24 Digital Nomad Visas & Remote Work Visas of the World in 2022

Digital Nomad
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Originally published at: https://govisafree.com/digital-nomad-visa-freelance-visa/

It happened not long ago when the concept of working remotely as digital nomads was first introduced to the world. Weren’t we all a little skeptical about the new trend of working?

But look around now! How, with the passage of time and the dawn of the digital age, most of us have found peace in working remotely? Not just that, we are all planning our business journeys and moving to foreign countries to work as digital nomads.

However, the only problem is how we can stay abroad to work on a tourist visa with limited facilities and periods?

Subsequently, many countries are now offering remote workers the privilege to live/work abroad with digital nomad visas. These countries provide all required facilities for a location-independent business to run smoothly, for instance, infrastructure and a good internet connection.

Besides, out of these many countries with digital nomad visas, how must you decide which one’s ideal for you? Since you, too, have chosen to plunge into this mode of working, we’ll shower you with all the necessary details about the Digital Nomad visa or what some people refer to as a Remote Work Visa.

Therefore, without any further delay, let’s take a stroll.

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa or a Remote Work Visa?

It is difficult for entrepreneurs and freelancers to apply for a traditional visa since it requires a contract with a local entity or an invitation letter. On the other hand, using a tourist visa isn’t suitable as they might want to stay for a more extended period to work.

Such a situation beckoned for a digital nomad visa.

A remote work visa, or a freelance visa, is a travel permit that legalizes the status of professionals traveling for work. The best feature of these visas is that they are easy to acquire and do not require lengthy paperwork and a work contract. Nevertheless, it allows them to stay for a long duration, hence sufficing the critical purpose of the visa.

Moreover, it has been officially stated on the digital nomad visa that the holder can work during the period he is in the country. The only condition being, they work independently and remotely.

Furthermore, each country has devised its policies and regulations. So, moving forward, let’s see which European countries offer the digital nomad visa.

Digital Nomad Visas in European Countries

Many European countries are now providing a seamless experience for digital nomads all across the world. So, here is the detailed guide to getting a digital nomad visa in 20 European nations.

Let’s get started.

Croatia

Croatia is one of the countries with digital nomad visa. To stay and work in Croatia for an extended period, an individual must apply for a residency permit. This program is effective from January 1, 2021, onwards and offers a temporary residence. Although it is a residency permit, it is still called the remote visa or the digital nomad visa.

Conditions
  • Since the digital nomad visa is not a permanent residence permit, you cannot stay in Croatia for more than 90 days. Therefore, you need to leave the country for 90 days after the expiration of your first permit.
  • A digital nomad cannot work in any registered Croatian company.
How to Apply
  • Apply at the Croatian embassy or consulate in your country, if you need a visa to enter (non-EU nationals).
  • Apply at the nearest Croatia police station if you do not need a visa to enter Croatia (EU nationals).

Now, prepare your application.

  • Evidence you are a digital nomad.
  • A valid passport
  • Government-issued background check from your country of origin (New From 2021)
  • OIB identification number
  • A valid private/travel health insurance
  • A valid rental contract
  • Proof of adequate funds to support yourself
  • Two Passport photos
  • Application Fee

After you apply to the embassy, an officer will see whether you have met the requirements. Wait patiently while they process the application; it can take up to a month. Once approved, you will receive a blue envelope or a phone call. Then hush to the police station, provide them your passport photos, fingerprints, and signature. In return, you will get a white card, which is temporary proof of your residence. Three weeks later, you will obtain your new residence permit, aka Croatia digital nomad visa.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a low cost of living and fast wifi and is an excellent digital nomad option. Besides, with the Czech Republic Long Term Visa, you can stay in Prague for business for one year.

Conditions
  • Proof of accommodation to qualify for the program.
  • Document confirming the purpose of the stay
  • All documents must be provided in their original form or as a notarized copy and translated into the Czech language.
  • You may be asked to show the Criminal History Background/ Affidavit.
How to Apply
  • The visa application must be requested in person at a Czech consulate or embassy.
  • While you fill the application, an interview will be conducted along with its written record in the Czech language.
  • The applicant has to sign it. In case he doesn’t understand the language, he can get an interpreter.

The processing time significantly ranges from 90 to 120 days.

Estonia

Estonia’s digital nomad visa permits remote workers to live in Estonia and work legally for their employer or their own company registered abroad. With this visa, the eligible workers can live and work in the country peacefully.

Conditions
  • You need to perform your work duties remotely using telecommunications technology.
  • You must have an active employment contract with a registered company inside or outside Estonia.
  • Conduct business or work as a freelancer for clients outside Estonia.
  • Evidence that your income satisfies the minimum threshold of €3504.
How to Apply
  • Firstly, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria to get a remote visa.
  • You will quickly get the application form online. The state fee is 80€ (Type C) and 100€ Type D) for a short stay and extended stay visa, respectively.
  • Submit the application at the nearest Estonian Embassy or Consulate. Do not forget to bring copies of the required documents.
  • It takes around a month to review the application.

Additionally, Estonia’s e-Residency program is a digital residency program that offers many attractive benefits to entrepreneurs and digital nomads.

Germany

German Freelance “Freiberufler” Visa is perfect for any digital nomad who wishes to work in Germany. Besides, it is granted for three months initially but can be extended for three years. Besides, you will have to prove that the profession you have chosen to pursue defines whether you are eligible to get a freelance visa in Germany or not.

Furthermore, the country also offers an artist visa, which can only be obtained in Berlin.

Conditions
  • Some of the liberal freelance options in Germany you can choose are healthcare, law, tax and business counseling, scientific/technical, linguistic, and information-transmitting.
  • Register your freelance activity with the German tax office.
How to Apply
  • Complete the national visa form application with the fee
  • Keep all essential documents like passport, latest biometric photographs, travel insurance, financial documents, business strategy documents for business owners.
  • Make a visa appointment. The process can take up to two months.
  • Depending on your place of work, get a residence in Germany.

After you arrive in the country, register your living address, and open a bank account in Germany. Finally…you can implement your freelance visa plan.

Greece

If you’re a digital nomad, note that Greece Digital Nomad Visa is another popular option. If you meet the criteria, you can be granted a 12-month residence permit, which is renewable for two more years.

Eligibility

  • Your monthly income is €3,500 (net)
  • You’re either self-employed or have a work contract with a company that is based outside of Greece

How To Apply

Applications are done through Greek consulates abroad. If you’re already in Greece, you can also make an application through the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.

Iceland

In order to bring extra money to stimulate its economy, Iceland launched a new visa program for teleworkers. This is a remote workers visa, a long-term visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country for six months. To get an Iceland remote work visa, the digital nomad will have to satisfy a few conditions and requirements.

Conditions
  • An individual will be eligible only if he earns $7,360 a month or $88,000 a year.
  • Successful applicants must have permanent employment by foreign companies.
  • They must meet additional health insurance requirements.
  • No language proficient document is required.
How To Apply
  •  Fill out the application form L-802 and collect all the required supporting documents.
  • Submit a copy of applicable certificates along with the application to the Directorate of Immigration
  • The processing fee must be paid before submitting the application.
  • The officer will review the application and, upon finding the applicant eligible, approve the visa.
  • The process will take three-four weeks.

Portugal

Portugal is emerging as one of the world’s leading tech industries and is onSave every digital nomad’s watchlist. The country has a developed infrastructure and internet speed, attracting foreign business owners to relocate to the country. Portugal Digital Nomad Visa mainly refers to two visa schemes, Portugal’s Golden Visa Residence Permit and the D7 Visa.

Conditions
  • For US citizens, you can visit Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days. However, you need to provide your income proof showing at least $1,070 monthly.
  • For non-EU residents, you will have to apply for a Schengen visa. For this, you would require, passport, proof of health insurance, criminal record, and proof of income.

Besides,

  • Demonstrate that your skills are required in the country.
  • Register yourself as a freelancer.
  • Receive your NIF (“Número de Identificação Fiscal”), which is a taxpayer identification number.

EU nationals don’t need a visa to enter Portugal.

How To Apply
  • An EU national only needs to apply for a Residence Certificate from the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service.
  • US and third-country nationals need to fill the visa application form at the embassy or consulate in their home country.

Here is what you need to submit the application.

  • Passport photo
  • Passport and copies of your previous visas
  • Flight reservation details
  • A medical insurance policy covering expenses up to €30,000
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Employment contract

The application process usually takes two weeks to three months.

There is also a Portugal Startup Visa available for entrepreneurs.


Portugal Startup Visa

Spain

Spain grants a non-lucrative visa to remote workers. It allows foreigners to stay in Spain for one year after they enter the Spanish territory.

Conditions
  • You will have to agree to not work as a Spanish employer in the country or set your own country
  • Proof that you have sufficient funds and can survive in Spain by working remotely.
  • You must have an insurance policy contract that is valid for one year since you cannot access the public healthcare system.
How To Apply
  • Start the application process and gather the required documents.
    *Required Documents must be translated
    *Assemble Your Application Package
    *Present Documents at a Visa Appointment and Pay Fees
  • Send the application with the documents to the Spanish consulate in your country.

You will receive the green signal from the government office within a month of this process.

Note that you can also apply for Spain Freelance and Self-Employed Visa if you meet the criteria.

Malta

Malta grants a nomad residence permit to remote workers. With this visa, you’re allowed to stay in the country for one year.

Conditions
  • You have a work contract with a company outside of Malta and can prove that your duties can be performed remotely, or
  • You’re a freelancer who provides services to foreign clients other than in Malta.
  • Your monthly income is a minimum of €2,700 (gross of tax)
How To Apply
  • Start the application process and gather the required documents.
    *Required Documents must be translated
    *Present Documents Via Email
  • You will receive your approval from the Agency within a month of this process.

For further information, please check our Malta Digital Nomad Visa article.

Norway

If you desire to work in Norway as a remote worker, you require proper visas and work permits as established by the immigration law.

Conditions

Any EU national can arrive in Norway and start working without any visa. However, he will have to register himself with the police and provide his employment contract within three months of his existence in the country.

Besides, anyone applying for the Norway digital nomad visa must prove that their pay and working conditions are not lower than is normal in Norway.

How To Apply
  • Collect all the documents, including a valid passport.
  • You need a signed cover letter from the Application portal.

According to the circumstances, you might have to explain your current working situation and the proposed ones. For instance, whether you’ll work less than full time or for multiple employers.

Depending on that, you will be issued the part-time, fixed-term, and seasonal workers visa.

Other Digital Nomad Visa Countries

Anguilla (UK Territory)

Now, you can also relish the work-life in the British Caribbean island, Anguilla. It is currently accepting applications from people wanting remote work visas in the pursuit of an extended stay. The visa length is nine months to 1 year.

Conditions

  • The applicant must not have a criminal background.
  • Form a company in Anguilla that employs you to get your work permit.
  • Rent a long-term apartment
  • Health insurance coverage
  • The income of at least $50,000
How to Apply
  • While you fill out the application, attach all valid documents like passport, statement of Net Worth and bank references, police checks, character letters of reference, medical exam, etc.
  • The application fee is $2000 for an individual and $3000 for a family.

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda have launched a long-stay visa program, named the “Nomad Digital Residence.” Anyone who wishes to work remotely will have access to modern amenities, including a sound telecommunications infrastructure in the country.

Conditions

The application fee (non-refundable) has to be paid while applying for the visa. The declaration has to be provided that the individual’s expected income will be no less than US$50,000 (Fifty thousand US dollars).

You also might be asked to provide a police clearance for each applicant over the age of 16.

The fee is as follows:

  • Single applicant: US$1,500.00
  • Couple US$2,000.00
  • Family of 3 and over: US$3,000.00
How to Apply
  • The application is to be submitted at the official website along with a passport photo of each applicant, a copy of the main passport page,
  • A certificate of medical insurance coverage for the period of their intended stay.

After the application submission has been successful, you will receive a confirmation through email.

Australia

To work remotely in Australia for a short-term period, you can apply for a Visitor visa. It permits the individual to work in the country, however, not in an Australian company.

Conditions
  • An applicant can apply for a visitor visa with work rights.
  • Visa holders can apply for a. Australian Tourist stream visa that allows them to work in minimal circumstances.
  • This visa doesn’t allow the holder to re-enter the country once he leaves.
  • You must have a compelling reason to work in Australia.
How to Apply
  • Determine the category of work you are eligible for and satisfy all the requirements (skills as well as documented)
  • Fill the application online and pay the fee.

You shall also be asked to submit proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) and health insurance.

Barbados

Barbados provides short-term as well as long-term permits for digital nomads. Barbados Welcome Stamp will let you work from a beautiful holiday destination.

Conditions
  • Applicant’s annual income must be at least $50k.
  • All applicants need to have health insurance.
  • Applicants will have their backgrounds checked.
  • The cost of the process is $2000 for a single person and $3000 for a family.
How to apply
  • Present a detailed cover letter along with a C-1, C-2, C-3 type of application form according to the permit type you are applying for.
  • Attach all the required documents.
  • Pay the fee while processing the application as it will not be accepted before it.
  • Applications will be processed within a week.

Bermuda

‘Work From Bermuda’ visa officially welcomes digital nomads and remote working professionals to work from the island.

Conditions
  • It permits you to work in Bermuda for one year
  • Work From the Bermuda program only costs $263.
  • The applicant must be at least 18 years of age
  • Clean criminal record
How to Apply

The application process is simplified, and once it is approved, you can enter Bermuda within a week. The entire application filing and payment process for Bermuda Digital Nomad Visa are completed online within one hour.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands offer two types of work visas. The temporary work permit is granted for six months and takes 5-10 business days to process. Besides, a Gainful Occupation License (GOL) is granted for periods up to three years.

Conditions

Before arriving in the Cayman islands, every individual needs to have a work permit. The person must not be in the country while the application is being submitted. The person must have a basic understanding of English

How to Apply

Apply for the application to the Cayman Islands Government Department of Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman. Provide specific documents and complete the application form – Part 1, employee section, and Part 2 employer section.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is targeting potential remote workers or digital nomads as it launches the digital nomad visa program. This visa terminates after 12 months and you can renew it for six months more.

Conditions
  • The applicant must prove that he has a foreign income source of at least US$5,000 per month.
  • He must also have a medical insurance policy to cover the duration of his stay in Costa Rica.
  • Moreover, it is also applicable to family members of the principal applicant,
How to Apply
  • The application can be filled online as well as with the help of an immigration lawyer.
  • The documents must be submitted in Spanish.
  • Besides, the application fee is $250.

Curaçao

@HOME Curaçao is a program that is ideal for remote workers and digital nomads who want to live on an island while working remotely. It offers a temporary home away from home for those people.

As a remote worker, you could be eligible for a temporary stay permit if you meet the conditions.

Conditions
  • You’re using telecoms technology to work from anywhere.
  • You’re employed by a company based in another nation and have a legal contract.
  • You’re a partner or shareholder of a foreign-registered corporation that conducts business on its behalf.
  • You have contacts in a foreign nation with whom you provide freelancing or consultancy services.
How to Apply
  • You can apply for the program online on the website: www.athomeincuracao.com
  • Applications can be submitted in English, Spanish, and Dutch.

For more insights, check out our Living in Curaçao as a Digital Nomad article.

Dubai (UAE)

You can now enjoy working in a country that offers safety, infrastructure, and a positive work-life balance.

Conditions
  • The program costs $287 (R4,724), excluding medical insurance with valid UAE coverage and a processing fee per person.
  • Employment proof with a one-year contract validity
  • The minimum salary requirement is $5,000 (R82,311) per month.

UAE has also announced a Green Visa for high-skilled individuals, freelancers, and top students. Check out our UAE Green Visa article for updates.

How to Apply
  • After you have satisfied the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the visa online.
  • You would require documents like a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity and health insurance with UAE coverage.

Georgia

You can work remotely from Georgia with a remote work visa for 180 days. It works for all entrepreneurs, business owners, and even salaried employees who wish to ‘work from home.’

Conditions
  • You need a minimum monthly income of at least $2,000.
  • Proof of health insurance for the entire stay duration
How to Apply
  • Complete an application form and obtain pre-approval for entry from the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development.
  • The application demands personal details like proof of financial ability to pay taxes; proof of health insurance.

The application is processed within ten business days.

Mexico

Mexico’s recently launched ‘temporary resident visa’ permits visitors to live and work in Mexico for a year. After that, it could be extended for three more years.

Conditions
  • To qualify, the applicant needs to prove that his monthly income is $1,620and a bank account balance of over $27,000.
  • Moreover, the person will not be eligible to work for the country.
How to Apply
  • Fill the application and a detailed cover letter that consists of the applicant’s name, nationality, and activity to be pursued.
  • If the application is approved, the Mexican consulate abroad will be notified, and you can make an appointment for an interview
  • You will also need to take a medical exam.

Mauritius

Mauritius is offering a Premium Travel Visa for tourists who wish to work remotely. However, you will have to follow a set of guidelines.

Conditions

You are required to show proof of accommodation and source of income that comes from outside Mauritius.

You must also have travel and health insurance coverage for the initial part of your stay.

How to Apply

You need documentary evidence to support your application.

Note: The online platform for the premium travel visa application will be available shortly.

Thailand

You can obtain your six-month multiple entry visa and work as a digital nomad.

Conditions
  • To acquire a Thai work permit, you need to establish your own Thai company. The company must employ 4 Thai employees per foreigner.
  • If you enter Thailand with a non-immigrant business visa, you can file an application for a Work Permit with the Alien Occupational Control Division.
How to Apply
  • The work permit application is processed in the Ministry of Labor office.

The applicant has to submit these documents:

  • 2 inches photo, medical certificate, original passport, letter of employment, address in Thailand
  • company certificate and objectives, list of shareholders, application for VAT, financial statement.

Tips On Living Abroad

Working and living abroad is not a layman’s job. You have to be extremely cautious about a few things. So, here are some tips to live abroad on a digital nomad visa.

  • Try to choose a place that you have already visited to be familiar with it to some extent.
  • Have a complete physical checkup. Of course, who would like to fall sick in a foreign country just after moving?
  • Try to learn the local language of the country you are moving to. Not to mention, English is a big mandate.
  • Learn about the transport system
  • Understand your visa conditions thoroughly.
  • Try to make friends with fellow ex-pats to learn more about the country.

For more insights, check out our Mastering Your Life as a Digital Nomad article.

So, now that you have the detailed guide along with the conditions and procedure to apply for your digital nomad visa in various countries, what are you waiting for?

Apply for it and work from a kingdom of your choice!