2
Ready to live and work abroad? Check out our guide to the top countries where you can obtain a digital nomad visa.
I’ve been working remotely and moving around the globe long before it became a trend. Trust me, finding places that genuinely understand and support digital nomads isn’t always easy. That’s why I’m pulling together this guide, to help you cut through the noise.
Here, I’ll walk you through the best countries offering digital nomad visas in 2024. We’re talking about the places that get it right: solid internet, welcoming communities, and policies that make it easy to live and work. From sunny spots in the Caribbean to cultural hubs in Europe, there’s a place to suit everyone.
You’re getting this information from someone who’s logged in from beaches, cafes, and coworking spaces across each of these countries. Let’s discover where you can go next, with all the insider info you need.
Don’t have time to read? Here’s the best countries with digital nomad visas at a glance:
- Best Overall: Portugal
- Most Visa-Friendly Process: Georgia
- Best for Community: Estonia
- Best for Connectivity: Croatia
- Most Affordable: Colombia
What Is A Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is essentially your entry ticket to working legally in a country that isn’t your home, without the usual work visa complications.
It’s designed specifically for people who earn their living online and want the freedom to travel and work from new locations around the globe. Think of it as a golden pass that lets you explore and work without the need to bounce back every few months to renew a standard tourist visa.
With this type of visa, you can usually stay longer in the host country—sometimes up to a year or more—and often have the option to renew. It’s perfect if you’re after a change of scenery while keeping up with your remote work.
Some of these visas come with perks like tax breaks and include the ability to open bank accounts or even bring family members along.
1. Georgia
Georgia is quickly becoming the next digital nomad hotspot. In 2020, they rolled out the “Remotely from Georgia” visa. They’ve thought of everything to make the stay as smooth as possible for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.
First off, the application process is a breeze. You can handle everything online through their official website. Typically, you’ll have your visa ready within ten business days—without spending a dime on application fees. That’s right, applying for a digital nomad visa in Georgia costs nothing!
Now, the perks don’t stop there. You won’t need to pay any taxes for your first 183 days, which is a huge plus. And if you decide to stick around longer and become a tax resident, their tax rates are pretty reasonable. Plus, they have this individual entrepreneur scheme where you only pay 1% tax on your first $155,000 of income.
Georgia also stands out because you don’t need to be a resident to open a bank account there. Arrive, open an account, and you’re set. This makes managing finances way easier while you’re there. And the cost of living? Very affordable. It’s about 1.34 times less expensive than the world average, with decent internet speeds averaging around 38Mbps.
Believe me, there’s no shortage of beautiful places in Georgia. Imagine typing away with views of the sprawling Caucasus Mountains or winding down on the serene Black Sea coast. It’s the perfect mix for anyone wanting to merge work with some epic sightseeing.
2. Estonia
Estonia is one of the top European countries for digital nomads, and for good reason. Launched to attract remote workers, the Estonian digital nomad visa lets you set up your workstation in this tech-forward country while keeping your job ties elsewhere.
To qualify, you need to be over 18, work flexibly from any location, and show that you’re either running a business registered outside of Estonia, freelancing, or working remotely for foreign clients. The key is proving you’re financially sound with a stable monthly income of at least €3,500.
The perks? Besides working in a country known for its digital innovation, you get to travel freely within the Schengen Zone, enjoy flexible work hours, and stay up to a year. And with internet speeds averaging 93Mbps, staying connected is a breeze.
The application process is straightforward. Submit an online form, provide proof of employment or your freelance status, and ensure you have a clear criminal record and sufficient health insurance. The fee? A reasonable 60 euros.
As one of the best countries for digital nomads in Europe, spending a year in Estonia could have you working from a cozy cafe in Tallinn or a quiet library in Tartu. I highly recommend it!
3. Croatia
Croatia is calling all digital nomads looking for a Mediterranean escape! With its stunning coastlines and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder Croatia has become a sought-after destination for those wanting to blend work with an idyllic lifestyle.
Croatia’s digital nomad visa is essentially a temporary residence permit designed specifically for freelancers or entrepreneurs working remotely for companies outside Croatia. If you’re not from the EU/EEA, and you can show a stable income of about €2,539 per month, this could be your ticket to a year in paradise.
Here’s a sweet deal: you don’t need to pay Croatian income taxes if you’re working for a non-Croatian company. Plus, the visa itself can pave the way towards Croatian citizenship if that’s something you’re aiming for down the line.
Life in Croatia is as picturesque as it gets, with reliable internet speeds averaging 101 Mbps. And when your laptop closes, the history and natural beauty of places like Dubrovnik and Split await.
Applying is straightforward: fill out the necessary forms, prove your income, and show you have adequate health insurance and a clean criminal record.
While you can soak in Croatia’s beauty for a year with this visa, it can’t be extended—though reapplication is possible after a six-month break.
4. Malta
Considering Malta as your new remote work base? It’s one of the top countries for digital nomads in 2024, offering the Nomad Residence Permit for non-EU citizens. You just need a steady income of at least €2,700 per month from a company outside Malta to qualify. Plus, you can bring your family along—spouse, kids, or a dependent relative.
Living in Malta isn’t all about work. It’s about enjoying life in a locale known for friendly folks, stunning beaches, and top-notch seafood. Plus, you don’t have to worry about local taxes on your foreign income, which is a huge plus.
Applying is pretty simple. Gather your documents, fill out the necessary forms, and submit everything online. If all goes well, you’ll be invited to Malta to pick up your residence permit. Remember, thoroughness with your documentation is key to a smooth application process.
Are you ready to swap your usual workspace for views of the Mediterranean? I can’t recommend this English-speaking paradise enough!
5. Portugal
Fancy working with a view of the Atlantic? Portugal’s digital nomad visa might just be your golden ticket. This visa allows you to legally work for companies outside Portugal while soaking in its culture and stunning landscapes, making it one of the top places in to live and visit in Europe.
You’ve got two options here: a temporary stay visa for up to a year or a long-term residency visa that starts with four months and can be extended to a two-year residency. Both are great if you’re craving some flexibility and the chance to explore the Schengen area.
To be eligible, you need to be over 18, not from an EU/EEA country, and earn over €3,548 monthly. Plus, you’ll need a contract that shows you’re working remotely or freelancing, and have your living situation sorted in Portugal.
The application process is pretty straightforward. Gather your documents—think passport, proof of income, clean criminal record, and health insurance—then submit them at the Portuguese embassy. Oh, and don’t forget the application fees: €75 for the temporary visa and €90 for the long-term.
Portugal offers a comfortable lifestyle that won’t break the bank, friendly English-speaking locals, and superb internet speeds. It’s the perfect place for a digital nomad looking to blend work with new cultural experiences.
6. Barbados
Heading to Barbados as a digital nomad? It’s a solid choice. Barbados not only offers stunning beaches and a vibrant culture but also caters well to those looking to work remotely with high-speed internet averaging 92Mbps.
Applying for their digital nomad visa is a breeze. The entire process is online and can be completed in minutes, with approval coming through in just about five working days. And here’s the best part: there’s no application fee until you’re approved, and the costs are $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a family.
What really makes Barbados stand out is that you don’t need to pay income tax as a digital nomad, which can be a huge financial relief. The healthcare system is top-notch too. You’ll stay healthy while enjoying your stay.
Imagine spending a year here where your office views might include white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. If you fancy a bit of history, don’t forget to check out the local rum distilleries, some of the best in the world.
7. Colombia
Colombia has become one of the best countries for digital nomads looking for a blend of adventure and connectivity. Since 2023, the new ‘Visa V Nómadas Digitales‘ makes settling down here for a remote gig easier than ever.
If you’ve got a job with a company back home and you’re pulling in about $684 a month, you’re set to apply. The process is straightforward: just an online form, a modest $52 application fee, and a bit of patience for about 30 days while they review everything. Once you’re approved, expect to pay a visa fee between $170 and $230, depending on your situation.
Life in Colombia is vibrant and diverse. From the historic charm of Cartagena to the urban pulse of Medellín, each of these digital nomad cities offers unique opportunities to explore while you work. Plus, with reliable internet in co-working spaces across major cities, keeping up with work will be a breeze.
As a non-resident, you won’t need to pay income tax locally. It’’s a smart and cost-effective choice for living and working remotely.
8. Costa Rica
Heading to Costa Rica just got easier for digital nomads. You can get a one-year digital nomad visa that simplifies life significantly (no more border runs!). All you need is proof of a stable income of at least $3,000 per month ($4,000 for families) and health insurance that covers you for the year.
Costa Rica’s digital nomad visa cuts out the need for frequent visa renewals and allows you to focus on your work—and enjoying the pura vida lifestyle. You can also bring your work-related equipment duty-free, open a local bank account, and best of all, your foreign income isn’t subject to local taxes.
The application process is straightforward. Fill out the official form, and within two weeks, you’ll know if you’re approved. Once in Costa Rica, you have 90 days to finalize your paperwork with immigration officials in San Jose. Here, you’ll show your financial proof, get your photo taken, and provide fingerprints.
Costa Rica ranks in the top 10 countries for digital nomads, thanks to its perfect blend of work-life balance in an environment that prioritizes nature, peace, and sustainability. Whether it’s the endless summer climate, the friendly vibes, or the top-tier tourism services, everything is set for you to dive into work and play with no fuss.
9. Antigua and Barbuda
Looking for a seamless way to mix work and tropical vibes? Antigua and Barbuda‘s digital nomad visa, officially called the “Nomad Digital Residence” (NDR), could be your golden ticket. Since its launch in October 2020, it’s been a hit for those looking to switch up their work environment without a hitch.
The visa process is simple and all online, with decisions usually made within just 14 days. Once you’re approved, you’re exempt from paying local income taxes, and the visa is valid for two years. You can also bring your tech gear duty-free, open a local bank account, and even use your home driver’s license.
You’ll need to prove an annual income of $50,000, have a clean criminal record, and show proof of health insurance that covers you in Antigua and Barbuda. The application fee is $1,500 for an individual, $2,000 for a couple, and $3,000 for a family, all non-refundable.
I can’t think of anything better than working with a backdrop of blue seas and sandy beaches. It’s easily one of the best countries for digital nomads in 2024.
10. Czech Republic
Last up on our list of countries that offer visas for digital nomads is the Czech Republic. This isn’t your typical short-term deal. It’s a long-term residence permit that lets you live and work there for up to a year.
What’s great is that it’s open to various professions—think English teachers, designers, and social media managers. You can even collaborate with local businesses and residents, which is a fantastic way to really soak in the culture.
To apply, you’ll need to show proof of steady income (about $2,500 monthly), a clean criminal record, and that you have health insurance that covers you there. You also need a trade license, which you can apply for online. Once you have your documents sorted, book an appointment at a Czech embassy. Remember, you can’t apply after you’ve already entered the country.
The whole application process might take up to 120 days. But once you’re approved, you get to enjoy living in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries. Prague is bustling with events, pet-friendly, and ranked super safe to live in. Plus, the internet speed is stellar, so staying connected is a breeze.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about countries that offer digital nomad visas
Looking to work remotely in a different country? Find answers to all your digital nomad visa questions in our FAQs.
Which country has the cheapest nomad visa?
Georgia offers one of the cheapest digital nomad visas – it’s free! Applicants need to demonstrate a monthly income of at least $2,000. Mauritius also offers a free visa, provided that applicants either own a location-independent business or work remotely for a company based outside of Mauritius.
Which country in Europe is cheapest for digital nomads?
Among the cheapest countries in Europe for digital nomads are those in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, such as Bulgaria and Romania. These countries offer a low cost of living, affordable accommodation, and growing communities of remote workers.
Which country has the most digital nomads?
As of March 2024, the United States was the most visited country by digital nomads, accounting for approximately 14% of all digital nomads globally.
Is Spain or Portugal better for digital nomads?
Both Spain and Portugal offer great environments for digital nomads. Portugal tends to be more favored due to its lower cost of living, simpler tax breaks for foreigners, and its growing community of digital nomads.
