The 21st century is in full motion and digital nomad visas are taking over the world – quite literally! Plenty of people now choose to work remotely while residing in foreign countries, but to do so it is important to adhere to certain rules and policies to avoid running into legal trouble. Tourists can typically not engage in business in other nations, whereas those seeking work visas are required to show proof of employment by a local company to be approved.
Fortunately, dozens of countries around the world already adopted digital nomad visas to allow remote workers to work and live at their destination without being employed by anyone in the said country. Sounds great, right? It is. Let’s find out what some of the world’s most digital nomad-friendly countries are, for US citizens.
Spain
Often dubbed the most welcoming destination for remote workers is Spain, a warm and picturesque European country sitting on the Iberian Peninsula. Their digital nomad visas allow holders to stay in the country for up to one year and even bring their close family members with them. Warm beaches, rich culture, and a low crime rate only make the deal sweeter.
To qualify for the visa, one should have a one-year employment contract with an outside company and proof of no criminal record on top of other requirements like private health insurance. The applicant should also be earning at least 2,650 USD a month. Another 1,000 USD per month is required for the first accompanying family member. From the second relative onward the applicant must show earnings of an additional 335 USD per person.
Portugal
Spain’s neighbor Portugal has also begun welcoming freelancers and other remote workers employed by foreign companies into the country. While the required monthly income of 3,530 USD is a bit higher than in Spain’s case, the digital nomad visa comes with a validity of two years and the possibility of an extension. What’s even better is that residents of five or more years can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
Thanks to the country’s top-class healthcare, low crime rate, and visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, digital nomad visas for Portugal are in huge demand.
Romania
Since 2022, Romania has been offering foreign citizens earning income from foreign sources digital nomad visas to allow them to work remotely in the country and enjoy its affordable costs of living as well as the right to travel around the nation and explore its natural treasures.
On top of basic requirements like private health insurance for the duration of the stay, a letter of intent, and an employment contract, the applicants must also have a monthly income of around 4,000 USD which is three times higher than the country’s average salary. The visa is valid for 12 months and can be extended.
Argentina
While treating yourself to Argentina’s gourmet foods and enjoying picturesque sites, you might be tempted to stay in the country for longer and work remotely. Luckily for you, the South American country just recently launched digital nomad visas. While all of the specifics such as required documents are not yet clear, it is believed that a monthly income of around $3,000 is a must.
The visa permits foreigners employed by foreign companies to reside, travel, and work remotely in the country for 180 days extendable by an additional 180 days. Visa holders staying for more than 90 days will also have to secure a residence permit.
UAE
As one of a few Middle Eastern countries to be offering visas to remote workers, the United Arab Emirates is a popular destination for digital nomads seeking to bring their business to the next level in the one and only city of Dubai.
The UAE digital nomad visa allows you to work in Dubai, an international hub for expats who comprise 80% of the city’s population, for up to one year. On top of its luxurious attractions and state-of-the-art amenities, Dubai – like the other emirates of the UAE – is popular for its zero-income tax policy and lack of restrictions on who can acquire a trade license. To qualify for the visa, however, one requires a long-term contract and an income of over 5,000 USD a month. Future Dubai residents can also expect a high cost of living.
Malta
Another EU country offering temporary residence rights to non-EU citizens is Malta, an island country nestled in the Mediterranean Sea. As per Malta’s digital nomad visa policies, applicants are required to have a contract with a foreign entity on either a freelancing or employment basis. They should also provide proof of having a monthly income of at least around 3,000 USD to qualify.
Once granted the 1-year visa that can be extended provided you meet the criteria, you’ll reap its many benefits including the right to travel around the beautiful Mediterranean country and bring your immediate family members with you. Malta is also an English-speaking country known for its tourist-friendly population, delicious seafood, and beach-worthy weather.
Uruguay
You can now work as a digital nomad in Uruguay for 180 days extendable by half a year. After a year, the visa can be renewed. While the offers plenty of benefits, holders aren’t allowed to bring their immediate family members with them. On the plus side, Uruguay doesn’t require a minimum monthly income from digital nomad visa applicants. Instead, you’ll be asked to sign an affidavit stating you can support yourself while staying in the country. Other documents like a clear criminal record and a vaccination certificate are also required.
Digital nomads have also praised the country’s simple visa application process, healthcare system, internet connection, and tax system. Digital nomads staying in Uruguay are not taxed on foreign income.
Norway
Norway is now known as one of the most expat-friendly countries out there with epic views and scenic fjords being just one of the reasons. Nearly one million expats now enjoy the Nordic country’s universal healthcare system and high standard of living.
Digital nomads from a number of countries outside of EU/EEA and Switzerland can now be cold to their bones in this icy country by applying for a digital nomad visa that is valid for up to two years and is renewable. An annual income of around 40,000 USD is required on top of other requirements such as health insurance, proof of accommodation, and employment contract.
Croatia
This scenic Balkan country famous for its many islands and beaches is now offering temporary stays of up to 12 months to digital nomads. On top of the low cost of living, digital nomads will also get access to other Schengen Area countries and be exempt from paying income tax on all earnings from businesses outside the country.
Applicants should have a monthly income of at least 2,500 USD and proof of employment or services offered outside of Croatia. A valid health insurance and proof of no criminal record is also required. One of the best perks of Croatia’s digital nomad visas is that holders can bring family members with them. An additional $100 in monthly income is required for each accompanying person.
Costa Rica
If you’re after sandy beaches, warm weather, and laid-back vibes, Costa Rica might be the right destination for you. The country now offers long-stay visas subcategorized as those for remote workers and service providers. These visas allow holders to reside and work in the country free of taxation on income derived from foreign sources.
While this type of visa is still relatively new, expats have reported quick turnaround times for approval should all the requirements be met. To be granted a one-year stay in the country, applicants should be reeling in around 3,000 USD monthly or 4,000 USD for those wishing to bring their family members with them.
Conclusion
Remote working is becoming more and more common as companies are going online to improve efficiency and reduce costs. For that reason, many people choose to do their jobs while relaxing on the beaches of Argentina or enjoying the company of fellow expats in Dubai.
Since work visas prove ineffective for those with foreign sources of income, many countries have introduced digital nomad visas that allow non-citizens to reside, work, and travel in their chosen destinations. Before you get going, however, you should carefully consider your options and see if you comply with the requirements of the specific country you wish to work in!