A comprehensive guide to worldwide digital nomad visas, including general requirements, the standard application process, and FAQs.

What is the definition of a digital nomad?

A digital nomad works remotely while travelling and living in different locations, using a laptop and an internet connection to complete their work tasks from anywhere in the world. Most digital nomads work remotely on a tourist visa, which is illegal. As a result, many countries issue digital nomad visas to foreigners who want to work while travelling legally.

These visas do not lead to permanent residence or citizenship, but they are ideal for nomads and freelancers who want to travel and work remotely.

What Is the Digital Nomad Visa?

Digital nomad visas allow you to work remotely in a foreign country. To be eligible for this visa, you must typically work for an employer or company outside of your host country or own a business you can manage from anywhere in the world.

Eligibility Criteria For A Digital Nomad Visa

Here are some eligibility requirements for the digital nomad visa:

• You must be at least 18 years of age.
• You must have a specific monthly income (which varies by country).
• You must have a job that allows you to work from anywhere worldwide.

Where Can I Get a Digital Nomad Visa in 2024?

Here is a list of the countries that currently offer a digital nomad visa :

• Andorra*
• Dominica
• Mexico
• Anguilla
• Costa Rica
• Dubai
• Montenegro*
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Ecuador
• Aruba
• Argentina*
• Estonia
• North Macedonia
• Brazil
• Bermuda
• Georgia
• Montserrat
• Norway
• Bahamas
• Germany
• Panama
• Portugal
• Barbados
• Greece
• Romania
• Belize
• Hungary
• Saint Lucia
• Cayman Islands
• Colombia
• Iceland
• Seychelles
• Cabo Verde
• Indonesia
• South Africa*
• Curaçao
• Italy*
• Spain
• Croatia
• Latvia
• Sri Lanka*
• Czechia
• Malta
• Taiwan
• Uruguay
• Cyprus
• Mauritius
• Thailand

A visa for digital nomads has been introduced but has yet to be implemented.

What are the best countries for digital nomads?

The "best" countries for digital nomads can vary depending on personal preferences such as cost of living, quality of life, internet connectivity, safety, visa regulations, and overall digital nomad infrastructure. However, certain countries are frequently mentioned as popular destinations for digital nomads due to their favourable conditions. Here are some of the best countries for digital nomads:

1. Estonia is known for its advanced digital infrastructure and was one of the first countries to offer a digital nomad visa, making it appealing to remote workers.
2. Portugal has a relatively low cost of living, a pleasant climate, and picturesque coastal cities such as Lisbon and Porto. It also boasts a thriving digital nomad community.
3. Spain has a diverse culture, delicious cuisine, and great weather. Cities such as Barcelona and Valencia are popular among digital nomads due to their lifestyle and facilities.
4. Thailand provides affordability, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming atmosphere. Chiang Mai, in particular, has a well-developed digital nomad community.
5. Mexico offers a rich cultural experience, low living costs, and diverse landscapes. Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are popular destinations for digital nomads.
6. Colombia combines modern cities, colonial towns, and natural beauty. Medellín is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its pleasant climate and low cost of living.
7. Bali, Indonesia: Bali is known for its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. It boasts a thriving digital nomad community, particularly in Ubud and Canggu.
8. Croatia boasts stunning coastal cities, historic towns, and a high standard of living. Cities like Split and Dubrovnik entice digital nomads with their beauty and charm.
9. Taiwan combines modern amenities with traditional culture and breathtaking natural beauty. Taipei, in particular, has excellent internet connections and a thriving expat community.
10. Georgia: Georgia has low living costs, a rich history, and beautiful scenery. Tbilisi, the capital, is gaining popularity among digital nomads due to its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.

These are just a few examples; personal preferences and priorities ultimately determine the best country for a digital nomad. Before deciding, conduct thorough research on each destination, considering factors such as visa requirements, cost of living, safety, and lifestyle preferences.

Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

To apply for a digital nomad visa, follow the instructions below:

1. Fill in the application form. 
2. Schedule an appointment with the embassy or consulate. 
3. Prepare your documents. 
4. Submit your application. 

Fill Out the Application Form.

Fill out the digital nomad visa application form according to the instructions. Some countries require you to complete the application online before printing and signing it, while others require you to fill it out in person at the embassy or consulate. Please provide complete and accurate information, including your most recent contact information.

Could you schedule an appointment with an embassy or consulate?

It would be best to locate a visa office, which can be an embassy or consulate—remember that an embassy and a consulate are not the same institution. Depending on your country of residence, you may need to apply at a neighbouring embassy. Nonetheless, once you've located your visa office, you must make an appointment to submit your application and attend the visa interview.

Prepare your documents.

After completing your application, you must prepare the required documents. Some of your documents may need to be translated or apostille-certified.

Submit your application.

When your documents are ready, please submit them to the embassy along with your completed visa application. You must also attend the visa interview and pay the visa fee; some countries require you to pay the cost in advance and submit the receipt as part of your application documents.

Visa documents for digital nomads are required.

You require the following documents for your digital visa application:

• Visa application form for digital nomads.
• Your passport.
• Identity photos.
• Provide proof of health insurance.
• Proof of financial income (source, amount, etc.).
• Evidence of remote work (clients, work contracts, and business licenses).
• Civil documents (birth certificate, resume, qualifications, etc.)

Document Guidelines

The documents needed for your digital nomad visa must adhere to the guidelines below.

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of application.
• Your identification photos must be taken with a plain white background, a neutral facial expression, and no editing.
• Civil documents must be translated (if necessary) and certified with an apostille stamp. 

How long does it take to obtain a digital nomad visa?

It usually takes about a month to process your digital nomad visa. However, remember that the processing time for a visa application varies from country to country.

Digital Nomad Visa Validity

A digital nomad visa is valid for one or two years. Some countries may allow you to extend your digital nomad visa for up to five years if you meet the requirements.