In 2020 the pandemic hit and little did we know that the working environment would be forever changed. Remote work has become the new normal and the concept of ‘work from anywhere’ is looking more attractive than ever. The term ‘digital nomad’ is becoming commonplace and mindsets are shifting around how we work and live.
It’s an exciting time for those looking to change their lifestyles and start working remotely full-time while travelling the world.
With a bid to re-engage tourism, governments are re-looking at visa policies to accommodate this now widely accepted long-term traveller – the digital nomad/remote worker.
We have put together a list of visas designed specifically for the digital nomad since 2020 and what the requirements and benefits are by country.
1. Estonia
Estonia has been a pioneer in the digital economy space, kicking off with it’s e-residency program and now offering the Digital Nomad Visa which became open for applications on August 1 2020.
Overview
- Allows remote workers to temporarily stay in Estonia for up to 1 year
- It caters for online entrepreneurs, remote employees as well as freelancers
- No right to obtain Estonian citizenship or residency
Eligibility
- You work as an employee for a company registered in a foreign country with a contract, you have an online business registered in a foreign country or you do freelance work for clients based in a foreign country.
- Have a monthly income of €3504 with 6-months of proof of financials
- All nationalities welcome however applications will be denied to those residing in countries not allowed to travel to Estonia due to COVID-19 restrictions.
How to apply?
- Complete the online application form here
- Gather all supporting documents
- Make an appointment with your local Esonian Embassy or Visa Application Office
2. Croatia
Made famous by Game of Thrones with it’s red-topped roofs, stone walls, and crystal clear waters – it’s no wonder why it is a tourist hub and drawing more and more digital nomads.
The Croation government has jumped on the bandwagon for welcoming the trend of ;digital nomadism’ and has launched a digital nomad residence permit, effective January 1, 2021.
Overview
- 12 month residence permit (no extensions)
- Exempt from any taxes
Eligibility
- Prove monthly income of $2,700 or #32,000 in your bank if you intend to stay for the full 12 months
- Third country national with an income from or owner of a business registered abroad.
- Prove that you are a digital nomad
How to apply
- If you are required to get a visa to enter Croatia, you can apply at your local embassy or consular. Get more info here: http://www.mvep.hr/en/consular-information/visas/visa-requirements-overview/
- If you are not required to hold a visa to enter Croatia, you can apply at the consular in Croatia or online here.
3. Czech Republic
This country has offered a Freelancer oriented visa for a while now called the Zivno. This is a Trade Licence Freelance Visa and your skillset needs to be on the Žtivnostenský list to qualify. You will enter on a tourist visa into the Czech Republic and then apply for the Zivno visa once there. It is recommended to use a visa agency to get all your documents in order, like Visa Guru.
Overview
- 12 months – can be extended
- Processing time 4-6 weeks
- Costs $200 (approx.) in government fees plus agency fees
Eligibility
- Need to prove you have a skill listed on the Žtivnostenský list
- Proof of at least $5,300 in your bank account
- All document signatures must be done in blue ink
How to Apply
- Get Bank Letter from native country
- Some procedures can be done in Prague while rest must be done in a Czech Embassy in a foreign city such as Berlin or Vienna.
4. Georgia
Georgia is a beautiful country and is rich with culture & history. It is known as the gateway between Asia and Europe and Tbilisi, its capital, has become an emerging digital nomad hub. The government has introduced a digital nomad visa which can be applied for online, in a bit to welcome more foreigners for longer term stays. The Remotely from Georgia program is open to 95 countries at the moment – even those worst affected by COVID-19
Overview
- Visa duration is 1 year
- Application is free
- Does not give you access to Schengan zone
- 8-day quarentine upon arrival & mandatory PCR tests – at own cost
Eligibility
- Show proof of income of $2000/month
- Must be a remote worker, freelancer or entrepreneur
How to Apply
- You can apply online here.
5. Germany
If you are a freelancer – you may qualify for the ‘Freiberufle’ visa. You need to be deemed as a liberal professional or ‘Freibe Berufe’. To be categorized as a freelancer, your services need to be approved by the tax office in germany. This is a more tedious process than most ‘remote work’ visas but could be beneficial if you would like to stay long-term in Germany.
Overview:
- Initial visa is 3 months which
- Can be converted into a residence permit (up to 3 years)
Eligibility
- Prove you are a freelancer
- Prove you have sufficient funds – at least €9,000/year
How to apply:
- Visa application in home country at German embassy
- Register your home address when in Germany
- Register with Tax Registration Office
6. Iceland
For those seeking to explore the natural wonders of Iceland and it’s magical landscapes – this country could be your next nomad destination. It has recently introduced a long-term visa for remote workers and their families to encourage foreigners to come visit and stay for an extended period.
Overview
- 6-month visa validity
- Allows stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days
- $65 application fee
Eligibility
- Must be able to enter Iceland normally without a visa
- Must not have received a long-termvisa in the last 12 months
- Prove you are a remote worker, freelancer or online entrepreneur
- Prove monthly income of $8,200
How to apply
- Get all the info on how to apply here.
7. Norway
Norway is a Scandinavian country known for its stunning landscapes, progressive policies and open culture. Digital Nomads are more and more attracted to this country and the government have created a visa especially for them – called the Independent Contractor Residence Permit.
Overview
- Valid for 24 months
- Application fee is €600
Eligibility
- Must be self-employed
- Have a contract to work for a Norway business
- You must have relevant qualifications to work in your profession.
- Show an income of at least €35,719 per year before tax
How to apply
- Get info here
8. Portugal
Portugal has become one of the biggest digital nomad hubs in Europe with nomads flocking to Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. The community has grown substantially there and there is a relatively low cost of living so this could be perfect for you! There isn’t a specific digital nomad visa, BUT you can get in on the D-7 Passive Income visa. Originally created for retirees, there is no age limit on the visa and anyone can apply if they meet the requirements.
Overview
- 4-month visa
- Can be converted into 2-year temporary residency once there
- This can then be extended until you have been there for 5 years & can apply for citizenship
- You get
- The right to live, work and/or study in Portugal
- Pay the €83 EUR visa fee and €72 EUR resident permit fee
Eligibility
- Prove monthly income from property, investment, business ownership etc.
- Must earn €600 per month or€7,200 per annum
How to apply
- Apply at your local Portuguese consular with relevant documentation
- Complete this application form