As Italy introduces a new digital nomad visa, we detail the best places to work remotely (and how to do it)

Many of us have daydreamed about residing in our dream vacation spot, trading in dreary commutes for leisurely walks along the shore or swapping office cubicles for a villa by the pool. Prior to the pandemic, relocating abroad usually meant navigating complex visa procedures and often necessitated a career change. However, times have changed.

In the aftermath of the pandemic, numerous European nations – and even some beyond – have introduced programs tailored for digital nomads, offering aspiring expatriates a taste of living overseas without the need for professional transitions.

It's important to mention that while certain countries may not formally have digital nomad initiatives, alternative visa options might offer comparable residency opportunities. For instance, in Germany, the Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Selbstständige Tätigkeit allows freelancers to reside in the country for up to three years.

Here, we delve into some of the most enticing digital nomad visa programs available.

What exactly is a digital nomad visa?

A digital nomad visa is a type of visa that permits individuals to reside in a foreign country temporarily while they engage in remote work. Typically, digital nomads must demonstrate employment outside the host country and meet financial requirements, often accompanied by an application fee. Essential prerequisites often include possessing the necessary technological tools for remote work, like a laptop and access to high-speed internet.

These visas typically have durations ranging from one to five years, with some offering the option to transition to more permanent residency upon expiration. Countries such as Italy, Spain, and Greece have established programs to attract digital nomads, offering enticing opportunities. However, navigating taxation can pose challenges, as regulations vary between countries. Seeking advice from tax experts is recommended to clarify obligations. Some nations have bilateral agreements that exempt digital nomads from local taxes, while others may require tax payments in both their home country and the host nation after a certain period.

Despite the complexities, the allure of these visas and the associated lifestyle remains strong.

Which countries offer visa programs tailored for digital nomads? Jump to the eligibility criteria for digital nomad visas in:

Spain

Italy

Greece

Estonia

Portugal

Indonesia

UAE

Costa Rica

The Bahamas

Spain's digital nomad visa permits non-EU nationals to engage in remote work within the country for a duration of up to five years, with the possibility of renewal. Authorization from an employer is required, with freelancers also eligible. Applicants must demonstrate expertise in their field through a university degree, professional certification, or three years of work experience. They must have held their current position for at least three months, or freelancers can provide evidence of long-term contracts. Additionally, applicants are allowed to derive up to 20% of their work from Spanish clients. Proof of a minimum income of £1,840 per month is mandatory, with higher earnings necessary if supporting dependents. Eligible candidates should not have resided in Spain within the past five years. For those interested, detailed application instructions are available on the Spanish government's website, with an in-person interview typically required at the nearest embassy.

Italy 

Duration

Initially one year, with the possibility of extension

Minimum annual income

£24,000

Application fee

£99

Cost of living

Monthly expenses for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: £490

Basic utilities (monthly): £170

Price of a pint of beer: £4.20

Cost of a cappuccino: £1.35

As of April 4, Italy has opened its doors to "highly skilled workers," particularly encouraging digital nomads to relocate to the picturesque but depopulated villages in the southern regions.

Eligible applicants must be citizens of non-EU countries, engaged in remote employment or self-employment, with a minimum income threshold set at three times the healthcare exemption level, currently around €28,000 or £24,000, and no recent criminal convictions.

Applicants are required to demonstrate valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay, along with proof of suitable accommodation and at least six months of prior experience as a digital nomad or remote worker.

For further information and application procedures, applicants must attend an in-person meeting at a designated diplomatic consular office and submit a signed declaration from their employer. More details can be found on the website of Italy's Interior Ministry.

For those interested in exploring more about Italy, our guides cover various topics such as accommodations in the Italian Lakes region and crafting the perfect holiday in Tuscany.

Greece

Duration 

Initially one year, extendable upon request 

Minimum income requirement 

£3,000 monthly 

Application fee 

£64 

Living expenses

Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: £340

Basic utilities (monthly): £180

Cost of a pint of beer: £3.80

Cost of a cappuccino: £2.80

Since 2021, non-EU citizens have been eligible to apply for digital nomad visas. Applicants must provide evidence of health insurance, accommodation arrangements, a clear criminal record, and proof of remote work capability.

Prospective residents seeking a relaxed Aegean lifestyle should take note of the minimum salary thresholds: €3,500 (£3,000) per month for individuals, €4,200 (£3,580) if accompanied by a spouse, and €4,830 (£4,120) for those with additional dependents.

Interested in embarking on a Greek adventure? Whether it's for a year or just a short break, explore our guide to the ultimate Greek island-hopping experience.

Application process: Applicants must personally submit their applications at the nearest Greek embassy and can obtain the necessary forms from the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Estonia's digital nomad visa program, introduced early in the pandemic, allows individuals meeting specific employment criteria to reside in the country for up to one year. These criteria include holding a contract with a foreign-registered company, operating one's own overseas-registered business, or freelancing primarily for clients outside of Estonia. 

Additionally, Estonia offers an e-residency program granting successful applicants a government-issued digital identity, facilitating access to the country's transparent business environment. This enables individuals to establish an EU-based business, open an Estonian bank account, benefit from favorable business tax rates, and access startup support.

To apply, individuals must visit the nearest Estonian embassy in person and complete the application form available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Similarly, Portugal offers various digital nomad visa options, with the Temporary Stay Visa being the most sought-after, allowing remote workers with proof of income to live in the country. Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,280 (£2,800), with additional requirements for those accompanied by a spouse or child. Health insurance, accommodation proof, and a clean criminal record are mandatory.

Portugal's digital nomad visa initially lasts for one year, extendable up to five years, with tax advantages including a reduced rate of 15 percent for the first four years. Applicants should be mindful of the minimum stay requirement of 183 days within the first two years.

For individuals seeking permanent residency, Portugal offers the D2 Visa and the Golden Visa, requiring substantial investment in the country's economy. Short-stay tourist visas are available for visits lasting less than 90 days and not requiring a Portuguese bank account.

To apply, individuals must visit the nearest Portuguese embassy in person, with more information accessible on the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Indonesia

Duration: 

Initially 60 days, extendable up to six months 

Financial Requirement: 

No minimum income required, but applicants must demonstrate £1,600 in savings

Application Fee: 

£160

Cost of Living:

Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: £130

Basic utilities (monthly): £53

Cost of a pint of beer: £2

Cost of a cappuccino: £1.60

Despite its reputation as a popular destination for digital nomads, Indonesia's current visa program permits stays of up to six months for remote workers. Initially introduced to promote a more sustainable travel model, it encourages longer stays within the country compared to traditional backpacking trips.

The B211A Business Visa mandates applicants to have a job outside of Indonesia and maintain a minimum savings of $2,000 (£1,600). Applicants may also be required to provide evidence of a clean criminal record.

Application Process: Further details are available on the Indonesian government website.

United Arab Emirates

Duration:

Initially one year, with the option for renewal 

Financial Requirement:

Minimum monthly income of £2,400

Application Fee:

£490

Cost of Living:

Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: £940

Basic utilities (monthly): £140

Cost of a pint of beer: £8.70

Cost of a cappuccino: £4.30

The UAE introduced its Remote Work Visa in 2021, targeting digital nomads looking to work from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Valid for up to a year (with indefinite renewal), applicants must have a monthly salary of $3,000 or £2,400, along with the previous month's payslip and three months of bank statements. Additionally, they must have been employed by their current employer for at least three years prior.

Requirements differ for business owners, who must demonstrate an average monthly income of $5,000 (£4,010) and provide proof of ownership for at least one year.

It's important to note that while digital nomads can exit the country, an absence from the UAE exceeding six consecutive months will result in automatic visa nullification.

Application Process: Applications are handled online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs portal.

Costa Rica offers an opportunity for individuals to reside in the country for up to one year, extendable for two years, with certain financial prerequisites and application procedures in place.

Financial Requirements:

- Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of £2,400, which should be consistent.

- Fluctuating income, such as freelancers, is advised to establish a limited company to ensure steady payments.

- Digital nomads are exempt from taxes on foreign income while residing in Costa Rica.

- Proof of medical insurance with a minimum coverage value of $50,000 (£40,100) is mandatory.

Application Process:

- Applications can be submitted digitally via the Costa Rican government website.

- Upon arrival in the country, applicants need to register their biometric data at an immigration center within the initial three months of residency. 

Cost of Living:

• Monthly expenses include £375 for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center, £70 for basic utilities, £2.40 for a pint of beer, and £2.80 for a cappuccino.

The Bahamas offers the Extended Access Travel Stay program, allowing digital nomads to reside in the country for up to a year. There's no minimum income requirement, but applicants must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. The application fee is £823. The cost of living includes £885 for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center, £229 for basic utilities monthly, a pint of beer costs £3.20, and a cappuccino is £4.20.

Under the Beats program, remote workers can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Bahamas without additional income or capital gains taxes. Applicants must have a clean criminal record and provide evidence of employment or freelance contracts. Students attending overseas universities that permit remote work are also eligible.

Those interested in the program should explore our content focused on the Bahamas and the Caribbean's best islands before making a decision.