Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2025

As remote work becomes the new global norm, more professionals are searching for the best countries for digital nomad. Places that offer flexible visas, reliable internet, affordable living, and vibrant co-working communities. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or full-time remote employee, choosing where to base yourself can define your lifestyle and productivity.

In this 2025 guide, we compare the best digital nomad countries worldwide, covering essential factors like visa options, minimum monthly income requirements, internet speed, cost of living, tax regimes, and safety. This will hopefully help you decide which destination best fits your work-from-anywhere lifestyle.

• What is a digital nomad?
• What do I look for in a digital nomad-friendly country?
• 10 Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2025
• Digital Nomad Healthcare Considerations
• Residency and Work Permit Requirements for Digital Nomads
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad (also known as a remote worker) is a person who works remotely while traveling or living in different countries, using technology to stay connected to clients or employers.

Unlike traditional expats, digital nomads aren’t tied to a single location. They often move between destinations that offer good internet connectivity, affordable living, and a strong sense of community.

This digital nomad lifestyle blends work and travel, allowing remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to maintain their careers while exploring new cultures.

From co-working spaces in Lisbon to beach cafés in Bali, digital nomads prioritize flexibility, productivity, and a healthy work-life balance wherever they go.

As more nations introduce dedicated digital nomad visas, it’s becoming easier for location-independent professionals to live and work legally abroad for extended periods, sometimes up to two years or more (depending on the country).

What do I look for in a digital nomad-friendly country?

Global Citizen Solutions’ 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 structure for identifying the best countries for digital nomads worldwide. Here’s what to look for:

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.

10 Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2025

 1. Spain

• 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: 15%

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 minimum income of €2,500.

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 could 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

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 (initial validity up to 2 years) 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

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 also the safest South American countries. 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

• Visa: Visitor visa is valid for six months
• Average monthly expenses: €1,600 – €2,200
• Income tax charged: Income tax is not applicable

Canada is an excellent destination for digital nomads compared to other countries, offering a high standard of living, top-notch healthcare, and vibrant multicultural cities. Digital nomads can enter Canada on a visitor visa, known as a Temporary Resident Visa, which is valid for up to six months.

On the other hand, citizens from visa-exempt countries can apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization, which is also valid for six months since people on one of these visas are not considered Canadian tax residents, which is exempt from income tax.

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)

• 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.

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. Portugal

• 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).
• Average monthly expenses: €900 – €1,300 in smaller cities/interior; €1,200 – €1,800 in Lisbon (including rent).
• Income tax charged: Progressive up to 48% (top marginal tax rate), with a solidarity surcharge on higher incomes.

7. France

• 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—professional categories and talent routes are more suitable than visitor status. 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.

8. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• 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

• Visa: The Schengen Tourist Visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The visa for self employed people is initially valid for three years.
• Average monthly expenses: €1,000 – €1,500
• Income tax charged: 15% to 40% for EU citizens

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

• 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 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.

Digital Nomad Healthcare Considerations

As a digital nomad, it’s essential to prioritize your healthcare needs, especially when traveling to different countries. The quality and accessibility of healthcare services may vary greatly depending on the country you’re in. While countries with advanced healthcare systems offer high-quality services, the costs may be too high without the appropriate insurance.

On the other hand, in countries with less developed healthcare systems, the costs may be lower, but the quality and availability of services may need to meet the standards you’re used to. Knowing these differences and having the necessary medical insurance to cover your healthcare needs is important.

Many countries require foreigners to have health coverage as a condition for granting visas, especially for those seeking long-term stays, such as digital nomads on a remote work visa. This expat health insurance typically needs to cover routine healthcare, potential emergencies, and repatriation.

Options for health insurance:

• Travel health insurance: This insurance covers short-term stays and usually includes emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and limited non-emergency health costs. It is suitable for nomads who plan to move frequently.

• International health insurance: More comprehensive than travel insurance, international private health insurance covers both emergency and routine health care and is valid in multiple countries. It’s designed for long-term residents and those who frequently travel between countries.

• Local health insurance: In some cases, digital nomads may purchase local health insurance if they plan to stay in one country for an extended period. This option can be more cost-effective but is generally less comprehensive and often only valid in the country of purchase.

Residency and Work Permit Requirements for Digital Nomads

Navigating residency and work permit requirements as a digital nomad can be challenging since they vary significantly by country. There are several requirements and considerations that you should keep in mind.

Most digital nomads enter a country on tourist visas, which allow them to stay for a limited period, usually between 30 and 90 days. However, it’s important to note that tourist visas don’t permit the holder to work legally in the country, even remotely, for a company based outside the country.

Violating this rule can result in penalties or deportation. Some countries have introduced specific visas or permits that allow digital nomads to live and work remotely legally. These visas often require proof of ongoing employment or sufficient income from outside the country, comprehensive health insurance, and sometimes a criminal background check.

For instance, Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa demands applicants to demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3504 (as of 2021), while Portugal’s Temporary Stay Visa for entrepreneurs and freelancers requires proof of income and a bank statement, among other documents.

Traditional work permits usually don’t apply to digital nomads since they are designed for employment within the host country. However, if a nomad decides to enter the local job market, they would need to switch to a suitable visa or permit as per local labor laws.

Many countries with digital nomad visas or similar have minimum income requirements to ensure these individuals are self-sufficient and won’t burden the local economy.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.