it for six months more.
Requirements
- The applicant must prove that he has a foreign income source of at least $5,000 per month.
- He must also have a medical insurance policy to cover the duration of his stay in Costa Rica.
- Moreover, it is also applicable to family members of the principal applicant,
How To Apply
- The application can be filled out online as well as with the help of an immigration lawyer.
- The documents must be submitted in Spanish.
- Besides, the application fee is $250.
Curaçao
Overview
- Cost of program: $294
- Length: 6 months
- Income to prove: Sufficient funds to support yourself
- Internet speed: 25 Mbps
@HOME Curaçao is a program that is ideal for remote workers and digital nomads who want to live on an island while working remotely. It offers a temporary home away from home for those people.
As a remote worker, you could be eligible for a temporary stay permit if you meet the conditions.
Requirements
- You’re using telecom technology to work from anywhere.
- You’re employed by a company based in another nation and have a legal contract.
- You’re a partner or shareholder of a foreign-registered corporation that conducts business on its behalf.
- You have contacts in a foreign nation with whom you provide freelancing or consultancy services.
How To Apply
- You can apply for the program online on the website: www.athomeincuracao.com
- Applications can be submitted in English, Spanish, and Dutch.
Dominica
Overview
- Cost of program: $100
- Length: up to 18 months
- Income to prove: $70,000 (annually)
- Internet speed: 36.93 Mbps
Dominica is another country that offers a residence permit to digital nomads. Dominica Work in Nature Extended Stay Visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 18 months.
Requirements
- You’re over 18 years old and have a clean criminal record
- Your current job is a remote one
- Your expected income for one year is a minimum of $50,000, or you have savings to support yourself during your stay
How To Apply
The application can be made directly at https://windominica.gov.dm/
Dubai (UAE)
Overview
- Cost of program: $287
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: €5,000
- Internet speed: 189.27 Mbps
You can now enjoy working in a country that offers safety, infrastructure, and a positive work-life balance.
Requirements
- The program costs $287 (R4,724), excluding medical insurance with valid UAE coverage and a processing fee per person.
- Employment proof with a one-year contract validity
- The minimum salary requirement is $5,000 (R82,311) per month.
- You have a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity and health insurance with UAE coverage.
UAE has also announced a Green Visa for high-skilled individuals, freelancers, and top students.
How To Apply
After you have satisfied the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the visa online.
Georgia
Overview
- Cost of program: Free
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: $2,000
- Internet speed: 28.68 Mbps
You can work remotely from Georgia with a remote work visa for 180 days. It works for all entrepreneurs, business owners, and even salaried employees who wish to ‘work from home.’
Requirements
- You need a minimum monthly income of at least $2,000.
- Proof of health insurance for the entire stay duration
How To Apply
- Complete an application form and obtain pre-approval for entry from the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development.
- The application demands personal details like proof of financial ability to pay taxes; proof of health insurance.
The application is processed within 10 business days.
Mexico
Overview
- Cost of program: $190- $390
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: $1,620
- Internet speed: 56.82 Mbps
Mexico’s recently launched ‘temporary resident visa’ permits visitors to live and work in Mexico for a year. After that, it could be extended for three more years.
Requirements
- To qualify, the applicant needs to prove that his monthly income is $1,620and a bank account balance of over $27,000.
- Moreover, the person will not be eligible to work for the country.
How To Apply
- Fill out the application and a detailed cover letter that consists of the applicant’s name, nationality, and activity to be pursued.
- If the application is approved, the Mexican consulate abroad will be notified, and you can make an appointment for an interview.
- You will also need to take a medical exam.
Brazil
Overview
- Cost of program: -
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: $1,500
- Internet speed: 128.31 Mbps
The Brazil Digital Nomad Visa was announced in February 2022. It permits you to stay in the nation for a year. The added benefit is that you may renew your membership for a year and keep enjoying wonderful dining, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Requirements
- Depending on your scenario, the consular officials will give you the necessary information, but in general, you will need to present the following:
- A valid passport is required.
- Insurance that protects your health in Brazil
a confirmation of the payment of visa costs - Application for a visa
- Clean criminal background ( native country or country where you are now residing).
- A paper proving your identification as a digital nomad or remote worker, such as a contract with an international firm.
- A statement proving that you have a remote job relies on information and communication technology
- You have a monthly earning of $1,500, or you may present a bank account with at least $18,000 in savings.
Mauritius
Overview
- Cost of program: Free
- Length: 1 year
- Income to prove: -
- Internet speed: 38.68 Mbps
Mauritius is offering a Premium Travel Visa for tourists who wish to work remotely. However, you will have to follow a set of guidelines.
Requirements
- You are required to show proof of accommodation and source of income that comes from outside Mauritius.
- You must also have travel and health insurance coverage for the initial part of your stay.
- You need documentary evidence to support your application.
How To Apply
Note: The online platform for the premium travel visa application will be available shortly.
Thailand
Overview
- Cost of program: $600
- Length: 10 years
- Income to prove: $80,000 per year
- Internet speed: 223.72 Mbps
You can obtain your six-month multiple entry visa and work as a digital nomad.
Requirements
- To acquire a Thai work permit, you need to establish your own Thai company. The company must employ 4 Thai employees per foreigner.
- If you enter Thailand with a non-immigrant business visa, you can file an application for a Work Permit with the Alien Occupational Control Division.
How To Apply
- The work permit application is processed in the Ministry of Labor office.
- The applicant has to submit these documents: 2 inches photo, medical certificate, original passport, letter of employment, address in Thailand; company certificate and objectives, list of shareholders, application for VAT, and financial statement.
Tips On Living Abroad
Working and living abroad is not a layman’s job. You have to be extremely cautious about a few things. Now that we’ve provided you with information on freelance visa meaning, let’s move on to some tips.
So, here are some tips to live abroad on a digital nomad visa:
- Try to choose a place that you have already visited to be familiar with it to some extent.
- Have a complete physical checkup. Of course, who would like to fall sick in a foreign country just after moving?
- Try to learn the local language of the country you are moving to. Not to mention, English is a big mandate.
- Learn about the public transportation system.
- Understand your visa conditions thoroughly.
- Try to make friends with fellow ex-pats to learn more about the country.
How To Become a Digital Nomad
Frequently Asked Questions About Freelance Visa
What is a digital nomad visa?
A digital nomad visa, which is also known as a freelance visa, is a permit that enables you to live and work outside of your country of citizenship and to engage in remote employment.
Which countries have a digital nomad visa?
Nowadays, a lot of nations, including Argentina, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Germany, the Czech Republic, Croatia, and Mexico, provide digital nomad visas. Nomad visa countries attract many young people with this incentive.
How much does it cost to be a digital nomad?
Your location will determine how much money you need. However, you can start out very cheaply if you live in a country with lower living expenses, such as Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, etc. In many places, $500 per month would actually be sufficient. You can live comfortably for a very reasonable price if you go to Chiang Mai, which is currently a thriving hub for digital nomads and is even dubbed the digital nomad capital of the world. Accommodations start at $200 per month, and meals cost about $1.
Do digital nomads pay taxes?
Remote employees typically file taxes with their nation of tax residence, which is established by their primary domicile or place of ordinary abode. On the other hand, because of their physical presence in other nations throughout a tax year, digital nomads could experience additional or distinct layers of tax residency. There may also be local taxes and taxes from the state, province, or territory.
Can I live in another country if I’m working remotely?
Many nations around the world allow people to work remotely even if they are not citizens of those nations. To stay there legally, you must, however, abide by the visa and tax regulations of your chosen country. You could work with a compliance partner to sort through these requirements, such as getting a freelance visa. Do digital nomads need work visas? This is a common question too. After you obtain your freelancer visa, you don’t need any other visas, depending on your situation.
