Top 21 countries with digital nomad visas + application guide

In the wake of the remote work boom, more people are swapping commutes and cubicles for laptops and long-term travel. Whether it's a beach in Portugal or a coworking hub in Mexico, the rise of digital nomadism has transformed where and how professionals live and work.

To keep pace with this shift, countries around the world have introduced specialized work visas that cater to location-independent workers. These digital nomad visas make it possible to stay longer than a tourist visa typically allows, often with the legal right to live, work remotely, and tap into local services for months or even years at a time.

In this guide, we’ll explore what a digital nomad visa is, why it matters, and which countries offer the best options in 2025. Whether you’re an HR leader managing a distributed team or a remote worker planning your next move, this guide will help you navigate your global possibilities.

Benefits of digital nomad visas

Digital nomad visas offer more than just legal permission to stay in a foreign country—they open the door to a more flexible, immersive, and sustainable lifestyle for remote workers. Here are some of the biggest advantages of applying for one:

Legally live and work in a foreign country

A digital nomad visa allows you to reside in a new country while working remotely for a foreign employer or clients. It eliminates the legal gray areas that often come with working on a tourist visa and gives you peace of mind to focus on your life and career.

Access to local services

Unlike short-term tourist stays, digital nomad visas often grant access to essential services like local banking, mobile phone contracts, and in some cases, national healthcare systems, making it easier to settle into life abroad.

Enjoy longer stays than tourist visas allow

Tourist visas usually come with tight restrictions on how long you can stay: often just 30 to 90 days. By contrast, digital nomad visas typically allow stays of 6 to 24 months and often include the option to renew or extend.

Lower cost of living in nomad-friendly countries

Many of the most popular digital nomad destinations, like Mexico, Portugal, or Thailand, offer a significantly lower cost of living than major U.S. cities. That means your income goes further, making it easier to save money or upgrade your quality of life.

Networking and professional growth opportunities

Living in nomad hubs or coworking-friendly cities puts you in close contact with other entrepreneurs, remote professionals, and creatives from around the world. These environments often foster new collaborations, business ideas, and professional growth you wouldn’t find in a traditional office setting.

Top 21 countries offering digital nomad visas

Whether you're looking for a quaint beach town, bustling city, or a quiet mountain village, there's likely a country offering a digital nomad visa that fits your lifestyle. These programs vary in terms of minimum income requirements, duration, and cost, but all of them are designed to make it easier for remote workers to legally live and work abroad. Here are 21 of the best countries for digital nomads in 2025:

1. Portugal

Portugal remains a top choice for remote workers thanks to its affordable living, fast internet, and welcoming digital nomad visa. The visa allows you to stay for up to one year (renewable), provided you meet minimum income requirements and have remote employment.

2. Spain

Spain's digital nomad visa is ideal for professionals looking to live in vibrant cities or quiet coastal towns. With a stay of up to five years and access to public services, it's one of the most comprehensive options in Europe.

3. Italy

Italy offers a digital nomad work visa for highly skilled professionals who work remotely for non-Italian companies. If you meet the minimum income threshold and carry health insurance, you can enjoy life in cities like Rome or Florence for up to one year.

4. Croatia

Known for its historic coastal cities and strong digital infrastructure, Croatia offers a 12-month digital nomad visa for non-EU citizens who work remotely and earn sufficient income from abroad.

5. Estonia

One of the pioneers of e-residency and digital work infrastructure, Estonia’s nomad visa allows remote workers to stay for up to one year. It's an excellent choice for those drawn to efficient bureaucracy and tech-forward policies.

6. Germany

Freelancers and self-employed professionals can apply for Germany’s freelance visa, which enables long-term stays in cities like Berlin or Hamburg. It requires contracts with international clients and a detailed business plan.

7. Greece

Greece offers a one-year digital nomad visa (renewable), with relatively moderate income requirements. It’s ideal for those looking for a Mediterranean lifestyle with strong infrastructure and an affordable cost of living.

8. Malta

Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit is valid for one year and targets non-EU citizens who can work remotely. A strong internet network and English-speaking population make it easy to settle in.

9. Norway

While more expensive than other options, Norway’s independent contractor visa is a fit for freelancers with local clients and a solid financial cushion. It’s perfect for those who want nature, safety, and a high quality of life.

10. France

France offers a long-stay visa (visa de long séjour) that remote workers can use to live and work from anywhere in the country for up to a year. While not a dedicated digital nomad visa, it’s a viable option for freelancers and remote employees earning income from outside France. Applicants must show proof of consistent income, international health insurance, and accommodation during their stay.

11. Iceland

Iceland offers a short-term remote work visa (up to 180 days) for high-earning professionals. It’s a good pick for those wanting a temporary taste of Nordic life.

12. Ireland

Ireland doesn’t yet have a formal digital nomad visa, but remote workers may apply for long-stay visas or consider Ireland’s short-term business options, especially if they have ties to international companies.

13. Mexico

Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa allows remote workers to stay for up to four years. With a relatively low income threshold and vibrant expat communities, it’s one of the most accessible options in the Americas.

14. Colombia

Colombia has launched a digital nomad visa that offers up to two years of residence. Its low cost of living, urban coworking hubs, and relaxed vibe have made it increasingly popular with younger professionals.

15. Panama

Panama’s Short Stay Visa is specifically designed for remote workers, including digital nomads. It allows an initial stay of nine months, with the option to extend once for a total of 18 months. Applicants must earn at least $3,000 per month from a non-Panamanian company and show proof of remote work status and health insurance. 

16. Belize

Belize’s Work Where You Vacation program invites remote workers to live in a tropical paradise for up to six months. Applicants must show proof of sufficient annual income and remote employment.

17. Thailand

Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa offers a dedicated digital work category. With tax perks and access to coworking communities, it’s designed for high-earning remote workers and entrepreneurs.

18. Japan

Japan is planning a new digital nomad visa aimed at high-income earners in 2025. It’s ideal for tech workers and remote professionals who want to immerse themselves in Japanese culture while continuing their careers.

19. Dubai (UAE)

Dubai offers a one-year remote work visa that requires proof of steady income and health insurance. The city offers top-tier infrastructure, luxury amenities, and no income tax.

20. South Korea

South Korea recently introduced its “Workcation” visa, allowing remote workers to stay for up to two years. With fast internet and vibrant cities like Seoul and Busan, it's gaining traction as a nomad hotspot.

21. Turkey

Turkey doesn’t have a formal digital nomad visa, but it offers residence permits that remote workers can use. Istanbul’s affordability and culture-rich atmosphere make it a common stop on the nomad circuit.

How to apply for a digital nomad visa

Applying for a digital nomad visa might sound complex, but the process is generally straightforward if you meet the requirements and prepare your documents in advance. While steps vary slightly by country, becoming a digital nomad generally looks something like this:

Step 1: Choose the right country

Start by narrowing down destinations that align with your budget, lifestyle, and work needs. Consider the cost of living, time zone, visa length, internet quality, and any local language or cultural preferences.

Step 2: Meet the financial requirements

Each country sets its own minimum income threshold to ensure you can support yourself while living abroad. This can range from around $1,500 to over $7,000 per month. Be ready to show bank statements, employment contracts, or proof of self-employment income.

Step 3: Gather necessary documents

Common documents include a valid passport, proof of remote employment or freelance work, recent bank statements, health insurance coverage, and sometimes a background check or proof of accommodation.

Step 4: Submit your application online or at an embassy

Some countries accept digital applications through official government portals, while others require you to apply in person at a consulate or embassy in your home country. Make sure to double-check the process for your chosen destination.

Step 5: Wait for approval and plan your move

Visa processing times can vary. Some take just a few weeks, while others may take several months. Once approved, you’ll receive your visa and can begin planning your travel, housing, and transition abroad.

Requirements for digital nomad visas

While the specific criteria for digital nomad visas can differ by country, several common requirements are typically expected:

Proof of stable income

Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay. This often involves providing bank statements or income verification documents.

Confirmation of remote employment or freelance work

Evidence of employment with a company outside the host country, or proof of freelance contracts, is usually required to ensure the applicant's work is not tied to the local economy.

Valid health insurance

Many countries mandate that digital nomads have comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay, ensuring access to medical services if needed. This often means purchasing international travel insurance or expat health plans that include coverage for emergency care, hospitalization, and repatriation.

Clean criminal record

A background check or police clearance certificate is commonly requested to confirm that the applicant has no serious criminal history.

Proof of accommodation

Applicants may need to provide evidence of their accommodation arrangements, such as a rental agreement or hotel booking, to demonstrate that they have made suitable living arrangements.

Visa application fees

Most digital nomad visas come with an application fee, which varies depending on the country. It's important to check the specific fee structure for the destination in question.

It's essential to consult the official immigration resources of the desired country to obtain detailed and up-to-date information on their specific digital nomad visa requirements.

Taxes digital nomads may incur

While digital nomad visas allow remote workers to live abroad legally, they don’t always exempt you from tax obligations. In fact, understanding how and where you’ll be taxed is one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of long-term remote work. Here are some key tax considerations:

Tax residency status

Many countries determine tax residency based on how long you stay, typically around 183 days in a calendar year. If you exceed this threshold, you could be considered a tax resident and subject to local income taxes, even if your earnings come from abroad.

Double taxation agreements

To avoid being taxed in two countries on the same income, some nations have double taxation treaties. These agreements may allow you to offset or eliminate taxes owed in your home country if you’ve already paid in your host country. It’s important to review whether such a treaty exists between your country of citizenship and where you're living.

U.S. tax obligations

For American citizens working remotely for U.S. companies, tax obligations follow you no matter where you live. The U.S. taxes its citizens on worldwide income, even if you qualify as a resident elsewhere. However, you may be eligible for exclusions like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or foreign tax credits that help reduce your U.S. tax burden.

Even with a digital nomad visa, your tax situation can be complex, especially if you move between multiple countries. It’s important to consult a tax professional familiar with international and expat tax laws to ensure you stay compliant while working abroad.

How much does a digital nomad visa cost?

The cost of obtaining a digital nomad visa varies widely depending on your destination, lifestyle, and visa duration. While some countries keep fees low to attract remote workers, others have more expensive application processes and financial thresholds. Here are the main factors that influence the total cost:

Application fees

Most digital nomad visa programs charge an upfront application or processing fee. These can range from under $100 to over $2,000, depending on the country and the length of stay. Some may also include additional costs for residency permits or legal processing.

Housing expenses

You’ll need to account for the cost of housing while you stay abroad. In many cases, proof of housing is required for your visa approval. Living costs vary dramatically by region, with Southeast Asia and Latin America offering more affordable options than much of Europe.

Permit fees

In addition to the initial visa application fee, some countries charge for permits, registration cards, or required background checks. These expenses may not be clearly outlined upfront, so it’s worth budgeting a little extra.

Monthly expenses

To qualify, applicants often need to show they can support themselves financially. This might include a minimum monthly income or proof of savings. While not a direct fee, it does influence how much cash you need on hand to be eligible.

Visa costs don’t stop at paperwork. Consider the full financial picture before deciding where to apply. Factoring in the cost of living, visa length, and lifestyle preferences can help you choose a country that fits your budget and long-term goals.

Challenges and considerations for digital nomads

While the lifestyle of a digital nomad can seem idyllic, it also comes with logistical, financial, and professional hurdles. Before applying for a visa or booking a one-way flight, it’s important to understand the tradeoffs that come with living and working across borders.

Meeting strict income requirements

Many countries offering digital nomad visas require proof of stable monthly income, sometimes as high as $5,000–$7,000 USD. These requirements help ensure that remote workers won’t become a financial burden on the host country, but they can limit access to those with higher-paying jobs or long-term contracts. If you're still learning how to be a digital nomad, this can be one of the biggest initial barriers.

Understanding tax obligations as a digital nomad

Figuring out where and how to pay taxes while living abroad is complicated. Some digital nomad visa countries may consider you a tax resident after 183 days, while others may exempt remote workers if their income originates from foreign employers. U.S. citizens are also required to file taxes regardless of where they live. Misunderstanding these rules could result in double taxation or unexpected legal trouble.

Dealing with long visa processing times

Even in the most nomad-friendly countries, digital nomad visa processing can take weeks or even months. Delays may be caused by missing documents, background checks, or limited embassy capacity. This can complicate travel plans, especially for remote workers on tight timelines.

Banking and financial challenges

Opening a bank account abroad or accessing your money while living in a new country can be tricky, especially if you don’t have residency yet. Not all digital nomad visa programs grant immediate access to local banking services, which can impact everything from paying rent to managing your business.

Time zone and remote work productivity issues

Living in a different time zone than your employer or clients can make it difficult to maintain regular work hours or join team meetings. Depending on your location, staying productive while working remotely may require adjusting your schedule, investing in reliable tech, and finding quiet, internet-ready workspaces.

Cultural and legal differences

From healthcare access to local customs, every country comes with its own set of rules and expectations. Understanding what is a digital nomad in the context of each country is important, not just for visa compliance, but also for integrating respectfully into local communities.

Visas don’t equal permanence

Many digital nomad visa countries offer only short-term or renewable permits. This means you may have to leave after a year, or reapply with new documentation and fees. Long-term planning, especially for families or individuals with pets, can be difficult under temporary legal status.

Hire and pay employees around the world with Rippling

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Countries with digital nomad visas FAQs

Which country is best for a digital nomad visa?

The best digital nomad countries in 2025 often balance affordability, infrastructure, and visa flexibility. Portugal, Spain, and Mexico consistently top the list for their quality of life, reliable internet, and relatively straightforward visa processes.

What is the cheapest country to live in with a digital nomad visa?

If you're looking for budget-friendly digital nomad visa countries, Colombia, Mexico, and Thailand are great options. These destinations offer low living costs, thriving remote work communities, and accessible visa programs.

What is the easiest country to be a digital nomad?

Countries like Croatia, Panama, and Estonia have streamlined application processes and modest income requirements, making them some of the easiest places to start your journey as a digital nomad.

Who qualifies for a digital nomad visa?

Most digital nomad visa programs require proof of remote employment or freelance work, stable income, valid health insurance, and a clean background check. Eligibility varies depending on what countries offer digital nomad visas, so it’s important to review each program’s specific requirements before applying.

This blog is based on information available to Rippling as of April 18, 2025.

Disclaimer: Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide or be relied on for tax, accounting, or legal advice. You should consult your own tax, accounting, and legal advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.