An Intro to Digital Nomad Visas
Over the last few years, more companies and professionals have become interested in taking advantage of all the benefits that remote working brings to the table, resulting in more remote job opportunities and governments worldwide looking to attract remote workers.
However, no year has resulted in more transitions to remote working than 2020, when millions of people worldwide were forced to work from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Because this accelerated growth in remote working was due to unforeseen circumstances, the trend has shifted downward since 2020. According to Credit Summit, those working from home have fallen from 71% of workers in 2020 to 59% in 2022. However, this doesnât change your unique opportunity with a remote job in 2023.
Now, as many professionals realize that new technologies and telecommunications can break the dichotomy between professional development and travel, governments are looking to make working while traveling as easy as possible by introducing or expanding their digital nomad visa programs.
If you are a digital nomad looking for your next destination or considering transitioning to the digital nomad lifestyle, let us help you by providing you with a list of all the digital nomad visa programs available as of February 2023!
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is a temporary permit that allows visitors to stay in a country while they work remotely. Multiple countries offer these sorts of visas, and most of them have a duration of 12 months, with the possibility to extend your stay.
While they may not be for everyone, a digital nomad visa allows many remote workers to travel the world while they work from the comfort of their computers. They also help the countries impulse their economy by having foreigners stay for extended periods.
These visas are usually granted to anyone that can prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves (and their families, if needed) while working for a company outside the one issuing the visa.
The digital nomad visa differs from a tourist visa because it allows the visitor to stay longer. Plus, youâre technically not allowed to work while visiting on a tourist visa. Plus, some countries will provide other benefits, like tax exceptions, with a digital nomad visa.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Applying for a digital nomad visa may seem like a long and complicated process. Some countries will have a longer processing time or require more documents, while others will issue visas quickly and easily.
Generally, the application processes are very similar in each country. They will all ask you to gather the necessary documents, like copies of a valid passport, proof that you can work remotely, proof of income, accommodation confirmations, etc.
Most countries will allow you to apply online, while others require you to go to the closest Embassy or Consulate to fill out your application. Most of the time, youâll need to attend an interview and wait a certain period before getting your visa approval.
If you wish to see the requirements for a specific country, check out our website! Youâll find information on all the countries that offer a digital nomad visa.
Digital Nomad Visa Taxes
The tax situation regarding a digital nomad visa is complicated, and it varies from country to country.
Some countries will expect you to pay full tax, while others will have special rates or tax reductions. Some countries will even have no taxes for digital nomads!
Why Should I Get a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is perfect for you if you wish to work remotely and live in a different country.
Some digital nomads prefer to move around more, so a 12-month digital nomad visa might not be worth it. However, if you wish to stay longer and truly enjoy everything a country has to offer while you work remotely, these visas are the way to go.
Not only will you be able to stay for much longer than with a tourist visa, but you can also enjoy tax benefits, explore the many attractions a country can offer, and experience life as a local.
Itâs the perfect opportunity to expand your horizons!
You may also like: Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Complete Guide
Countries That Offer Digital Nomad Visas
There are over 50 countries that offer digital nomad visas or special permits for remote workers.
Hereâs a complete list of all the countries with an option available and the essential information about each.
Europe Digital Nomad Visa Countries
Spain
Spain is expected to release their digital nomad visa soon, with applications starting at the beginning of 2023. This new digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live in Spain while they continue working at their remote job.
In order to qualify, you must have been working remotely for at least one year. Additionally, you must not have been a Spanish resident for the last five years.
$265
at least $2,215 per month
One year, with the chance to reapply for up to four additional years.
Anyone that isnât an EU/EEA/Swiss national.
Yes, you can apply while abroad.
This new visa will allow remote workers to live in Spain for up to a year, with the possibility of an extension.
Portugal
Portugal recently launched their digital nomad visa, known as the âPortugal Temporary-Stay Visa.â They also have other visa options, like the D7 Passive Income Visa, the D2 Entrepreneur Visa, and Portugal Golden Visa.
The best option for digital nomads is the Temporary-Stay Visa, which works if you can provide proof of an independent income.
The exact amount is unknown, but you can expect to pay around $190 for your initial visa application.
at least $2,950 a month.
One year, extended for up to 4 years.
Anyone can apply. However, if you are from the EU, an EEA country, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter, live, and work in Portugal.
Yes, you can apply anywhere in the world at the closes Portuguese Embassy.
It has a standard tax rate of 15%, and Portugal offers an affordable cost of living and excellent visa conditions
$87
$8,925 per year
One year, extended for up to 5 years.
Anyone can apply. However, if youâre you are from the EU, an EEA country, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter, live, and work in Portugal.
Yes, you can apply anywhere in the world at the closes Portuguese Embassy.
You can also apply with your family. Portugal offers an affordable cost of living, an extensive digital nomad community, and excellent visa conditions.
Italy
In March 2022, the digital nomad visa for Italy was officially voted into law. There isnât much information yet on all the details of this digital nomad visa. Instead, it is designed for non-EU digital nomads or highly qualified workers that work remotely, autonomously, or for a company that is not resident in the territory of the Italian state.
Italy also has other visas available, like the Self-employment Visa or the Intra-company Visa, which are also worth checking out.
Unknown (TBA)
Unknown (TBA)
One year with the possibility to extend.
Non-EU citizens
Unknown; applications are not open yet.
Italy offers great infrastructure, excellent work-life balance, and a fantastic Mediterranean climate.
Croatia
Croatia is another country quickly becoming a popular destination for many digital nomads. It is home to many iconic pop-culture sites and has a lot to offer its visitors.
They offer a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, which allows you to live and work in Croatia as a digital nomad. It was first introduced in January 2021 and may work as a temporary residence permit rather than a visa.
$73 for the visa and $66 for the temporary residence.
At least $2,658 per month
From 6 months to One year.
Anyone that is not a citizen of an EU or EEA country.
Yes! You can submit your application online while living abroad.
You may apply with your family. Additionally, the Croatian government will not charge you any income tax.
Germany
Germany has its own digital nomad option known as the Freelancer Visa.
The application process for this visa can be long and complicated. Unfortunately, you must deal with German bureaucracy, and it may take up to 4 months to get approval.
Additionally, the freelance visa is only available to self-employed that work in specific liberal professions (artists, writers, teachers, architects, etc.).
$105
Enough to be self-sustainable
Up to three years
Those working in certain liberal professions
You must apply at your local German embassy
Your German Freelance visa entitles you to temporary residence in Germany for up to three years.
Greece
The Greek digital nomad visa is considered the easiest to obtain, Greece is a well-known destination, and it has a lot to offer to all visitors.
With their digital nomad visa, you can live and work remotely in Greece for a whole year, with the possibility of extending for up to two years. The work-life balance is easily achieved in Greece. Youâll find after-work socializing options close by, no matter where youâre living.
$79
$3,690 per month.
One year with the possibility to extend.
Non-EU citizens
Yes, but you must apply at a Greek Embassy or Consulate.
The visa is easy to obtain, and it gives you permission to live and work from Greece, and you can also travel freely in the Schengen area. You may also be eligible for a 50% tax reduction.
Estonia
Estonia made history when it became the worldâs first country with an official digital nomad visa program. In 2020, they created their digital nomad and freelancer visa. It allows you to stay in the country and work remotely.
You can apply for a short-stay visa (C-Visa) or a long-stay visa (D-Visa). However, this visa wonât provide you with the right of citizenship or permanent residence in Estonia or the EU.
$85
$37,000
3 months
Any foreigner! There are no nationalities restrictions.
Yes
This visa allows remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer or company registered abroad.
$105
$37,000
One year
Any foreigner! There are no nationalities restrictions.
Yes
This visa allows remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer or company registered abroad.
Malta
This small Mediterranean country is very friendly towards digital nomads and remote workers. Malta has three visa options: the Short Stay Visa, the Long Stay Visa, and a Digital Nomad Visa.
The digital nomad visa was introduced in June 2021, allowing digital nomads to stay in Malta for an entire year.
$316
$2,850 per month
One year with the possibility to renew.
Third-country nationals
Yes, but you must submit your application at the closest consular office of Malta.
This visa lets you stay in Malta for up to 2 years. It has a nationwide 5G network, and English is one of the official languages.
Norway
Norway went above and beyond when it designed its digital nomad visa. It allows digital nomads and remote workers to live in Svalbard for two years with an Independent Contractor Visa.
The visa is only available for Svalbard, an archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole.
$632
$37,680
2 years with the possibility to extend.
Anyone; there are no nationality restrictions.
Yes! You can submit your application online.
The processing time usually takes 15 days. Norway offers a unique and exciting experience with well-balanced work and leisure lifestyle.
France
France is a wonderful destination for digital nomads. While a France digital nomad visa is not available yet, the country has an option called âThe Long Stay Visaâ, which allows remote workers to live and work from France.
This France remote work visa is meant for any remote worker who wants to undertake an industrial, manufacturing, handcraft, or agriculture operation or engage in a new development sector in France.
$106 approximately
You need a minimum income of at least âŹ615 per month.
1 year
Non-EU or EEA citizens
Yes, you can apply online.
- 14 days application timeline.
- You can move around other EU countries
Iceland
Iceland is a beautiful country with unique landscapes. The capital city, ReykjavĂk, is the leading destination for many digital nomads, and it is known as the worldâs safest city.
Iceland was one of the first Schengen countries to introduce a remote work visa designed specifically for digital nomads. To be eligible, you must be self-employed or work for a company that is based outside of Iceland.
$96
$7,763 per month
180 days (6 months)
Anyone who works remotely
Yes, but applications are only received through the mail.
You will not be subject to taxes with this visa. English is a commonly used language in Iceland, and the locals are open-minded and friendly.
Ireland
Sadly, there is no Ireland digital nomad visa available. However, there are other visa options that fit perfectly the digital nomad lifestyle.
The best option is a short-stay visa, which allows you to stay in the country for 90 days. It is also possible to extend that time for an additional 90 days, but the extension is usually reserved for special cases or unexpected changes in your circumstances.
$64 for a one-entry visa. $107 for a multiple-entry visa.
There is no minimum income requirement, but you should make at least the average salary in Ireland, $4,050 a month.
90 days with the possibility to extend.
There are only certain countries that need to apply for a visa in order to enter Ireland. Some countries, like the US, do not need a visa to enter.
Yes! You can apply online.
- It can be extended under special circumstances
- US Citizens do not need a visa
Romania
For many years, Romania has been a favorite destination of digital nomads due to its fast internet, stunning landscapes, and accessibility.
It is one of the newest countries offering a digital nomad visa. It was officially announced on December 21st, 2021. The program is provided exclusively to digital nomads, which the Romanian authorities describe as âa foreigner who is employed with an employment contract by a company registered outside Romania or who owns a company registered outside Romania and may work as an employee or within the company, remotely.â
Unknown
$3,900 per month
One year, and it can be extended for one more year
any Non-EU citizen
Yes
The application process is straightforward and usually takes around 10 to 14 working days.
Netherlands
The Netherlands does not have a specific visa for digital nomads. Instead, they offer the opportunity for digital nomads to register as independent workers in the country and live with a long-stay visa.
The long-stay visa is also known as a self-employed residence permit, allowing you to enter the Netherlands and reside there as a foreign professional.
The price varies, but you can expect to pay around $407 plus additional fees.
Approximately $1,340 per month.
90 days or more.
anyone can apply, but citizens from specific nations will be in a better position to qualify for the self-employed residence permit.
Yes, but you must apply at the closest Dutch embassy or consulate.
You can work in the Netherlands as a self-employed person and even launch a startup. You may also work for Dutch companies on a freelance basis, and if you have existing clients in the Netherlands, it may help you to obtain Dutch residency.
Georgia
Georgia is one of the most open countries to digital workers. They have several options for remote workers, including dedicated programs for anyone who works online.
They launched the âRemotely From Georgiaâ campaign to fight the losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though technically, this is not a visa category for digital nomads, it is treated as such.
The program aims to allow citizens from 95 countries to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for Georgia, allowing them to live and work remotely in the country.
No cost!
$2,000 per month.
One year
Citizens of one of these 95 countries.
Yes! The application process can be conducted entirely online.
This program does not have a visa fee, and you can apply with your family.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is one of the most popular digital nomads’ destinations because of its beautiful cities.
They have a freelancer visa, known as the Zivno. Unfortunately, obtaining this visa can be a little complicated. A trade license visa allows you to do business in the Czech Republic by taking advantage of the Trade Licensing Act combined with a long-term business visa.
Around $117 plus $46 for the trade license.
You must have at least $5200 in your bank account.
One year with the possibility of extension.
Non-EU Citizens
Yes, you can apply at your local embassy or consulate, but be aware that it takes a long time.
You can apply with your family. The Czech Republic is a very welcoming country with an excellent work-life balance.
Hungary
The Hungarian digital nomad visa is known as the White Card, launched in November 2021, and it might be one of the easiest European digital nomad visas to obtain.
This visa works as an individual residence permit; unfortunately, it does not allow couples or families to apply. Their primary target is singles under 40.
$116
$2,110 per month.
One year with the possibility of extension.
Third-country nationals
Yes. While you canât apply online, you may apply at the closest Hungarian embassy or consulate.
It has a low monthly income requirement, and the application process usually does not take longer than a month.
Montenegro
The Montenegro authorities have announced that they plan to launch a Digital Nomad Visa soon. Even though the visa is in the making, their goal is âto improve the digital environment, not only for nomads but also for all citizens, so the introduction of new electronic services was also recognized through the program.â
Many remote workers who visit the Balkans and Eastern European cities are attracted to Montenegro because of how beautiful and affordable the country is.
expected to be $26
Unknown (TBA)
2 years with the possibility to extend.
Citizens of countries that are not part of the European Union
Yes, but applications are not open yet.
Anyone living in Montenegro under the digital nomad visa will be exempt from paying income tax in Montenegro.
Latvia
Latvia has a digital nomad visa, allowing you to live there for one year while working remotely. However, this visa is only available to foreign nationals working for an employer or business registered in an OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) country.
The visa is still being worked on, so thereâs some information that is still not available.
Latvia is a popular stop for many backpackers and travelers who want to get away from the touristic cities in Eastern Europe. As an up-and-coming destination, Latvia is highly affordable, with loads of available options for accommodation and activities.
approximately $65
$3,020 per month
One year, and it can be renewed for another year.
OECD countries
The application process is still unknown
The visa will allow you to live in Latvia for up to 2 years. Additionally, Latvia is a very safe country to travel to.
Albania
Albania is a great destination for digital nomads with excellent internet infrastructure and plenty of internet cafes and coworking spaces in the larger towns and hamlets.
The Albania digital nomad visa is known as the Type D Long Stay visa. This visa is meant for self-employed people, investors, research, highly qualified employees, and pensioners.
Albania uses a reciprocal system for determining the cost of visas. The visa fee is determined by the equivalent fee that an Albanian citizen would be expected to pay to apply for a visa for your home country.
The minimum income for the Albania digital nomad visa is estimated to be $9,800 per year.
1 year
Digital Nomads Self-Employed or Employed Abroad
Yes, you can apply online.
- You can extend the visa for one year, up to five times.
- Most long-term visa requests for Albania are approved within four to six weeks.
- Albania is 50% cheaper than the United States
Cyprus
In October 2021, the government of Cyprus approved the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa Scheme. It allows nationals from non-EU and non-EEA countries to reside temporarily in Cyprus.
They first started with only 100 residence permits issued; however, as of March 2022, the Council of Ministers has increased the ceiling to 500 residence permits.
$78
$37,000 per year after taxes.
One year, and you can renew for two more years.
non-EU and non-EEA citizens
Yes, you can apply online.
This visa allows you to live in Cyprus while working remotely for up to 3 years. Cyprus ââhas an excellent quality of life and many business start-ups and taxation advantages.
Serbia
The digital nomad visa for Serbia has yet to be available, but it is expected to become official very soon. However, to work remotely in Serbia as an entrepreneur, you must register your business and get a work permit.
Even though the digital nomad visa is still in the making, Serbia has other options for remote workers. For example, you can apply for short or long-stay visas or even a temporary residence permit.
Living in Serbia as a digital nomad allows you to live very comfortably. Remember you must make at least $3,500 a month, which is a little steep compared to its neighboring countries, Romania and Croatia.
Unknown (TBA)
$3,500 a month
One year
Anyone; there are no nationality restrictions.
Unknown (TBA)
digital nomads are exempt from tax for the first 90 days of stay.
North Macedonia
In February 2021, North Macedonia has been talking about a digital nomad visa. However, a North Macedonia digital nomad visa has not been implemented yet. However, they might launch one this year!
The cost of the digital nomad visa has not been announced yet.
The minimum income has not been announced yet.
There is no current information about the length of the North Macedonia digital nomad visa.
Not available yet.
Applications are not open yet.
- North Macedonia has a low cost of living
- Great internet connection
Digital Nomad Visa Countries in North & Central America
Costa Rica
After months of the Costa Rica government discussing the digital nomad visa, they finally launched it. Costa Ricaâs Digital Nomad Visa is one of the most accessible visas.
The Costa Rica digital nomad visa will allow remote workers, business owners, and freelancers to stay in the country for longer than a tourist visa.
$190
at least $3,000 per month. $4,000 if applying with a family.
One year, can be extended for one more year.
Anyone who meets the requirements
Yes! You can apply online or at an embassy.
This visa will make you exempt from tax on utilities related to the income you receive from abroad.
Mexico
Mexico is a popular destination for digital nomads who wish to immerse themselves in Latin American culture.
While Mexico doesnât have a visa specifically for digital nomads, they offer a Temporary Resident Visa, allowing you to live in Mexico for six months to four years. It does not allow you to work for Mexican companies, but working remotely will not be a problem.
$150 to $350, depending on the length of visa issued
$2,600 per month
One year with the possibility to renew for another three years
Nationals from all over the world
You must apply at a Mexican embassy or consulate outside of Mexico.
Mexico has a low cost of living, and with the Temporary Resident Visa, you can live in Mexico for up to four years.
Panama
Panama is the most developed country in Central America and attracts a lot of digital nomads because of its warm climate, high standard of living, and vibrant cities.
In May 2021, they launched the short-term visa for remote workers or digital nomads. The primary purpose of this visa is to encourage tourism for telecommuting travelers.
$300
Minimum annual income of $36,000
9 months with the possibility to extend for another nine months.
Anyone; there are no nationality restrictions.
No, you must apply through an immigration lawyer in Panama.
Panama is a tax-friendly country. You wonât be taxed for any income sourced from outside of Panama. Additionally, residing in Panama for nine months or more is enough time to apply for tax residency, which means you may be able to avoid paying taxes in your home country.
Belize
Belize is an up-and-coming destination for digital nomads and remote workers. They created the Work Where You Vacation program, which is the digital nomad visa for Belize.
This program gives you a work permit, a student permit for children, and special offers on activities, entertainment, and accommodations.
Approximately $250.
Minimum annual income of $75,000 for individuals or $100,000 for couples/families.
6 months with the possibility to extend
There are no nationality restrictions
Yes, you can apply entirely online
This program can be extended to families, and your kids can study in the country's school system.
El Salvador
El Salvador is increasingly becoming popular among the Digital Nomad community. The El Salvador digital nomad visa allows you to stay for up to two years. This visa is available for digital nomads, students, freelancers, and entrepreneurs conducting business outside the country.
The El Salvador digital nomad visa will cost you approximately $2,825. This amount includes taxes, government fees, lawyer fees, translations, and all paperwork.
You must earn a monthly income of at least $1,460.
2 years with the possibility to extend.
There are no citizenship restrictions.
No, you must apply at an El Salvador embassy or consulate.
- You can extend your stay
- You can apply with your family (Spouse and children.)
Digital Nomad Visa Countries in Middle East & Asia
Bali (Indonesia)
Another favored destination is Indonesia, specifically the province of Bali. Bali has a lot to offer: beautiful beaches, ancient temples, diverse wildlife, and captivating landscapes.
Bali has the Visit Visa B211A, also known as Social Visa or Cultural Visa, which is valid for 60 days, and can be extended twice for an additional 60 days each. After the 180 days, you can apply for B211A Business Visa ONSHORE, to also extend your time two more times.
From $295 to $650
proof of funds of $140,000
60 days and up to 180 days. May be extended further.
available to all nationalities.
Yes!
You can extend your time multiple times. Bali offers an exciting and well-balanced lifestyle. Keep in mind that anybody who stays in Indonesia for more than 183 days a year qualifies as a local tax resident and must pay Indonesian tax rates on any income earned.
Thailand
Thailand is a favorite destination among many digital nomads and remote workers. This country is no stranger to remote workers, and the city of Chiang Mai is known as the Digital Nomad capital of the world.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand launched the Long Term Residence Visa. This newly introduced Thailand digital nomad visa allows you to stay for a decade. However, the Long Term Residence Visa is highly selective and has stringent restrictions, in contrast to other accessible options.
Most Nomads use the tourist visa; with the tourist visa, you can stay for 60 days and extend it for another 30 days.
$600
Earn $80,000 per year
10 years
All nationalities are welcome to apply, but the requirements are very strict and selective.
Yes, you can apply online.
If you stay in Thailand for less than six months, you will not need to pay any taxes. However, receiving the Long Term Residence Visa will only pay 17% tax.
Japan
Japan has a lot to offer to digital nomads. Unfortunately, there is no Japan digital nomad visa as of right now. However, the country is considering introducing a special visa for remote workers and digital nomads.
There is no date yet, as the government is still working on a plan. But until then, digital nomads can enter Japan with a tourist visa.
Not announced yet.
Unknown, to be announced.
The exact length of the visa is unknown, but it is expected to be from about six months to two years.
Japan has a visa exemption arrangement with 69 countries and regions. It is unknown if these will count for the digital nomad visa as well.
TBA
TBA
Dubai (United Arab Emirates, UAE)
Dubai has undergone significant commercial development in the last 30 years and is a very modern city. Dubai has a thriving ex-pat community, which led them to release its own digital nomad visa.
Itâs called The Remote Working Visa Scheme. The scheme allows anyone who qualifies to move to Dubai and enjoy most of the same rights that any other resident would.
From $81 to $287
Have a minimum of $5,000 per month salary.
One year
There are no nationality restrictions
Yes, you can apply online.
The scheme does not require sponsorship. Successful applicants are provided with a resident ID and access to most public services and facilities like other residents in the city.
Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates, UAE)
Another city in the United Arab Emirates offering a digital nomad visa is Abu Dhabi.
The Abu Dhabi digital nomad visa is known as the âRemote Work Visa.â This visa is available to remote workers and digital nomads. They can enjoy residency in the capital city, without the need for a sponsor.
The visa costs $287 per person.
You need to earn a monthly income of no less than $3,500.
1 year
There are no citizenship requirements
Not defined yet, but it is expected to be applicable online
- This visa does not require sponsorship.
- You receive an Emirates ID and access to most public services and facilities like other residents in the city.
South Korea
The South Korean digital nomad visa is known as the Working Holiday Visa. It isnât technically a remote work visa, but it is the closest thing South Korea has.
With this visa, you can travel through the country for up to one year and work while there.
The visa fee is approximately $54.
Approximately $2,276.25
1 year.
Only citizens from 25 countries can apply.
No, you can only apply for the Working Holiday Visa through an appointment in the Korean embassy.
- Aside from your digital nomad job, you can also work for a Korean company for 1300 hours that year.
- If you are from the US, you can extend for six months.
- If youâre from the UK, you can extend for one year.
Malaysia
In October 2022, Malaysia launched its digital nomad visa, DE Rantau Nomad Pass. This visa allows independent workers, remote workers, and digital nomads to stay in Malaysia for up to 12 months.
Visa holders receive the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, which grants privileged access to coworking facilities and other services for digital nomads…
