If you are sitting there reading the headline ‘what is the six months passport rule’, you may be feeling confused. If you have a 10 year passport, it is valid for 10 years right! Wrong, many countries have a six months passport rule, meaning you must have six months or more of validity left on your passport so you can visit. Read on to find out why.

 

What is a Passport?

 

Firstly, what is a passport? Don’t laugh, I have had many people ask me why they need a passport to travel abroad. So a passport is basically your identity in a little book. Yep, having a passport means you have jumped through hoops providing different forms of identity (birth certificate, drivers licence, bank account, etc). to confirm the details in the book are true. It means all you need to do when you travel to another country is to provide your passport which confirms that you are you.

 

Why do you need a Passport?

 

Simple. A passport is your identity. A passport is required for you to travel to a different country. It is required for when you apply for visas, as a visa is issued to your identity.

 

How Long does a Passport Last?

 

Most passports issued are valid for 10 years. Meaning you can travel to and from different countries on the passport. But there is a catch, many countries have a six months passport validity rule.

 

The Six Month Passport Rule

 

Although a passport is technically valid until its expiry date, many countries require at least six months of validity on the passport. But why? Well, the six months is a buffer incase for some reason you get caught in the country. For instance, if you fall sick or have an accident and need to stay longer. This rule also supports immigration and border control by ensuring individuals leave within their permitted timeframe and avoid becoming stranded abroad due to an expired passport.

 

Can I travel if my passport is expiring within six months?

 

It depends on your destination. Some countries allow travel if your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. However, many others enforce the passport six month validity rule. So the moral of this tale is, before you travel, check the expiry date of your passport before you book anything. Then, find out whether the country you want to travel to enforces the six month passport validity rule. Once known you can then organise and pay for your trip. Or choose another country. Or apply for a new passport.

 

When should You renew your Passport before travelling?

 

To avoid issues from international entry requirements, it is best to renew your passport at least six months before the expiry date. Especially if you are heading to a country that enforces the six months passport validity rule.

 

Get ready to travel

 

It can be stressful getting organised for a trip abroad. Avoid the stress of last minute issues with the six month passport validity rule by ensuring your passport has the right validity for your trip. Such a small detail, can have a big impact on your travel plans. An impact that can easily be avoided by checking you have 6+ months of validity left on your passport.

 

So you want to live work and play abroad and are just beginning the process of how you can do this. And during your research you find there are different visas available that allow you to live and work abroad. So which visa will you apply for to allow you to extend your time abroad? To do this you need to ask yourself some questions. Do you want to travel full-time? Go on a working holiday? Be a digital nomad or an expat working remotely? Whatever type of traveller you want to be, there is a visa to help you meet your legal requirements of moving abroad to live work and play around the world. Let me elaborate.

 

What is a Passport?

 

Don’t laugh! I am often asked by newbie travellers ‘what is a passport?’. So let me tell you. A passport is an official document issued by the country of your origin and is your identity. It looks like a little book. You will need a passport to travel internationally. Without one you cannot travel to another country. Apply for a passport through your country’s government department that issues them. And when you have a passport you can then apply for a visa which is usually stamped into your passport. So that is one of the reasons why you need a passport.

 

What is a Visa?

 

A visa is a necessity to live, work and play around the world. The word visa means ‘to see’, so the officials of a country have seen your documents and decided to provide a visa to allow you in. A visa is usually stamped in your passport though many countries are introducing e-visas. There are different visas allowing you to live work and play abroad. I’m running through them following.

 

Things to know about visas

 

Just a few things to know about visas:

1. There are different visas and one size does not fit all situations.
2. Each country has their own visas and they do things a little different. 
3. Your nationality matters when it comes to visas. Countries have negotiated visas with other countries so it depends on what your country has negotiated as to what visa is available for your nationality.

That said, let’s dive into the different visas available to live work and play abroad.

 

Visas Allowing You to Live Work and Play Abroad

 

1. Tourist Visa

 

A tourist visa is your basic entry pass into another country. It’s perfect for short-term trips when you want to explore, try all the local food, and see the sights. The catch? You can’t legally work or earn income while you’re there. How long you get depends on your passport and the country. Some offer 30 days (like Thailand), others 90 (like most of Europe’s Schengen Area), and a lucky few, like Mexico, give you up to 180.

Some places make it easy to extend your stay, while others require you to leave and re-enter. You might also be asked for proof of onward travel, a return ticket, or enough funds to support yourself. So make sure to check those details before you pack.

While it’s not a ticket to long-term residency, a tourist visa is perfect for trying a country to see if it feels right. I’ve used it myself to get a feel for places before deciding to stay longer. Just remember: rules can change quickly, so double-check official immigration sites before booking.

 

The Visa Run

 

Just a word on the visa run! What’s this you ask? Well, it is when you stay in a country, because you like it, and stay the full amount of time you are allowed on a tourist visa, usually 90 days. But you love it so much, you want to live and work there. If you don’t qualify for any other visa that allows it, or you just don’t want to go through the hassle of applying, people do a visa run. They leave the country for a few hours or days, then return to the country and get another 90 days stay. Is this legal? Well, not really, but people do it.

It is extremely common practice in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Now it sounds great, but it means you aren’t entitled to local healthcare and don’t have legal rights in some instances. Like if you are found to be working. It is advisable to have long-term travel insurance such as that offered by SafetyWing.

 

2. Working Holiday Visa

 

The second visa on my list of visas that let you live work and play abroad is the working holiday maker visa. If you’re under 30 (or up to 35 in some countries), a working holiday visa can be a great way to see the world without draining your savings. It lets you live in another country for 6–12 months (sometimes longer if you qualify for an extension) while funding your travels with short-term or seasonal work. The idea is to make enough to keep exploring without locking yourself into a long-term contract.

These visas are based on agreements between countries. Eligibility depends on your passport. Some countries have annual quotas and fill up fast, so applying early is important. If your country doesn’t have an agreement with your dream destination, unfortunately, you won’t be able to get this visa there.

It’s perfect if you want to experience everyday life in another country, meet locals, and make friends from all over the world without committing to a long work contract. Just remember, most of the work is casual or seasonal, so it’s more about the experience than building a long-term career.

Check out the list of some 50+ countries with reciprocal working holiday agreements here.

 

3. Digital Nomad Visa

 

Next on my visa list that let’s you live and work abroad for an extended period of time is the digital nomad visa. A digital nomad visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and online business owners who want to live in another country while earning their income from abroad. Unlike a tourist visa that limits you to a quick visit, these often let you stay anywhere from six months to a few years, depending on the country.

Destinations like Portugal, Estonia, and Croatia are popular choices, and more countries are launching their own programs every year. Each country sets its own requirements. You might need to show proof of a steady income, have valid health insurance, or pay an application fee that can range from reasonable to “are you kidding me?”

What I love about this visa is the chance to truly settle in. You can slow down, get to know your neighborhood, find a favourite cafe, and enjoy a place without rushing through like a tourist, all while keeping your work life going. Just make sure to research the cost of living, internet reliability, and requirements before you commit, so you choose a spot that works for both your budget and your lifestyle.

Check out the list of some 60+ countries with a digital nomad visa.

 

4. Work Permit

 

A work permit is one of the most common ways to live and work abroad. It’s usually tied to a specific job with a local employer, so you can’t freely switch roles or industries without applying for a new permit. In many cases, your employer will handle most of the application process, sometimes even covering the fees, which can save you a lot of time and stress.

Jobs that include a work permit are teaching English and working on a cruise ship.

The length of a work permit depends on the country and your contract. Some are valid for a year, others for two or more, and they can often be renewed if you stay in the same role. This option works best if you already have a job offer or if your skills are in demand where you’re headed.

One thing to remember: if your job ends, your right to stay usually ends too. That means it’s less flexible than visas like the digital nomad or working holiday option, but it’s a great option if you want stability and a clear career track abroad.

 

5. Student Visa

 

A student visa lets you live and study abroad, whether you’re working toward a full degree, joining a semester exchange, or taking a short language course. You’ll need to be enrolled in a recognised school or university, and in many countries, you can also work part-time to help cover expenses. Australia and Canada are particularly generous with work hours, while others keep it more limited (or don’t allow it at all).

Your visa length usually matches your course, but some countries let you extend or switch to a work visa after graduation. That means studying abroad can sometimes lead to a longer stay or even a new career path overseas.

Aside from academics, a student visa provides access to a completely different lifestyle. You’ll make friends from all over the world, get used to a new culture, and see your studies through a global perspective. For many, a student visa ends up being the beginning of a lifelong international adventure.

And don’t think there is an age limit for a student visa. People of all ages can apply for a student visa to undertake a course abroad.

 

6. Skilled Person Visa

 

Last on my list of visas that allow you to live work and play abroad is the skilled person visa. A skilled person visa is for people whose qualifications and experience match what a country urgently needs. That might be tech experts, healthcare workers, engineers, teachers, or skilled trades like carpenters and electricians. Governments use these visas to fill gaps in their workforce. So if your skills are in demand, you’re not just welcome; you’re on their priority list.

The process is usually more detailed than other visas. You’ll likely need to show proof of your education, work history, and sometimes a job offer from a local employer. Some countries even use a points system, looking at your age, qualifications, language ability, and experience. It can feel like you’re pulling together your entire career on paper, but it’s worth it.

The reward is stability. Many skilled visas lead to permanent residency or even citizenship. That makes them one of the most secure and rewarding ways to relocate. If you’re ready to handle the paperwork and meet the requirements, this could be your gateway to building a future in a country that actively wants you there.

 

The Right Visa for You

 

Now the visas I’ve mentioned aren’t all the visas offered, but they are the most common visa types. I suggest, if you are interested in a specific country, research the type of visas they offer for your nationality. Knowing the type of work you will be doing, physical or online and having an understanding of your visa options is your passport to moving abroad successfully and legally.

 

Are You Ready to Live Work and Play Abroad?

 

The UK Ancestry Visa is a unique immigration pathway for many Commonwealth citizens to live, work and play in the United Kingdom. Unlike the UK Working Holiday Visa, the Ancestry Visa is based on a direct family connection. That family connection being a grandparent who was born in the United Kingdom. This is the visa I had in my passport that allowed me to live and work in the UK. And in this post I am going to show you how you can unlock the UK, just like I did with an Ancestry Visa.

Disclaimer: I am not a visa professional, and cannot help you obtain this visa. You will need to apply to your nearest British High Commission or Consulate for it, just like I did.

 

What is a UK Ancestry Visa?

 

The UK Ancestry Visa is a visa available to people of the Commonwealth who have UK ancestors. Yep, if one of your grandparents was born in the UK, you may be eligible for a five-year UK Ancestry Visa. You read right, five years. This visa will allow you to live, work and study in the UK. After five years, you can either apply for a renewal or apply for settled status known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is a step towards British citizenship (if that’s what you want).

 

Rights and Benefits under the UK Ancestry Visa

 

The UK Ancestry visa offers several rights and benefits to successful applicants:

• Right to work – One of the best things about this visa is it does not require you to have a job offer, a sponsor, or a specific skill level. However, applicants must show they can work and intend to do so during their stay. You can work in any industry or profession. There is no need for employer sponsorship, and you are free to be self-employed or start a business. 
• Study options – You may enrol in academic or vocational courses without needing additional permission. I enrolled in a few general interest night courses.
• Travel – What I loved most about living in the UK on a UK Ancestry Visa, more specifically London, was its proximity to Europe. And yes, I made good use of being allowed to travel around the United Kingdom and in and out of the UK freely. However, it should be noted prolonged absences may affect your eligibility for settlement. 
• Live – You can live anywhere in the UK. I chose to live in London as it has a good working holiday infrastructure set up.
• Family members – You may bring dependents(spouse, partner, or children). Each dependent must apply separately and pay the applicable fees. You must also show you can support them financially. I was young and single when I applied for this visa, so this didn’t apply to me at the time.

So now you know the benefits of qualifying for the UK Ancestry Visa, here are the eligibility requirements you must meet.

 

UK Ancestry Visa eligibility requirements

 

To qualify for the UK Ancestry visa, you must be:

• a citizen of a Commonwealth country. 
• at least 17 years old at the time of your application.
• able to prove that one of your grandparents was born in The United Kingdom, The Channel Islands, The Isle of Man or Ireland (if born before 31 March 1922). I provided a copy of my mother’s birth certificate that showed my grandmother was born in England.
• of biological or through legal adoption of the grandparent. Step-grandparents do not qualify.
• able to demonstrate your intention and capability to work in the UK, either through employment or self-employment.
• demonstrate you can support yourself (and any dependents) without relying on public funds.

If you believe you are eligible, then gather the following documents for your UK Ancestry Visas application.

 

Documents required for the UK Ancestry Visa Application

 

To apply for a UK Ancestry Visa applicants must submit a range of documents to prove both their eligibility and identity. These include:

• Valid passport
• Full birth certificates for yourself, your parent, and your qualifying grandparent
• Name change certificates, if any names differ across documents
• Proof of intent to work, such as a CV, job applications, or correspondence with potential employers
• Bank statements or financial records showing that you can support yourself
• Tuberculosis test certificate (only for residents of countries where this is required)

 

How to apply for the UK Ancestry Visa

 

Once you have all the documents, you can then start the application process which must be completed online before you travel to the United Kingdom. The steps to apply are:

• Step 1: Apply online. Visit the official UK government website to begin your application. Complete the online application form by providing your personal information and details of your British heritage. 
• Step 2: Upload supporting documents.
• Step 3: Pay the fees. Pay the application fee using a debit or credit card. Be prepared to also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of the process. Currently fees are (note they are in British Pounds): Visa application fee: £637, Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year (totalling £3,120 for a five-year stay). 
• Step 4: Await a decision. This is the hardest part, the waiting for a decision. Processing time for the UK Ancestry visa is typically between 3 and 8 weeks. You will be notified via email or SMS once the Home Office has made a decision on your application.

Please note prior to January 1, 2025, you needed to attend a biometric appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph obtained for your Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) card. This card would be picked up on your arrival in the UK. BRPs have now been replaced as of January 1, 2025 by an online system called eVisa, which is an online record of your immigration status. 

 

Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain and Citizenship

 

After 5 continuous years in the UK on an ancestry visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). That’s as long as you meet the following requirements:

• Spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period
• Passed the ‘Life in the UK Test’
• Met the English language requirement

Once you’ve held ILR for at least 12 months, you may then apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting all other requirements.

 

Are You Ready to Unlock the UK with an Ancestry Visa?

 

The UK Ancestry visa is an accessible immigration route for Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK or certain territories. Being allowed to live and work in the UK for 5 years with the opportunity for British citizenship is just one of the best ways to unlock the UK. It was definitely worth my while applying for this visa for all the benefits it offered. Yes, I was lucky. And you can too if you are eligible for the Ancestry Visa for the UK.

 

Thinking about living and working abroad? Why not try Germany? Germany is packed full of history, beautiful cities and towns, mountain ranges, lakes and so much more. With lots to see and do, you’ll need more than a few weeks to explore the country. Depending on where you’re from, getting your hands on a Germany working holiday visa might be easier than you think! Let’s get into it.

 

Best Time to do a Germany Working Holiday Visa

 

Germany’s climate varies year-round with four seasons so it doesn’t matter what time of year you choose to go. Work opportunities don’t change much throughout the year and if you stay for the full 12 months, you’ll get to experience all seasons.

 

Visas Available to Work in Germany

 

If you’re considering getting a Germany working holiday visa, you’ll need to see if you qualify. Here are some options to check out:

• European Union (EU) nationals – Those who are from a country that’s a part of the EU can live and work in Germany with little to no barrier to entry. Each EU country has varying rules and regulations when it comes to working rights so double check before you take off! Visit www.europa.eu for details.

• Working Holiday Visa – A Germany working holiday visa allows people from the age of 18-30 to work and live in Germany for up to 12 months. This program is available for people from Argentina, Australia, Chile, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Taiwan, Uruguay and Brazil. If you decide to do a working holiday visa in Germany, you must have health and accident insurance, a return ticket and a certain amount of money to prove you can provide for yourself (1200-4000 euros).

• Other visas for visiting Germany – People from Canada will have to apply to the Youth Mobility Program. This program is for young professionals seeking employment or an internship in Germany. It’s available for those aged between 18 and 35.

• Digital Nomad Visa – Germany was the first country in the EU to introduce a digital nomad visa. For those with an online business and who want to spend some time in Germany you may want to look into this visa option. There are two types of freelance visas, one for artists and one for other professionals. 

 

Things to do on Arrival in Germany

 

As soon as you land in Germany to start your working holiday, you’ll need to get a few things in order.

Apply for a tax number: In order to start working, you’ll need a German Tax ID. This is used to process your income tax at the end of the fiscal year. You’ll need a German address (which we’ll get to shortly) in order to apply for your tax number and it will take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to receive it.

Open a bank account: Setting up a bank account in Germany is fairly easy to do. You’ll need a bank account in order to start working so you should do that as soon as you arrive. Choosing a bank in Germany can be tricky because there are many options but some of the best for international residents are N26, DKB, Postbank and Netbank.

Find somewhere to live in Germany: Before you move to Germany, you’ll want to think of a few places you might want to live. Once you arrive, you’ll need to formally register your address (Anmeldung) and once that’s processed, your tax number will be automatically generated.

Not sure where to live? Berlin is a common option for those who can’t speak German as there seems to be many English speaking jobs available. It’s a multi-cultural area and has a lot to see and do. Other major cities to consider are Hamburg, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Nuremberg, Munich and Stuttgart which are also popular options! It will probably depend on which city attracts you and what work you can find. There is no harm in moving around from city to city as there is plenty of short-term accommodation such as hostels you can stay at while finding your feet.

 

Enjoy the beer and pretzels

 

Living in Germany – Types of Accommodation

 

When trying to find accommodation that will suit your needs in Germany, you’ll need to secure short term accommodation at first. Stay at a hostel or hotel for the first week or two. This will allow you to explore the city you’re in and find a location you’d like to live long-term.

You’ll most likely be looking for an apartment but keep in mind that it’s not likely to be furnished. Most apartments won’t have a bed, utensils or any of the basics that you’d typically find in rental units in other countries. You’ll likely have a flatmate when living in Germany and here are some places you can look for an apartment/flat:

WG Gesucht 
Immobilien Scout 24 
eBay 
Immonet
Immowelt 
Wonhnungsboerse 
Null-Provision

If you’re still not having luck, search “wohnung + the city or town you’re looking to live in” on Facebook. You’ll stumble upon a few groups where you can find a place to stay.

 

Finding Work in Germany

 

Why should you choose to live and work in Germany? Well for one, Germany is known for having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the EU! Its unemployment rate stands anywhere between 4-4.5% on average, making it a safe bet when going to a new country in search of work.

One thing you must keep in mind before looking to do a working holiday in Germany is the language barrier. If you don’t speak German, Berlin will be your best bet for finding a job, as English speaking jobs are becoming more common there. You should do your best to understand the basics of German before moving to Germany to speed up the job hunt or land specific jobs.

Some typical jobs people do during their Germany working holiday visa are as follows:

• Hospitality and retail – For those with experience working at a clothing store, cafe, bar or restaurant, you should have no trouble finding work in this field. It’s also a great way to make new friends in Germany! There is lots of casual work around Oktoberfest time in Munich to cater for the large number of tourists that visit to enjoy the beer and the atmosphere. Most hotels in major German cities often have staff who don’t speak German so you could even ask at the hostel you are staying as many hostels are run by travellers. In return for your work you are provided with accommodation and a wage. Or you can exchange your work for free accommodation and work elsewhere. Another opportunity could be to stock shelves in supermarkets overnight.

• Tourism – Tourism jobs are great because they generally have flexible schedules that will allow you a lot of time to travel through the country on your time off.

• Au Pair – If you enjoy working with children, you might want to consider becoming an au pair in Germany! You can apply for a visa specific to working as an au pair that’s good for up to 90 days. This visa won’t allow you to work elsewhere, so if you hope to get a second job, you’ll need a working holiday visa.

• Digital Nomads – There are numerous jobs digital nomads do on-line including blogging, web design, teaching English, content creation, IT and accounting to name a few. To continue offering online work I’m sure you’re already set up selling your services via your own website to platforms such as Fivver. 

If looking for a job check out www.findajobinGermany.com which is a website dedicated to English language jobs. If you’re part of the EU, EEA or Switzerland, the European Employment Services website has a job portal that can help you find work in any sector. They also hold job fairs in the spring and fall.

 

READ MORE: Oktoberfest – Why you shouldn’t miss it and how to survive it

 

Things to See and Do in Germany

 

Neuschwanstein Castle

 

Being a tourist while on your working holiday in Germany is always the best part and there is plenty to see and do.

Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the major German cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Munich or Frankfurt. Don’t miss the wall and Brandenberg Gate in Berlin and the Glockenspeil in Munich. 

Germany has numerous castles and palaces. The most famous of them, Neuschwanstein Castle, even served as Walt Disney’s inspiration for the castle in the film version of the fairy tale “Sleeping Beauty”. 

As well as the castles and palaces you will be enchanted by the breathtaking landscapes. In the south, the Alps await you, while in the north you can visit the North Sea or even the Baltic Sea. And in the centre of Germany there are some beautiful low mountain ranges like the Bavarian Forest or the Ore Mountains, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big German cities.

 

Final Words on a Working Holiday in Germany

 

Not everyone will have the opportunity to do a Germany working holiday visa. If you choose to, you’ll have the option to visit castles, see the Berlin Wall, explore stunning national parks, have beach days in Sylt and so much more. Start your application today and you’ll be living and working in Germany before you know it!

 

Related Posts

What to Pack For A Working Holiday
Eurail / Interrail Pass Review
1 Month Central European Itinerary For First Timers

 

Get your Passport ready with your Working Holiday Visa inside

 

For a long time now it has been a lifestyle for young Australians, Canadians, New Zealanders, British and Irish citizens to head overseas on a working holiday. And the main reason why Americans aren’t on the list was because most new nothing about a working holiday. But that is changing and now young Americans are joining them. This is because the United States of America has negotiated with a number of countries a reciprocal working holiday visa agreement. If you qualify for, and receive a working holiday visa you will be allowed to live, work and play in that country for up to 12 months. During that 12 months you can undertake work to further your travels. Sound good! Well here are the current countries that young Americans can go to on a working holiday.

 

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

 

A working holiday visa is a specific visa negotiated between countries that allows young citizens, usually 18-30 year olds go to another country for an extended stay, usually 1 -2 years. During this time you will be allowed to undertake work to support yourself while in the other country. 

 

READ MORE: Working Holiday Visas and Work and Holiday Visas

 

Perks of a Working Holiday Visa

 

• You can stay longer in the country, usually 1-2 years.
• Employment is allowed to help supplement your life.
• You will have more time to travel around the country.
• Having worked in another can and does look good on your resume.
• Live like the locals and immerse yourself in local customs and enjoy local foods.

All pretty good sounding perks don’t you think! 

 

Working Holiday Visas for Americans

 

Below you will find six different working holiday opportunities for Americans in five countries. They are listed in alphabetical order of the country name. Under each you will find a brief overview of eligibility. If you don’t qualify for a working holiday visa, don’t worry, there are still opportunities available so you can live, work and play around the world. Check out my Over 30 – Your Work and Travel Options.

Note: Visas can change, so please contact your nearest Consulate for the latest details.

 

Australia Working Holiday Visa for Americans

 

• Age: 18-30
• Duration: 12 months 
• Cost: Around $400 AUD
• Proof of $5000 AUD in the bank
• Get Details Here

If you undertake three months of regional work, then you can apply for an additional year in Australia. Get more details here.

 

Read my guide Australia Working Holiday

 

Canada Working Holiday Visa for Americans

 

• Age: 18-35
• Duration: 12 months
• Special requirement: U.S. citizens need the support of a Recognized Organization to be approved for this visa.
• Cost: $795 USD
• Get More Details Here

 

Read my post Canada Working Holiday

 

Ireland Working Holiday Visa for Americans

 

• Age: over 18
• Duration: 12 months
• Special requirement: Must be enrolled in school full time.
• Cost: About $350 USD
• Get More Details Here

 

Read my post Ireland Working Holiday

 

New Zealand Working Holiday Visa for Americans

 

• Age: 18-30,  
• Duration: 12 months
• Cost: $35 USD
• Get More Details Here

if you are 30-35 years of age there is working holiday visa program to New Zealand through BUNAC. Check out details here https://www.bunac.org/working-holidays/new-zealand/work-new-zealand

Read my post New Zealand Working Holiday

 

Singapore Working Holiday Visa for Americans

 

• Age: 18-25
• Duration: 6 months
• Special requirement: You must be a graduate or undergraduate of a top 200 university.
• Cost: $150 USD
• Get More Details Here

 

South Korea Working Holiday Visa for Americans

 

• Age: 18-30
• Duration: 18 months
• Cost: $45 USD application fee
• Get More Details Here

 

What if I Don’t Qualify For A Working Holiday Visa?

 

If you don’t qualify for one of the working holiday visas available don’t despair as there are still options available to you. Read my post Over 30 -Your Work and Travel Options.

 

More Options for Living, Working and Playing Abroad as an American

 

As well as the working holiday visas for Americans there are other options for living, working and playing abroad. Types of work you can pick up include Teaching English, WWoofing, Work On A Cruise Ship, get a hostel job in exchange for board and food, start a travel blog or become a digital nomad and work online and travel and live in other countries for an extended time.

 

Finally

 

As you have read there are options for Americans to live, work and play in one or more countries for an extended time. So don’t you think you should take up the opportunity? Let me know your thoughts and ask any questions in the comments following.

 

READ MORE: What to Pack for a Working Holiday

 

One way to live and work abroad is to go on a working holiday visa (WHV). As long as you qualify, that is. This is how I was able to live and work in the UK as I qualified for the working holiday visa. If you want to know where you can live and work abroad on a working holiday visa, you are in luck. There are some 50+ countries with working holiday visas. Read on and discover where you could be living, working and playing in the world on a working holiday visa.

The biggest thing with a working holiday visa, well, any visa, is whether you qualify for the visa. Countries around the globe offer working holiday visas exclusively to young adults, typically 18-30 or 18-35 years of age. With a working holiday visa in your passport you will be able to spend up to one year, sometimes two years, in the country where you can undertake work to help fund your travels. Sound good?

Note: This post provides an overview of countries with a working holiday visa. I have done my best to ensure the information provided is the latest available. Please visit the individual country embassies or high commissions to get the latest information. Then, follow all the instructions to apply for a working holiday visa.

 

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

 

If you aren’t quite sure what a working holiday visa is, let me explain. In general, a working holiday visa is a cultural exchange between countries. It allows travellers of a certain age, mostly 18-30 years or 18-35 years to have an extended stay in another country. This is usually up to 1 or 2 years, sometimes 3 years. And, you can undertake work to support yourself while in the country and to fund further travels.

Popular countries offering working holiday visas are Australia, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand and Singapore among others.

 

Common Requirements and Eligibility of Working Holiday Visas

 

Requirements and eligibility for working holiday visas varies from country to country. But, there are some general requirements you need to meet. Here’s a quick working holiday visa overview of the fundamentals of working holiday visas.

Nationality: Your nationality influences which countries you can apply to for a working holiday visa. You must be a citizen of a country that has a working holiday holiday visa agreement with other countries.

Age: Working holiday visas are aimed at young adults. You need to be between 18 and 30 years old, although some countries allow applicants up to 35 years of age. If you are over this age there are still options for you to live and work abroad. Read my guide on working holidays for people over the age of 30-35 years.

Proof of Funds: To apply for a working holiday visa you need to prove you have sufficient funds in your bank account. This is to cover your initial expenses of your stay. The amount varies from country to country.

Health Insurance: Most countries require you to have valid health insurance for the duration of your stay. Some countries may even request you have a medical exam. A chest x-ray might be part of your application.

 

Two Types of Working Holiday Visas

 

There are two types of working holiday visa. The Working Holiday visa and the Work and Holiday visa. Here are the main differences.

 

Differences between the Working Holiday and the Work and Holiday Visa

 

Both the Working Holiday and the Work and Holiday Visa are basically a residence permit. If you qualify for one you can undertake employment in the country issuing the visa to supplement your travel funds. Sometimes there are restrictions on the type of work you can do in some of the countries. This is why you often hear of typical ‘backpacker jobs’ that working holiday makers do.

The main difference between the two visas is the Work and Holiday Visa is aimed at students or recently qualified tertiary students. Where the Working Holiday Visa is aimed at anyone aged between 18-30 (sometimes 35) years of age. Both visas allow you to undertake work while you are living in a particular destination. 

 

Working Holiday Visa at a glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incidental work.
• Must be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Be single or married without children.
• Prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay.
• Have a return and or onward ticket or sufficient funds so you can leave the country at the end of your stay.
• So make the most of your time. Most countries allow you to stay for 12 months. Some allow a stay of up to 24 months.
• Each country issues a working holiday visa once in your life time. Though countries like Australia offer a 2nd and 3rd year working holiday visa if you spend 3 months doing certain work like agricultural work.

 

Work and Holiday Visa at a glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incident work.
• Be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Hold a tertiary qualification that you have recently completed or be studying full-time.
• Speak English
• Obtain a letter of support from your Government.
• Have a return flight booked or the money to purchase one.

 

Application and Documentation to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa

 

To apply for a working holiday visa, you will need to follow the application process of the country with the working holiday visa you are applying for which is roughly:

• check if your desired destination country offers this type of visa to your nationality. You can do this only by going to the country’s official site that provides visas.
• find out what documents and information are required from you to apply for the working holiday visa. At this time check the expiry date of your passport. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay and ideally, an additional six months beyond this is ideal. If you don’t have long validity on your passport, consider applying for a new one.
• gather your documents and information.
• fill in the application form and provide copies of documents. Follow their instructions closely to avoid delays or having your application rejected.
• pay the application fee. This fee will vary from country to country.
• wait while your application is processed, and hopefully you will successfully receive a working holiday visa.

 

How Long Does it Take to Have Your Working Holiday Visa Approved?

 

The time taken to approve a working holiday visa will depend on the processing of visas of the individual countries. Usually when you apply you should receive advice of how long it might take. Anywhere from a week or two to a couple of months. But it can depend on how busy the visa processing area is.

 

Why Go on a Working Holiday Visa

 

A working holiday visa provides you with some big benefits. If you successfully apply for and receive a working holiday visa you will be allowed to:

• Live and work in the working holiday destination for up to 1, 2 or 3 years.
• You can apply for and undertake work to support yourself while in the country. And to fund further travels.
• Immerse yourself in the culture and meet new people, enjoy different foods and travel around the country.
• Have the opportunity to travel around neighbouring countries.
• Potentially enhance your CV for the future.

 

I’m sure you agree, all of these are great reasons to live and work abroad on a working holiday visa. I loved my time living in the UK. I based myself in London where I got ‘temp’ work. I did typical backpacker jobs. I did admin in offices, got a live-in bar job for a while and also had a live-in nanny job. Then I had weekends away discovering the UK and also travelled to and from Europe.

 

Don’t Qualify for Working Holiday Visas

 

Over 30 or 35? Don’t worry if you don’t qualify for a working holiday and or work and holiday visa. There are still many work opportunities available to you to live and work abroad. Read my Over 30? Your Work and Travel Options post here. Also check out my comprehensive list of countries with a digital nomad visa. They don’t have an age limit on them, but they do require you to be making money online. Get the lowdown on digital nomad visas here.

 

Countries With Working Holiday Visas

 

The list of countries which offer working holiday visas and work and holiday visas is huge. This is great because you will have a lot of choice when it comes to where you can go. Some citizens of some countries have more choice than others. Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians and those from the UK have more choice than some others. This is because their governments have negotiated working holiday visas with a number of countries.

 

Working Holiday Visas By Region

 

To help you decide what country to apply to, you may want to know what region they are in.

 

Working Holiday Visa Destinations in the Asia-Pacific Region

Several countries offer working holiday visas in the Asia-Pacific region. Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.

 

Working Holiday Visa Destinations in the Europe Region

Many countries in the European region have working holiday visas available. Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom,

 

Working Holiday Visa Destinations in North America & South America Regions

In North America, Canada is the primary destination for a working holiday visa. To the United States of America the working holiday visa is a new concept and it does not have many reciprocal agreements in place. It does have a Work and Holiday Visa available with Australia and you can get a J1 or J2 visa to work in the US for a short time.

You will have more luck getting a working holiday visa in South American countries. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay.

 

Other Working Holiday Visa Destinations

Many countries are joining the working holiday visa schemes. These include Bangladesh.

 

Working Holiday Visas by Nationality

 

Some nationalities have more working holiday visas available to them. And we seem to be nationalities who love to live and work abroad and have embraced the opportunity. I know I did. I went to the UK on a working holiday as well as New Zealand. Popular nationalities include:

Australia: Working Holiday Visas for Australians: Australia has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

New Zealand: Working Holiday Visas for New Zealanders: Like Australia, New Zealand has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

United Kingdom: Working Holiday Visas for citizens of the United Kingdom: Like Australia and New Zealand, the United Kingdom has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

Canada: Working Holiday Visas for Canadians: Like Australia, New Zealand and the UK, Canadians love to travel and Canada has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

USA: Working Holiday Visas for Americans: Working holiday visas are relatively new to America, I’m not sure why, America only has a few reciprocal working holiday agreements in place including one with Australia.

 

Countries With a Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa

 

Following is an alphabetical list of countries with a working holiday and or work and holiday visa arrangement.

NOTE: These working holiday visa requirements are subject to change. Also, countries are negotiating working holiday visas and more arrangements are becoming available all the time. 

TIP: Before applying for a working holiday visa do your own research and ensure you understand what is involved.

The following working holiday visa destinations are listed in alphabetical order.

 

Argentina

Visa: Argentina Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Denmark, France, Ireland and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy of Argentina for more details and to apply

 

Australia

Visa: Australia Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Available to citizens of: United Kingdom, Canada, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Ireland, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Taiwan
Visa: Australia Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Bangladesh, Chile, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Poland, Turkey, Thailand, Uruguay, USA
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Australian High Commission or Consulate for more details and to apply
Australia also has the Trans-Tasman Agreement with New Zealand allowing New Zealanders to come to Australia to live and work.

 

READ MORE: Get the lowdown on living, working and playing in Australia in my Australia Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Principality of Andorra

Visa: Principality of Andorra Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Principality of Andorra.

 

Austria

Visa: Austria Working Holiday Visa (which only permits study)
Available to citizens of: Hong Kong, Israel, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 6 months and 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Austria.
Austria currently has a youth workers exchange program available to Canadian students and graduates aged between 18 And 30 allowing them to stay in Austria for up to 6 months to gain experience in Tourism, Agriculture And Forestry. You must be a Canadian who is a full-time post-secondary students and/or graduate, 18-30 years of age. Part-time and high school students not eligible.

 

Bangladesh

Visa: Bangladesh Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (inclusive)
Other: Meet health and character requirements. Have no dependent children accompanying you. Have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare
Contact: Your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bangladesh

 

Belgium

Visa: Belgium Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Belgium

 

Brazil

Visa: Brazil Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: France, Germany, South Korea and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Brazil for more details and to apply

 

READ MORE: Brazil Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Canada

Visa: Canada Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Ukraine, United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months-24 months, depending on country arrangement
Aged: 18-30 years, some up to 35 years depending on country arrangement inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Brazil for more details and to apply

 

READ MORE: Canada Working Holiday

 

Chile

Visa: Chile Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, South Korea, New Zealand and Sweden
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive (or 35 years in the case of Canada and Hungary)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Chile for more details and to apply
Types of work for working holiday makers: Teaching English, working in the ski resorts, volunteering
Also citizens of Colombia, Mexico and Peru can apply to the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) for a work and holiday visa in Chile

 

China

Visa: China Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate for more details and to apply

 

Columbia

Visa: Columbia Work and Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: France
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Columbia for more details and to apply
Citizens of Chile, Mexico and Peru can apply to the Pacific Alliance  (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) for a work and holiday visa in Columbia

 

Costa Rica

Visa: Costa Rica Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-35 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Costa Rica for more details and to apply

 

Croatia

Visa: Croatia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Croatia.

 

Cyprus

Visa: Cyprus Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 25 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Cyprus

 

Czech Republic

Visa: Czech Republic Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada, Chile, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Czechoslovakia

 

Denmark

Visa: Denmark Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Danish Embassy or Consulate

 

Europe (European Union, EU)

Europe does not have a working holiday visa but individual countries do. They are: Andorra, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden.

Europe is made up of a number of countries. When they belong to the EU they can live and work in each other’s country. EU countries include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

Check out the offical European Union website at www.europa.eu

 

Estonia

Visa: Estonia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (18 to 35 years for Canadians)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Estonia

 

READ MORE: Estonia Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Finland

Visa: Finland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Japan and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate

 

France

Visa: France Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia (4 months) and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years in some cases)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of France

 

READ MORE: France Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Germany

Visa: Germany Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years for Canada)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Germany

 

READ MORE: Germany Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Greece

Visa: Greece Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and Canada
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Greece

 

Hong Kong

Visa: Hong Kong Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, New Zealand, Sweden and the United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years at the time of application
Other: be of good health and good character
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Hong Kong

 

Hungary

Visa: Hungary Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Chile, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Hungary

 

Iceland

Visa: Iceland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Icelandic Embassy or Consulate

 

Indonesia

Visa: Indonesia Work and Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia – capped at 1000
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years at time of the application
Contact: Nearest Indonesian Consulate

 

READ MORE: Bali Digital Nomad Guide

 

Ireland (Republic of)

Visa: Republic of Ireland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, United States of America and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Ireland

 

READ MORE: Ireland Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Israel

Visa: Israel Working Holiday Visa – has a Kibbutz Volunteer program
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Germany, New Zealand, South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Israel

 

READ MORE: Many travellers to Israel have long volunteered on a Kibbutz or Moshav. Here’s how you can be a Kibbutz Volunteer

 

Italy

Visa: Italy Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months (24 months for Canadian citizens)
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years for Canadian citizens
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Italy

 

READ MORE: Italy Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Japan

Visa: Japan Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Denmark, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway,Taiwan, Hong Kong (SAR), Ireland, Slovakia, Poland, Portugal and the United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months, pls note a one year visa may be granted to citizens of Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Finland and United Kingdom. A 6-month visa may be granted to citizens of Australia which can be extended twice and once for citizens of New Zealand and Canada.
Age: 18 to 30 years at the time of application
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Japan

 

READ MORE: Japan Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Latvia

Visa: Latvia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Latvia

 

Lithuania

Visa: Lithuania Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Lithuania

 

Malaysia

Visa: Malaysia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Malaysia

 

Malta

Visa: Malta Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Malta

 

Mexico

Visa: Mexico Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada, France, Germany, South Korea and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-29 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Mexico for more details and to apply
Citizens of Chile, Colombia, Peru are eligible for the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) working holiday visa in Mexico

 

The Netherlands

Visa: Netherlands Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years, up to 35 years of age depending on country arrangements
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Netherlands

 

READ MORE: Netherlands Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

New Zealand

Visa: New Zealand Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, USA, Uruguay, Vietnam.
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years, up to 35 years of age depending on country arrangements
Contact: your nearest New Zealand Consulate

 

READ MORE: New Zealand Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Norway

Visa: Norway Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years depending on country agreement)
Contact: your nearest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate

 

Peru

Visa: Peru Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Peru for more details and to apply
Citizens of Chile, Colombia, Mexico are eligible for the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) working holiday visa in Peru

 

Philippines

Visa: Philippines Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Philippines

 

Poland

Visa: Poland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (18 to 35 years for Canadians)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Poland

 

Portugal

Visa: Portugal Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Japan and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Portugal

 

Romania

Visa: Romania Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Romania

 

Russia

Visa: Russia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: France
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Russia

 

South Korea

Visa: South Korea Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Czech Republic, Japan, Hungary, Hong Kong, Israel, New Zealand, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Taiwan, UK and The United States
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 25 or 30 years inclusive (depending on country of origin)
Other: If granted, you may not be employed as receptionist, dancer, singer, musician, acrobat etc. Also not at places of entertainment which might endanger good morals and manners. Or engage in types of business which go against the tenor of the agreement. This could be not to provide medical treatment and other professions which require certain qualifications in accordance with South Korean domestic law.
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of South Korea

 

Singapore

Visa: Singapore Work and Holiday Visa
Available to undergraduates and graduates from universities and equivalent institutions of: Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 17 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Singapore

 

Slovakia

Visa: Slovakia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Slovakia

 

Slovenia

Visa: Slovenia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Slovenia

 

Spain

Visa: Spain Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Spain

 

Sweden

Visa: Sweden Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Canada, Chile New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Swedish Embassy or Consulate

 

READ MORE: Sweden Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Switzerland

Visa: Switzerland Youth Mobility Program
Available to citizens of: Canada with a secondary education and have completed a 2-year training, or study at a post-secondary institution, or have completed your post-secondary studies
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 35 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Switzerland

 

Taiwan

Visa: Taiwan Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Japan, Canada, Germany, Hungary, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, South Korea, United Kingdom and Ireland
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Taiwan

 

Thailand

Visa: Thailand Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Other: have tertiary qualifications (full time courses with at least 3 years of study)
Contact: Australian citizens should contact the Thai Consulate in Sydney. New Zealand citizens should contact the Thai Embassy in Wellington.

 

Turkey

Visa: Turkey Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Turkey

 

United Kingdom

Visa: United Kingdom Working Holiday Visa known as Tier 5 Mobility Scheme Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Taiwan or Republic of Korea
Length of stay: 24 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest British High Commission or Consulate

The United Kingdom also has an Ancestry Visa available. If you have British parents or grand parents you could apply for an Ancestry Visa.

 

READ MORE: United Kingdom Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

The United Kingdom is the most popular working holiday destination for young Australians and New Zealanders. Get ready for your working holiday in the United Kingdom with a copy of my ebook Live Work and Play in London and the UK. It provides the information you need for a smooth transition into your UK working holiday.

 

Uruguay

Visa: Uruguay Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, France and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Uruguay for more details and to apply

 

Vietnam

Visa: Vietnam Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam

 

READ MORE: Countries With A Digital Nomad Visa

 

Backpacker Jobs and Traveller Jobs

 

There are a number of typical backpacker and traveller jobs that people on a working holiday visa usually do. These include, but are not limited to office administration work, accounting and banking, hostel jobs, fruit and vegetable picking, teaching English and working in a bar, cafe or restaurant. Read more about typical backpacker jobs and how to find one here.

 

Working Holiday Visa FAQs

 

Where do you apply for a working holiday visa?

You apply for a working holiday visa at the Embassy, High Commission or Consulate of the country you are applying to.

How do you apply for a working holiday visa?

Easy, go to the appropriate website of the country you are wanting to apply to. Follow all the instructions, provide all required documentation, pay the fee and wait for approval.

How long does it take to get a working holiday visa?

The length of time to get approval for a working holiday visa varies. Each country has their own processes to follow and this can take time. You should be advised this when applying.

How much does a working holiday visa cost?

The cost of a working holiday visa will vary per country. When researching about each visa, find out the cost involved.

 

Are You Ready for a Working Holiday?

 

Working Holiday Visas provide a fantastic opportunity for you to experience living and working in another country. As you have read, there are many countries with a working holiday visa and / or work and holiday visa arrangement available. Now is the time to get out there and enjoy a working holiday destination. They are a great option for you to work and travel around the world.

So get your paperwork sorted. Pack your bags and get going on a working holiday. Don’t forget to protect your trip with travel insurance. Check out WorldNomads and Safety Wing to find a policy that suits you.

If you discover any changes to the working holiday visas listed, or know of any new country working holiday visas not listed, please let me know. This will let me keep this list of countries with a working holiday visa up-to-date. If you have been on a working holiday I would love to hear in the comments following.

 

READ MORE:
What to Pack for a Working Holiday
The World is Your Oyster – Travel Job Tales
How to Work and Travel Abroad

 

The town of Schengen where the agreement was signed

 

If you are researching a trip to Europe, you have probably stumbled across the word “Schengen”. And then Schengen is attached to Area and Visa and other words. If you want to know about the Schengen Area, the Schengen Visa and all things Schengen then I’m here to de-mystify the Schengen Area, the Schengen Visa and all things Schengen for you. So here is what you need to know to help you navigate your way through this tricky European zone.

 

A Brief History of the Schengen Agreement

 

It was in 1985 that a number of European countries signed an agreement to abolish internal borders. This would enable passport-free movement across these countries. On 26 March 1995 it finally started with seven Schengen member countries, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal and Spain deciding to abolish their internal border checks. As the years roll on more countries have signed up and currently there are 26 European countries that make up the Schengen Area. By the way, Schengen is the name of a town in Luxembourg, where the agreement was first signed. 

 

Which Countries Belong In The Schengen Area

 

As mentioned, there are now 26 countries that make up the Schengen Area. Twenty two are EU (European Union) countries and four are non-EU countries. Together these countries have a mutual border. Basically that means they function together as one single jurisdiction for international travel purposes and thus one visa, the Schengen Visa which allows free movement between the Schengen Area countries. I could give you a list of the Schengen Area countries however, that can be extremely boring to read. So see the map following that shows you the extent of the area. Also visit the official Schengen website where you can see other maps and get more information.

 

The Schengen Area

 

What Is The Schengen Visa and How Does It Work?

 

The Schengen Visa is one visa that allows travel within the Schengen Area. It was created so you don’t have to show your passport and/or visa every time you cross a Schengen country border. It allows for free movement between the Schengen Area countries which makes life of travelling in Europe so much easier. Having a Schengen Visa means you can transit through or have a stay of no more than 90 days in any 180 day period.

 

Who Qualifies For The Schengen Visa

 

The following individuals are eligible for unrestricted travel in the Schengen Area:

• Schengen-country citizens
• Holders of a residence permit issued by a Schengen country
• EU/EEA citizens
• Non-EU individuals from eligible countries who are not required to obtain a Schengen visa for travel of 90 days or less
• Non-EU individuals with a valid Schengen visa

Note: You will need a valid passport to enter any and all Schengen countries.

 

Do I Need A Schengen Visa?

 

Before you start applying for a Schengen Visa make sure you need one first. Citizens of some countries do while others don’t. If you need one or not will depend on your citizenship and/or residency of a certain country. Those that currently do need to apply for the visa are citizens from: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burma/Myanmar, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Cote D’ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic Of Congo, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Sao Tome And Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

And those that don’t (but you do need a valid passport) are citizens from:  Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Holy See (Vatican City State), Honduras, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macedonia (FYROM), Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Serbia, Singapore, Solomon islands, South Korea, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela.

 

How Do I Apply For A Schengen Visa?

 

You must apply for the visa from the country of your main destination. If you don’t have a main destination but will be travelling to several of the Schengen states, you need to apply for the visa from the country that you will enter first. And you should apply for the Schengen Visa from your home country, or the country you are in. And it should be done at least 15 days before you travel. So to put this into practice, if you are Australian and your main destination is Germany and you may make a few day trips to the countries around Germany you would apply for the visa through your nearest German Embassy. Or say, you are a citizen of Sri Lanka but you are currently living in London and you would like to travel to France, then Germany then Italy. You. must apply for the Schengen Visa through the French Consulate in London.

 

READ MORE:

Working Holiday and Work and Holiday Visas
Digital Nomad Visas

So there you have it. An overview of what you need to know about the Schengen Visa for your travels through Europe. You can find more information about the Schengen Visa including where and how to apply here.

 

Are you keen to live and work online from an historic European city, Caribbean island, South American country or Asian beach or jungle? Then you will be interested in countries with a digital nomad visa! Because they let you live and work legally in another country for an extended period. How cool! But you’ve got questions. What is a digital nomad visa? Which countries offer a digital nomad visas? And how to you get one? Can you slow travel around a country on a digital nomad visa? Read on and I’ll answer your questions about obtaining a digital nomad visa, and which countries have a digital nomad visa in this digital nomad visa guide.

When I first began writing about digital nomad visas way back in September 2020 the list consisted of only a handful of countries. That list has now expanded to some 60 plus countries with digital nomad visas, and the list is growing. Before I begin to list the countries with a digital nomad visa I’ll provide you with some digital nomad terminology and why countries are creating this type of visa. Plus provide some other general information about qualifying for a digital nomad visa plus being a digital nomad and living the digital nomad lifestyle. And why do I qualify to write this? Well, I’ve been living and working abroad for some 30 years on different visas including working holiday visas and digital nomad visas.

Can I just say before we get into the nitty gritty of digital nomad visas, I’ve done a lot of research to provide you with the latest details in this post. But things can change, countries add and cancel visas and this is out of my control. Check the details of each digital nomad visa with the appropriate body that issues the visa to ensure you understand all the legalities involved with it.

 

The Rise of the Digital Nomad Visa

 

The Internet has literally changed all of our lives, including mine. I remember when I first got a computer, a big boxy thing that I connected to the Internet by ‘dial up’. Anyone else remember those? I’d sit there looking at the screen waiting patiently while the connection was made. And I sat there even longer while trying to download websites. Now, the Internet is much faster to connect to and reachable from anywhere in the world. This allows people, including myself to live a location independent lifestyle in a different country from where I was born and grew up. And with the introduction and increase in the number of countries introducing a digital nomad visa, living and working in another country or slow full-time traveling around the world is a big reality.

Covid-19 also helped the rise of the digital nomad visa. As people were forced into lockdowns and had to work from home (if they could), it showed that it was possible to work online from home rather than go into a workplace every day. So if this was possible, working online means your can work from anywhere. And this is why so many of us are taking our businesses on the road with us and utilising digital nomad visas so we can immerse ourselves in other cultures, yet still make money to fund our travels at the same time. 

 

A Few Things to Know About Digital Nomad Visas

 

Known As Different Names

 

Digital nomad visas have become much more the norm lately and are known with different names. Names include freelance visa, self-employed visa, remote work visa and expat visa but basically, they are referring to the digital nomad visa.

 

Difference between a Remote Worker and Digital Nomad?

 

If you are wondering what the difference between a remote worker and digital nomad is, let me explain. A remote worker is essentially a person who works online remotely, usually from home. Home can be in anything from a house or unit to a van and can be anywhere. They can work for a company that allows them to work remotely or they have set up their own business to work remotely from anywhere. They usually have a home base where they have their tech set up and where they travel to and from doing shorter trips. Or move from country to country working online and immersing themselves in the local culture of the country they are in.

A digital nomad is a person who works online and makes a living from their online work while they travel the world. This is what I have been doing. Firstly as a travel writer and now travel blogger. I love being able to make money from my online job. I can live in another country and immerse myself in the local culture. And you can too. I have lived in the UK and Australia and my laptop has been to as many countries as me.

 

Why Are Countries Creating Digital Nomad Visas?

 

The biggest reason I have come up with for countries creating digital nomad visas is that with the Covid-19 pandemic many countries were locked down and suffered a severe drop in tourism revenue because of it. Countries believe revenue will increase if they allow one tourist the opportunity to live and work in their country for 12 months rather than a number of tourists who will stay only a couple of weeks. This is because the one tourist will contribute not only to tourist revenue but revenue for living and working in the country. For accommodation, for food, for utilities and entertainment. 

Another reason is working from home became the ‘new normal’ during the pandemic. Home schooling and on-line schooling was also required. Tech experts were in particular demand to help home workers and on-line schooling. Countries actively targeted them with a new visa class to attract them to their shores. They were offered tax incentives and the opportunity to experience a different culture. There were plenty of countries that suffered brain drain due to this so to entice a new set of workers to their shores, they offer a digital nomad visa.

 

What is a Digital Nomad Visa? Digital Nomad Visas Explained

 

A digital nomad visa is aimed at people who work online for a living and who travel to different countries to do it. To get one, each country does have their own requirements, but in general, you need to be earning enough to support yourself from your online business. In return, a typical digital nomad visa is offered for a duration of 12 months and can be extended by a year or two depending on the country issuing the visa. The digital nomad visa isn’t for everyone, as not everyone wants to stay for 12 months in the one country, but many do.

 

What Did People Do Before the Digital Nomad Visa?

 

Before the rise of the digital nomad visa, most people who wanted to live and work in another country travelled on a woking holiday visa or work permit that allows them to work. The work permit was gained through sponsorship such as with Teaching English schools that employed travellers to teach English. Others travel on a tourist visa allowing a stay of up to 90 days. If they want to stay longer they will do a ‘visa run’ to another country then return to gain another 90 days in that country. Many digital nomads prefer this as it is more cost-effective and they can move to another country whenever they want. And if you don’t qualify for a digital nomad visa, then look into the options I’ve mentioned.

 

A Quick Word on Other Visas

 

• You don’t necessarily need a digital nomad visa to work remotely in another country. As I mentioned before, many travel to a country on a tourist visa while they do their online work. If they want to stay longer in that country, they will do a ‘visa run’. The luxury of a digital nomad visa is that they are usually issued for up to one year, thus giving you a longer stay in the country to live, work and play.
• A digital nomad visa is different to a Work Permit which is issued when you will be working for a specific company in a different country. Such as if you get a job Teaching English in an English Language School – you will need a Work Permit.
• If you are under 30 (sometimes 35) you may qualify for a Working Holiday Visa. This is a totally different visa to the digital nomad visa. People who get this visa usually do typical backpacker jobs to make money for their travels. Check out the countries with a working holiday visa here.
• If you are from a European Union (EU) country you can live and work in other EU countries. So if you want to be a digital nomad in a European Union country, visit www.europa.eu for more details.
• If you are over 30 and don’t qualify for a working holiday visa, there are other options to consider. Read my post Over 30 – Your Work and Travel Options.

 

The Income Tax Situation with Digital Nomad Visas?

 

The digital nomad visa tax situation is a complicated one. Each country has its own regulations. Some countries expect you to pay full tax, while others offer tax deductions or even zero taxes to entice you to live and work in their country on the digital nomad visa. Information on tax is usually advised during the digital nomad visa application process, so I would highly suggest you know your tax obligations in a certain country before you apply for the visa. 

 

Which Countries have a Digital Nomad Visa? – Country Listing

 

Many countries are introducing a digital nomad visa. They are particularly prominent in a number of countries in certain areas. Eastern Europe, Asia and Central and South America are very popular digital nomad destinations. Why? Well, digital nomads choose them because:

• their cost of living is cheaper than other countries and people can geoarbitrage.
• they have high speed Wifi enabling digital nomads to work online without interruptions or delays (mostly).
• there is a digital nomad visa allowing them to live and work in a country for up to 12 months.
• infrastructure is set up for digital nomads and you can meet other digital nomads.

 

Digital Nomad Requirements in General

 

In general, each country has their own application process for digital nomad visas for remote workers. It usually entails providing your current passport, proof of income and medical insurance. So once you have chosen a country, follow their application process and pay the visa fee to gain a digital nomad visa.

 

Countries with a Digital Nomad Visa

 

My following list of countries with a digital nomad visa is in alphabetical order under the main Continent or Area where they exist. I thought this would be easier to find them. Digital Nomad Visas are popular in countries in Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, Central and South America and now Africa. Other countries are introducing long-term visas such as those in Oceania (New Zealand) and the Middle East.

 

Digital Nomad Visas in Asia

 

With a Digital Nomad Visa in an Asian country you could work online by your pool!

 

I’m kicking off the country digital nomad visa list with Asian digital nomad visas. So why choose Asia as a digital nomad destination? Well, Asia, particularly Southeast Asia, is a popular choice for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, thriving co-working communities, warmer weather and rich cultural experiences. Many like that they can work from sea-side beach cafes or in jungle cities.

 

Indonesia (Bali)

 

Not technically Asia, but in the Asia region, for a long time now the beautiful island of Bali, Indonesia has been a popular location for remote workers and digital nomads to base themselves. Many who live and work in Bali on a tourist visa and do a ‘visa run’ to extend their stay. Or, might be living in Indonesia on a B211A Business Visa. Good news, Indonesia introduced in April 2024 the Remote Worker Visa (E33G) Program. Initially valid for one year, this visa can be renewed up to five times, allowing remote workers to live in the country for a total of six years. Wow! And if you have a family, you can apply to The Directorate General of Immigration to approve a Dependent Visa for the Remote Worker Visa. Digital Nomad families will love this! If Indonesia, or you particularly want to live and work in Bali read my post Bali Digital Nomad Guide.

To help you get to know Bali, here’s how to spend 7 days in Bali – what a great way to start discovering Bali.

 

Japan

 

In April 2024 Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a digital nomad visa for Japan. It is intended for remote workers with an annual income of ten million yen or more. That’s about AUD106,000 or USD68,000 or GBP51,000 per annum. If you qualify, the Japan digital nomad visa will allow you to work remotely in Japan for up to six months. What a great way to immerse yourself in Japan’s culture. To find out more about the visa, check out Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs information. You can also check out the Japan Working Holiday Visa.

Posts to help you discover Japan:
1 Month Japan Itinerary
How to Spend 3 Days in Tokyo
A Day Trip Visit to Mount Fuji
Accommodation in Japan
Work and Ski Japan

 

Kazakhstan

 

Kazakhstan is a landlocked country located primarily in Central Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and west, China to the east and the Caspian Sea to the southwest. And as of November 2024 Kazakhstan has a digital nomad visa. Officially known as the Neo Nomad Visa, or B12-1 visa it allows those who successfully apply for it to live and work in Kazakhstan for up to a year. After that time, there is an option to renew for another year. 

Like other digital nomad visas, the Kazakhstan digital nomad visa requires you to be earning USD3,000 per month and have international health insurance amongst other things. For more details and to apply online, head to the Astana Hub.

 

Malaysia

 

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia known for its diverse culture, vibrant cities and natural landscapes. It is a multicultural nation with a blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian and Indigenous locals. Probably best known for its iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and natural wonders like Langkawi’s beaches. And now, along with its neighbours Thailand and Indonesia, it is fast becoming a digital nomad hub in Asia thanks to the new Malaysia digital nomad visa. Known as the Professional Visit Pass, the visa is released by DE Rantau Nomad Pass and allows digital nomads to live and work in Malaysia for three to 12 months with the ability to renew the visa for a second year. Sounds good, so if wanting a destination to enjoy a tropical climate and cheap cost of living, then Malaysia may be your next digital nomad destination. It would also make a great base for exploring the neighbouring countries.

 

Philippines

 

Great news, as of April 2025, the bill for the Philippines’ digital nomad visa has been approved and will begin accepting applications at the end of June. It is proposed the visa will allow foreigners to live and work in the Philippines for up to a year and be renewable for an additional 12 months, giving a total of two years. Great news if you like the tropical weather and low cost of living you find in this part of the world.

 

South Korea

 

The South Korea Government launched the South Korea digital nomad visa or Workcation Visa on 1 January 2024. It’s aim is to help increase tourism revenue for South Korea. And while increased tourism revenue suits the South Korean government, remote workers and digital nomads will love having another country to add to the growing list of countries with a digital nomad visa to choose from. If successful in applying for the South Korea digital nomad visa, you will be able to live and work in South Korea for up to a year. If you are there already on a tourist visa or temporary visa you may convert it to the South Korea digital nomad visa while in the country. South Korea, like fellow countries Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines has a tropical climate and a cheaper cost of living making South Korea a great digital nomad destination.

 

Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa

 

Dreaming of dreamy beaches and incredible wildlife? Then you will be pleased to know Sri Lanka, known as the ‘pearl of the Indian Ocean’, has launched a digital nomad visa in February 2026. Like most digital nomad visas, applicants must be earning a certain amount – above €1,700 (US$2,000) a month. If successful in obtaining a digital nomad visa for Sri Lanka you will be allowed to stay for up to 12 months, which is renewable. 

 

Taiwan – Taiwan Employment Gold Card

 

Taiwan, a lovely East Asian country is a popular country for ex-pats to live. It is a beautiful choice for nomadic workers wishing to migrate to Asia since it provides everything they need. From high-speed Internet to efficient public transportation to a bustling network of fellow mobile employees. In 2018, the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of International Professional Talent (Act) launched the Taiwan Employment Gold Card for foreign professionals seeking jobs in Taiwan. It’s a four-in-one document that may serve as a work permit, a resident visa, a re-entry visa, and an Alien Residence Certificate. This visa allows you to visit and depart Taiwan as often as you like over three years. More information about the Taiwan Employment Gold Card may be found here.

 

Thailand

 

Thailand has long been a popular digital nomad destination. Mainly due to its cheap cost of living, fast wifi and infrastructure set up for remote workers. And now, digital nomads, retirees with pensions and wealthy investors are rejoicing that Thailand has introduced the Thailand Digital Nomad Visa as this visa will allow them to live and work in Thailand for 10 years. Officially called the Long Term Residence Visa this visa is very selective and comes with strict requirements. If preferring a more traditional digital nomad visa, there is the Thailand Multiple-Entry Visa for Digital Nomads. Both visas will allow you to discover this beautiful country and live and work in digital nomad hotspots like Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Bangkok, Thailand has been a long-time favourite destination for remote workers and now there are options to live and work in Thailand long-term. Get details of this visa, and others for Thailand at the official website of Thailand visas – the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Posts to help you discover Thailand:
How to Spend 3 Days in Bangkok
1 Month Thailand Itinerary
Chiang Mai – 3 Day Visit

 

Digital Nomad Visas in the Caribbean

 

The Caribbean has many beautiful beaches where you could live as a digital nomad

 

Anguilla

 

Enjoy Caribbean island life when you choose Anguilla on a digital nomad visa. This visa was only recently launched but if you would like to enjoy the beach life on this sunny island, this place may just be for you. There is quite a hefty fee associated with applying for the visa USD2,000 for individuals. And if you want to bring your family it is $3,000 per family to apply.

 

Antigua and Barbuda

 

The Caribbean Island nation of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a digital nomad visa called the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR). Aimed at remote workers who can show means to support themselves and any family members joining them. This visa is good to live work play in Antigua and Barbuda for up to 2 years. With 365 different beaches here to enjoy, that means one to visit each day! If spending your time working and travelling in Antigua and Barbuda sounds good, get the details and apply here.

 

Aruba

 

I first heard of Aruba, in the Caribbean when I visited it on a cruise liner taking me from Southampton, England to Sydney, Australia. It was just one of the stops during my 42 days at sea. Aruba is a little island with lots of beaches. The island is tiny and you can drive around it, very easily I might add, in the one day. Aruba is currently offering a 90 day visa called One Happy Workation. You will need to buy their state-run travel health insurance which costs around $275. More details about this visa can be found here.

 

Bahamas

 

The Bahamas is famous for its tropical climate, palm palms, and clear blue seas. For a very long time, vacationers globally have been flocking to The Bahamas. The Bahamas’ equivalent of the digital nomad visa, the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS), was introduced in October 2020. This BEATS program is unique in that it enables professionals and students to live and work remotely on any of the country’s 16 islands for up to 12 months without having to relocate. Get more details here.

 

Barbados

 

Fancy living by the ocean on a sunny Caribbean island? Then the island of Barbados may be for you. Barbados believes it is a great place to live, work and play and it now offers the Barbados Welcome Stamp. Having this allows you to stay in Barbados for up to 12 months. To qualify you need to have documents showing you have an annual income of at least $50,000 or have the means to support yourself while in Barbados. The application process takes place online with a fee of $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a family. Read more about The Barbados Wellcome Stamp including how to apply here.

 

Belize

 

The Belize digital nomad visa was launched as part of the Work Where You Vacation Program. This program permits digital nomads to live and work in Belize for up to six months. Belize, in Central America, is a world-renowned tourist destination with the world’s second-largest barrier reef, making it ideal for diving. If you are approved for the Belize digital nomad visa, you will be awarded a work permit that will allow you to stay in Belize temporarily. Check out more information on the Work Where You Vacation Program here.

 

Bermuda

 

When I hear the name Bermuda, I always think of the Bermuda Triangle. But Bermuda is more than this. Bermuda is a small British island territory known for its pink-sand beaches such as at Horseshoe Bay. Just saying those words conjures up beautiful images of sunny shores. If this is enticing you too, you will be pleased to know that Bermuda has created a One Year Residential Certification program allowing foreign remote workers to live and work on the island. The government believes it will promote economic activity for the island while not displacing any locals out of work. There is an application fee of $263. Plus you will need to show you are employed with a legitimate firm and can work remotely. Or demonstrate you have sufficient means of supporting yourself without needing to be employed in Bermuda. Read more about The Bermuda One Year Residential Certification and how to apply here.

 

Cayman Islands

 

The Cayman Islands has launched a digital nomad visa called the GlobalCitizen Certificate (GCC). It allows a stay in the islands for up to 2 years. Individuals must provide proof of an annual salary of at least $100,000 or $150,000 for couples. This is a place to consider if you are earning this much. More details on the GlobalCitizen Certificate and how to apply can be found here. Note there is an application fee of $1,469.

 

Curaçao

 

Curaçao launched the @Home Digital Nomad Visa to counterbalance the fall in tourism by attracting longer-staying remote employees and digital nomads, as well as snowbirds (those who relocate from colder climes to warmer climates for a season) and investors. It takes roughly two weeks to complete the application form. The remote worker component of the @Home in Curaçao program costs ANG 535 (USD 294) for each application. The remote worker’s permit is valid for six months and you may ask for a 6-month extension. Interested in the @Home Digital Nomad Visa for Curaçao then get more information here.

 

Dominica

 

Dominica, not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, is a tropical island in the French Caribbean. It is a country of over 70,000 people, and has introduced a Digital Nomad Visa or Work in Nature (WIN) Extended Stay Visa Program. After completing your online application and paying the USD 100 non-refundable application fee, you will be notified whether or not you have been granted a WIN Visa within 7 business days. On acceptance, you have 30 days to pay the USD 800 visa cost. A family of four must pay USD 1200 in application fees. You may find out more about the WIN visa here.

 

Montserrat

 

The Montserrat Remote Workers Stamp, like similar initiatives on other Caribbean islands, is meant to lure digital nomads into settling there for an extended length of time so that they may pursue remote job opportunities. The requirements for the Montserrat Stamp for Remote Workers are surprisingly minimal. To qualify for the Montserrat Remote Workers Stamp, applicants must earn at least $70,000 annually. The visa costs USD500 for a single application. More details and to apply can be found here.

 

Saint Lucia

 

The Saint Lucia administration decided to develop the Live it Program in March 2021, to enable visitors to remain for an extra six weeks and work remotely. Because the initiative was so successful, the government decided to alter the procedure and grant digital nomads a 12-month multiple-entry visa. If you wish to remain in Saint Lucia for an extended period, this digital nomad visa is a popular way. And digital nomads who want to visit the nation a few times each year may also apply for this visa. The application cost is relatively low, and the application process is quick. Furthermore, since you will not be a tax resident while on his visa, you will not be required to pay taxes on your global income. Learn more about Saint Lucia digital nomad visas here.

 

Digital Nomad Visas in Europe and Scandinavia

 

Many vibrant European Cities to call home

 

If you are from a European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) country check out the official European Union website about moving and living and working in another EU or EEA member country. Most of the digital nomad visas in Europe are in Eastern Europe countries.

 

Andorra

 

Andorra’s Economy Minister recently said the government will begin developing digital economy laws to encourage and retain top talent in the technology and e-commerce businesses. However, it has yet to be implemented. According to officials, the new digital nomad legislation would make YouTubers, influencers, and social media administrators legitimate. Because of its low crime rate, Andorra is one of the safest nations to live and work in Europe. Andorra also boasts high-speed Internet and reliable phone connection. Stay tuned on this one.

 

Croatia

 

As of January 2021, Croatia has been issuing digital nomad visas. It is available for different lengths of time, with a maximum of 12 months. You will need to provide proof of self-employment, pass a criminal background check from your home country, provide proof of an accommodation agreement and earn a minimum of €2500 Euro per month. If Croatia is on your radar for an extended stay you can get more details on the Croatian Digital Nomad Visa here.

 

Cyprus

 

The Digital Nomad Visa Scheme is Cyprus’s official digital nomad visa program. Under this visa, non-EU and non-EEA people may visit Cyprus for three months. The digital nomad visa for Cyprus promotes the nation as a remote IT worker option. This program seeks to attract Digital nomads to help the Cyprus economy. Cyprus provides one-year digital nomad permits that are renewable. Visas for digital nomads must be renewed one month before they expire. Nicosia’s Civil Registry and Migration Department accept papers and €70 application fees. Learn more about Visa information for digital nomads in Cyprus here.

 

Czech Republic

 

The Czech Republic digital nomad visa is called Zivnostenske opravneni or Zivno for short. It is actually a long-term business visa for freelancers and valid for a year but there is the option to extend the visa. While working online your could explore many quaint villages, hike in the mountains or enjoy the capital city, Prague. With low cost living and fast wifi, the Czech Republic may be the destination for you. Read more on the requirements to get the Zivno and how to apply by contacting your nearest embassy or consulate of Czech Republic working in your home country.

 

Estonia

 

Estonia is a Northern European country bordered by Latvia in the south and Russia to the East. And there is plenty of north and western coastline that borders the Baltic Sea. It may not be the Caribbean but there is plenty of ocean to enjoy. There are also many towns including the Baroque inspired capital Tallinn. One of the most popular digital nomad hotspots after Bali. Since 2014 Estonia has been running an e-residency program to attract entrepreneurs. From 1 August 2020 Estonia launched a digital nomad visa that allows a stay to live and work for up to 12 months. It is aimed at freelancers and other self-employed foreigners who work remotely for a company or work online for themselves. If you are looking for a base in Europe that offers cheap living, then Estonia may be the place for you. Read more about The Republic of Estonia Digital Nomad Visa here.

 

Georgia

 

Georgia is a small country between Europe and Asia. It was formerly part of the Soviet Republic. If you look at a map it has a coastline that borders the Black Sea and borders with Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Georgia is also home to the Caucasus Mountains and its capital, Tbilisi, is known for its maze-like, cobblestone streets. Like Estonia, Georgia has introduced a digital nomad visa to attract remote workers. Therefore, if you are interested in Georgia’s coastal charms or living in a village with snow-capped mountains then setting up in Georgia may be for you. Added to the 6 months or more living in Georgia the visa lets you enjoy up to 90 days of travel throughout Europe’s Schengen Area. Read more and register your interest for the Digital Nomad Visa here.

Germany

 

Germany, located in central Europe is a great place to set up to work remotely. The freelance visa, ‘Freiberufler’, only lasts for three months, but you may be able to convert that into a residency permit. There are many cities or typical German towns like Berlin and Munich you can find accommodation and immerse yourself in the local culture. Beer and pretzels anyone! And Germany is a great base for future travels throughout Europe. To find out the eligibility criteria get The German Freelancers ‘freiberufler’ Visa details here. You could also consider the Germany Working Holiday Visa.

 

Greece

 

Greece has long been a wonderful place for holiday makers who love to island hop. Its appeal has grown even more to remote workers after the introduction of the digital nomad visa in September 2021. The attractiveness of Greece originates from the country’s image as a peaceful and safe environment for telecommuting. Any non-EU citizen who is self-employed or has a dependent employee may apply for a digital nomad visa for Greece. The digital nomad visa is valid for one year and may be renewed for another two. You must apply for a residence permit to stay longer than a year after your visa expires. Applicants are notified of the status of their application within ten business days. In Greece, applying for a Digital Nomad Visa costs €75. You must apply for the visa in person at your closest Greek embassy or consulate.

 

Hungary

 

Digital Nomads have long been visiting Hungary and enjoying everything the capital city of Budapest has to offer. And now Hungary are introducing a long-term stay visa, known at the moment as the ‘White Card’ for those digital nomads from non-EU countries. If you are from an EU country you will be able to live and work in Hungary, get more details at www.europea.eu.  As of February 2022, details haven’t been released yet by the government for the White Card. As soon as they do, I will update this as many digital nomads would be interested to work and travel in Hungary.

 

Iceland

 

Iceland is a hot destination right now. Many people are visiting to see the Northern Lights and to swim between the North American and European tectonic plates. But Iceland has plenty more to offer, particularly now with its own long-term visa for remote workers and digital nomads. It is one of the shortest digital nomad visas, up to 6 months, available. You must earn at least $85,000 per year to qualify for the visa. If this one is of interest, find out more about the application process here.

 

Italy

 

Given the country’s abundance of fashionable co-working spaces, excellent food, even more, fantastic coffee, and cheap cost of living, it’s no surprise that Italy has become one of the best countries for digital nomads. The Italian government approved new laws on March 28 2022 allowing remote workers and digital nomads to acquire a special visa. If you are not a European citizen but wish to live in Italy for a few years, you should apply for an Italian Digital Nomad Visa. This visa comes with a number of benefits, and you may remain in the country for up to five years. More information on the Italian Digital Nomad Visa may be found here.

 

Latvia

 

Latvia is a popular destination for digital nomads looking for a scenic European country. Its lovely woodlands and lakes entice digital nomads. In February 2022, Latvia approved a draft digital nomad visa with final approval soon. The Latvian digital nomad visa will allow remote workers and freelancers to stay in Latvia for one year, and it may be renewed. After two years, bearers of digital nomad visas may apply for permanent residency in Latvia. After five years, digital nomads may apply for Latvian citizenship. This allows them to get an EU passport. EU passport holders may visit all 26 Schengen Area countries without a visa! Learn more about the Latvian digital nomad visa here.

 

Malta

 

Malta has recently launched its own Digital Nomad Residence Permit targeting remote workers from outside the EU. It is an island in the Mediterranean and has long attracted digital nomads due to its Mediterranean island lifestyle. Other attractions are the internet infrastructure, it’s ease to visit other European countries and English is widely spoken. There are some catches to qualify for the visa. Applicants must have gross monthly income of €2,700 Euro, proof of travel/health insurance, background verification check and a valid property rental agreement in Malta. Once all this is met, you can live, work and play in Malta for up to one year. Worth the effort I say!

 

Montenegro

Montenegro has only existed as an independent country since 2006 when it proclaimed independence from Serbia. This country has a lot to offer digital nomads and remote workers and Non-EU citizens may apply for the digital nomad visa. The digital nomad visa is valid for two years and may be extended if needed. The visa application procedure takes around 30 days. For more details and how to apply for the Montenegro digital nomad visa contact your nearest Montenegro consulate.

Read my guide to Montenegro for digital nomads and remote workers here.

 

Norway

 

Norway has a couple of visa options for digital nomads. If you are happy to relocate to the Svalard area you don’t need a visa at all! It is the only place in the world that doesn’t require a visa. Svalbard is an archipelago between the North Pole and mainland Norway. A very expensive place to live and work so you will need to be a high-earning digital nomad and able to support yourself for your stay. Norway also has a digital nomad visa known as the Independent Contractor Visa. It is designed for anyone who is self-employed and working on a Norwegian business project. Obtain details on the Norwegian visas here.

 

Portugal

 

Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches and football players. Oh, and it has a visa program that offers temporary residence for independent workers – Portugal Freelance Visa. One problem though, applications must demonstrate that their skills are needed in the country. You also have to register as a freelancer and the application process is lengthier than some of the others but a lot say the lifestyle of living and working in Portugal is well worth the effort. If you are a digital nomad and looking to live in Portugal for a while you will be interested in the newly introduced D8 Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Program.

 

Romania

 

Romania is one of the most recent nations to offer a digital nomad visa being introduced on December 21, 2021. The digital nomad visa in Romania operates similarly to visas in other European digital nomad destinations. The program is only available to digital nomads, defined as “foreigners who are hired with an employment contract by a firm registered outside Romania or who own a company registered outside Romania and may operate as an employee or inside the company remotely” by Romanian authorities – that’s a mouth full! The visa is valid for a year and enables visitors to remain in the nation without requiring other permits or visas. If internationals continue to achieve the minimum standards, their digital nomad visa may be extended for another 12 months. Discover more about digital nomad visas in Romania here.

 

Spain

 

If Spain is on your agenda, then the self-employment work visa will allow you to live and work in Spain for up to a year. A year will allow you to continue working online and enjoy all what Spain has to offer. From beaches, the beautiful architecture to tapas and Sangria, there is so much to enjoy. Maybe learn the Flamenco! Whatever if attracting you to Spain at least you know Spain has the Self-employment Work Visa. Read more about the Spain Self-employment Work Visa here.

 

Countries in Central America and South America with a Digital Nomad Visa

 

Argentina

 

Argentina is a must-see destination for travelers because of the country’s diverse landscape, which includes mountains, hills, glaciers, beaches, and even a desert. It’s no wonder that, with everything Argentina offers, people from other countries seek ways to make a fresh start there. On May 21, 2022, the government of Argentina introduced a unique visa for telecommuters. With Argentina’s digital nomad visa, travelers may work remotely for foreign or domestic businesses. The digital nomad visa for Argentina has validity duration of one to three years. Find out more about the Argentina digital nomad and its unique visa here.

 

READ MORE: South America Working Holiday Visas – an alternative to digital nomad visa.

 

Costa Rica

 

Enjoy the beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and vibrant cities of Costa Rica on the long stay visa available. Costa Rica is also a great base in South America for you to launch your travels around the continent. Even better news is the long visa available, the freelancer visa, called the Rentista. It allows individuals a stay of up to two years with the possibility of extending it for another two years. With great Wifi and a cheap cost of living Costa Rica is a good digital nomad destination. The only downside is you must have income from your online work of at least $2500 per month. Otherwise you will need to make a $60,000 deposit into a Costa Rican bank account. Get more details on how you can extend a 90 day tourist visa to a 12 month digital nomad visa in Costa Rice here.

 

Ecuador

 

The Rentista visa, valid for up to two years in Ecuador, provides new opportunities for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and remote employees. A digital nomad visa for Ecuador may be extended for two years. The application procedure for a digital nomad (Rentista) visa in Ecuador might take up to three months to be granted. A non-refundable application fee of $50 is required and payment of $400 is due upon the visa being approved. If living and working in Ecuador as a digital nomad appeals to you, learn more here.

 

Mexico

 

Mexico, south of the USA and north of many South American countries offers the digital nomad or remote worker a great base. It offers cheap accommodation, great wifi and who doesn’t love Mexican food? You can stay in Mexico for up to six months on a tourist visa but the Mexico temporary resident visa is the way to go if you want to stay for a full year in the country. And it can be extended up to three times. Mexico is a popular digital nomad destination with Play de Carmen a hotspot because of its infrastructure and large number of digital nomads living there already. Read more about the Mexico Temporary Resident Visa here. It is worth noting, that US nationals can get a 6 month tourist visa for Mexico allowing them to stay longer in the country. This may also be an option.

 

Panama

The government of Panama established the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers in May 2021. This visa allows foreigners to reside in Panama for a minimum of 9 months and work remotely. This kind of remote work can only be done for a foreign corporation or as a freelancer with no ties to the home country. An extra 9-month extension is attainable, bringing the total allowed stay period to 18 months. To apply for this visa contact your nearest Panama embassy or consulate.

 

Other Countries with a Digital Nomad Visa

 

Cape Verde

 

Cape Verde is an Atlantic archipelago with Portuguese and African traditions. You will find it off the West Coast of Africa. Digital nomads seeking island paradise would love the country’s tropical environment, stunning beaches, and volcanic islands. Most Cape Verdean digital nomads live in Praia, the capital and biggest city. Cape Verde began its Remote Working Program in December 2020 to attract digital nomads. Under this policy, they created the Cape Verde digital nomad visa, a six-month residency permit for remote workers. Digital nomads may extend beyond six months if they want to stay longer. Find out more about Cape Verde’s digital nomad visa here.

 

Dubai (UAE)

 

Overseas professionals can now apply for a one-year remote working visa to live and work in Dubai. The programme introduced October 2020 promises those who are granted the visa will have access to all required services. They include telecoms, utilities, and schooling options. If you are interested to live, work and travel in a warm climate where you have the beach at your doorstep then Dubai might be for you. The visa costs US$287 (Dhs1,054) plus medical insurance with valid UAE coverage and processing fee per person. Applicants must earn a monthly salary of US$5,000 (Dhs18,365) per month, and prove this with last month’s payslip and three months’ bank statements. It should be noted that Dubai does not levy income tax on individuals so this could be appealing. Contact your nearest Dubai Consulate to apply.

 

Mauritius

 

Mauritius is another island nation offering crystal clear water, epic mountains to climb, jungles to explore and did I mention the crystal clear water? The island has launched its own special visa for remote online workers. This is fantastic news for those who would love to spend one year living and working in paradise! Unlike some countries that want you to jump through hoops to qualify for the digital nomad visa, you only need to have a remote online business or work remotely for a company located outside of Mauritius. Plus provide proof of plans of your visit and have travel/health insurance to cover you for the length of your stay in Mauritius. So if you want to live, work and play in paradise, get the details and apply here.

 

Seychelles

The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, off East Africa. It’s home to numerous beaches, coral reefs and nature reserves, as well as rare animals and is fast becoming a popular place digital nomads are liking to live and work. April 2021, saw the Seychelles Workation Retreat Program established as the digital nomad visa. Remote employees and business owners may apply for this visa. The Seychelles Workation Retreat Program allows digital nomads to reside in the country for a year. Remote employees, freelancers, and visitors with enterprises outside Seychelles may use it. Learn more about the Seychelles digital nomad visa and to apply online here. You will also need to apply for a health authorisation.

 

South Africa

South Africa, the African continent’s southernmost country, announced in the middle of April 2022, a digital nomad visa for South Africa. The government of South Africa is actively trying to increase the country’s tourism and digital nomad industries. The visa will be good for digital nomads to stay in South Africa for an entire year. Get more details and visa requirements for digital nomads in South Africa here.

 

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka announced a Digital Nomad Visa and a new tourist visa with a more extended validity period in 2021. But it has not yet been implemented. However, digital nomads and remote workers who want to work in Sri Lanka remotely can apply for a 30-day Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). If  you want to stay longer than 30 days, Sri Lanka offers different tourist visa extensions that digital nomads can access. The types of visa extensions include: 30 – 90 day extension, 90 – 180 day extension and 180 – 270 day extension. Get more details and to apply here.

 

Countries with a Digital Nomad Visa in the Pipeline

 

Some countries have been talking about introducing a digital nomad visa but for varying reasons have not implemented them. Countries include: North Macedonia, Malaysia and Namibia.

 

What Equipment Does A Digital Nomad Need? The Best Digital Nomad Gear

 

Digital nomads only need a few tools to work remotely. The biggest are a laptop or smartphone and access to the Internet via Wifi, data or a phone hot-spot. Then add things like a quiet space to work that has ergonomically friendly furniture. And don’t forget a place to get a decent cup of coffee! Though the last one is just my personal preference. Having a view over a beach or lush rainforest can be inspiring. And a hindrance as you can stare at the view for far too long! As long as you are comfortable in your work area, albeit a van, rented accommodation, co-living and co-working space or coffee shop, it doesn’t matter where you work from. That, after all, is the point of being a digital nomad, being able to work online wherever you are in the world.

 

READ MORE: Have Office Will Travel – Essential Tech Gear for Digital Nomads

 

FAQs

 

Is it difficult to get a digital nomad visa?

No, it is not that difficult to get a digital nomad visa. Just ensure you qualify and then follow the application process and hopefully a digital nomad visa will come your way.

 

How much money do I need to be a digital nomad?

To answer this, you need to know how much money you need to live comfortably. You can live cheaper in some countries than others. As a rough guide, you will want to make at least US$2,000 per month, if you are a single digital nomad. Probably more if you are supporting your family.

 

Can you be a digital nomad if you have a family?

Of course you can. Some countries allow families under their digital nomad visa. Many digital nomads are travelling in a family.

 

How do digital nomads get paid?

Digital nomads or remote workers who are working for a company get paid via their employer. If you are a freelancer, you will be paid by your clients or agency you get work through via online options such as money transfers through PayPal and Wise.

 

How do digital nomads get visas?

Digital nomads get visas by applying to the relevant country that has a digital nomad visa. Check the government website for the application and local requirements.

 

Which country is the most popular digital nomad visa destination?

There are a few popular digital nomad visa destinations. Here’s my top 10 digital nomad visa destinations: Bali, Estonia, Portugal, Spain, Mexico, Thailand, Germany, Malaysia, South Arica and Costa Rica.

 

The Digital Nomad Visa: Your Path to Living and Working Abroad

 

Finally, working remotely and being a digital nomad is gaining momentum, particularly after covid-19 as countries open up and leave covid far behind us. What some people have been doing for years, others can now join them, particularly with countries creating a specific digital nomad visa to attract remote workers. You won’t need to worry about doing a visa run to get a new tourist visa to extend your stay with these. The digital nomad visa is a great way to spend more time in a particular country to immerse yourself in the local culture while continuing to make money online. Let’s hope the current countries with a digital nomad visa will inspire other countries without a digital nomad visa to introduce one.

As a digital nomad, the world is your office! You can work from anywhere with an internet connection. Are you ready to become a digital nomad or remote expat worker in one or more countries with a digital nomad visa?

 

READ MORE:

How To Be A Digital Nomad + 18 Digital Nomad Jobs
40+ Countries with a Working Holiday Visa

 

There are two types of visas available for those aged 18-35 years of age who want to move abroad to live and work in another country for an extended period (usually 1-2 years). The Working Holiday Visa and the Work and Holiday Visa. Here are the differences between the two visas and the specifics of whether you qualify for one.

 

Differences between the 2 Visas

 

Great news – both the visas are basically a residence permit. If you qualify for one you can undertake employment in the country issuing the visa to supplement your travel funds. Sometimes there are restrictions on the type of work you can do in some of the countries. This is why you often here of typical ‘backpacker jobs’.

The main difference between the two visas is the Work and Holiday Visa is aimed at students or recently qualified tertiary students. Where as the Working Holiday Visa is aimed at anyone aged between 18-30 (sometimes 35) years of age. Both visas allow you to undertake work while you are living in a particular destination. See following for more details on both of the visas.

To find out which countries have the visas available check out my Destinations page. Here you will find visa information of the countries where you could live, work and play either on the Working Holiday Visa and/or the Work and Holiday Visa.

 

Working Holiday Visa at a Glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incidental work.
• Must be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Be single or married without children.
• Prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay.
• Have a return and or onward ticket or sufficient funds so you can leave the country at the end of your stay.
• Each country issues a working holiday visa once in your life time. So make the most of your time. Most countries allow you to stay for 12 months. Some allow a stay of up to 24 months.

 

Work and Holiday Visa at a Glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incident work.
• Be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Hold a tertiary qualification or be studying full-time
• Speak English
• Obtain a letter of support from your Government.

 

READ MORE: Countries with a Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visa

 

Over 30? These are Your Work Options

 

Over 30? Don’t worry if you don’t qualify for a working holiday and or work and holiday visa. There are still many work opportunities available to you as you travel the world. Read my Over 30 Work and Travel Options post here.

If you want to apply for either the working holiday visa and or the work and holiday visa you should contact your nearest Consulate, Embassy or High Commission of the country to which you would like to have an extended stay.