What is a digital nomad visa?
A digital nomad visa is a residence permit that lets remote workers live abroad legally while earning income from outside the host country.
Instead of relying on short tourist stays, it allows remote employees, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to settle in a new destination for 6 to 24 months, often with renewal options.
It’s a pretty straightforward concept: if your job is remote and your income comes from a foreign employer or international clients, many countries are willing to grant you a temporary residency.
Most programs require a minimum monthly income, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of remote work. Some focus on salaried employees; others also welcome freelancers and business owners.
Leading digital nomad countries, including Portugal, Spain, Croatia, Mexico, and the UAE, stand out for their strong infrastructure, clear eligibility rules, and high quality of life.
How does a digital nomad visa work?
A digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live in a foreign country for a set period while earning income from abroad. Instead of short tourist stays, it provides temporary residency, usually 6 to 24 months, and many countries let you extend your stay if you still meet the requirements.
Once approved, you can live normally in the country: rent a home, use local social services (such as receive healthcare), and participate in day-to-day life. All you need to remember is that you cannot work for a local employer. Your income must continuously come from a foreign company or international clients.
Most programs ask for a minimum monthly income, health insurance for length of stay and proof that your work is fully remote. Some countries also require you to register your address or collect a residence card when you arrive.
Keep in mind that staying in one place for more than 183 days may make you a tax resident, depending on the country’s laws. Some nations exempt foreign-sourced income, while others apply standard tax rules.
In short, a digital nomad visa gives remote workers a legal and stable way to live abroad without changing jobs, making it one of the easiest paths to long-term international mobility.
What are the eligibility and requirements for a digital nomad visa?
To qualify for a digital nomad visa, you need to show that you work remotely, earn a stable income, and can support yourself without taking a local job in the host country. While each country sets its own rules, most digital nomad visas follow the same general criteria.
Here’s what you typically need:
1. Remote work setup
You must be able to work entirely online. This can include:
- A remote employment contract
- Freelance or client agreements
- Proof you own a location-independent business
Your income must come from outside the country where you want to live.
2. Minimum monthly income
Most programs require a steady income, often between €1,500 and €3,500 per month, though some countries set thresholds below or above this. You’ll usually prove this with:
- Bank statements (3 – 6 months)
- Payslips or salary certificates
- Client invoices or contracts
3. Health insurance
You need valid international health insurance that covers your entire stay, including medical emergencies and hospital care.
4. Clean criminal record
A background check is almost always required, typically from:
- Your home country, and/or
- Any country where you’ve lived recently
Some countries also require the document to be apostilled or translated.
5. Valid passport
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 – 12 months beyond your intended stay and have enough blank pages for your visa.
6. Proof of accommodation
Some programs ask for a rental agreement, hotel booking, Airbnb reservation, or invitation letter to confirm you have a place to stay on arrival.
7. Visa application form and fee
Most applications are completed online or through a consulate and include a government fee that varies by country.
8. Additional documents (if required)
Depending on the country, you may also need:
- Passport-sized photos
- A motivation letter
- Proof of savings
- Translated or legalized documents
In short, if you can prove that you work remotely, earn enough to support yourself, and hold valid insurance and documentation, you’ll likely meet the requirements for most digital nomad visa programs.
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa (Step-by-Step)
Applying for a digital nomad visa is usually straightforward, but the process varies slightly from country to country.
Here’s how the process typically works:
1. Choose your digital nomad visa country
Research which destination fits your lifestyle, income level, and ideal remote work setup. Each country has different income thresholds, fees, and tax rules, so it’s worth comparing a few options before you decide.
2. Check that you meet the eligibility criteria
Before applying, confirm that you:
- Work remotely for a foreign employer or international clients.
- Meet the minimum income requirement.
- Have valid health insurance.
- Hold a clean criminal record.
This ensures you won’t waste time applying for a program you don’t qualify for.
3. Gather the required documents
Prepare your supporting documents, which usually include:
- Passport.
- Proof of income (bank statements, payslips, or client contracts).
- Proof of remote work.
- Health insurance coverage.
- Criminal background check.
- Proof of accommodation.
Some countries may require apostilles, translations, or notarized copies.
4. Complete the application form
Most digital nomad visas allow you to apply:
- Online, through the relevant government immigration portal.
- In person, at an embassy or consulate.
5. Pay the visa fee
Visa fees vary widely by country, from low administrative charges to higher government processing costs. Payment is usually made online, by card, or at a consulate.
6. Submit your application or attend an appointment
Some programs are fully digital, while others require:
- A short interview.
- Biometric collection.
- In-person submission of original documents.
You may also receive follow-up requests for missing items.
7. Wait for approval
Processing times range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the country and the volume of applications. You’ll typically receive an email or official letter when your visa has been approved.
8. Enter the country and register your stay
After approval, you can travel to the country and activate your visa. Some destinations require you to:
- Register a local address.
- Apply for a residence card.
- Attend a short appointment with immigration authorities.
Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas
In 2025, over 66 countries offer digital nomad visas, with new countries announcing programs almost every day.
Below is a list of countries offering Digital Nomad Visas. Please note that the fees and processing times listed below are approximate and subject to change.
Africa
| Country | Visa Name | Minimum Income | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Verde | Remote Working Program | €1,500/month | 7 – 14 business days |
| Mauritius | Premium Visa | USD $1,500/month | 6 – 8 weeks |
| Namibia | Remote Work Visa | USD $2,000/month | 2 – 3 weeks |
| Seychelles | Workcation Retreat Programme | No fixed minimum | 24 hours |
| South Africa | Remote Work Visa | ZAR 54,000/month | 4 – 10 weeks |
Middle East and Asia
| Country | Visa Name | Minimum Income | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | Remote Worker Visa (KITAS E33G) | USD $2,000/month | 7 – 14 business days |
| Malaysia | DE Rantau Nomad Pass | USD $2,000/month | 2 – 6 weeks |
| Japan | Digital Nomad Visa | ¥10,000,000 JPY/year | 1 – 6 weeks |
| South Korea | Digital Nomad Visa | USD $5,400 – $5,500/month | 3 – 4 weeks |
| Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa | USD $2,000 – $3,250/month | 3 – 4 months |
| Taiwan | Employment Gold Card (remote‑work eligible) | USD $20,000 – $40,000/year | 3 weeks to 2 months |
| UAE | Remote Work Visa / Virtual Work Programme | USD $3,500 | 5 – 14 business days |
Europe
| Country | Visa Name | Minimum Income | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albania | Digital Nomad Visa | €400/month | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Armenia | Digital Nomad Visa | No fixed minimum (register as sole proprietor and pay taxes) | 120 business days |
| Croatia | Digital Nomad Residence Permit | HRK 24,800 | 4 – 6 weeks |
| Cyprus | Digital Nomad Visa | €3,500/month | 5 – 7 weeks |
| Czechia | Digital Nomad Visa (tech professionals) | CZK 69,248 | 45 – 120 business days |
| Estonia | Digital Nomad Visa | €4,500/month | 15 – 30 calendar days |
| Georgia | Remotely From Georgia | USD $2,000/month or have $24,000 in savings | 10 business days |
| Germany | Freelance / Self‑Employment Visa | €1,000 – €1,200 | 1 – 5 months |
| Greece | Digital Nomad Visa | €3,500/month | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Hungary | White Card | €3,000/month | 30 – 60 business days |
| Iceland | Remote Work Long‑Term Visa | ISK 1,000,000/month | 15 business days to 4 weeks |
| Italy | Digital Nomad Visa | €28,000/year | 30 – 120 business days |
| Latvia | Remote Work Visa | €3,400 – €4,200/month | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Malta | Nomad Residence Permit | €3,500/month | 60 business days |
| Montenegro | Digital Nomad Visa | €1,350 – €1,560/month | 4 weeks |
| Portugal | Digital Nomad Visa (D8) | €3,480/month (4 times minimum wage) | 45 – 60 business days |
| Romania | Digital Nomad Visa | €3,300 – €4,000/month | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Spain | Digital Nomad Visa | €2,763/month | 1 – 3 months |
| Turkey | Digital Nomad Visa | USD $3,000/month | 4 – 6 weeks |
Americas
| Country | Visa Name | Minimum Income | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | Digital Nomad Visa | USD $1,500/month or bank savings of USD $18,000 | 2 – 12 weeks |
| Colombia | Digital Nomad Visa | $900 – $1,050/month | 10 – 30 business days (or about 5-6 weeks) |
| Costa Rica | Digital Nomad Visa | USD $3,000/month (single), USD $4,000/month (with family) | 5 – 45 business days |
| Ecuador | Digital Nomad Visa | USD $1,380 – $1,410/month | 2 – 3 months (8 – 12 weeks) |
| El Salvador | Digital Nomad Visa | USD $1,460 – $3,000/month | 45 business days |
| Panama | Short Stay Remote Worker Visa | USD $3,000/month | 2 weeks – 3 months |
| Uruguay | Digital Nomad Visa | No official minimum (USD $1,500/month recommended) | 10 – 40 business days |
Caribbean
| Country | Visa Name | Minimum Income | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anguilla | Remote Work Programme | No fixed minimum (certify you can support yourself) | 7 – 14 business days |
| Antigua & Barbuda | Nomad Digital Residence | USD $50,000/year | 5 – 7 business days |
| Bahamas | BEATS Programme | No fixed minimum (approx. $3,590/month) | 5 business days to 4 weeks |
| Barbados | Welcome Stamp | USD $50,000/year | 7 business days |
| Belize | Long Stay Permit | USD $75,000/year | 30 business days |
| Bermuda | Work From Bermuda Certificate | No fixed minimum (USD $3,000 – $4,500/month) | 5 business days |
| Cayman Islands | Global Citizen Concierge | USD $100,000/year | Several weeks to a few months |
| Curaçao | @Home in Curaçao Visa | No fixed minimum (show sufficient funds) | 2 weeks to 3 months |
| Dominica | WIN – Work in Nature | USD $50,000/year | 7 days – 3 weeks |
| Grenada | Remote Employment Act Visa | EC$100,000 | 6 – 8 weeks |
| Montserrat | Remote Worker Stamp | USD $70,000/year | 7 – 14 business days |
| Saint Lucia | Live It Visa | No fixed minimum | Few weeks to a couple of months |
11 Best Digital Nomad Visa Countries
1. Spain
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, created under the Startup Law, is ideal for remote workers attracted to a lifestyle that blends Mediterranean climate, highly walkable cities, and robust social services. Spain consistently performs well in global metrics, ranking #1 in the 2025 Global Digital Nomad Report, thanks to its combination of strong public transport, high-quality healthcare (often ranked among the top 10 worldwide), and excellent urban safety for expats.
Spain’s cost of living, especially for housing, food and daily essentials, is often significantly lower than in many Western European capitals, with some comparisons finding costs roughly 15 to 25% less than cities such as London or Paris. Barcelona and Madrid continue to attract tech-oriented nomads, while Valencia consistently scores among Europe’s best cities for work–life balance, cycling infrastructure, and urban livability.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €2,763/month (single adult) | Tax residency if >183 days | Yes |
2. Portugal
Ranking 6th on the Global Citizen Solutions’ 2025 Global Digital Nomad Report, Portugal remains one of the world’s most sought-after hubs for remote workers. The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) offers both short-term and long-term residency routes, allowing remote professionals to build a stable base in Europe.
Portugal stands out thanks to its low violent-crime rates, highly reliable public services, and a healthcare system consistently ranked among the top in Europe for quality and accessibility. English proficiency is widespread in cities like Lisbon and Porto, making daily life seamless for newcomers. The country also has one of Europe’s most established digital nomad ecosystems, with co-working clusters in Lisbon, Porto, Madeira, and Ericeira offering year-round networking, community events, and long-term expat integration.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 years | €3,480/month (4 times minimum wage) | Tax residency if >183 days | Yes |
3. Croatia
Croatia’s Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU nationals to stay for up to 12 months without paying tax on foreign income, making it one of Europe’s more financially attractive options. The country combines EU mobility benefits with a cost of living that can be 40 to 50% lower than in Western Europe.
Croatia’s nomad hotspots, particularly Split, Zadar, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb, have seen significant growth in this arena. This include co-living spaces, startup meet-ups, seasonal festivals and even a remote worker-only community called Digital Nomad Valley Zadar. The Adriatic coastal lifestyle, affordable housing, and easy access to national parks make Croatia especially appealing for outdoors-focused digital professionals.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €3,295/month (2.5 times average salary) | No local tax on foreign income | No |
4. Estonia
Estonia, the pioneer of the world’s first Digital Nomad Visa (2020), remains a leader in e-governance and digital innovation. The country offers 99% online public services, from tax filings to business registrations, allowing remote workers to handle bureaucracy with exceptional ease.
Estonia also boasts one of Europe’s highest rates of tech startups per capita, producing globally recognized companies and a vibrant innovation ecosystem. Tallinn’s compact urban design, reliable transport system, and strong environmental standards (including over 60% renewable energy usage) make it a favorite for tech-savvy nomads who prioritize efficiency and sustainability.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €4,500/month | Tax residency if >183 days | No |
5. Greece
Greece offers a compelling blend of affordability, climate, and cultural depth. The country is, after all, the birthplace of Western civilization as we know it. Housing costs in many Greek cities remain 30 to 40% below the EU average, making long-term stays accessible for freelancers and remote employees with the Greece Digital Nomad Visa.
Athens and Thessaloniki have undergone a major revitalization, with new co-working hubs, improved public transport, and one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in Southern Europe. For those seeking a slower pace, islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Naxos provide a year-round Mediterranean lifestyle with strong community ties and expanding remote-worker infrastructure.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €3,500/month | Tax residency if >183 days | Yes |
6. Italy
Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa opens the door to one of Europe’s most culturally diverse and geographically varied countries. Remote workers benefit from the country’s extensive high-speed rail network, the most comprehensive in Southern Europe, which makes inter-city travel fast and convenient.
Italy also offers a range of living environments: Alpine cities such as Trento and Bolzano consistently rank high for environmental quality and livability, while coastal regions like Puglia, Sardinia, and Sicily provide warmer climates and a rapidly expanding co-working scene. Italy’s “impatriate regime” and other tax incentives may also benefit qualifying professionals.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €28,000 – €32,400+/year | Tax residency if >183 days | Yes |
7. Malta
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit attracts remote workers looking for a small, cosmopolitan island with a thriving expat community. Malta has one of Europe’s highest English-proficiency rates, making integration quick and friction-free.
As an internationally-recognized hub for iGaming, fintech, and blockchain, the island offers abundant career networking opportunities. Malta also ranks high for urban safety and has a high density of co-working spaces relative to population, making it one of the easiest places in Europe to plug into a professional community.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €42,000/year | Possible dual tax exposure | Yes |
8. Cyprus
Cyprus’ Digital Nomad Visa has become increasingly popular among remote workers due to its 300+ days of sunshine, attractive Mediterranean lifestyle, and competitive cost of living, often 20 to 25% lower than many Western European countries.
The island offers strong English proficiency and a growing network of co-working spaces in Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca. Cyprus also benefits from its geographic position: 3- to 4-hour flights to major hubs in Europe and the Middle East make it a strategic base for international remote workers. Its Digital Nomad Visa provides stability for those wanting to live between regions while enjoying relaxed island life.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | €3,500/month | Tax residency if >183 days | Yes |
9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai’s Virtual Working Program offers zero income tax, world-class urban safety, and some of the most advanced infrastructure globally. Dubai ranks consistently high on global livability and safety indexes and boasts access to the world’s largest international airport hubs (Dubai International Airport), offering unmatched connectivity to Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
The city appeals especially to high-earning remote workers and entrepreneurs thanks to its pro-business environment, large international community (expats make up around 85% of the population), and access to premium services, schools, and co-working facilities.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | USD $5,000/month | No income tax | Yes |
10. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s digital nomad visa (the estancia) supports a lifestyle centered around sustainability and personal well-being. Costa Rica invests heavily in environmental conservation, with over 25% of its land protected, making it ideal for nature-driven remote workers.
The country’s focus on renewable energy, 98% of its electricity comes from renewable sources, aligns well with eco-conscious nomads. Wellness culture, low-stress living, and tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income make Costa Rica a strong choice for individuals seeking balance and natural beauty as part of their remote-work lifestyle.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | $3,000/month (single) or $5,000/month (w/ dependents) | Foreign income exempt | Yes |
11. Brazil
Brazil offers one of the most accessible digital nomad visas worldwide, thanks to its low income requirements and vast geographic diversity. The country’s major urban centers have rapidly expanding innovation and startup sectors, while cities like Florianópolis are consistently ranked among the best places in Latin America for remote workers due to safety improvements, outdoor lifestyle, and an established tech ecosystem.
Brazil also offers a rich cultural environment, diverse climates, and a rapidly growing co-working landscape, giving digital nomads a wide range of lifestyle choices.
| Visa duration | Minimum income | Tax rules | Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | USD $1,500/month or USD $18k in savings | Tax residency if >183 days | Yes |
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique investment migration consultancy firm focused on finding the right residency or citizenship by investment program for individuals wishing to secure their future and become global citizens. With offices in Portugal, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Brazil, our multilingual team guides individuals and families from start to finish, providing expert advice considering freedom, mobility, taxation, and security.
- We have helped hundreds of clients from 35+ countries in all the top residency by investment and citizenship by investment programs. With an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the area, we provide our clients with solid guidance.
- Our team has never had a case rejected. Our 100 percent approval rate sets us apart from our competitors and guarantees that you can expect a successful application.
- Our transparent pricing covers all the processes from opening your bank account, document certification, and legal due diligence to investment and submission. As there is one fee for the entire process, you can be confident that you will not face any hidden costs later.
- All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server. You can be safe knowing that your personal data is treated with the utmost security.
- Global Citizen Solutions provides an all-encompassing solution. Our support can continue even after you receive your passport. We offer additional services such as company incorporation, Trusts, and Foundations formation.
- The BeGlobal Onboarding System® allows you to access the status of your application every step of the way, something that sets us apart from our competitors.
Add Your Heading Text Here
Related Articles
Spain Digital Nomad Visa: A 2025 Guide
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Ultimate D8 Guide 2025
Greece Digital Nomad Visa: 2025 Guide
Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa: Everything You Need to Know
