The world continues to change, thanks to COVID-19 and the increased technological advancements that came with it. As more companies grow their international workforce, entrepreneurs and professionals are now looking for ways to make a living working remotely as digital nomads.
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa, or a temporary residency permit, gives visitors a right to stay in a country and work remotely for a foreign-based business or employer. Typically, the visa lasts for 12 months and then will require an extension for more time (depending on the country issuing the visa). Digital nomads who can work outside their host county or manage a business from anywhere in the world can qualify for this visa.
Who is eligible to get a Digital Nomad Visa?
Not everyone can get a digital nomad visa. The eligibility criteria for most digital nomad visas include, but are not limited to:
- You must be over 18 years of age
- You must have a steady income, the amount depends on the country
- You must be able to work remotely
Taxes for Digital Nomads
The tax situation around digital nomad visas can be complicated and varies from country to country. While some countries expect you to pay their taxes in full, others have tax deductions or special rates, or even no taxes for visa holders!
Countries offering digital nomad visas with zero tax assume you pay tax in your home country. Most countries will also likely require you to have private health insurance while staying in their country.
Top 30 Countries with Digital Nomad Visas
1. Costa Rica
As of July 2022, Costa Rica offers a Digital Nomad visa for remote workers and service providers. The permit allows the holder to reside in the county for up to two years (which includes the year-long visa plus a one-year extension). Visa holders in Costa Rica are covered for a full income tax exemption from income originating outside Costa Rica.
Requirements:
- Proof of a minimum income of $3,000 USD a month if coming alone (or a minimum of $4,000 if coming with a family member)
- Proof of health insurance that will cover them for the duration of their stay in the foreign nation.
- Must provide paid services remotely to a natural person or legal entity located outside of Costa Rica
- Must not work for a Costa Rican company
2. Estonia
The Estonian authorities have a special visa called the Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer, or their own company, registered abroad. This is part of their larger “E-Residency” program which is a government-issued digital identity and status to provide access to Estonia’s transparent business environment.
Requirements:
- You can perform your work duties remotely using telecommunications technology
- You have an active employment contract with a company registered outside of Estonia, conduct business through your own company registered abroad, or work as a freelancer for clients mostly outside of Estonia
- You can provide evidence that your income met the minimum threshold of €3504 per month for the six months preceding the application
3. Spain
Spain is introducing their Digital Nomad visa later this year after publishing the “Startup Law” on July 6, 2022. This visa will be for remote workers and offers a personal income tax reduction for non-resident workers, along with tax incentives for startup companies and investors. Under the proposed law, workers can live and work in Spain for 1 year with an opportunity to extend for 2 more years after that.
Requirements:
- Must not be a EU/EEA citizen
- Must not be employed by a Spanish company
- Proof of minimum monthly income between €1,000-€3,000 per month
4. Croatia
The Croatian authority released their Digital Nomad Residence Permit in 2021 to allow freelancers to reside in the country while working. Croatia is a perfect spot to work with a relaxed atmosphere, endless adventure, and beautiful architecture. The permit is valid for 1 year with no possibility to extend, more information here.
Requirements:
- Must not be a EU/EEA citizen
- Must not be employed by a Croatian company
- Proof of minimum monthly income of 16,907.50 kuna (€2,250 approx.)
5. Norway (Svalbard)
Norway is a wealthy (and expensive) country thanks to its oil. Norway offers a Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers wishing to live in Svalbard (an archipelago between Norway’s mainland and the North Pole). Unlike other countries, this visa is valid for a lifetime. Digital nomads who receive this visa will have to pay local taxes while living in Norway and apply for a VAT number.
Requirements:
- Proof of minimum income of €35,719 per year
- Must not be employed by a Norwegian company
6. Mexico
This region of the world is surrounded by Latin cultures, amazing beaches, and diverse topography. While not technically called a “digital nomad visa”, Mexico offers a Temporary Resident Visa for anyone looking to temporarily live and remotely work there.The temporary resident visa can last from 6 months to 4 years.
Requirements:
- Proof of minimum income of $2,600 USD per month
- Must not be employed by a Mexican company
7. Portugal
While there isn’t a specific visa program designed for digital nomads in Portugal, the D7 visa (also known as the Passive Income Visa) will be a good fit for anyone who works remotely and wants to live in Portugal on a medium to long-term basis. Another great thing about the D7 visa is that it’s a pathway to Portuguese citizenship and an EU passport after living there for five years.
Requirements:
- Must not be a EU/EEA citizen
- Minimum income of €8,460 per year
8. Iceland
Iceland unveiled its long-term digital nomad visa in October 2020 as part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The visa lasts 180 days and is called the Iceland Remote Worker visa — it can also serve as a temporary residence permit. Iceland is not only a stunning place to visit, but it’s also ranked first on the Global Peace Index.
Requirements:
- Must not be a EU/EEA citizen
- Minimum income of ~$7,800 USD per month
- Must not intend to live in Iceland long-term
9. Czech Republic
Czech Republic’s digital nomad visa is different from others because it’s a long-term business visa for freelancers (known as Zivno for short). This visa allows freelancers to live in the Czech Republic for six months to a year and work with Czech citizens and companies for your freelance work. If you love art, history, architecture, food, outdoor activities, lakes, and nightlife, Czech Republic might be the country for you!
Requirements:
- Proof that you have at least ~ $5,644 USD in your bank account
- Criminal Background Check issued and notarized from your residence country
- Must have medical coverage in the Czech Republic
10. Anguilla
Anguilla’s digital nomad program is unique because it also works for students, in addition to remote workers. You will also not be charged any local income tax while staying in Anguilla as a digital nomad. If approved, you can stay in Anguilla for a maximum of 12 months.
Requirements:
- Entry Visa (if applicable) – Some countries also need a visa to enter Anguilla
- You must have health insurance coverage in Anguilla for the duration of your stay
- Must not work for a local Anguillan company
11. Antigua and Barbuda
If you are looking for a long-term digital nomad visa, you can stay in Antigua and Barbuda for up to 2 years! With the sharp increase in remote working opportunities in 2020, the islands introduced their own digital nomad visa called the Nomad Digital Residence Visa. Antigua and Barbuda is a sovereign island country and member of the Commonwealth, and is rated as one of the top tourism destinations in the world.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of $50,000 USD per year
- Health Insurance that covers incidents in Antigua and Barbuda
- You must be employed by a company outside of Antigua and Barbuda, or be self-employed
12. Georgia
Georgia is one of the most open countries to digital workers, allowing almost anyone to open a bank account once arriving there. Moreover, the country also allows tourists from many countries to stay visa-free for up to 365 days, before going through the entire process of getting an official digital nomad visa.
Requirements:
- Be a citizen of one of the 95 countries determined by the State Commission on Migration Services
- Minimum income of $2,000 USD per month
- Must have health insurance coverage, local Georgian health insurance is sufficient
13. Bahamas
The Bahamas recently launched a program that allows for digital nomads to stay and work remotely for up to one year with their Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) program. The program allows both remote workers and students access to the 16 tax-free islands of the Bahamas for up to 12 months.
Requirements:
- Proof of work at a company outside of the Bahamas (or a student at a school outside the Bahamas)
- Proof of medical insurance that covers the territory of Bahamas
- Proof of income or funds to cover living expenses
14. Barbados
Barbados has a program called Barbados Welcome Stamp that lasts 12 months with a possibility of extension. The island combines breathtaking beauty with clean air, year-round sunshine, pure drinking water, and a lively spirit. While you will not be liable to pay Barbados Income Tax you will be subject to a 17.5% VAT on any products and services purchased on the island.
Requirements:
- You must be employed by a company outside of Barbados
- Minimum income of $50,000 USD per year
- You must have private health insurance that will cover you while in Barbados
15. Brazil
Brazil was the first country in South America to announce a digital nomad visa program. If granted the visa, you can stay in Brazil for up to one year with the option to renew for another year. The country is famous for its culture, history, and sports — so whether you like exploring nature or enjoying food and events, Brazil has all you need.
Requirements:
- Must be employed by a company outside of Brazil
- Minimum income of $1,500 USD per month
- You must hold private medical insurance valid in Brazil
- You must submit a criminal clearance certificate from your country
16. Dubai (UAE)
Dubai is a large city located within the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and while it’s small in terms of land size, the large amounts of wealth that come from oil and gas make Dubai one of the richest populations on earth (on a per-capita basis). The city announced a remote work program that lets you live and work in Dubai for one year.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of $5,000 USD per month
- Proof of employment with a one-year contract validity
- You must have medical insurance valid in UAE
17. Cape Verde (Cabo Verde)
Cape Verde is an archipelago of 10 volcanic islands west of the African continent. The beautiful country offers a Remote Working Program with a visa that lasts 6 months with option to renew for up to one year. While on the islands you will not have to pay local income tax.
Requirements:
- An average of €1500 in your bank account for the last six months
- Proof of employment at a company outside of Cape Verde
- You must be from Europe, North America, the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), or the Economic Community of West African States (CEDEAO)
- You must have medical insurance valid in Cape Verde
18. Curaçao
Curaçao is a small island in the Caribbean just outside of the hurricane zone. The country recently launched the @HOME in Curaçao program, its visa grants a 6 month stay with the possibility of extending for six more months. There is no minimum income requirement, and living in Curaçao is among the lowest in the Caribbean.
Requirements:
- You must earn a livable income working for a company outside of Curaçaco, own a business, or freelance for clients located outside of Curaçaco
- You must have medical insurance valid in Curaçaco
- You cannot have marks on your criminal record
19. Dominica
The Commonwealth of Dominica is a small island country between the Guadeloupe and Martinique islands. The island has mountains, rivers, rainforests, and waterfalls, making Dominica a great place for adventurous exploration. Dominica’s Work In Nature (WIN) Extended Stay Visa program provides individuals and families the opportunity to work remotely on the island for up to 18 months.
Requirements:
- Must be employed by (or own a company) outside of Dominica, or freelance for clients outside of Dominica
- Minimum income of $50,000 USD per year
- You must have health insurance coverage in Dominica
- You must have a clean criminal record
20. Cyprus
Cyprus is a beautiful island country in the Mediterranean Sea that is rich in history and culture. Their digital nomad visa is known as the Digital Nomad Visa Scheme, and allows remote workers from non-EU/EEA countries to reside temporarily in Cyprus for one year with the option to extend 2 years. The goal of the program is to contribute to the development of the economy of the country.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of €3,500 per month
- Must live outside EU/EEA
- Must work for an employer registered outside of Cyprus
- You must have at least €30,000 coverage in health & accident insurance in Cyprus
- You must have a clean criminal record
21. Greece
Greece has the longest coastline in Europe and is a hotspot for history, food, culture, and wonderful weather. Greece has a Digital Nomad Visa for non-EU/EEA citizens as of 2021 that allows remote workers to live in the country for one year, with a possibility to renew for a second year if you still meet the requirements.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of €3,500 per month
- Proof that your income comes from working remotely
- Must live outside EU/EEA
- You must have health insurance coverage in Greece
- You must obtain a medical certificate from a physician stating that you are in good health
- You must have a clean criminal record
22. Hungary
Hungary’s White Card Visa targets single people under the age of 40. This visa allows holders to stay in the country for one year, with the option to extend for another year. Unlike some others, this visa is for individual residency and does not allow for couples or families to be joined. Hungary has a much more affordable cost of living compared other countries in Western Europe, and its infrastructure and fast wifi make it a digital nomad’s paradise.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of €2,000 per month
- Proof that your income comes from working remotely at a company registered outside of Hungary
- You must have health insurance coverage in Hungary throughout your stay
- Must live outside of the EU/EEA
23. Malta
Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean — a perfect spot for people who like exploring Europe, living near the sea, and enjoying historical architecture. Malta recently launched their Nomad Residence Permit which enables holders to work remotely from Malta for one year with the possibility to renew.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of €2,700 per month
- Proof that your income comes from working remotely at a company registered outside of Malta
- You must have health insurance coverage in Malta throughout your stay
- Must live outside of the EU/EEA
24. Mauritius
Mauritius is a small island country between Africa and Asia, but is considered a part of Africa. Its white beaches and picturesque nature make it a wonderful place for digital nomads. The Mauritius digital nomad visa is called the Premium Visa and allows remote workers to live on the islands for one year with the possibility to renew for another year. One thing to note is that if you spend more than 183 days in Mauritius, you become a tax resident meaning you have to pay local taxes in addition to your home country’s taxes.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of $1,500 USD per month
- Proof that your income comes from working remotely for a business or clients outside of Mauritius
- You must have health insurance coverage in Mauritius
- You must be from one of the 114 selected countries, list here
25. Montserrat
Montserrat is a small island in the Caribbean with a population of about 5,000. In 2021 they announced the Remote Work Stamp program which allows remote workers to stay and work in Montserrat for one year with possibility of renewal. You will not owe taxes to Montserrat during your stay, and can enjoy a calm and slow-paced lifestyle on the island.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of $70,000 USD per year
- Proof that your income comes from working remotely for a business or clients outside of Montserrat
- You must have health insurance coverage in Montserrat
- You must have a clean criminal record
26. Romania
Romania is a top destination for many digital nomads due to it having the fastest internet in the EU, interesting history, and stunning landscapes. They officially announced their digital nomad visa at the end of 2021, which allows visa holders to stay in the country for 12 months. Romania’s cost of living is low as the country is trying to re-activate its economy, which is perfect if you’re planning to stay for long periods of time.
Requirements:
- Must earn at least 3x the average Romanian salary, which at the time of this post equals €3,300 per month
- Proof that your income comes from working remotely for a business or clients outside of Romania
- You must have health insurance coverage in Romania
- You must have a clean criminal record
27. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is a beautiful island in the Caribbean that newly launched their digital nomad visa program called Saint Lucia Live It. This visa does not have a minimum income requirement, and you can stay on the island for 12 months while working remotely. Also, you will not need to pay any local income taxes while living in Saint Lucia.
Requirements:
- Disclose what amount of money you will bring to Saint Lucia (it’s unknown if the amount will impact the decision of whether you’re accepted or not)
28. Seychelles
Seychelles is an African island archipelago with 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. It has beautiful beaches and warm weather to enjoy year-round. The lifestyle is very laid-back and great for those looking to escape the big city life. Their digital nomad program is called the Seychelles Workcation visa, and if granted you can stay up to one year living in Seychelles.
Requirements:
- Provide proof of employment
- Provide proof of income or wealth
- You must have health and travel insurance coverage while in Seychelles
29. Belize
Belize is a small country located on the east coast of Central America, and one of the most recent to launch a digital nomad visa as part of their Work Where You Vacation program. This visa allows holders to live in Belize for 6 months with the possibility to extend. The national language in Belize is English which makes it easy for digital nomads to chat with locals
Requirements:
- Minimum income of $75,000 USD per year
- Proof of employment for a business outside of Belize or freelancing for clients outside of Belize
- You must have at least $50,000 travel insurance coverage in Belize
- You must have a clean criminal record
30. Taiwan
Taiwan was recently ranked as one of the top places in the world for ex-pats to live (by an InterNations Expat Insider report). While Taiwan’s program was not specifically designed for digital nomads, its Gold Card program is an open-ended visa program to attract talent. Even if you don’t meet one of the listed skills, you can apply with a minimum income. The Gold Card allows you to stay in Taiwan for 1 to 3 years, and comes with open work rights (meaning you are free to work for any company).
Requirements:
- Minimum income of $5,600 USD per month
- Work in one of these areas: science and technology, education, economics, culture and art, sports, law, finance, and architecture
Wrapping Up
The concept of digital nomads is becoming more widespread as more people are able to make a living from anywhere in the world. Many countries are looking to attract high-income digital nomads to help boost their economies, and more countries have continued to create their own digital nomad programs as time goes on.
With the rise of global remote work, there are so many opportunities to hire talent around the world. You can onboard and manage anyone from anywhere with an Employer of Record (EOR) like Remofirst. Book a demo today to see it in action.
