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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LAST UPDATE: September 2025
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 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.
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 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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» 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 I must 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 «
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.
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Eligibility: Citizens of Europe, North America, CPLP, CEDEAO 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: €1,500/month (or €2,700 for families) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,300 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps
– – –
Kenya
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2024
You’ll be happy to know that Kenya rolled out a Class N – Digital Nomad Visa to attract long-stay remote workers! [link]
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals with proof of remote work outside Kenya -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Visa Cost: ~$1,000 application fee (subject to updates) -
Required Monthly Income: ~$2,000/month minimum (government guideline) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,200 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 25 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.
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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 -
Required Monthly Income: None, but your business and source of income should be outside 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]
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Required Monthly Income: $2,000 (plus $1,000 if coming with a spouse, and plus $500 per child) -
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: Maximum of 1 year -
Required Monthly Income: Not stated, but required to submit bank statements -
Estimated Cost of Living: $4,400 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 25 Mbps
– – –
South Africa
STATUS: PENDING, expected in late 2025
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…
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 3 months to 1 year -
Required Monthly Income: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,800 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 30 Mbps
• • •
» Asia & The Middle East «
Photo by: Shutterstock
Abu Dhabi (UAE)
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2021
Similar to Dubai, Abu Dhabi has its own remote work visa.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Required Monthly Income: Minimum $3,500 monthly income -
Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps
– – –
Armenia
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2023
For freelancers, this can serve as a temporary or permanent residence visa option.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals who must register their business -
Length:1 year, renewable up to 5 years -
Visa Cost: Starts at $250 -
Required Monthly Income: No minimum requirement -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,200 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps
– – –
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!
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Visa Cost: $611 total (application, processing, medical exam, and Emirates ID fees) -
Required Monthly Income: Average $5,000 monthly income -
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 would grant 5-year visas [link] with no taxation to digital nomads who have foreign-sourced income — however, this has not launched yet. Existing alternatives remain to be the Second Home Visa, B211A, or business visa options.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 5 years (Second Home) or up to 180 days (B211A) -
Required Monthly Income: B211A: proof of $140,000 in funds; Second Home: property -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,400 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 20 Mbps
– – –
Japan
STATUS: • ACTIVE since April 2024
For people who love this country, it’s great news to be welcomed, which will allow you to stay up to 6 months! [link]
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Length: 6 months (non-renewable, reapply after break) -
Visa Cost: $20–$40 depending on nationality -
Required Yearly Income: $65,000/year -
Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps
– – –
Kazakhstan
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2025
If you’re an IT professional, Kazakhstan introduced the Digital Nomad (B12-1) and Digital Nomad Residency (B9-1) pathways!
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Eligibility: Foreign IT specialists, freelancers, entrepreneurs -
Required Monthly Income: Minimum $1,500 monthly income -
Estimated Cost of Living: $800 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 30 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]
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year (renewable for one more year) -
Visa Cost: Starts at $220 -
Required Yearly Income: $24,000/year -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps
– – –
Philippines
STATUS: • ACTIVE since April 2025
Through Executive Order (E.O.) No. 861, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has been allowed to issue Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) to non-immigrant foreign nationals!
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: $2,000/month -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps
– – –
South Korea
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2024
Around the same year as Japan, South Korea launched its Workcation Visa (F-1-D) for long-stay remote workers. [link]
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals aged 18+, with proof of employment/income abroad -
Length: 1 year, renewable 1 year -
Required Yearly Income: $66,000/year -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 250 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.)
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1–3 years, renewable -
Visa Cost: $100 to $310, depending on your nationality and duration of stay -
Required Monthly Income: $5,700 (otherwise, hold high skills) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 95 Mbps
– – –
Thailand
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2024
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, Thailand introduced two options: the LTR Visa (for wealthy remote workers) and the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals with remote income; criteria vary by program -
Length: LTR: 10 years (renewable in 5-year blocks); DTV: 5 years (180-day stays per entry) -
Visa Cost: ~$300 annually (DTV); LTR fees higher (~$600) -
Required Monthly Income: LTR requires ~$80,000/year; DTV requires proof of solvency (lighter check) -
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 «
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable for 2 years, 5 years, and then can be changed to permanent residency -
Visa Cost: Around €100 or more -
Required Monthly Income: “Sufficient” – no specifics mentioned or €10,000/year -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 5 Mbps
– – –
Andorra
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2023
This is a new type of visa that you can take advantage of if living in Andorra sounds appealing to you!
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 2 years, renewable -
Visa Cost: €2,500 residence + €500 card -
Required Monthly Income:€4,000/month -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,800 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 200 Mbps
– – –
Bulgaria
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2025
If Bulgaria is a destination that you’re keen on staying in, their new freelance permit applies a 10% flat tax.
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Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA nationals; remote workers/freelancers -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: $2,500/month -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 80 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.
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Eligibility: For non-EU/EEA nationals -
Length: Up to 1 year (renewable after a 6-month break) -
Visa Cost: $73 visa + $66 permit -
Required Monthly Income: €3,295 or €39,540 in savings (an additional 10% is required per partner or family member) -
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.
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Eligibility: For non-EU nationals, maximum of 500 applications -
Length: 1 year, renewable for another 2 years maximum -
Visa Cost: From ~€20 (single-entry) / €60 (multiple-entry) for the entry visa; residence fees apply locally -
Required Monthly Income: ~€3,500/month base, +20% spouse, +15% per child -
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 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.
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Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA; self-employed/trade licence (“živnostenské oprávnění”) -
Length: 1 year (extendable via long-term residence) -
Visa Cost: $117 + $46 for trade license -
Required Income: For business-purpose long-term visa, proof of funds ≥ 50× existential minimum (currently 156,500 CZK as reference) -
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’ (Type C or D) [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).
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: Up to 1 year (Type D long-stay) -
Visa Cost: €80 for a Type C (short stay) visa and 100€ Type D (long stay) visa -
Required Monthly Income: €4,000 (gross of tax) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps
– – –
Finland
STATUS: • ACTIVE
Finland doesn’t have a dedicated digital nomad visa, but it does issue a self-employment or entrepreneur visa that can work!
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals or those with remote work -
Length: 6 months, renewable -
Visa Cost: €400, online -
Required Monthly Income: €1,500 -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps
– – –
France
STATUS: • ACTIVE
France does NOT have a special digital nomad visa; plus, their long-stay “visitor” visa does not permit remote work. However, you can look into their Profession Libérale Visa, which is a self-employment residence or salaried permit.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: €1,800/month + €21,000 savings -
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! [link].
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Required Monthly Income: $2,000 -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,300 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 20 Mbps
– – –
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 (“Freiberufler“) 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.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Required Monthly Income: €9,000/year -
Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 100 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!
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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) -
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.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 1 year, extendable by 1 more year maximum (max 2) -
Required Monthly Income: €2,000 for the last 6 months -
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 has a high cost of living, so you should expect a high-income requirement.
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Eligibility: Non-EU/EEA and from visa-waiver countries for Schengen; remote work only (no local job) -
Length: 6 months or 180 days maximum (or 90 days if already in Schengen) -
Required Monthly Income: €8,500 or €11,000 if applying as a couple -
Estimated Cost of Living: $4,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps
– – –
Italy
STATUS: • ACTIVE since April 2024
Back in March 2022, the Italian Government approved a new visa targeting high-skilled remote workers.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals who are high-skilled workers (must hold a Master’s degree) -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: About €2,500/month, but consulates may apply adequacy tests -
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).
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals who 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 -
Required Monthly Income: About €4,000 -
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.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: €3,500 gross -
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 or more.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 2 years (renewable) -
Required Monthly Income: About ~€1,350/month -
Required Insurance: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps
– – –
Netherlands
STATUS:• ACTIVE
While there is no specific digital nomad visa for The Netherlands, it does offer MVV Visa which is a residence permit for remote self-employed individuals.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 2 years (renewable) -
Visa Cost: About €1,350 -
Required Monthly Income: Varies (must present a business plan) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 200 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.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 2 years, renewable up to 6 years -
Required Income: €36,000 plus proof of accommodation -
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! The icing to the cake? They have two types:
- D7 Visa (Passive Income / Remote-Capable): Originally designed for retirees or those with passive income (like pensions, investments, rental income). Many freelancers and remote workers have also used it successfully because it only requires proof of a stable monthly income.
- D8 Visa (Digital Nomad Visa): Launched in October 2022 specifically for remote workers and freelancers. It comes with a higher minimum income requirement but was created to simplify the process for professionals who earn an active income online.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 2 years (renew up to 5), path to PR/citizenship -
Visa Cost: $75–$87 (visa), $90 (permit) -
Required Monthly Income: D8: $3,480/month, D7: $870/month (passive) -
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.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable as long as you meet the requirements -
Required Monthly Income: €3,700 (3 times the average income in 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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Required Monthly Income: €3,500 -
Required Insurance: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 118 Mbps
– – –
Slovenia
STATUS: PENDING
The country is set to become the latest European nation to launch a digital nomad visa as well!
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: €3,500 -
Required Insurance: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 118 Mbps
– – –
Spain
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2023
Spain’s well-known Non-Lucrative Visa is often confused as an option for digital nomads — but take note: it does not allow any type of work, including remote work. It is strictly for retirees or individuals with passive income. Because of this, it’s not a legal pathway for digital nomads.
The better option is Spain’s new Digital Nomad Visa (Visado de Teletrabajo de carácter internacional), launched in January 2023 under the Startup Law. This visa specifically allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live in Spain while working remotely for foreign companies or clients.
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Eligibility: Non-EU nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable up to 5 years total -
Visa Cost: Around €80–€100 (varies by consulate) -
Required Monthly Income: About €2,160 for the main applicant (75% of Spain’s minimum wage), with an additional 25% for a spouse and 10% per child -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,800 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 130 Mbps
– – –
Turkey
STATUS: • ACTIVE since April 2024
Turkey introduced its digital nomad visa in April 2024, aiming to attract remote workers and freelancers to live and work locally while employed abroad.
-
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: $3,000 per month -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 118 Mbps
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 «
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 6 months, extendable -
Required Monthly Income: $75,000/year (single), $100,000/year (family) -
Required Insurance: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 per month -
Average Internet Speed: 30 Mbps
– – –
Canada
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2024
Canada does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa but foreign remote workers can enter Canada through two remote work visa options: Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and Visitor Visa, and can later access work permits and permanent residency.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Visa Cost: $75 (single-entry) -
Required Monthly Income: None -
Estimated Cost of Living: $3,500 -
Average Internet Speed: 200 Mbps
– – –
Costa Rica
STATUS: • ACTIVE
There are two options: their “Rentista” program (also called “Person of Independent Means”; ideally more for those who have passive income from investments and pensions) and their Digital Nomad Visa (DNV).
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 2 years, renewable (Rentista) / 1 year, renewable (DNV) -
Visa Cost: Varies by country -
Required Monthly Income: $2,500/month for 2 years or $60,000 one-time deposit to a Costa Rican bank (Rentista) / $3,000/month (for an individual) or $4,000/month (for dependents) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 -
Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps
– – –
El Salvador
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2025
This is the latest country, as of April 2025, to introduce a digital nomad visa in Central America
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 2 years, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: $1,460/month -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,100 -
Average Internet Speed: 35 Mbps
– – –
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, maximum 4 years -
Required Monthly Income: $2,600/month or $43,000 savings -
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!
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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 -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 -
Average Internet Speed: 95 Mbps
• • •
» Oceania «
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.
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Length: 1 year, renewable to 2 years more maximum -
Required Monthly Income: None -
Required Age: 18 to 30 years old (or 35 for Canadian, French and Irish citizens) -
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.
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Required Monthly Income: None -
Required Age: 18 to 30 years old (or 35 select nationalities) -
Estimated Cost of Living: $3,000 -
Average Internet Speed: 120 Mbps
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 «
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 that 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).
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals who have a visa on arrival benefitco -
Length: 6 months, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: Unknown -
Required Insurance: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,100 -
Average Internet Speed: 5 Mbps
– – –
Brazil
STATUS: • ACTIVE since September 2022
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable for one more year -
Required Monthly Income: $1,500 monthly or $18,000 in savings -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 -
Average Internet Speed: 85 Mbps
– – –
Colombia
STATUS: • ACTIVE since October 2022
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, Colombia might has a visa for remote workers.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Required Monthly Income: $684 -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,200 -
Average Internet Speed: 5 Mbps
– – –
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. [link]
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Required Monthly Income: $1,300 -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,800 -
Average Internet Speed: 5 Mbps
– – –
Peru
STATUS: PENDING
Beyond the perks of a visa on arrival, if you want to stay longer, the country’s upcoming digital nomad visa is a possible route for you.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, renewable -
Required Monthly Income: Unknown -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,000 -
Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps
– – –
Uruguay
STATUS: • ACTIVE since 2023
Uruguay allows digital nomads and remote workers to obtain a Digital Nomad Permit / Provisional Identity Card (Hoja de Identidad Provisoria) under its new legal framework.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 6 months, renewable (max 1 year) -
Required Monthly Income: No strict minimum -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 -
Average Internet Speed: 100 Mbps
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 «
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 3 months to a year -
Required Monthly Income: None (but submit proof of employment) -
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 longer validity than most, but the application cost is hefty — like the rest of the countries in this list.
– – –
Aruba
STATUS: • ACTIVE
Aruba promotes itself as a remote-work destination through its “One Happy Workation” program, which allows foreigners to live and work remotely on the island for up to 90 days. This is more of a special stay permit bundled with local services (like discounted hotels and rentals) than a traditional visa, but it functions as a digital nomad entry route.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 90 days (not renewable) -
Visa Cost: No extra visa fee if you are from a visa-exempt country; program costs vary depending on accommodation package chosen -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,000 -
Average Internet Speed: 30 Mbps
– – –
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 tim,e 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.
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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 -
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!
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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 -
Estimated Cost of Living: $4,400 -
Average Internet Speed: 70 Mbps
– – –
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Required Income: $100,000 per year for an individual, $150,000 for a couple, $180,000 for a family -
Estimated Cost of Living: $6,500 -
Average Internet Speed: 15 Mbps
– – –
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!
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 6 months, renewable for another 6 months -
Required Income: Unknown, but you must prove your solvency -
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.
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Visa Cost: $100 plus $800 for individuals or $1,200 for a family -
Required Income: $70,000 per year -
Estimated Cost of Living: $1,500 -
Average Internet Speed: 65 Mbps
– – –
Grenada
STATUS: • ACTIVE since August 2022
In May 2021, Grenada approved legislation that will establish a digital nomad visa program, and as of August 2022, this has been rendered official.
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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 -
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.
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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 -
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]
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Eligibility: Foreign nationals -
Length: 1 year, multiple-entry -
Visa Cost: $75 per person -
Estimated Cost of Living: $2,500 -
Average Internet Speed: 50 Mbps
• • •
F.A.Q.
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.
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.
To date, there are about 54 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.
Read my comprehensive guide here so that you can start working from anywhere!
• • •
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!
