The internet has quite literally CHANGED ALL OF OUR LIVES!
As an older millennial I was “there” when the internet came into our homes. I recall playing on AIM, waiting for mom to get off the phone so I could log on to the internet, and I even remember the beeping sounds of the internet connecting…
Now? I can travel the world at my leisure thanks to the internet (and like actually know what to see and do once I get there too!)
It’s no surprise that countries are smarting up to this way of life and are offering intrepid individuals the opportunity to stay in their country longer through digital nomad visas. It’s a genius move and I’m here for it. And now, so are you. 🙂
Here are all the digital nomad visas being offered right now!
Digital Nomad Visas
Being a digital nomad has been all the rage for the last few years. But what exactly is it?! It’s essentially a person who works online (remote worker) that chooses to live and travel abroad because their job doesn’t require them to be tied down to one physical location.
This is what I’ve been doing for about 10 years now, and I literally couldn’t live my life any other way!
Some countries have special visas to accommodate digital nomads. There are a few things to note about these visas:
- You don’t NEED a digital nomad visa to work remotely in another country. You could technically travel the country on a tourist visa while you do remote work. The benefit of the digital nomad visa is that it will offer you more time in the country, while a tourist visa wouldn’t.
- Don’t have a digital nomad job? Check that link out for more info on what jobs are out there.
- Is this different than a work visa for the country? YES! If you’re working IN the country and FOR a company in the country, that’s totally different.
- I’ve provided the links where you can find more info and the entire list of specific requirements for these visas. Do make sure to look through everything to make sure you can obtain the visa you want.
- Don’t forget if you’re under 30 (sometimes 35), you may be able to get a Working Holiday Visa! Again, that’s totally different than the digital nomad visas we are talking about here and I highly recommend you do it if you can!
- Do keep in mind, you may be responsible for taxes in some of these countries. Learn more about digital nomad taxes.
1. Czech Republic
The Czech digital nomad visa is called Zivno and is valid for a year. However, if you would love the chance to explore the many historical towns and quaint villages, towering mountains, and beautiful landscapes of the Czech Republic in your free time, there is the option to extend the visa.
This visa is relatively complicated to obtain, but it definitely can be done. Prague is a great city to live and stay in the long term, as there is so much to do and see in such a small, bustling city. It has a generally low cost of living and fast wifi, making it the perfect place to base yourself.
You might want to look at teaching English in Czech which can be a bit easier to do visa wise.
Basic Requirements
- They have provided a list of trades, and you have to have a license for at least one. There are about 80 different trades on the list, which can be found here.
- You must find accommodation for at least a year and have proof of this.
- Show that you have at least 5,587 euros in your bank account as an individual.
- Plus, every month, you must pay the equivalent of around $80USD per month in local taxes.
- Apply here and pay the visa fee of 100 euros.
- Click here to apply for a long term visa in the Czech Republic.
2. Germany
The German visa is known as the ‘Freiberufler’ visa and has been specifically created for freelancers, making it perfect for digital nomads. If you love the German lifestyle and spending weekends exploring the castles and history, this could be for you.
It has the added benefit of being able to be extended for up to three years. One of the biggest downsides to the German visa is that it can take 2-4 months to get approved, so you have to plan for this as well.
There is another type of digital nomad visa in Germany known as the Artists Visa, and it is only available in Berlin. As the name suggests, your job has to be something in the field of arts, be that painting, writing, or anything in between.
Basic Requirements
- To qualify for this one, the local tax office needs to deem your job ‘liberal.’
- When living in Germany, you will have to pay taxes to the German government.
- You will need an address in Germany and proof of financial self-sustainability.
- You should have proof of valid health insurance.
- Pay the visa fee of 100 euros and get all the documents you need here.
RELATED: 6 Most Scenic Road Trips in Germany
3. Spain
Spain has a digital nomad visa that is known as the Self Employed Visa. Many digital nomads are self-employed, so this is a great option if you would like to stay in this sunny country for up to a year.
It is perfect if the thought of warm weather, plus a mix of beaches, mountains and busy towns, is attractive to you, not to mention the relaxed lifestyle. Imagine working in the buzzing streets of Madrid or the sun-drenched city of Barcelona; it is clear why this is a popular freelance visa.
Basic Requirements
- You will have to prove that you have significant funds to “establish and maintain employment indefinitely,” so you will have to have a bit in the bank and a successful business.
- The country will also run a background check on you, which you will need to pass to qualify for the visa.
- Find out more and make an appointment for the self-employment digital nomad visa here.
RELATED: How to Teach English in Spain
4. Barbados
Barbados offers digital nomad visas for up to a year; however, it is relatively pricy compared to others. It is called the Barbados Welcome Stamp, which is quite a nice little name for a visa into the sunny, beach filled country.
Despite the high initial price tag, compared to the living cost in other Caribbean nations, it is relatively cheap when looking at day to day spending, such as more affordable rentals and meals. It is also well connected to other countries in the Caribbean. Just be aware, the summers are sweltering and humid.
Basic Requirements
- To apply for this visa costs a hefty $2000 for an individual and $3000 for a couple or a family.
- You also have to prove that you are earning $50,000 a year or more.
- You must own a location independent business or work remotely for a company based outside of Barbados.
- Fill out the application form here.
5. Bermuda
Bermuda’s visa lasts for a year and costs $263. They have called it their Work from Bermuda visa and it provides exactly what it says. The initial price point is the lowest in the entire Caribbean, which may be a big selling point for some.
There are direct flights worldwide, including from the USA, UK, and Canada, and the wifi is incredibly fast, with speeds up to 500MBPS. Although the initial cost is low, living in Bermuda is incredibly expensive; it is one of the most expensive places to live on the planet.
Basic Requirements
- After paying the $263 to apply for this visa, you also have to prove that you have ‘enough to support’ you in the bank when applying.
- You must own a location independent business or work remotely for a company based outside of Bermuda.
- You will need to show proof of travel insurance.
- Fill out the online application form.
6. Georgia
The ‘Remote from Georgia’ visa allows digital nomads to live and work in the country for up to a year, and the best thing is, it’s free. The program is called ‘Remotely From Georgia’ and is actually one of the most attractive programs on the market as it is easy, fast, cheap, and the cost of living is meager.
This is a very new visa that has been set up to help stimulate the economy but offers individuals the opportunity to enjoy this colorful and mountainous country.
Basic Requirements
- You’ll need to prove that you earn $2000 a month or more.
- Have travel insurance that is valid for at least 12 months.
- You must either own a location independent business or work remotely for a company based outside of Georgia.
- While staying in Georgia, you need to pay taxes, so you must prove the financial ability to do this.
- You can find out more about the Remotely From Georgia program here.
RELATED: The Longest Tourist Visas for U.S.A. Citizens, How to Extend Visas and More
7. Mexico
Why wouldn’t you want to work in the verdant jungles or on the beaches of Mexico? They have a six-month tourist visa and offer a temporary resident visa, which will allow digital nomads to stay for a year and then renew for another three years.
The country is very open to allowing remote workers temporary residency to remote workers, just as long as they are financially self-sufficient.
Basic Requirements
- Provide documents that prove you have a monthly income of at least $1620 in the past six months and that you have at least $27,000 in your bank account.
- You must either work remotely for a company based outside of Mexico or own a location independent business.
- Fill out the application form to get started.
RELATED: A 3-Day Mexico City Itinerary: Boats, Pyramids, Churros, & Squirrels?
8. Norway
Norway has a couple of different methods for digital nomads to live in Norway. Digital nomads who wish to relocate to the famous Svalbard area don’t need a visa at all. It is the only place in the world that doesn’t require a visa, which could be ideal for digital nomads with a high income or savings.
Svalbard is an archipelago between the mainland of Norway and the North Pole. This is one of the most expensive places globally, so you will need to have enough money to support your stay. You can live in Svalbard no matter your country of origin, and there is no limit to how long you can stay here.
The self-employed visa is known as the Independent Contractor Visa, designed for those who are self-employed and are working on a Norwegian business project.
This visa is not limited to just Svalbard, and those with this visa can live in Norway for up to two years. Be aware that the country can get very cold, but that’s all part of the challenge, right?
Basic Requirements
- You need to have relevant qualifications to work in your profession.
- Show that you have accommodation in Norway.
- Have an income of at least 35,719 euros a year.
- Be self-employed but with a contract to work on a project for a business in Norway.
- Pay the visa fee of 600 euros.
- Find out more about the application process and required documents on Norway’s Directorate of Immigration website.
9. Portugal
In Portugal, those wanting to stay in the country for a longer period of time can choose between the temporary resident visa or the residence permit for independent workers and entrepreneurs.
This permit is valid for one year, but if you can’t get enough beaches and beautiful cities, you can renew it for up to five years. After five years, you may be able to apply for permanent residency.
Basic Requirements
- You must have proof of income from property, proof of business ownership, or proof of financial means.
- You must have your own private travel and health insurance.
- Earn a minimum of 600 euros a month.
- You must also be willing to allow a criminal background check.
- Pay either the 83 euro visa fee or the 72 euro resident permit fee.
- Fill out the required application form and get together the documents you will need.
RELATED: A Perfect 3-7 Day Algarve Itinerary: Hike, Surf + Beach Bum! (Portugal)
10. Costa Rica
Many digital nomads base themselves in Costa Rica, and it is not hard to see why. There is a great, relaxed lifestyle, plenty of things to do and see, a diverse landscape made up of beaches, volcanoes, and waterfalls, plus there is a long visa available.
The freelancer visa allows individuals to stay up to two years, plus there is always the possibility of extending once the two years are up. The country is great for remote work; you can rely on the great wifi after finding your balance on a surfboard.
Basic Requirements
- You must show that you have an income of at least $2500 a month for two years or make a $60,000 deposit in a Costa Rican bank account.
- Pay the £250 visa application fee.
- Translate all documents to Spanish.
- Apply on the Costa Rica Migracion Website or get a lawyer to help you, which is recommended.
New Digital Nomad Visas
Considering the dumpster fire of 2020 we all experienced and the “c” word I won’t name here, more and more countries are coming up with digital nomad visas! Score! Here are some of the newer kids visas on the block…
11. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands have recently launched a Global Citizen Certificate, which means digital nomads can stay in the country for up to two years. To be eligible for this visa, you need to have a very high income, but the perks include being surrounded by stunning beaches, mangrove forests, and incredible culinary experiences.
This is one of the longest remote working visas on the market right now, which is one of its biggest draws, plus it offers unlimited trips in and out of the country.
Basic Requirements
- You must show proof that you have health insurance coverage.
- You may be subject to background checks.
- You may have to go through a background check before you are granted your visa.
- Individuals must prove an annual salary that is at least $100,000, or $150,000 if you are a couple.
- A notarized bank reference letter.
- You have to be employed by a company that is outside the Cayman Islands.
- Apply by filling out the online application form and pay the $1,469 fee.
RELATED: How To Work Abroad & Travel the World.
12. Estonia
Estonia opened up its digital nomad visa in June 2020, so it is still relatively new. Their visa allows foreigners to live in the country for up to a year while working remotely.
There are two different visas available. Type C is the short-stay visa and costs 80 euros, and Type D is the long-stay visa and costs 100 euros. They really have been pioneers of the digital nomad space, having offered similar visas since 2014.
Surprisingly, there is a huge online, digital community in Estonia, so living here could open up many doors for some. Just be prepared for the cold!
Basic Requirements
- You must earn at least 3504 euros every month for at least the last six months.
- You have to either work remotely for a company, not in Estonia, or own a location independent business yourself.
- Apply by filling out the online application form, which can be found here. You must then submit it in person to your nearest Estonian Embassy.
RELATED: 23 Digital Nomad Jobs: Take Your Desk Around the World
13. Dubai (UAE)
Dubai is one of the latest countries to launch a digital nomad visa, as it was launched in 2020. Once you have been accepted, you will be able to start living your life in the country, with access to housing, utilities, and telecoms.
Dubai is a great place to travel, live and explore, and has one of the best digital infrastructures. It is currently the only Middle Eastern country offering a digital nomad visa and offers an interesting new backdrop when it comes to working remotely.
Despite Dubai being a city in the UAE, the digital nomad program is for the city only.
Basic Requirements
- You have to pay the $287 fee to apply for this visa.
- A requirement is to have medical insurance that is valid in the UAE.
- You must have at least six months left on your passport.
- Prove that you have an income of $5000 per month.
- Your employer must provide you with proof of employment.
- You can find out more about the program here.
14. Anguilla
Anguilla has recently launched their own visa, ideal for those that would like to work from home on a sunny Caribbean Island. After a day stuck to your computer, there are not many better places to relax than on the white sand beaches of Anguilla.
The visa allows solo travelers or families to live on the island for up to three months or up to a year.
Basic Requirements
- There is quite a hefty visa fee associated with this visa, so you would have to pay the 2000 USD per individual or $3000 per family.
- Apply for a year-long visa here.
RELATED: A Mini Guide to Anguilla: Things to Do, Beaches & More
15. Antigua and Barbuda
The Antigua and Barbuda digital nomad visa is the newest of the bunch. It offers those remote workers who can support themselves the chance to live on this stunning Caribbean island for a while, plus have family members join them.
The visa is called the Nomad Digital Residence visa and is valid for two whole years.
Basic Requirements
- You must either own a location independent business or work remotely for a company, not Antigua and Barbuda.
- You must earn at least $50,000 a year.
- Have proof that you have got your own health and travel insurance plan.
- Provide a police background check.
- Pay the visa fee of either $1,500 if you are traveling solo, $2000 for a couple, or $3000 for a family.
- Find the online application form here.
RELATED: Adventurous Things to Do in Antigua and Barbuda + Tips
16. Thailand
Thailand doesn’t have a visa specifically for digital nomads, but their new long-term stay tourist visa comes pretty close. Their special tourist visa allows you to stay in the country for 90 days and can be renewed twice, so overall you can stay for 9 months, making it a great place to settle down and get on with some remote work.
Naturally stunning, full of culture and friendly people, the country has it all. So, whether you want to base yourself on one of the picturesque islands or busy Bangkok, the choice is yours.
Basic Requirements
- Show evidence of your accommodation.
- Pay the $65 fee for the application, plus an additional $65 each time you renew.
- Find out more about this special tourist visa here.
RELATED: Work & Live in Thailand: How To Do It? Cost of Living? And More!
17. Aruba
Aruba is a little different from other digital nomad visas, as currently, it is only offering a 90-day visa called One Happy Workation. Chances are, this is just a test to see if a longer visa will work in the near future.
They are selling this visa on the notion that workers can work from ‘paradise’ for a short while and there are offers for some good deals at local hotels, villas, and condos.
They also encourage you to ‘live like a local,’ with discounts and access to local experiences. You can even bring your pet along with you.
The island is your office and you are free to work anywhere you wish; however, wifi is offered in all participating accommodations. Working is not mandatory – if you choose, you could spend the 90 days like an extended vacation.
Basic Requirements
- To get this visa, you’ll have to buy their state-run travel health insurance, which costs around $275 for the 90 days that you would be staying.
- If working, you need to be employed by a company or self-employed in your home country.
- There are no forms you need to fill out; book one of the packages available.
- Find out more about the One Happy Workation.
18. Iceland
Iceland offers the opportunity for those who work remotely to live in the country. However, it won’t be available to everyone. You have to be earning more than $85,000 annually, which is quite a significant amount!
The visa will allow foreign nationals and their families to live in this magical land for up to six months, which is a great opportunity to experience the rugged landscapes and dramatic land formations if you can afford it. It is known as the Work in Iceland project.
Basic Requirements.
- You must earn at least $85,000 per year.
- You must show that you have an employment relationship with a company in a foreign country or verify your self-employment history in your home country.
- Certain health insurance requirements must be met.
- Find out more about the application process here.
RELATED: Iceland Itinerary: 7 Days West Coast Best Coast Road Trip
Soon To Come Digital Nomad Visas
Here are a few up and coming nomad visas you can keep your eyes on…
19. Croatia
The Croatian digital nomad visa is one of the newest, only becoming effective on January 1st, 2021. This opens up the doors for non-EU nationals to have temporary residence in the country. There are many draws when it comes to living in Croatia for a while.
For a start, the climate is very pleasant for much of the year, it is also an affordable place to live, and has lots to explore. There is still not a great deal of info out there about this latest visa, but more will come to light as people start to make use of it.
You can find a bit more information on how to apply here.
RELATED: Architecture to Adventure: An Epic One Week Road Trip Croatia Itinerary
20. Mauritius
Mauritius is one of the countries that are getting on board with the need for digital nomad visas. It is not yet possible to apply for a visa in Mauritius, but the process to get it up and running has definitely started.
The visa is known as the ‘premium level visa,’ and with it, you will be able to stay in the country for up to a year.
Basic Requirements
- You must have travel and health insurance to cover at least the start of your stay.
- Proof that your job is outside of Mauritius.
- Proof that you plan to stay long term, including accommodation, the purpose of visit, etc.
- Find more information on the Government of Mauritius website.
More Digital Nomad Resources
Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She’s been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer!