53 Countries Offering a Digital Nomad Visa: Best for Remote Freelancers and Self-Employed Travelers

by Working Remotely, Visa Guides & Immigration6 comments

What is a digital nomad? Also called as remote workers or remote freelancers, they are people who primarily conduct their profession online. This gives them the ability to work whenever and wherever they want a.k.a. being location-independent; thus, it naturally makes them lead a nomadic lifestyle in return. (Digital Nomad Visa)
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UPDATE:
— October 2022:
Namibia Digital Nomad Visas active
September 2022: Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa is launched
— August 2022: Grenada’s Digital Nomad Visa is now active
— August 2022: Latvia’s Digital Nomad Visa is now active
— July 2022: Added Italy digital nomad visa (pending)
— July 2022: Added Colombia digital nomad visa (pending)
— May 2022: Added Argentina digital nomad visa (pending)
— March 2022: Added Albania’s Unique Permit for digital nomads (active)

The digital nomad profession is relatively new and a LOT of people covet such an amazing lifestyle — including me! However, even if it offers everyone the freedom to work anytime and anywhere, this kind of career has its own complications.

For instance, working as a digital nomad abroad under a plain tourist visa is technically illegal; nevertheless, a lot of countries turn a blind eye to it (if not regard it as a ‘gray area’) because digital nomads are inherently just working online and are NOT taking away any jobs from the locals.

So sure, even if that issue can be swept under the rug, what happens when a tourist visa expires and the desire to stay longer is apparent? After all, tourist visas run short for 90 days at most. Plus, if you hold a weak third world passport like I do, a lot of countries don’t even offer that many days and extensions are not easy to do!

Well… thankfully, things have started to change.

Add the recent COVID-19 pandemic and more governments have truly seen the need to address (if not entice) long-term travelers who can help revitalize their economy and local tourism. As such, established digital nomad visas started to pop up and they aim to be easy to obtain, with zero tax implications, and without requiring too much paperwork or a work contract.

The icing on the cake? I want to help you save some time and effort to researching the countries that already offer — OR are planning to offer — a digital nomad visa to remote workers; so, I have come up with this comprehensive article! Rest assured, I will also try my best to update it regularly.

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(Otherwise, HeyMondo provides more comprehensive coverage, albeit higher-priced but if you click this link, you can get a 5% discount!)

– – –

» Types of Digital Nomad Visa

It helps to note that not ALL of the visas I’ll be listing below are special programs that are titled and dedicated to digital nomads (though the majority of them are). I say this because there are other kinds of visas that are also applicable for the profession if not an equivalent, and I think it’s imperative that I include them in this list too.

  • Digital Nomad Visa or Remote Work Visa: As the name implies, these are official visas that are especially catered to digital nomads and they have been on the rise since 2020 (primarily due to the pandemic’s effect on local tourism as well as the prevalence of location-independent workers worldwide).
  • Freelancer or Self-Employed Visas: Primarily catered to entrepreneurs and freelancers who don’t necessarily work online.
  • Long-Stay or Temporary Resident Visas: Some countries have been offering this to foreigners as a way to exempt them from applying for a permanent residence permit on their first year of stay while enabling them to work in the country.
  • Working Holiday Visas: These are age-old visas offered by some countries and they basically allow tourists to work or get employment during their stay.

NOTE: Programs that provide visas through high-priced purchases, fees, and investments will NOT be included in this list.

Now, without further ado, below is a complete list of countries that are currently offering OR planning to offer a digital nomad visa (or something similar)!

Countries with Digital Nomad Visas

» Africa «

Cape Town, South Africa

Photo by: Shutterstock

Cape Verde (Cabo Verde)

STATUS: • ACTIVE since May 2021
This beautiful archipelago in Africa established a ‘Cabo Verde Remote Working Program’ which serves as a temporary work/tourism visa for interested digital nomads or freelancers.

The application process is super easy to do too since you can do everything online.

  • Eligibility: For people from Europe, North America, Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), and Economic Community of West African States (CEDEAO)
  • Length: 6 months, renewable for another 6 months
  • Visa Cost: €20 visa fee and €34 airport fee
  • Required Proof of Income: Average monthly income of €1,500 (or €2,700 if bringing family)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Cape Verde
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,300 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps

– – –

Mauritius

STATUS: • ACTIVE since November 2020
In order to offset the damage caused to tourism due to the wake of COVID-19, Mauritius launched its new ‘Premium Visa’ [link] that is designed for digital nomads, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and retirees.

  • Eligibility: Certain nationalities can directly apply online, the rest must arrive on a tourist visa to Mauritius — once there, they can start their application online
  • Length: 1 year, renewable
  • Visa Cost: FREE
  • Required Monthly Income: None, but your business and source of income should be outside Mauritius
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Mauritius
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,300 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 20 Mbps

– – –

Namibia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since October 2022
If you want to stay in mainland Africa, Namibia is the first to launch this program with a low monthly income threshold! [link]

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 6 months
  • Visa Cost: $62/person
  • Required Monthly Income: $2,000 (plus $1,000 if coming with a spouse, and plus $500 per child)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Namibia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,900 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 20 Mbps

– – –

Seychelles


STATUS: • ACTIVE since April 2021
This beautiful African archipelago launched its own ‘Seychelles Workcation Program‘ that is pretty easy to apply for with a minimal fee.

It helps to note though that Seychelles already issues 3-month visa-free access to all citizens worldwide; but of course, if you want to stay for a year, this workcation program is great to avail.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: Maximum of 1 year
  • Visa Cost: €45
  • Required Monthly Income: Not stated, but required to submit bank statements
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Seychelles
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $4,400 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 25 Mbps

– – –

South Africa

STATUS: PENDING
Last February 2021, the Western Cape’s government started talks with the president as well as the Home Affairs minister to introduce a ‘Remote Working Visa’ [link] for South Africa. The City of Cape Town which has been voted as one of the “Best Places for Remote Working in 2021” has even made a comprehensive plan to attract even more digital nomads.

There are no concrete details yet but through an online application, they plan for the visa to have the following details…

• • •

» Asia & The Middle East «

Digital Nomad Visa: Dubai UAE

Photo by: Shutterstock

Dubai (UAE)

STATUS: • ACTIVE since March 2021
As one of the world’s fastest-growing remote working destinations, Dubai released its own one-year virtual working program that allows digital nomads or business owners — as well as employed individuals — the chance to live in its vibrant metropolis!

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: Maximum 1 year
  • Visa Cost: $611 total (application, processing, medical exam, and Emirates ID fees)
  • Required Monthly Income: Average $5,000 monthly income
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Dubai
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,500 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 130 Mbps

– – –

Indonesia

STATUS: PENDING
Back in 2021, Indonesia’s government announced that it will grant 5-year visas [link] with no taxation to digital nomads who have foreign-sourced income. Naturally, the country’s economy has been devastated ever since the start of the pandemic and they believe that this scheme will further help revitalize local tourism.

Unfortunately, there is conflicting info regarding the details of the visa fee as well as the required income proof, with people saying that an applicant needs to make a $142,300 deposit — which is high, especially for starting digital nomads. Nevertheless, I’ll update this when new developments arise.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 5 years (still in discussion if it’s renewable)
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Indonesia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,400 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 20 Mbps

– – –

Malaysia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since October 2022
Great news for those who want to settle in Malaysia: starting October 2022, the country’s DE Rantau Nomad Pass has launched and can be enjoyed by anyone! [resource link]

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year (renewable for one more year)
  • Visa Cost: Starts at $220
  • Required Yearly Income: $24,000
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Malaysia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps

– – –

Sri Lanka

STATUS: PENDING
As of 2021, Sri Lanka has approved a ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ [link] that will enable anyone to perform work remotely in the country. Unfortunately, it’s still not in effect yet.

In the meantime, you can take advantage of Sri Lanka’s tourist visa extensions that can be extended up to 6 months with fees starting from $50 (the fee can go up depending on your nationality).

– – –

Taiwan

STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2018
Taiwan does NOT have a visa that is designed especially for digital nomads but they do have the ‘Gold Card‘ open-end work permit that is applicable for professionals, freelancers, or self-employed individuals who can prove that they hold the required monthly income — if not hold a high-skilled profession in any of their 8 fields (e.g. lawyer, scientist, etc.)

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: Open-end
  • Visa Cost: $100 to $310 depending on your nationality and duration of stay
  • Required Monthly Income: $5,700 (otherwise, hold high skills)
  • Required Insurance: No, it can be purchased later (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Taiwan
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 95 Mbps

– – –

Thailand

STATUS: PENDING
Thailand is a country coveted by many, not only due to its pristine beaches but also because of its history, sights, and food among many others.

It’s also relatively easy to get tourist visa extensions — but if you want to stay for years without the added hassle, watch out for Thailand’s upcoming 5-year visa [link] for remote professionals that is categorized under their long-term residence visa (or LTR).

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 5 years (renewable for 5 more years)
  • Visa Cost: $300 annually
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Thailand
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,300 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 175 Mbps

TIP: Some Asian countries may not have special digital nomad or freelancer visas, BUT you can still take advantage of their long visa extensions; as such, it helps to do your research beforehand. For example, the Philippines grants a 30-day tourist visa upon your entry, but this can be extended up to 3 years provided that you do the visa extension application at least 1 week prior to the expiration of your valid stay.

• • •

» Europe «

Porto, Portugal

Photo by: Shutterstock

Albania

STATUS: • ACTIVE since January 2022
Albania is an amazing and affordable place in Europe, and the Albanian Government has included digital nomads in the eligibility pool for their Unique Permit — which is basically similar to residence permits in the EU.

To be eligible, applicants must have a valid foreign employment contract or project, sufficient income to support their stay and that of any dependents, health insurance, a clean criminal record, an Albanian bank account, and local accommodation. 

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for 2 years, 5 years, and then can be changed to permanent residency
  • Visa Cost: Around €80 or more
  • Required Monthly Income: “Sufficient” – no specifics mentioned
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Albania
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 5 Mbps

– – –

Croatia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since January 2021
Croatia is a great place to live when you’re in Europe and they are fortunately granting temporary residence permits for digital nomads [link]. You can apply for this while you’re in Croatia (if you can enter visa-free), through embassies abroad (if you need a visa to enter Croatia), or online.

If you ask me, it’s wise to enter Croatia first (if you don’t need a visa to enter the country) so that you can already stay there for 90 days, plus 12 months once you get the digital nomad temporary residence permit.

  • Eligibility: For non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year maximum, non-renewable
  • Visa Cost: Around €80 to €130
  • Required Monthly Income: €2,240 or €27,000 in savings (an additional 10% is required per partner or family member)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Croatia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 38 Mbps

– – –

Cyprus

STATUS: • ACTIVE since January 2022
Any non-EU national can now enter Cyprus but take note that to date, the country only accepts 100 applicants so you better start applying — now!

It helps to note though that Cyprus is not a part of the Schengen Area, and if you reside in the country for more than 183 days in one tax year, you’ll be considered a tax resident.

  • Eligibility: For non-EU nationals, maximum of 100 applications
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for another 2 years maximum
  • Visa Cost: Starts at €20 for single-entry or €60 for multiple-entry
  • Required Monthly Income: €3,500 (plus 20% if bringing your spouse, and 15% for any minor)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Cyprus
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 30 Mbps

– – –

Czech Republic

STATUS: • ACTIVE
Czechia’s “Živnostenský” Trade License Visa ‍(or more commonly called as Živno by most media outlets) is not particularly designed for digital nomads and it is actually geared towards self-employed individuals or entrepreneurs.

In fact, most embassies are NOT familiar with the ‘Zivno’ name and rather refer to it as their long-term visa for entrepreneurship [link]. Nevertheless, depending on your income, it is a viable option for your remote work life. Just take note that the process is a bit more complicated (but doable!) given that you’ll be needing a trade license.

  • Eligibility: For non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for another year
  • Visa Cost: Starts at €40 (plus about €70 taxes per month)
  • Required Income: Savings of €5,600 per person
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Czech Republic
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,500 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 45 Mbps

– – –

Estonia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since June 2020
Estonia is arguably one of the top faves of digital nomads especially when they first created their e-residency program that allows foreigners to establish and run an EU-based business from abroad online — there’s no need for citizenship, residence, or travel to Estonia.

As a step further to their forward-thinking, they are also the first country to ever create an official ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ [link] for remote workers and freelancers! (They process most applications in 30 days, so if you’re already in Estonia and planning to get this visa while you’re there, take this into account).

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals (UPDATE: Because of stricter border controls, see here for current entry restrictions)
  • Length: 1 year
  • Visa Cost: €80 for a Type C (short stay) visa and 100€ Type D (long stay) visa
  • Required Monthly Income: €3,504 (gross of tax)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Estonia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps

– – –

France

STATUS: • ACTIVE
France does NOT have a special digital nomad visa BUT they do have a long-stay visa [link] that anyone can avail themselves if they want to stay for more than 90 days in France no matter if your reasons are for tourism or for professional activities — which is, of course, perfect for remote workers.

Just keep in mind that this type of visa would ONLY allow you to take residency in France starting from the 4th month of your stay.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year (subject to renewal)
  • Visa Cost: €99
  • Required Monthly Income: €3,000
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase from HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for France
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 90 Mbps

– – –

Georgia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since November 2020
If you’re looking for a beautiful European country that has a low cost of living, Georgia should be high on your list! In fact, for years, the country has been offering 1-year visa-free access to 95 nationalities — that is… until the pandemic began.

To curb this dilemma and permit these nationalities back through a standardized and official visa, they created the ‘Remotely from Georgia’ program [link].

– – –

Germany

STATUS: • ACTIVE
The country has an established “residence permit for self-employment” or Aufenthaltserlaubnis für selbständige Tätigkeit and it was originally catered to foreign freelancers and self-employed individuals to live in Germany for a period of up to 3 years.

You can apply for this visa or permit while you’re in Germany but be wary that the process can be quite arduous and can take up to 4 months; but it is said that if your tourist visa is close to expiring during your application, they will give you a temporary 3-month visa until they finish processing your permit. Also, unlike the rest of the visas on this list, it’s a requirement that you have to work with clients in Germany.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 6 months to 3 years
  • Visa Cost: €100
  • Required Monthly Income: Unstated, but you must prove you’re self-sufficient
  • Required Insurance: Yes
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Germany
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 66 Mbps

– – –

Greece

STATUS: • ACTIVE since October 2021
The Greece digital nomad visa is fairly new and in order to apply, you only need to go to the embassy in your local and start the procedure (sometimes referred to as a long-stay visa), after which you’ll have to register for a residence permit once you arrive in the country.

This is truly an amazing opportunity especially if you want to settle down in the Mediterranean!

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, extendable by 2 years more
  • Visa Cost: €75 plus €100 administrative fee
  • Required Monthly Income: €3,500 (plus 20% for spouse and 15% per child)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Greece
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 33 Mbps

– – –

Hungary

STATUS: • ACTIVE since November 2021
“White Card” [link] is a digital nomad visa created by Hungary that aims to attract digital nomads through an individual residency permit (unfortunately, this does not allow any married couples or families as applicants).

Nonetheless, the requirements are fairly easy and it is advisable to go to your local Hungarian embassy to inquire and start the application.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, extendable by 1 more year maximum
  • Visa Cost: €110
  • Required Monthly Income: €2,000 for the last 6 months
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Hungary
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 95 Mbps

– – –

Iceland

STATUS: • ACTIVE since November 2021
Iceland is one of my favorite destinations and it’s a joy to know that they now have a long-term visa for remote work [link] — unfortunately, it will only last for 6 months (or 90 days if you’re already in the Schengen Area).

Not to mention that it is one of the countries that have a high cost of living so you should expect a high-income requirement.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 6 months maximum (or 90 days if already in Schengen)
  • Visa Cost: €50
  • Required Monthly Income: €6,500 or €9,700 if applying as a couple
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Iceland
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $4,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps

– – –

Italy

STATUS: PENDING
Back in March 2022, the Italian Government approved a new visa for remote workers but it has not gone active yet. Be prepared though because it is said that visa processing in Italy is often difficult.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals who are high-skilled workers (must hold a Master’s degree)
  • Length: 1 year, renewable
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Italy
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps

– – –

Latvia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since August 2022
In February 2022, the Cabinet of Ministers approved draft legislation [link] that will allow remote workers (either self-employed or employed) to reside in Latvia for one year.

The country is an amazing place to stay in, but the way I see it, the monthly income requirement is a tad too high as of this moment. Hopefully, in the next months, this can be reviewed (I’ll update this section as needed).

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals that are working for an employer or business that is registered in an OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) country
  • Length: 1 year, extendable for 1 more year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: More than 2.5 the average monthly wages in Latvia (to date, monthly wages range at $2,000 a month)
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Latvia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 60 Mbps

– – –

Malta

STATUS: • ACTIVE since June 2021
Known for hosting a thriving community of entrepreneurial expats for several years now, Malta takes it a step further and welcomes location-independent individuals through their Nomad Residency Permit [link].

TIP: If you’re able to stay in Malta for 5 years, you’re eligible to apply for citizenship.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable
  • Visa Cost: €300
  • Required Monthly Income: €2,700 gross
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Latvia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 60 Mbps

– – –

Montenegro

STATUS: PENDING
There are talks of creating a Montenegro digital nomad visa [link] which is planned for launch this 2022 — but no concrete details are set yet.

As an alternative though, if you’re keen on doing property purchases or establishing an LLC company, a temporary residence permit is a possible way for you to stay in the country for a year and more.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: Unknown
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Montenegro
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps

– – –

North Macedonia

STATUS: PENDING
If North Macedonia’s plan [link] to develop its own visa for remote workers pushes through, it’s sure to be a hit!

After all, the country is known for its great terrains as well as its super low cost of living.

– – –

Norway

STATUS: • ACTIVE
Different from what most remote worker visas entail, Norway’s 2-year Self-Employed or Independent Contractor Visa [link] ONLY gives foreigners the chance to reside in the country when they have a remote business overseas that has an existing Norwegian client.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 2 years, renewable up to 6 years
  • Visa Cost: €600
  • Required Income: €35,720 plus proof of accommodation
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Norway
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $4,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps

– – –

Portugal

STATUS: • ACTIVE
Portugal is known for being one of the easiest gateways to Europe due to its easy and streamlined visa process.

To start with, the country offers either a temporary resident visa (D7 passive income visa) or a residence permit for independent workers and entrepreneurs [link] that can last for a year (renewable for successive periods of 2 years). Once you reach 5 years in Portugal, you are eligible to apply for a permanent resident visa.

The icing on the cake? They have a low monthly income requirement!

UPDATE: As of October 2022, Portugal launched a more specific digital nomad visa under its D7 visa scheme and it comes with less paperwork but with a higher monthly income requirement of €3,000.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for 2 years more
  • Visa Cost: €83 plus €72 resident permit fee
  • Required Monthly Income: €600 for basic D7 (it can come from a variety of sources) or €3,000 for digital nomad visa
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Portugal
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 90 Mbps

– – –

Romania

STATUS: • ACTIVE since December 2021
Romania implemented its own digital nomad long-stay visa [link], following the example of other European countries.

Unfortunately, their income requirement is a bit higher than most — which is a bit odd given that the country has a low cost of living — so it might be a bit of a challenge to apply for this at the moment.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable as long as you meet the requirements
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: €3,700 (3 times the average income in Romania)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Romania
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 118 Mbps

– – –

Serbia

STATUS: PENDING
Serbia’s Ministry of Labour is drafting a digital nomad visa that will allow people to stay and work for a year; however, much like Romania, their initial suggestion of a €3,500 income requirement is a bit steep.

I’ll update this section should there be any developments; in the meantime, interested relocators can look into Serbia’s Visa D or long-term visa (through employment, purchase of property, etc.) that will allow them to stay for 90 to 180 days.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: €3,500
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Serbia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 118 Mbps

– – –

Spain

STATUS: • ACTIVE
There is a type of tourist residence visa in Spain called the “non-lucrative visa” [link] and it is geared towards retired or rich persons only — after all, visa-holders under this program are not allowed to work (but as a digital nomad, this scheme can still apply).

Depending on the embassy, this is an easy visa to apply for; but if you’re from the Philippines like I do, our embassy does not accept any applicants unless they’re seniors or retired persons. I say this because I’ve tried it myself and they vehemently insisted that it’s only for pensioners. As such, it’s best to check with the Spanish embassy nearest to you to see their rules and requirements.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for 2 years more
  • Visa Cost: Starts at €100 (depends on your nationality)
  • Required Monthly Income: €2,200
  • Required Insurance: Yes (see a list here)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Spain
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,800 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 130 Mbps

STATUS: • ACTIVE
Otherwise, you can also look into their self-employment work visa [link] that will allow you to stay in Spain for a year. However, it’s a bit more complicated since you’ll need to draft up some business plans as well as some other things.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year
  • Visa Cost: Starts at €300 (depends on your nationality)
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Required Insurance: Yes (see a list here)

STATUS: PENDING (To go live in January 2023)
Under a new bill called the ‘Startup Law’ [link], Spain aims to attract more entrepreneurs and remote workers to stay and work for 12 months. Once you earn your first €600,000, a 24% tax will be applied to you.

  • Eligibility: Non-EU nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable to 1 more year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Required Insurance: Unknown

TIP: Much like some Asian countries, you should also consider taking advantage of European countries that have long visa-free admissions or visa extensions as applicable to your nationality. For example, Albania offers 90-day stays to certain passport-holders without a need for a visa — so it sure helps to do some research beforehand!

• • •

» North & Central America «

Digital Nomad Visa Countries: Belize

Photo by: Shutterstock

Belize

STATUS: PENDING
In February 2021, Belize announced its plans to launch a ‘Work Where You Vacation’ [link] long-stay program for remote workers. No further details yet have been announced but I’ll update this as needed.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Belize
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month
  • Average Internet Speed: 30 Mbps

– – –

Costa Rica

STATUS: • ACTIVE
The country’s “Rentista” program allows foreigners who can demonstrate that they will receive no less than €2,500 per month for 2 years can stay as long as they don’t work locally. This is truly great, especially for remote workers or entrepreneurs!

STATUS: PENDING
In August 2021, Costa Rica announced how they will be implementing a visa for remote workers [link] that will exempt them from local taxes.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for one more year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: $3,000 or $4,000 for a couple or family
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)

– – –

Mexico

STATUS: • ACTIVE
Similar to a visa offered for remote freelancers, Mexico has a temporary resident visa [link] that foreigners can apply for if they want to stay for more than 180 days in the country — as long as you can work remotely and have no Mexican clients, you’re good!

NOTE: Mexico technically issues 6-month long entries to tourists; however, ever since the start of the pandemic, they no longer issue this so freely. They will only issue a visa depending on the number of days you need when they ask for it at immigration.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year, maximum 4 years
  • Visa Cost: $200
  • Required Monthly Income: $1,600 or $27,000 savings
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Mexico
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 35 Mbps

– – –

Panama

STATUS: • ACTIVE since May 2021
As one of the most developed nations in Central America, Panama is a great destination for remote freelancers; not to mention that most nationalities can already stay in the country for 90 to 180 days.

But if you work remotely for a foreign company, work independently as a freelancer, or are an autonomous business owner, you can stay for more months!

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 9 months, renewable for 9 months more maximum
  • Visa Cost: $250 plus $50 for visa card issuance
  • Required Monthly Income: $36,000 a year
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Panama
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000
  • Average Internet Speed: 95 Mbps

• • •

» Oceania «

Lake Wanaka Tree

Photo by: Shutterstock

Australia

STATUS: • ACTIVE
You’ve probably heard of Australia’s working holiday visas and it’s basically a residence permit that allows foreigners to travel and undertake employment for a year (renewable up to 2 years more, maximum — provided you have done at least 3 months of specific work). It’s obviously not a digital nomad visa, but it’s definitely a viable option to take!

To date, they have two programs: “Working Holiday Visa” (subclass 417) and “Work and Holiday Visa” (subclass 462) depending on your nationality.

  • Eligibility: Select few, see here for subclass 417 and here for subclass 462
  • Length: 1 year, renewable to 2 years more maximum
  • Visa Cost: $355
  • Required Monthly Income: None
  • Required Age: 18 to 30 years old (or 35 for Canadian, French and Irish citizens)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Australia
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $3,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps

TIP: Check out if you’re qualified for the Electronic Travel Authority Visa [link] because it will grant you a 1-year multiple-entry visa in which every entry must not exceed 3 months.

– – –

New Zealand

STATUS: • ACTIVE
New Zealand also has a 1-year ‘Working Holiday Visa’ for select nationalities [link] and if you are from the UK or Canada, you can stay up to 23 months!

Just take note that they are currently only accepting applications from a quarantine-free travel zone such as Belgium, France, Japan, UK, USA, and more.

TIP: You should take advantage of other territories in Oceania that have long visa-free admissions or visa extensions as applicable to your nationality. For example, Fiji offers 4 months of visa-free entry to over 109 nationalities and this can be extended for 2 more months — so it sure helps to do some research beforehand!

• • •

» South America «

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Photo by: Shutterstock

Argentina

STATUS: PENDING
The country launched its remote workers visa in May 2022 (either for themselves or for a foreign company), but it is not live yet. However, if you ask me if the fee for this is set to be priced high in the future and you are a national of a country who is already granted a visa on arrival (VOA) in Argentina, then it’s better to just take advantage of this VOA.

After all, you can extend your VOA for another 90 days either by exiting and re-entering the country or by paying a smaller fee (this process can be done unlimited times).

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals who have a visa on arrival benefitco
  • Length: 6 months, renewable
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: Unknown
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Argentina
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,100
  • Average Internet Speed: 5 Mbps

– – –

Brazil

STATUS: PENDING
Published on September 2021 [link], Brazil decided to offer 1-year digital nomad visas to interested individuals; but even though the law has been passed, some embassies still don’t hold this information so it helps to check beforehand.

Otherwise, Brazil already offers a 90-day free entry to a lot of nationalities.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for one more year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: $1,500
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Brazil
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 85 Mbps

– – –

Brazil

STATUS: PENDING
Published on September 2021 [link], Brazil decided to offer 1-year digital nomad visas to interested individuals; but even though the law has been passed, some embassies still don’t hold this information so it helps to check beforehand.

Otherwise, Brazil already offers a 90-day free entry to a lot of nationalities.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
  • Length: 1 year, renewable for one more year
  • Visa Cost: Unknown
  • Required Monthly Income: $1,500
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Brazil
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 85 Mbps

– – –

Colombia

STATUS: PENDING
Nationalities from Australia, Canada, EU, UK, and the USA are already allowed to stay up to 90 days in the country — renewable for one more time as long as you exit the country first (but no more than 180 days a year), but if you want more than that, it has been reported that Colombia might soon establish a 2-year visa for remote workers (expected to be in effect in October 2022).

– – –

Ecuador

STATUS: • ACTIVE since July 2022
Enjoy lush landscapes as you base yourself in Ecuador, which is one of the newest South American countries to launch a digital nomad visa. [resource link]

TIP: Like what I’ve already mentioned, you must take advantage of South American countries that have long visa-free admissions or visa extensions as applicable to your nationality. For example, Peru offers 183 days of visa-free entry to certain nationalities and if you mix this up with other neighboring countries that have long visa-free entries, you can stay in the continent for years!

• • •

» The Caribbean «

Bahamas, Caribbean Island

Photo by: Shutterstock

Anguilla

STATUS: • ACTIVE since September 2020
Through their Beyond Extraordinary Anguilla program [link], interested remote workers can stay for a year in this British island territory located in the West Indies.

Be wary though that it’s a bit of a remote area so it’s not as well-connected as other destinations; not to mention that the visa fee is costly.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: 3 months to a year
  • Visa Cost: $2,000
  • Required Monthly Income: None (but submit proof of employment)
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Anguilla
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000
  • Average Internet Speed: 25 Mbps

– – –

Antigua & Barbuda

STATUS: • ACTIVE since October 2020
Through their newest long-stay visa program, the “Nomad Digital Residence” (NDR) [link] is designed to attract remote workers to this quaint Caribbean island.

It has a long validity than most, but the application cost is hefty — like the rest of the countries in this list.

– – –

Bahamas

STATUS: • ACTIVE since March 2021
The 16 islands are a tax-free haven and with their Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) programme [link], you can stay for a long time enjoying its gorgeous beaches!

Be prepared to shell out a lot of money because apart from the fact that the cost of living is high in the Bahamas, the visa fee is high too.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: 1 year, renewable to a maximum of 3 years total
  • Visa Cost: $25 for every applicant, and $1,000 plus $500 for every dependent
  • Required Income: Uknown
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for the Bahamas
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $4,400
  • Average Internet Speed: 35 Mbps

– – –

Barbados

STATUS: • ACTIVE since July 2020
Live the island life in Barbados through their special ‘Barbados Welcome Stamp’ visa [link] that is catered for remote workers. You will find that the application for this is super quick and easy — everything can be done online!

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: 1 year, renewable
  • Visa Cost: $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple or family
  • Required Income: $50,000 per year
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Barbados
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $4,400
  • Average Internet Speed: 70 Mbps

– – –

Bermuda

STATUS: • ACTIVE since August 2020
Bermuda is the most expensive country on earth — BUT, if this is a place that you’d love to be in (and which you can also afford to be in), their newest ‘Work from Bermuda’ visa program [link] is perfect for you.


– – –

Cayman islands

STATUS: • ACTIVE since August 2020
Guaranteeing a 2-year stay, the Cayman Islands’ ‘Global Citizen Concierge Program’ [link] is a new initiative, but it’s seemingly geared mostly for high-earning remote workers only given the required income that you need to prove.

– – –

Curacao

STATUS: • ACTIVE since February 2021
The government of Curacao now allows remote workers special access to work and life within its borders with its ‘@HOME in Curacao’ program [link].

If you’re up for it, you’ll love the multicultural mix of residents on this Dutch Caribbean island!

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: 6 months, renewable for another 6 months
  • Visa Cost: $294
  • Required Income: Unknown, but you must prove your solvency
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Curacao
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000
  • Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps

– – –

Dominica

STATUS: • ACTIVE since March 2021
If you plan to stay in the Caribbean, the Commonwealth of Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) is your best bet if you want a cheaper cost of living.

And with their newest ‘Work in Nature’ (WIN) [link] visa program, remote freelancers and digital nomads can stay for a long period.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: Up to 18 months
  • Visa Cost: $100 plus $800 for individuals or $1,200 for a family
  • Required Income: $70,000 per year
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Dominica
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 65 Mbps

– – –

Grenada

STATUS: ACTIVE since August 2022
In May 2021, Grenada approved a legislation that will establish a digital nomad visa program, and as of August 2022, this has been rendered official.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: 1 year, renewable for 1 more year
  • Visa Cost: $1,500 per person (or $2,000 for a family with 3 children; $200 for every additional dependent)
  • Required Income: $37,000 per year
  • Required Insurance: Unknown
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Grenada
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $2,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps

– – –

Montserrat

STATUS: • ACTIVE since January 2021
This mountainous Caribbean island launched its ‘Montserrat Remote Work Stamp’ [link] and after only 7 days of visa processing, you can live there as a digital nomad for a year!

As a bonus, you will not be liable to pay any Montserrat income tax.

  • Eligibility: Foreign nationals
    Length: 1 year, renewable
  • Visa Cost: $500 per person (or $750 for a family with 3 children; $250 for every additional dependent)
  • Required Income: $70,000 per year
  • Required Insurance: Yes (purchase either from SafetyWing or HeyMondo)
  • Latest travel restriction updates for Montserrat
  • Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500
  • Average Internet Speed: 30 Mbps

– – –

Saint Lucia

STATUS: • ACTIVE since April 2021
With visa-free travel for nationalities from the USA, Canada, and the UK, Saint Lucia is an ideal location for tourists — add their new scheme ‘Saint Lucia Live It’ and anyone can stay for a year with a multiple-entry non-immigrant visa whilst working remotely.

To apply, you only need to fill out this application form and submit it to this email: [email protected]

• • •

F.A.Q.

What is a digital nomad?

Also called as remote workers or remote freelancers, they are people who primarily conduct their profession online. This gives them the ability to work whenever and wherever they want a.k.a. being location-independent; thus, it naturally makes them lead a nomadic lifestyle in return.

What is a digital nomad visa?

A digital nomad visa is basically a legal and valid visa that allows visitors to stay, travel, and work remotely in a foreign country. Naturally, it does not allow visa holders to be employed by any local company.

Which countries offer a digital nomad visa?

To date, there are about 53 countries that have a digital nomad visa or related visa program that will allow anyone to stay abroad in that said country for as long as 6 months to 5 years. For a detailed list of these countries, read through my post above.

How can I become a digital nomad?

Read my comprehensive guide here so that you can start working from anywhere!

• • •

Digital Nomad Visa

Overall

As you can see, there are a lot of countries that are currently offering a digital nomad visa to foreigners — and I’m sure that more destinations will be doing the same.

Nevertheless, I hope that this comprehensive article will help you make an informed decision on your next journey as a remote worker.

Good luck and enjoy!

• • •

Have you seen my latest vlog?

How I Afford to Travel the World (Vlog)

About Me

About Aileen : Sidebar

Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid.
At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful digital nomad (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission? To show you how it is absolutely possible to create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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6 Comments

  1. Erica D Wilson

    very helpful post!

    Reply
  2. Debraj Barman

    These are such great tips for digital nomad visas! Thank you!

    Reply
  3. Ava Garcia

    Thanks for the information! It helps a lot.

    Reply
  4. kamran

    This is very helpful especially with today’s times!

    Reply
    • Aileen Adalid

      Glad to hear! Hope it helps you decide on a digital nomad visa to use :D

      Reply
  5. teks

    Very useful list of countries. Thanks for sharing this

    Reply

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