Choosing where to live as a digital nomad isn’t just about finding a sunny beach or the cheapest apartment. It’s about balancing digital nomad visas, affordability, reliable internet, safety, and a community that helps you feel at home. With more countries launching remote work visas and offering smoother application processes, things are looking bright for location-independent professionals.
In this guide, we break down the best countries for digital nomads in 2025, drawing on insights from the Global Citizen Solutions’ 2025 Global Digital Nomad Report. You’ll find a quick comparison table, detailed country profiles, and easy-to-understand explanations of visa requirements, minimum monthly income, tax considerations, internet quality, and cost of living.
Whether you’re a freelancer, remote employee, entrepreneur, or traveling family, this guide will help you decide where to write your next professional chapter in a comfortable, legal, and connected manner.
What is a digital nomad?
A digital nomad is a person who works remotely while traveling or living in different countries. They rely on technology to stay connected to employers or clients and aren’t tied to a single location.
Digital nomads choose destinations with reliable internet, affordable living, and active expat communities. The lifestyle blends work and travel, allowing freelancers, remote employees, and entrepreneurs to maintain their careers while exploring new places.
With many countries now offering digital nomad visas, it’s becoming easier for location-independent professionals to live and work abroad legally for extended periods, often up to one or two years depending on the country.
What do I look for in a digital nomad-friendly country?
Global Citizen Solutions’ (GCS) Global Intelligence Unit compiled the 2025 Global Digital Nomad Report analyzing over 60 countries across six key dimensions. These are namely Procedure, Citizenship and Mobility, Tax Optimization, Economics, Quality of Life, and Tech and Innovation. It offers a data-driven lookout point to help identify the best countries for digital nomads worldwide. Here’s what to consider:
1. Safety
Low crime rates, predictable laws, and political stability shape day-to-day comfort. Cities with reliable policing, efficient public services, and accessible healthcare tend to offer the most stress-free base for remote work.
2. Digital nomad community and co-working
Established nomad hubs provide dense co-working options, frequent meet-ups, and active startup scenes. A ready-made community shortens the time it takes to find collaborators, clients, and friends.
3. Immigration policies and visa requirements
Remote-work permits differ by eligibility, minimum monthly income, and application channel (online or at an embassy/consulate). Most programs start with one-year validity and many are renewable, provided you maintain the criteria.
4. Citizenship and mobility
Some visa routes can progress from temporary residence to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. Regional mobility, such as Schengen access, can significantly expand travel options during your stay.
5. Tax structure
What you owe on taxes depends on the country’s rules for foreign-sourced income, day-count thresholds (often the 183-day rule), and whether special expat or non-resident regimes apply. Clear, predictable tax structures reduce administrative friction.
6. Internet speed and reliability
Fiber broadband and robust 4G/5G coverage underpin productivity. Major urban centers and well-connected districts typically deliver the most consistent speeds and uptime.
7. Cost of living and housing
Affordability varies widely across markets. Housing, utilities, workspace, transport, and groceries determine the real monthly budget, ranging from low-cost “runway” destinations to premium global hubs.
8. Healthcare and Insurance
Many remote work visas require private expat health insurance. Access to quality clinics, English-speaking providers, and transparent pricing improves peace of mind for both solo travelers and families.
9. Family fit
Family-friendly destinations allow dependents, offer good international schools, and provide safe, walkable neighborhoods with parks and cultural activities, which is important for long-term stability.
10. Travel connectivity and time zones
Proximity to major airports and time-zone alignment with clients influences meeting schedules, turnaround times, and overall work-life balance, especially for team-based roles.
11. Banking and payments
Non-resident account options, KYC requirements, and alternatives like multi-currency wallets (such as the popular Wise and Revolut) affect how quickly you can get paid, pay rent, and manage taxes. Clear onboarding processes save time and headaches.
Explore top digital nomad destinations: Get insights from the 2025 Global Digital Nomad Report.
Digital Nomad Countries Compared (2025)
To help you compare destinations quickly, the table below summarizes the key requirements and quality-of-life factors for the top digital nomad countries in 2025, based on data from the Global Digital Nomad Report:
| Country | Visa / Permit | Minimum Monthly Income | Duration | Renewal | Internet Speed | Cost of Living | Insurance Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | Spain Telework Visa | ~€2,300 | 1 year | Yes (up to 5 years) | Very High | Medium | Yes |
| Netherlands | Self-Employment / Entrepreneur Route | €1,420–€1,700 | 1 year | Yes | Very High | High | Yes |
| Uruguay | Scientific/Tech Remote Worker Authorization | Proof of stable income | 180 days | Yes (1 year) | High | Medium | Yes |
| Canada | Digital Nomad Policy / Work Permit | ≈CAD 2,500+ recommended | Up to 6 months / 1–3 years | Yes | Very High | High | Yes |
| Czechia | Živnostenský Freelance Visa | ~€1,900 | 1 year | Yes | High | Low–Medium | Yes |
| Portugal | D8 Remote Work Visa | €3,280 | 1 year | Yes (up to 5 years) | High | Medium | Yes |
| France | Talent Passport / Self-Employed Visa | €1,500–€2,000 | 1 year | Yes | Very High | High | Yes |
| UAE | Remote Work Visa | $3,500 | 1 year | Yes | Very High | High | Yes |
| Germany | Freelancer Visa | €1,500–€2,000 | 1 year | Yes (up to 3 years) | Very High | High | Yes |
| Malta | Nomad Residence Permit | €2,700 | 1 year | Yes (2–3 years) | High | Medium–High | Yes |
10 Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2025
1. Spain
GCS digital nomad score: 99.67
- Visa: Schengen Tourist Visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The digital nomad visa is valid for up to a year.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,000 – €1,400
- Income tax charged: Special non-resident regime from 15% for qualifying digital nomads (instead of the usual 24% non-resident rate). Standard resident rates are progressive up to ~47%.
Ranking #1 in the GIU Digital Nomad Index, Spain increasingly attracts digital nomads due to its pleasant climate, rich culture, and vibrant cities such as Barcelona and Madrid. The Spanish digital nomad visa requires a monthly income of around €2,500 (linked to 200% of the Spanish minimum wage and updated periodically).
The benefits of being a Spain Digital Nomad Visa holder include a major tax break. Under the Start-up Act, digital nomads qualify for non-resident tax, which is a low 15% for a maximum of four years instead of the average 24%.
Spanish authorities also require holders of the Spain Digital Nomad Visa to have private health care insurance that is valid throughout their stay in Spain.
The country offers an excellent quality of life, with living costs that are affordable compared to other Western European nations. Spain has a strong internet infrastructure and a variety of coworking spaces that typically offer free WiFi.
The focus on work-life balance and the relaxed lifestyle make it a popular choice for those seeking a slower pace of life alongside their professional activities.
2. The Netherlands
GCS digital nomad score: 92.84
Visa: Schengen Tourist Visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Common longer-stay routes for independents include the Self-employed Residence Permit (often granted for up to 2 years initially) and the one-year Start-up permit (with a facilitator).
Average monthly expenses: €1,600 – €2,300
Income tax charged: Progressive on residents’ earned income ~37% – 49.5%.
The Netherlands has an English-friendly, highly connected environment that makes remote work straightforward. Major hubs like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht offer strong tech communities, reliable internet, and plenty of coworking spaces.
Independents usually apply as self-employed professionals with a business plan, portfolio, and proof of financial sustainability. US and Japanese nationals may also qualify under a treaty-based route. Housing can be competitive in city centers, but excellent public transport widens neighborhood options.
Expect efficient bureaucracy, clear online services, and a culture that values work-life balance. For non-EU citizens, the start-up or self-employed paths provide a structured way to base yourself in the country while serving international clients.
3. Uruguay
GCS digital nomad score: 91.23
Visa: Digital Nomad/Remote-Worker permit lets you live and work from Uruguay for 6–12 months (online application).
Average monthly expenses: €900 – €1,300
Income tax charged: Territorial system – residents are taxed mainly on Uruguayan-source income (progressive rates; special regimes for new tax residents).
Uruguay combines stability, good infrastructure, and a convenient time zone bridging the Americas and Europe which is super handy for making business calls. It is one of the safest South American countries, consistently ranking near the top in regional peace and safety indexes. The capital city of Montevideo offers dependable fiber internet, walkable neighborhoods, and a growing scene of co-working spaces and cafés, while smaller coastal towns deliver lower costs without sacrificing connectivity.
Time zones align well for serving North American and European clients, which helps with real-time collaboration. The remote-worker permit is purpose-built for location-independent professionals, and the territorial tax approach can simplify planning for those earning mostly foreign income.
Add in good public services, easy banking, and a friendly culture, and Uruguay stands out as a practical, low-stress base in South America for digital nomads who want a soft landing and room to stay longer.
4. Canada
GCS digital nomad score: 90.42
- Visa: Visitor visa is valid for six months.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,600 – €2,200
- Income tax charged: Most short-term digital nomads on visitor status with exclusively foreign-sourced income won’t become Canadian tax residents, but Canada can tax Canadian-source income and long-stay residents.
Citizens from visa-exempt countries typically enter with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and can stay up to six months per entry. During a short stay, most remote workers remain tax resident in their home country, but if you spend 183+ days in Canada or build strong residential ties, Canadian tax residency may apply.
For a Temporary Resident Visa in Canada, health insurance is not a mandatory requirement for the visa application process. However, having adequate health insurance is highly recommended.
Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are particularly attractive due to their booming tech industries and many coworking spaces. Although the cost of living may be higher than in some countries, the safety, stability, and welcoming immigration policies more than make up for it.
5. Czechia (Czech Republic)
GCS digital nomad score: 90.17
- Visa: Schengen Tourist Visa allows 90/180 stays. For longer stays, Czechia runs a Digital Nomad Program aimed at IT/marketing professionals, with long-term visa or residence options; freelancers may also use the trade-license (“živno”) route.
- Average monthly expenses: €900 – €1,300
- Income tax charged: 15% base rate; 23% on higher income above the threshold.
Czechia balances postcard charm with modern convenience. Prague’s metro, trams, and plentiful coworking spaces make daily life easy, while a strong tech ecosystem attracts startups and independent contractors.
The targeted Digital Nomad Program streamlines entry for qualified remote professionals, and the well-known “živno” trade-license route remains a popular option for freelancers. Costs are competitive for a European capital, with lower prices in secondary hubs like Brno and Ostrava.
Take note that the Digital Nomad Program is limited to specific nationalities and professions (mainly IT) so it’s not universal.
English is widely used in the business and tech communities, and the country’s central location makes short flights around Europe simple. With fast internet, predictable processes, and a vibrant cultural scene, Czechia suits nomads who want both practicality and character.
6. France
GCS digital nomad score: 90.12
- Visa: Schengen Tourist Visa covers 90/180. For long stays (3–12 months), France offers a long-stay visa (VLS-TS); for professional activity with a French employer (or qualifying profiles), routes include Passeport Talent. France does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa, and visitor-status long stays don’t permit work, including remote work.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,200 – €1,800
- Income tax charged: Progressive, 0%–45% (plus high-income surtaxes).
France pairs world-class culture and food with robust transport and healthcare. Paris, Lyon, and coastal cities like Nice provide fast internet, coworking spaces, and international communities, while smaller towns offer lower costs and a slower pace.
If you plan to work while based in France, ensure your residence status permits it. Digital nomads who want to work legally from France must use a work-authorized route such as Passeport Talent, a self-employment permit, or employment-based residence categories. Expect efficient intercity rail, easy European flight connections, and plenty of neighborhoods where cafés double as informal workspots.
With a focus on quality of life and a strong services backbone, France is a compelling option for nomads who want big-city energy, weekend getaways across Europe, and a clear path to longer stays through established residence categories.
7. Portugal
GCS digital nomad score: 90.12
- Visa: Schengen short-stay lets you remain up to 90 out of 180 days. The Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa offers a temporary-stay option up to 1 year (and a separate residence permit route for longer stays).
- Income tax charged: Progressive up to 48% (top marginal tax rate), with a solidarity surcharge on higher incomes.
- Average monthly expenses: €900 – €1,300 in smaller cities/interior; €1,200 – €1,800 in Lisbon (including rent).
Portugal is a favorite for digital nomads thanks to its mild climate, striking landscapes, and robust internet. Lisbon and Porto offer excellent quality of life, lively culture, and strong expat communities.
Portugal offers the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) in two tracks: a short-stay option (up to 1 year) and a residence-permit route (initially 2 years, renewable for 3). To qualify, you must show remote employment or freelance work and meet the income threshold of about €3,480 per month (4 times the minimum wage); applicants are also typically asked to show savings of around €10,440.
When working remotely and becoming tax resident in Portugal (generally more than 183 days in a 12-month period or establishing a habitual residence), expect progressive personal income tax up to 48%, plus any applicable solidarity surcharge. Portugal uses a self-assessment system, so you’re responsible for filings and payments.
For the visa application, you must hold travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage (emergency care, hospitalization, repatriation). After arrival, you’ll need private health insurance valid in Portugal until you can register for public healthcare.
Portugal’s cost of living remains relatively competitive compared with much of Western Europe, and English proficiency is high in urban hubs. Major cities offer abundant coworking spaces and nomad-friendly neighborhoods, making Portugal a practical long-term base for remote professionals.
- Visa: Schengen Tourist Visa covers 90/180. For long stays (3–12 months), France offers a long-stay visa (VLS-TS); for professional activity with a French employer (or qualifying profiles), routes include Passeport Talent. France does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa, and visitor-status long stays don’t permit work, including remote work.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,200 – €1,800
- Income tax charged: Progressive, 0%–45% (plus high-income surtaxes).
8. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
GCS digital nomad score: 90.04
- Visa: A Remote Work/Virtual Work Visa (e.g., Dubai’s program) typically grants a one-year stay with proof of employment or business ownership, health insurance, and a set monthly income.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,800 – €2,500
- Income tax charged: 0% on personal income (federal). VAT 5% on consumption.
The UAE offers zero personal income tax, fast internet, and A-grade infrastructure, making it a natural hub between Europe and Asia. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have abundant co-working options, modern apartments, and global air links that simplify regional travel.
Day-to-day life is streamlined through digital services, efficient logistics, and extensive amenities. While housing in prime areas commands a premium, there are value neighborhoods with good transport links.
The one-year remote-work route is tailored to location-independent professionals, letting you maintain foreign employment while basing yourself in a safe, well-connected city. For nomads who prioritize convenience, connectivity, and year-round sunshine, the UAE is a top-tier choice.
9. Germany
GCS digital nomad score: 89.65
- Visa: The Schengen Tourist Visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The self-employed residence permit is often granted for up to three years initially, with the possibility of renewal and later permanent residence if your business remains viable.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,000 – €1,500
- Income tax charged: Progressive ~14%–45% for tax residents (plus surcharges), regardless of nationality.
Germany has earned a reputation for efficiency and economic strength, with tech-forward cities like Berlin appealing to location-independent professionals.
Germany doesn’t offer an official Digital Nomad Visa. Instead, non-EU nationals typically use the freelance/Self-employed Residence Permit (Freiberufler or self-employment under §21 AufenthG). This is effectively Germany’s “version” for digital nomads. You apply to live in Germany while working as an independent professional, often you are expected to show a business plan, proof of funds, health insurance, and (ideally) prospective German or EU clients.
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can live and work in Germany without a work permit. If you’re tax-resident (generally at >183 days in a calendar year or with your center of life in Germany), you’ll face progressive income tax starting around 14% (plus surcharges, with higher brackets for high earners).
For remote employees of a foreign company, there isn’t a dedicated visa category for simply working from Germany; employment-based permits are usually tied to a German employer or specific skilled-worker routes.
Berlin’s thriving startup scene, cultural diversity, and excellent public transportation make day-to-day life easy, while the freelance/self-employed route offers the most practical pathway for non-EU digital workers who want to base themselves in Germany.
10. Malta
GCS digital nomad score: 89.45
- Visa: The Malta Nomad Residence Permit grants a one-year stay (renewable), designed for remote employees, freelancers, and founders serving clients outside Malta, with a defined minimum income and insurance.
- Average monthly expenses: €1,100 – €1,600
- Income tax charged: Progressive 0%–35% (status-dependent). Malta also uses a remittance-based taxation system, meaning foreign income that is not brought into Malta may not be taxed – an arrangement that can offer favorable effective rates for digital nomads who structure their finances accordingly.
Malta is compact, English-speaking, and sunny – ideal for straightforward living and weekend trips across Europe. Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s host co-working spaces, seafront apartments, and a lively expat community. Gozo offers a calmer, lower-cost alternative with solid connectivity.
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit (also known as the Malta Digital Nomad Visa) is purpose-built, with clear eligibility and renewal criteria that suit remote workers and consultants. Internet speeds are strong, transport is manageable, and everyday services are easy to navigate.
With a familiar language environment, Mediterranean lifestyle, and simple access to the Schengen Area, Malta delivers a plug-and-play base for digital nomads who want predictability, sun, and a stable home base for international work.
Read our European Digital Nomad Visa Guide: Everything you need to know
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa
Applying for a digital nomad visa is generally straightforward, but the exact process depends on the country you choose. Most destinations now allow applicants to apply online, while others still require document submission at an embassy or consulate. Here’s a simple overview of what remote workers can expect in 2025:
1. Prove your remote work or self-employment
You’ll need a contract, client invoices, employer letter, or business registration showing you can work independently of local employment.
2. Meet the minimum monthly income requirement
Every digital nomad visa sets its own income threshold. These range from €1,500 to €3,500 per month (typically higher for families), and you must show bank statements or payslips to prove financial stability.
3. Hold a passport valid for 6 – 12 months
Most countries require your passport to remain valid for the entire length of your stay.
4. Provide proof of health insurance
Private health insurance covering the entire visa period is mandatory for nearly all programs.
5. Submit a criminal background check
Usually from your home country or any country where you’ve recently lived. Keep in mind that some countries require both local and international checks.
6. Show proof of accommodation
This may be a rental agreement, hotel booking, or invitation letter, depending on local rules.
7. Pay the government fees
Visa fees range widely. It can be anywhere from €60 up to €600 depending on the country.
8. Apply online or through an embassy/consulate
Most countries allow digital or online submission, but some (such as Czechia or Germany) may require an in-person appointment.
9. Wait for approval
Processing times typically range from 2 – 10 weeks.
This streamlined process makes it significantly easier for freelancers, remote employees, and entrepreneurs to work legally from abroad without needing a traditional work permit.
Taxes for Digital Nomads
Tax rules for digital nomads vary widely between countries and depend primarily on whether you meet the criteria to become a tax resident.
When digital nomads become tax residents
Most countries use the 183-day rule. If you spend more than 183 days in a year in one location or country, you may be considered a tax resident and required to pay local income tax.
Countries with tax advantages for digital nomads
Some countries do offer favorable treatment for remote workers, such as:
- UAE: 0% income tax.
- Uruguay: Territorial tax model (foreign income often exempt).
- Malta: Foreign income not remitted to Malta may be untaxed.
- Portugal: Existing exemptions and double taxation treaties help reduce burdens.
- Spain: Beckham-style regimes may apply for some remote workers.
These policies can reduce or eliminate tax on foreign-sourced income, depending on your status.
Double taxation treaties
Most digital nomads avoid being taxed twice because many countries have tax treaties that protect individuals from duplicate taxation. Always check your home country’s rules before committing to long stays abroad.
Healthcare and Insurance for Digital Nomads
Nearly all digital nomad visa programs require private expat health insurance valid for the full duration of your stay. This ensures you have access to:
- Local hospitals and clinics.
- Emergency treatment.
- Routine medical care.
- Specialist services.
- Repatriation coverage (in some cases).
Countries with strong public healthcare systems (Canada, France, Portugal, Malta) may allow digital nomads to purchase private policies locally after arrival, while others require coverage before entry.
Travel insurance is not always enough. Most countries specifically ask for comprehensive private health insurance that covers long-term stays, not short trips.
