Want to live and work online from an historic European city, Caribbean island, South American country or Asian Jungle? Then you will be interested in countries with a digital nomad visa! What is a digital nomad visa? Which countries offer a digital nomad visas? And how to you get one? Read on and I’ll explain 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 58 countries with digital nomad visas and is still 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 being a digital nomad and living the digital nomad lifestyle. Let’s get into 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, life living and working in another country or slow traveling around the world is a big reality.

 

Firstly, the difference between a Remote Worker and Digital Nomad?

 

If you are wonder 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 which 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 is 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. 

Another reason could be that 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 and a Remote Worker?

 

A remote worker is essentially a person who works online remotely, usually from home. A digital nomad on the other hand 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 so I can live and travel abroad. And you can too.

 

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 Did 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. 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 DO NOT 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.

 

What Is 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
• they have high speed Wifi enabling digital nomads to work online
• there is a digital nomad visa allowing them to live and work in a country for up to 12 months.

 

Please Note: 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 Digital Nomad Visas are being introduced. Digital Nomad Visas are popular in countries in Asia, Europe, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

 

Digital Nomad Visas in Asia

 

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

 

Bali, Indonesia

 

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 to base themselves. Many who live and work in Bali on a tourist visa and do a ‘visa run’ to extend their stay. Good news, there are no formal details just yet, but Bali has announced they are looking to introduce a digital nomad visa, sometime in 2022. This is fabulous and big news as Bali is an extremely popular digital nomad destination! I will make sure to post any updates when they become available. In the meantime, read my post Bali Digital Nomad Guide.

 

Taiwan

 

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. Thailand doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads, but they have a new long-term stay tourist visa. This special tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for 90 days and can be renewed twice. So basically, you can stay for 9 months. And many do and enjoy the vibrant capital of Bangkok, the beaches, the temples and the jungle living around Chiang Mai, a very popular digital nomad stronghold. You will need to show evidence of your accommodation and pay the $65 application fee each time you apply. More details and to apply can be found online or at your nearest Thai Embassy. Thailand is a popular digital nomad destination, read what it’s like to be an expat in Thailand here.

 

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