Every Digital Nomad Visa: 47 Countries Where You Can Work Remotely

If you work remotely, you may be tempted to take your work with you while you go travelling. The only question is, which country – or countries – should you move to?

When moving abroad to work remotely, you need to be mindful of local laws. Some countries forbid you from conducting business activities without a work permit, while others may ask you to pay local tax. There is also the matter of residency – if you enter a country as a tourist, you may only be entitled to stay for a number of weeks.

Thankfully, many countries have spotted the opportunity that comes with attracting digital nomads and have created special digital nomad visas. These are often easier to apply for, entitle you to perform your business duties, let you off paying local tax, and allow you to stay in the country for far longer than an ordinary tourist permit.

We’ve been around the world to find all 47 countries offering a special digital nomad visa, to help you find the perfect place (or places) to move to as a remote worker. Take a look at the countries welcoming digital nomads in 2023.

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is someone who works remotely, either for themselves as a self-employed worker, or for a company. Digital nomadism is becoming ever-more popular as companies start to adopt remote and flexible working policies – in fact, 83% of C-suite executives say that remote working has increased productivity within their businesses.

All you really need to become a digital nomad is a laptop and an internet connection, especially if you work in a field that doesn’t require you to be present at a place of work. Many computer programmers, graphic designers, digital marketing experts and journalists are already working as digital nomads, and in 2023, there are estimated to be around 35 million digital nomads worldwide.

Why become a digital nomad in 2023?

As a digital nomad, you will be able to take your work with you overseas. This could allow you to live an authentic expat lifestyle – working anywhere from a tropical island to a thriving city – while earning a foreign salary, which will allow you to live more luxuriously than you could at home. Unlike expats, who settle in one country, digital nomads tend to hop from place to place, travelling the world while growing their careers. In other words, you can live the expat lifestyle without the long-term commitment!

Many countries are already becoming popular with digital nomads, especially those that offer a low cost of living, oodles of culture, and other incentives. But if you’re planning to take your show on the road, it’s important to know which countries support digital nomads, and where you will have easy access to remote working opportunities.

Which countries offer dedicated digital nomad visas for remote work abroad?

Abu Dhabi Remote Work Visa

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi exudes luxury. This fast-growing city is rich – not just with literal wealth – but with incredible skyscrapers, opulent coastal resorts and the latest of everything, from restaurants to hospitals.

Not unlike its neighbour Dubai, Abu Dhabi is purpose-built for working professionals, and as such you’ll find it the perfect environment to conduct business affairs – whether from the beach, or from one of its many air-conditioned co-working spaces. Better still, the inland areas of Abu Dhabi are surprisingly intrepid, inviting digital nomads to explore the deserts, mountains and historic landmarks.

Considering the standard of living you’ll enjoy in Abu Dhabi, the cost of applying for a Remote Work Visa is very reasonable. The cost of living is also not too bad, so you can expect to live quite lavishly, so long as you meet the minimum income requirements.

• US$287 per person
• Valid for up to one year
• Monthly income of US$3,500
• Health insurance essential

Start your application for an Abu Dhabi Remote Work Visa here.

Unique Permit for Albania

There are so many reasons to recommend Albania. Not only does it cover 450km of Mediterranean coastline, dozens of archaeological sites, and some of the world’s most picturesque scenery, it also boasts an incredibly low cost of living, right in the heart of Europe. Albania is the hidden gem of South-East Europe, and an ideal base for digital nomads wanting to explore everything this part of the world has to offer.

Albania has recently updated its short-term visa policy to include what it called ‘digital movers’, AKA digital nomads. They have gone to great lengths to ensure their entire application process can be filled in online, with the whole process taking just 12 weeks. Since this type of visa is quite new, official details are hard to come by, but if you’re interested in joining the flock of digital nomads heading to this beautiful country, simply email the Albanian embassy for all the details.

• Application fee unknown
• Valid for up to one year at first, can be extended to two or five years
• Proof of income required, but no minimum income confirmed
• Health insurance not essential as Albania offers universal healthcare, however it is worth noting the quality of healthcare can be very low in parts of Albania, which is why it’s recommended to take out private health insurance

Find out how to apply here.

Armenia Digital Nomad Visa

If Armenia isn’t already near the top of your must-visit list, it’s simply because you haven’t heard enough about it yet. This small, landlocked Caucasus country is a deep well of history and culture, with natural beauty as far as the eye can see.

The central capital Yerevan is the perfect place from which to explore this incredible country, with Khosrov Forest to the south and Lake Sevan to the north. And speaking of the capital, this must surely rank as one of the most digital nomad-friendly cities in the world, with a low cost of living, a high number of English speakers, and free WiFi in most bars and cafés.

Armenia has made it very easy for digital nomads to apply for a short-term visa. All you need is a passport – no need for lengthy background checks, proof of income or insurance, or tax returns.

• AM$105,000/US$270
• Valid for up to one year
• No minimum income, however you may need to be able to prove you can cover your own living expenses
• Health insurance not essential

Apply for your Armenian digital nomad visa here.

Anguilla Digital Nomad Visa

“Work. Life. Bliss.”

At just 35 square miles, Anguilla is a tiny island. But it makes up for its diminutive size by offering strong WiFi across the whole country and 33 stunning beaches for you to work from.

• US$2,000 per individual or US$3,000 for four persons + US$250 for each additional family member
• Valid for 91 days – 12 months
• No minimum income, but need to be earning enough to support yourself
• Health insurance (including COVID-19 cover) required

Visit the official website to learn more.

Antigua & Barbuda Nomad Digital Residence Visa Programme

The twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda make one sovereign country in the Caribbean, part of the British Commonwealth. Famous for its white, sandy beaches, Antigua & Barbuda promises a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of sailing and jerk chicken.

• US$1,500 per individual, US$2,000 for couples, and US$3,000 for families of three or more
• Valid for up to two years
• Minimum income of US$50,000 per annum
• Health insurance required

Visit the official website to learn more.

Aruba Digital Nomad Visa

One Happy Workation

Aruba is part of the Netherlands Antilles and, like the Netherlands, is generally flat. However, unlike the Netherlands, it also has beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and warm weather all year round. And now, the island nation is offering “One Happy Workaction” to interested guests.

• Valid for 90 days for US Nationals with a valid passport or 30 days for UK nationals
• No minimum income
• Must show proof of onward/return flights upon arrival
• Health insurance (including COVID-19 cover) required – rigorous guidelines including testing also in place

Visit the official website for UK nomads and US nomads.

Does Australia offer a digital nomad visa?

It is worth mentioning that many websites claim Australia offers a digital nomad visa. However, this is not true. Tourists in Australia can stay for up to three months, however they are not permitted to work.

Meanwhile, young people from certain countries can take year-long working holidays in Australia but must be employed in a select field of work (usually manually labour) for the duration of their stay.

That said, Australia offers a host of visas for people interested in living down under. See them all here.

Barbados Welcome Stamp for digital nomads

Another Caribbean island, another tempting offer to work remotely in a tropical paradise, courtesy of the Barbados Welcome Stamp. Hope you like fresh food, rum and lots of carnivals!

• US$2,000 for individuals or US$3,000 for families
• Valid for 12 months
• No minimum income and no taxes payable
• Health insurance requested

Visit the official website to learn more.

Belize ‘Work Where You Vacation’ scheme

Belize is a dark horse in the competition to be the world’s number one digital nomad destination. As well as offering all those digital nomad non-negotiables – sandy beaches, a tropical climate, and intrepid exploration – it also offers an incredibly low cost of living.

Add Mayan landmarks, incredible jungles teeming with rare wildlife and metropolitan cities incorporating Spanish and British colonial architecture to the mix, and you’ve got the perfect place to live and work.

Having said that, the Belize digital nomad visa is only open to citizens of the USA, UK, EU and Canada, and you’ll need to be bringing home the bacon – only those earning good money will have their applications considered.

• BZ$500/US$250 for adults, BZ$200/US$100 for children
• Valid for up to six months, but can be renewed
• Minimum income of US$75,000 per annum, or US$100,000 if applying with dependents
• Health insurance essential, with minimum coverage of US$50,000

Visit the Travel Belize website for more information.

Work From Bermuda Certificate for digital nomads

Not only does this British Overseas Territory hold a monopoly over some of the most picturesque islands in the North Atlantic, but it also boasts excellent broadband and some pretty fancy shared workspaces – all with the hopes of attracting digital nomads to take advantage of its Work from Bermuda Certificate.

• US$263 per person
• Valid for 12 months
• No minimum income
• Health insurance not formally requested

Visit the official website to learn more.

Brazil Digital Nomad Visa

It’s one of the biggest countries in the world, and we don’t just mean geographically. Brazil offers everything a digital nomad could dream of: incredible beaches? Check. Culture, nightlife and world famous festivals? Check? Intrepid journeys through the Amazon rainforest? Check. All the modern conveniences with a healthy dollop of Latin flavour? Check.

No doubt Brazil will end up being one of the world’s most popular destinations for digital nomads, so if you’re thinking of going too, make sure to read our guide to moving to Brazil for everything you need to know. Better still, Brazil offers a low cost of living (it’s one of the cheapest countries in the world for expats).

Applying for a Brazil Digital Nomad Visa is not difficult, so long as you meet the requirements. You can be either employed by a foreign company, or a freelancer, and if you’re an EU national you won’t need to apply for your visa until you arrive in Brazil. You can send your application by post, or online.

• US$120
• Valid for up to one year, and can be renewed for an additional year
• Minimum monthly income of US$1,500, or proof of savings of at least US$18,000
• Health insurance essential

Here’s everything you need to know about the Brazil Digital Nomad Visa.

Remote Working Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde probably isn’t top of your list of destinations to go as a digital nomad. The only question is: why not? Situated off the coast of West Africa, this tiny island nation enjoys unprecedented sunlight hours, beautiful sandy beaches and connectivity that puts most Western nations to shame. Sure, it’s a pretty unknown country, but that’s only because you have been there to work as a digital nomad yet! The island of São Vicente has an ambition to be the first community of digital nomads in Africa, and you could join them – not only to work, but to take part in the nation’s favourite sport of kite-surfing.

The Remote Working Cabo Verde scheme is easy to apply for online, although it is worth noting that some people have found the service slow to reply, while others have received no word back at all. Still, if you’re lucky enough to get a place, make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen – you’re going to need it after all those long days spent working on the beach.

• €20/US$22 visa fee, plus €34/US$37 airport fee on arrival
• Valid for six months, can be renewed for another six months
• Minimum income of €1,500/US$1,645 per month for individuals, or €2,700/US$2,960 for families
• Health insurance essential

Visit the Remote Working Cabo Verde website for more details and to start your application.

Cayman Islands: Global Citizen Concierge for high-earning digital nomads

The culinary capital of the Caribbean is home to some of the most beautiful wildlife in the world, but you probably know the Cayman Islands better as a tax haven for the super-rich. No surprise, then, that while their Global Citizen Concierge scheme is suited for the higher earners.

• US$1,469 per annum for up to two people, plus US$500 per dependent
• Valid for up to two years
• Must provide proof of minimum income, starting at US$100,000 per annum, plus an additional sum for each dependent, starting from US$80,000 for one dependent
• Health insurance required

Visit the official website to learn more.

Costa Rica: digital nomad visa coming soon!

From picture-perfect coastlines to wild mountain trails, this central American country truly has it all – and is keen to attract digital nomads to bolster its economy. The law has been written, but not officially declared, so watch this space – but for now, we know this to be true:

• Price per visa TBC
• Valid for one year
• Minimum income of US$3,000 per month for individuals or US$4,000 per month for those with dependents
• Health insurance required

Croatia Temporary Stay visa, ideal for digital nomads

Situated on the stunning Adriatic Sea, the Republic of Croatia is an EU member state best known for many things – not least of all footballer Luka Modric. Now, it is also becoming known as a great place for digital nomads – one town in Croatia has even started paying remote workers to move there! While Croatia’s digital nomad scheme is still in its infancy, here’s what we know so far.

• US$65 initial application fee, US$71 visa fee, plus an additional US$65 fee to extend a stay after arriving in Croatia and US$11 administration fee
• Valid for one year
• Minimum income of US$2,580 per month, increasing by 10% for each dependent, plus savings of at least US$30,960
• Health insurance required

Find out more and start your application on the Croatian Ministry of the Interior website.

Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa

Geographically part of Asia, culturally part of Europe, Cyprus brings together the best of both worlds, with amazing food and stunning architecture as far as the eye can see. Factor in a Mediterranean climate and an up-and-coming economy based around digital services, and you’ve got the perfect place to settle down for a short while as a digital nomad.

You’ll have to be quick to snap up a Cyprus digital nomad visa, as spaces are limited to just 500. They are available to anyone who can work from their laptop, and only take around 5–7 weeks to apply for. The Cyprus digital nomad visa is much easier to apply for than other visas, which makes this an enticing destination to work remotely.

• €70/US$76
• Valid for up to one year, but can be extended to three years
• Minimum income €3,500/US$3,800 per month (after taxes)
• Health insurance essential with a minimum coverage level of €30,000

Get the full details from Cyprus’ Civil Registry and Migration Department.

Czechia (Czech Republic) Digital Nomad Visa

The Czech Republic may not have beaches, but makes up for it by being home to fantastic beer, wild countryside and technologically advanced cities, including the capital Prague. To help bolster their economy, the Czech Republic has opened the doors for freelancers to move their businesses to Czechia, with the option to do business with Czech companies while you are living there.

• Must apply at the Czech embassy in your home country before jetting off – you will need to secure a trade licence allowing you to operate a business in the Czech Republic
• Must attend an interview, submit a business plan, resume and proof of earnings as part of the application
• Must have at least €5,084/US$5,462 in savings
• Valid for between six to twelve months
• Only available for citizens from selected countries (see the list here)
• Health insurance of at least €60,000/US$65,000 required

Begin your application via the Embassy of the Czech Republic in London or find your nearest Czech Embassy.

Work In Nature – Dominica

Is there a more appropriate part of the world to become a digital nomad than right in the middle of the Caribbean? Dominica is renowned for its jungly, mountainous interior and its sandy coastline, offering digital nomads a slice of nature to complement their working lives.

No wonder, then, that the government of this island nation has named their digital nomad scheme ‘Work In Nature’ – that’s exactly what you’ll be doing. Just think: you could be doing your emails from a paddleboard, from the middle of a festival, from inside a rainforest or even atop a volcano!

Dominica isn’t cheap, but you’ll get your money’s worth here. The application process can be quite lengthy, involving a criminal record check plus a biometric scan – but once everything is processed, you should receive confirmation in under one month, after which you have 90 days to arrive in Dominica to start your new life as a digital nomad.

• US$800 for individuals, US$1,200 for families
• Valid for up to 18 months
• Minimum annual income of US$50,000, and you will need to be able to show you have the cash to cover living expenses
• Health insurance essential

Get the full scoop on Dominica’s Work In Nature website.

Work Remotely from Dubai programme

Famously tax-free, and with plenty of beaches and global cuisine to help expats pass the time, Dubai is a hotspot for international experts to ply their trade. Better yet, the application process couldn’t be easier! Just make sure you can afford the high cost of living.

• US$287 for individuals
• Valid for one year
• Minimum income of US$3,500 per month
• Health insurance with UAE coverage essential

Start your application via the Visit Dubai website.

Ecuador: Rentista for Remote Work

Ecuador is named for the equator that runs through the middle of this South American country, so you know what to expect: unrivalled daylight hours, plenty of warmth and a tropical climate that will make every day feel like a holiday.

Ecuador’s capital, Quito, combines stunning colonial architecture with a cosmopolitan way of life, making it the ideal place for remote workers. Better still, with its low cost of living, Ecuador makes our list of the most recommended places to move to from the USA.

The Ecuador digital nomad visa is known as the Rentista for Remote Work, an off-shoot of the existing Rentista, which is designed for retirees. It bears very little resemblance to its namesake however, as in order to get one, you’ll need to prove a source of income, a rental agreement and – perhaps most importantly – proof of international health insurance. But, if you can satisfy those criteria, this stunning South American country is ready and waiting for you.

• US$50 for a consultation, followed by US$400 for the full visa
• Valid for Up to two years
• Must be able to show you make 3x the basic salary in Ecuador. As of 2023, the average monthly salary is US$450, so you’ll need to be earning at least US$1,350 a month
• Health insurance essential

Find out more about the Rentista for Remote Work here.

El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa

Nestled within the heart of Central America, El Salvador commands a monopoly over one of the most coveted stretches of the Pacific coastline. Expect nothing but long, sandy beaches and tranquil coves, while in the interior you’ll find the bustling capital of San Salvador amidst enormous lakes and misty volcanoes.

El Salvador is not for the faint-hearted – its rugged terrain and frequent earthquakes are only for the most intrepid of digital nomads. But, if you think you can hack it, the pay-off is a stay of up to two years with a low cost of living – better still if you’re a fan of bitcoin, which is legal tender in El Salvador.

The cost of an El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa is not cheap, but it does last for up to two years, and applying for one is fairly simple with minimal paperwork.

• US$2,825
• Valid for up to two years, and can be renewed for an additional two years
• Minimum monthly income of US$1,460
• Health insurance essential

Find out more about the El Salvador Digital Nomad Visa.

Estonia E-Residency and Digital Nomad Visa scheme

History, culture, the second-best education system in the world and a rapidly emerging technology scene is what awaits digital nomads in this fairytale Baltic state. The capital Tallinn is starting to compete for the number one start-up city in Europe, and if you want to be part of that culture, you could be there in under 30 days.

• €80 per person for a short-stay visa, or €100 for a long-stay visa, which must be applied for in person at an Estonian embassy
• Valid for six months (type C Schengen visa) or one year (type D visa)
• Minimum income of €3,504 per month
• Assumed health insurance required, but no official confirmation

Visit the official website to learn more.

Remotely From Georgia programme for digital nomads

Fancy something a little different? Why not take to the Caucasus Mountains to fashion a new life for yourself in the birthplace of wine – the beautiful and historic country of Georgia? Capital city Tbilisi boasts super-fast broadband from as little as US$10 per month. What’s not to love?

• Free
• Valid for 360 days
• Only available for citizens from selected countries (see the list here)
• Minimum income US$2,000 per month
• Health insurance (including COVID-19 cover) required

Visit the website of the Georgian National Tourism Administration to learn more.

Germany Short-stay Visas for digital nomads

The most populous European nation needs no introduction. From Frankfurt to Berlin, Hamburg to Munich, Germany is a thriving centre for technology, engineering and innovation, a crossroads for various cultures and chock full of great food, incredible experiences and now, opportunities for freelancers to make a life for themselves.

• Free
• Valid for three months initially, but can be extended up to three years
• Freelancers must have clients based in Germany
• No stated minimum income, however applicants must show some proof of stable income
• Health insurance required

Find out more via the German Missions in the United Kingdom website.

Digital Nomad Visa for Greece

Greece is a country unlike any other. From ancient cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, to Mediterranean islands including Santorini, Crete, Mykonos, Corfu and Rhodes, Greece is teeming with history, culture and great food. Best of all, it boasts an incredibly low cost of living.

If you’d like to experience the Greek way of life for yourself, the good news is the country is now welcoming digital nomads. The scheme is available for both freelancers and employees of foreign companies, so long as your income is sourced entirely from non-Greek companies.

If you can satisfy those requirements, you’re free to take full advantage of everything this incredible country has to offer – so whether you prefer to work in a cool, creative city, or on a sun-bleached terrace looking out over an incredible beach, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time as a digital nomad in Greece.

• €75/US$81 administrative fee, plus €150/US$163 for each additional person applying with you
• Valid for up to one year
• Minimum income €3,500/US$3,800 per month (after taxes), or €4,200/US$4,560 with a spouse, plus €525/US$570 for each child.
• Health insurance essential

Find out more on the Work From Greece website.

Grenada Digital Nomad Visa

Situated just off the coast of South America, Grenada encompasses the three breathtaking islands of Grenada itself, Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Known for its colourful homes, its luscious sandy beaches and its island-hopping lifestyle, it makes the perfect place for a working break. It may not be the cheapest destination to visit as a digital nomad, but Grenada gives you plenty of bang for your buck – you won’t find an island more accommodating of remote workers.

Applying for the Grenada digital nomad visa can be a bit complicated – you’ll need to submit your application via post, along with a cheque for your application fee, to the US embassy: Embassy of Grenada, 1701 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington DC, 20009-2501, USA. But that’s really all there is to it – next thing you know, you’ll be lying on the beach sipping rum and lapping up the sunshine!

• US$1,500 for individuals, US$2,000 for families of four, and US$200 for each additional dependent
• Valid for up to one year, with the option to renew for a second year
• Minimum income of US$37,000 per annum
• Health insurance essential

Find out more via the Embassy of Grenada in the USA.

The Hungary White Card for digital nomads

Good news if you’re hungry for Hungary – the Central European country famous for its thermal spas and paprika has opened its doors to digital nomads from around the world. Hungary is a unique and fascinating country, even by European standards, mixing architecture-rich metropolitan cities like Budapest and Debrecen with beautiful rolling landscapes. It’s a creative and technology hub for Europe that also offers a low cost of living, making it the perfect place to feel inspired while working as a digital nomad.

Make sure you read the terms and conditions before applying, but here’s a digest: the Hungarian White Card is available to anyone who is employed for a non-Hungarian company, or who manages a non-Hungarian company; you must arrange accommodation before applying; and you must complete your application no less than 90 days after arriving in Hungary. All that’s left after that is to enjoy everything Hungary has to offer!

• €110/US$120 administrative fee
• Valid for up to one year
• Minimum income €2,000/US$2,175 per month, with six months of proof of income
• Health insurance essential

Find out everything you need to know and start your application here.

Work in Iceland scheme

Working remotely doesn’t get more remote than this. But if the idea of plying your trade alongside geysers, natural hot springs and the Northern Lights appeals, this is the place for you. The little country with a big personality is now open and ready to welcome you for a working holiday.

• US$90 for individuals, or US$2,180 for families
• Valid for around six months
• Minimum income: US$7,700 for individuals, US$9,523 for individuals with spouses and/or dependents
• Health insurance essential

Visit the Work in Iceland website for full details.

Does Italy have a digital nomad visa?

Italy recently introduced a digital nomad visa for ‘highly qualified’ remote workers planning to base themselves in Italy. It is a new visa option soon expected to offer an easier route for international expats interested in legal remote work from Italy.

The Italian government still has to work on a new bill to implement the law, defining all the procedures and details though. Recently, it announced its plans to make a €1 billion investment in order to attract digital nomads to work remotely from Italy.

Such an initiative aims to transform about 2,000 “ghost towns” into attractive places for digital nomads. Currently, only 75% of families in rural zones in Italy have access to the internet.

Does Jamaica offer digital nomad visas?

As with Australia, many websites claim Jamaica has a digital nomad programme, but this isn’t quite true. What Jamaica does offer is a very lenient long-term visa scheme, which you can take advantage of to work while living on the island.

You will need to apply for this visa either by filling in a form and interviewing in person at a Jamaican consulate in your home country, or by visiting the Jamaican Embassy in Kingston after you arrive in Jamaica.

Latvia Long-Stay Visa for Remote Work

Latvia is the filling in the Baltic sandwich, with Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south. This country is all about nature, from its winding coastline to its dense forests and meadows teeming with plant and insect life. Latvia may be a small country, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in being one of Europe’s fastest-emerging technology hubs.

Working conditions in Latvia are notoriously brilliant: as well as having one-third of its top executive positions filled by women, it is also the third-best country in the world for labour rights. Add to that a low cost of living and oodles of culture in the capital, Riga, and you’ve got a great place to take your next working holiday.

Better news still is that the country’s new Long-Stay Visa for Remote Work is easy to apply for. Just find a place to live, take out international health insurance, provide proof of employment or self-employment and you’re good to go!

• €60/US$65, or €120/US$130 for an accelerated application
• Valid for up to one year
• Minimum income €3,192.50/US$3,470 per month
• Health insurance essential with a minimum coverage level of €42,600

Find more details on Latvia’s Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs website.

‘DE Rantau’ Digital Nomad Visa for Malaysia

Malaysia has long been a destination for expats, and it’s not hard to see why. This country has it all, from picturesque beaches to mystical jungles, and the thriving metropolis of Kuala Lumpur at its heart. Better still, it enjoys a reasonable cost of living and fantastic healthcare.

Now, with the DE Rantau scheme, Malaysia is looking to attract digital nomads too. In fact, Malaysia has stated its ambition to be the number one destination in South-East Asia for travellers who want to combine tourism with remote working – and who are we to tell them they can’t? They’ve even go so far as to establish government-funded DE Rantau hubs across the country, which offer air-conditioned co-working spaces especially for foreign workers.

All you need to apply is proof that you earn above the minimum salary of US$24,000 per year, and that you have been employed or self-employed for three months. Better still, if you are from the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa at all for your first 90 days in Malaysia, meaning you can take a three-month break with no problem, or apply after you arrive.

• US$243
• Valid for one year, but can be extended to two years
• Minimum income of US$24,000 per annum
• Health insurance essential

For more information about the DE Rantau digital nomad visa, visit the official website.

Malta’s Nomad Residency Permit

If you dream of becoming a digital nomad in a country with incredible beaches, historic cities and a laid-back way of life, dream no more: the Mediterranean island-nation of Malta has opened its doors to remote workers like you with their new Nomad Residency Permit. The scheme is available to both freelancers and contracted workers.

Not only does it have one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world, Malta offers tempting tax rates for foreign workers who wish to open a business there. The island is long-established as a European hub for gaming and gambling businesses, and has strong infrastructure designed for the digital economy. And, with English the official language, you’ll find it easy to settle into your life as a digital nomad in Malta.

• €300/US$325 administrative fee
• Valid for a minimum stay of 12 months, up to three years
• Minimum income €2,700/US$3,000 per month
• International health insurance essential

Find out more about Malta’s Nomad Residency Permit.

Mauritius Short-stay visa for digital nomads

Another island nation, but this time in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a remote habitat spanning an archipelago of serene islands previously governed by the Portuguese, Dutch, French and British – and has influences (and languages) of each left over. Now, it’s also the first African nation to offer a special visa for digital nomads. Check out our full guide to moving to Mauritius as an expat.

• Free
• Valid for one year
• Citizens of some countries may need to apply in advance (see list of visa requirements here)
• Minimum income US$1,500 per month for individuals, plus an additional US$500 per month for each dependent
• Health insurance required

The visa can be applied for after arriving in Mauritius. Visit the Mauritian Passport and Immigration Office website for more information.

The Mexico Temporary Residence Visa

Mexico is a vast country, known around the world for its excellent food and white, sandy beaches. Now, you can make Mexico your home as a digital nomad too, thanks to the country’s new temporary working visa. It’s perfectly suited to freelancers and remote workers of all descriptions, and features some of the most lenient terms of any digital nomad visa in the world. Check out our full guide to moving to Mexico as an expat.

• Costs between US$150–$350, plus a US$40 processing fee
• Valid for a minimum of six months, up to four years
• Minimum income US$2,595
• International health insurance essential

Find out more and start your application on the Mexican consulate website.

Montserrat Remote Work Stamp programme

Montserrat is a small British territory in the Caribbean. You may remember it for the 1995 volcanic eruption, which made half the island – including the capital, Plymouth – uninhabitable. But don’t let that stop you if you’re thinking of moving there. With 20Mbs average broadband, plus jungles and beaches to explore, it could be the ideal place to work.

• US$500 for a single applicant; US$750 for families of up to three, US$250 for each dependent thereafter
• Valid for one year
• Minimum income US$70,000
• Health insurance (including COVID-19 cover) required

Find out more and apply online through the official Montserrat Remote Work Stamp website.

Namibia Digital Nomad Visa

Next door neighbour to South Africa, Namibia has everything the rainbow nation has – amazing coastlines, excellent safaris, a thriving capital in Windhoek – but with the added bonus of a much lower cost of living. Namibia makes for a truly adventurous working vacation, and thanks to their new digital nomad visa, you can take full advantage of everything this country has to offer for up to six months.

The Namibian government promises everything from excellent connectivity speeds to a strong business climate, and you’ll find much of the country speaks English too. They’re even offering to help digital nomads find accommodation and vehicles to hire to make their stays safe, convenient and as pleasant as possible. If you’d like to close your laptop and head straight for a hike in the Fish River Canyon, a hot air balloon tour of the Sossusvlei, or try wildlife photography in Etosha National Park, well then… Namibia is the place for you.

• US$124
• Valid for six months
• Minimum income of US$2,000 per month for individuals, plus US$1,000 for a dependent spouse, and US$500 for each child
• Health insurance essential

Find more information on the NIPDB website.

Digital nomads welcome in Norway

Norway is one of our top destinations for expats and digital nomads to live and work abroad in 2023, it’s one of the most female-friendly countries in the world, has some of the healthiest food, and one of the best working cultures. And now, this Scandinavian haven has made it even easier to work remotely with their independent contractor visa.

There was already a digital nomad scheme in place for workers who wanted to stay on the remote island of Svalbard, but now the rest of the country has started to welcome remote workers. To sign up as a remote worker in Norway, you should apply for a normal residency visa and declare yourself either as employed for a foreign company, or self-employed. This visa allows you to live and work in Norway for up to two years before it will need to be renewed. If you choose the self-employed route, it is a good idea to register your company before moving to Norway, as opening a business in Norway can be very complicated for foreigners.

• NOK3,800/US$355 for individuals, or NOK10,500/US$983 for families
• Valid for two years
• No proof of income required, but you will need to make sure you register to pay taxes in Norway
• Health insurance not essential, as you will be paying taxes and therefore eligible to public healthcare

Visit the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration website for more information.

Panama Digital Nomad Visa

As the bridge between North and South America, Panama is an excellent destination for digital nomads, and a perfect springboard from which to explore both continents, plus it has the Caribbean Sea on one side, and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Its metropolitan capital, Panama City, is not a cheap place to live, but offers an incredibly high standard of living, thanks to being slap-bang in the middle of one of the world’s busiest shipping channels: the Panama Canal. Expect nothing but comfortable co-working spaces and a vibrant nightlife culture, as you watch the ships passing by.

The Panama digital nomad visa is easy to apply for and offers you a stay of up to nine months in this stunning country – which is more than enough time to see everything it has to offer.

• US$250 application fee, plus US$50 for a visa card
• Valid for up to nine months, can be renewed for an additional nine months
• Minimum income of US$36,000 per annum
• Health insurance essential

Find out more about the visa application process for Panama.

The Portugal D7 Visa for Digital Nomads

Portugal was already one of our top five countries for American expats due to its visa-free system for citizens from the US and certain other countries. Now, the Portuguese are making it easier for digital nomads to stay, too.

While the D7 visa is not an official digital nomad visa, remote workers can take advantage of its very lenient terms to make Portugal their temporary base. Check out our full guide to moving to Portugal as an expat.

• US$196 application fee, plus US$350 for the residence permit
• Valid for minimum stay of 16 months in the first 2 years
• Must be able to prove you have an income sourced from a non-Portuguese company, with a minimum annual income of US$9,230, plus an additional 50% for a spouse and 30% for each child
• Health insurance of at least US$32,000 essential

Learn more about the visa application process for Portugal.

Romania Digital Nomad Visa

Romania is one of Europe’s rising stars. The bustling capital of Bucharest is starting to compete with other major European destinations as a hub of both culture and commerce, while outside the cities you will find untouched wilderness so beautiful, even King Charles has become a regular visitor. What’s more, Romania offers an incredibly low cost of living, so you too can live like a king or queen on your digital nomad salary.

The Romanian digital nomad visa can be a little tricky to apply for – you will need to submit a letter of intent outlining all the business you intend to take part in while residing there. You will also need to show your tax history, and if you are self-employed, your company must be at least three years’ old. But, if you can satisfy those criteria, you’ll have the opportunity to live and work in one of Europe’s most unique and intrepid countries.

• Subject to an application fee, which has not been declared by the Romanian government (but is widely reported to be ‘very low’)
• Valid for 90 days initially, which must then be extended (within 60 days) for up to one year
• Must be able to prove you have earned at least €3,700/US$4,000 per month for the last six months
• Health insurance essential, with a minimum coverage of €30,000/US$32,600

Start your application online at the incredibly clunky website of the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Saint Lucia – Don’t Just Visit, Live It scheme

The Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia has it all – incredibly sandy beaches, an intrepid interior and bustling port cities spaced around its coastline. You simply couldn’t wish for a more appropriate place to take a working holiday as a digital nomad. And now, thanks to the government’s ‘Don’t Just Visit, Live It’ scheme, you can make Saint Lucia your office away from the office, to embrace everything this island has to offer.

The scheme is much shorter than other digital nomad schemes, but this may be a good thing – the six weeks they offer is more than enough time to see what the island has in store, and allows you to leapfrog to other Caribbean islands when you’re done (see also Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados and The Bahamas).

• XC$125/US$46 for individuals, XC$190/US$70 for multiple applicants
• Valid for six weeks – ideal for a summer working break!
• No minimum income, but applicants will need to be able to approve sufficient income to meet the cost of living
• Health insurance essential

Find out more here.

The Seychelles Workation Retreat

This takes ‘remote’ working to a whole new level. Spread over 115 islands in the Indian Ocean and with a population of less than 100,000, there’s one thing you can be guaranteed to find working as a digital nomad in the Seychelles: peace and quiet. But despite being so detached from the rest of the world, the Seychelles is a surprisingly modern landscape, and you’ll find no shortage of luxurious accommodation and a thriving business district in Mahé.

When it comes to securing your place on Seychelles’ popular Workation Retreat programme, it couldn’t be easier. You’ll need a bit of paperwork to prove your income and insurance, and everything can be completed online. You won’t have to pay tax, so long as you’re working for a foreign company, leaving you free to take advantage of all the amazing activities the Seychelles has to offer.

• €45/US$50
• Valid for one year, can be renewed for another six months
• Proof of income required, but no minimum income specified
• Health insurance essential

Start your application today via the Seychelles Electronic Border System.

The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is here!

In December 2022, the Spanish government launched its long-awaited digital nomad visa. Be sure to read our full article about the Spanish digital nomad visa, including how to apply and what it entitles you to. In short, you can expect to work from anywhere in Spain, from Madrid to Barcelona to Valencia, or even the Spanish Islands including Ibiza and Lanzarote.

The Spanish digital nomad visa is one of the most comprehensive in the world, and many expats are taking advantage of it already.

• €75/US$82 registration fee, plus €15/US$16 for a residency card
• Valid for: up to five years
• Applicants must have been working remotely for at least one year, and have been with their current company for at least three months
• Minimum income €2,000–€3,000 per month (US$2,182–$3,173)
• International health insurance essential

Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for short-term stays

While Sri Lanka has not formally introduced a digital nomad visa, the Indian Ocean nation is happy to receive visitors on short-term working holidays thanks to their ETA scheme. The initial short-term visa lasts for 30 days, which can then be extended to 90 days, followed by 180 days, and 270 days.

It acts just like any other digital nomad visa, giving you the freedom to live and work in one of the most incredible nations on earth – a place where elephants roam around freely, where tradition and ritual still dictates the flow of daily life, and where you can enjoy the best cup of tea on earth. Better yet, Sri Lanka is investing heavily in its digital economy, and you won’t need to look far to find coworking spaces.

To get your ETA, simply fill out the application and receive a permit within five days.

• US$35 for a single-entry visa, or US$40 for a multi-entry visa
• Valid for 30 days at first, but can be extended up to 270 days
• No income requirements
• Health insurance not essential

Apply for your Sri Lanka ETA visa here.

Taiwan Employment Gold Card for digital nomads

Although not, strictly speaking, a digital nomad visa, the Taiwan Employment Gold Card makes moving to this island nation state off the coast of China as easy as can be. It’s a 4-in-1 visa that includes a work permit, residency permit, an alien resident ID and re-entry permit allowing unlimited journeys in and out of Taiwan. It allows you to move to Taiwan without having first secured a job, while also giving you a short tax break. If you are a freelancer, you can use this time to establish your business in Taiwan, after which you will be able to take full advantage of Taiwan’s excellent healthcare system.

After that, there’s nothing else to do but enjoy your new life in Taiwan. The bustling capital of Taipei is renowned as one of the friendliest cities on earth, not to mention the safest. As an island nation, you may be surprised to learn that Taiwan is a world-famous surfing destination, while inland the evergreen forests are revered for their hiking.

• US$100–310 depending on your nationality and the duration you wish to stay
• Valid for one to three years
• Freelancers must be able to demonstrate a monthly income of US$5,700
• Health insurance not essential

Visit the official Gold Card website to learn more.

The strange case of working abroad in Thailand

Unlike other countries, Thailand is very relaxed about its approach to digital nomads. In fact, the Thai Embassy website gets quite philosophical about what constitutes a digital nomad in the first place.

In essence, they say that if you come to Thailand for a while and do what you were already doing before you arrived – i.e., working from a laptop for a non-Thai company, for clients outside of Thailand – then there is no need for you to have a work permit, and you can get by on your ordinary visa.

One of the few exceptions are travel bloggers, who use images and facts gleaned from their time in Thailand to produce content, which in essence means they are using Thai materials to do their work. In any case, they admit that authorities are not concerned with enforcing these rules.

So, what does this mean? It means you are free to come to Thailand and work remotely for a short time (it’s not specified how short) without needing to apply for a specific digital nomad visa. The incentive to do so is the fact that Thailand boasts some of the fastest internet speeds on earth, not to mention an incredibly low cost of living and all the natural beauty this South-East Asian country has to offer.

If you’re thinking of moving to Thailand to work for a considerable length of time, you might want to check out our guide to moving to Thailand as an expat, which includes tips on how to find the best accommodation and healthcare.

If you do intend to stay in Thailand for up to four years, you might want to apply for a Thailand Smart Visa. This is for people who intend to conduct business in Thailand, and costs THB10,000/US$285.

Can I live and work as a digital nomad in other countries not on this list?

If you have your heart on living and working in one particular country, it’s fairly easy to do your research online. Visit that country’s government website to see what kind of visas are available, research tax laws in that country (especially to see if a double taxation exemption applies) and browse expat forums to read other people’s stories.

Many countries will even allow you to apply for a short-stay visa after you arrive there – but don’t count on this always being the case.

How to choose the best digital nomad city and place for remote work abroad

If you want to stay in a country longer than a typical 60 or 90-day stay (depending on the country), most of the time you will either need a long term visa, or you will need to leave the country after the allotted time period. With some countries’ visas, rules are slightly laxer.

If you reach your max amount of days, you can exit the country, get an exit stamp on your passport, head to another country for a day or so, and then return problem-free. The time limit will reset itself. In the digital nomad community, this is commonly referred to as a visa run. However, there are regions where this isn’t an option – some countries will only allow you to stay for a certain number of days within a 365-day period.

Remember, not all cities and places are equal when it comes to ‘nomad friendliness’. To be considered one of the best digital nomad cities, each destination must check a few key boxes, including costs, income and health insurance requirements:

1. Quality internet connection
2. Safety
3. Relatively low cost of living
4. Healthcare
5. Fun and interesting things to do in the region

Why do digital nomads need health insurance?

Imagine you are a digital nomad with your travel itinerary booked up for months — but you suddenly get seriously ill. If you are using a domestic health program or insurance tied to one specific country, you will usually be required to live the majority of your time there as a tax resident in order to qualify for coverage.

You can’t just hop back ‘home’ after being absent for years of not paying taxes and expect free or affordable health care by flashing your passport.

For many digital nomads and serial expats, what you most likely need is a primary international health insurance policy. Ideally, one that’s tailored to your lifestyle. Many countries now also stipulate that your health insurance policy must include cover against COVID-19. This may mean having cover for:

• Yourself, if you become seriously ill with COVID-19
• Public liability, for instance, if you are blamed for a local outbreak
• Loss of income, if you are unable to work

What are the health insurance requirements for digital nomads?

When relocating to most countries in the world, even as a digital nomad, you will be expected to show proof of adequate health insurance. This means having insurance that will:

• Cover you in cases of serious illness, including conditions such as cancer
• Help towards medical costs for ambulance journeys, hospital stays, the cost of essential drugs and so on

Every country has its own rules when it comes to health insurance, and it can be difficult to know which policy to take out for which country. That’s why William Russell provides a single international health insurance policy that covers you no matter where you are in the world and strives to always provide the necessary level of cover to help your visa application process. You can even move between countries and stay under the same policy.

Why do you need international health insurance instead of travel insurance?

Having primary health insurance is not an unnecessary expense. It’s important to remember that as a nomad, you are not just on vacation but you chose to live a permanent or semi-permanent life of travel. This means that you are not just prone to the health risks of adventure and travel, but you also need to check up on your regular health needs that come with daily life.

Just imagine that you break your leg while climbing Kilimanjaro and need emergency care insurance. If you are diagnosed with a chronic condition that requires regular check-ups — basically, it’s game over for both your wallet and possibly even your future travel ambitions.

Additionally, even with only emergency health care, it often means that they will send you back to your home country as soon as it is cheaper or more convenient for them to do so, or if it’s the only way they can give you sufficient care. Read more about the difference between international travel, health and local insurance.

How much does international health insurance cost?

You can choose between our Bronze, SilverLite, Silver and Gold plans. The Bronze plan is a budget-friendly option that offers full cover for hospital treatment, cancer treatment, and medical evacuation, with outpatient treatment limited to post-hospital treatment for up to 90 days. Silver and SilverLite offer the same but with full outpatient treatment, the main difference being whether you get a private or shared hospital room. The Gold plan includes extras like routine dental treatment and maternity care, with a higher annual limit.

To give you an idea on cost, the table below shows examples based on different circumstances across our range of plans:

You can access the full policy document here.

What’s good about these plans is that they are fully personalisable depending on your needs. You will have to specify the country you are primarily residing in when signing up with them, however, you are free to travel about and receive coverage anywhere as long as it is in your area of cover.

Wherever you move, go with total peace of mind

William Russell’s international health insurance policy is designed with globetrotters like you in mind. The first step to starting a new life as a digital nomad is to take out a comprehensive global health insurance plan that will protect you anywhere in the world.

At William Russell, we have been providing worldwide health cover for over 30 years, helping expats and their families to settle into their new lives overseas. Speak to us today to find out more about how international health insurance could support you.