Who is Considered a Digital Nomad?
A "digital nomad" is someone who has abandoned a permanent residence in favor of traveling the world while maintaining an online presence and earning an income. The term usually refers to a nomadic person who uses the internet and electronic devices to provide their services either to a remote business or their own from anywhere in the world.
Those who hold digital nomad visas are able to lawfully work and live in a foreign country.
A digital nomad's lifestyle can be rewarding in that it allows for extended travel while maintaining financial independence, but it also comes with its share of challenges that can make it difficult to build meaningful connections with others.
A Digital Nomad Visa: What Is It?
For an extended amount of time, travelers with a digital nomad visa can lawfully work remotely for a foreign employer and collect a salary from their host country. Nowadays, digital nomads can take use of such long-term stay arrangements in a number of nations.
Where Can You Get a Visa to Work as a Digital Nomad?
As of 2022, more than 45 countries have some sort of visa that would make it possible for digital nomads to work there.
The global community has evolved significantly ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, and many businesses and professional fields that used to me more traditional with an in-office work requirement, now permit workers to work from home. This trend is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, which is why now more than ever workers are looking for options to relocate to countries and cities that offer the benefits they're looking for such as good weather, family closeness, tax incentives, food, and culture, etc.
Countries that offer what is known as the digital nomad visa are meeting the needs of both workers and businesses hoping to attract income earners to invest in their countries while allowing them the flexibility to work from an enjoyable environment.
The term "digital nomad visa" refers to a document or program that authorizes its holder to live and work outside their country of citizenship while maintaining their usual employment and immigration status.
Governments that award these visas don't always refer to them as "digital nomad visas." Instead, they may use a more generic term like "residence permit" or a more specific designation like the Global Citizen Concierge Program in the Cayman Islands.
Who Can Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa?
These visas could not cater to digital nomads in particular. Students and employees can apply for these visas, albeit the costs and restrictions vary widely depending on the type of visa requested.
Numerous supplying countries accept applications for both the applicant and his or her family members.
Digital nomad visas are available for workers and students, albeit the costs and restrictions may differ depending on the country. Proof of enrolment in an accredited undergraduate, graduate, doctorate, or research program is required in order to apply for the Work From Bermuda Certificate.
Remote Workers Vs. Digital Nomads
The term "remote worker" has gained popularity in recent years, although it isn't a great synonym for "digital nomad." As a rule, digital nomads must perform their jobs from afar. However, the latter word can also be used to describe those who simply choose to conduct their business from their homes. Travelers entering a country on a tourist visa are typically not allowed to engage in gainful employment while in that country due to legal restrictions.
Remote work (from within one's own country) wasn't as common as it is today.
However, due in no small part to the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has become increasingly common. Now more than ever, businesses are realizing that allowing employees to occasionally work from home actually boosts output. Remote workers may put in an extra 1.4 days a month compared to their office-bound counterparts, according to some studies.
Pros and Cons of Being a Digital Nomad
If you're thinking about finding a job in another country, it's important to check out the local regulations and adhere to them. Working on a digital nomad visa comes with advantages but also drawbacks.
Advantages
The most obvious perk is the ability to take a longer vacation without having to put your job on wait thanks to these programs. A robust wifi network is a desirable amenity for remote employees, and most areas that provide digital nomad visas already have the equipment to support distant workers. In the case of Anguilla, for instance, there are two different telecommunications network providers both of which provide access to extremely fast internet.
Disadvantages
A digital nomad is someone whose work can be done from anywhere, on their own schedule. When there is a time difference and hours need to be logged, this is crucial. Although the changes in work dynamics have led to an increase in these types of professions, this may be a deal breaker for some businesses and employees.
Another disadvantage is that the relocation process and the digital nomad visa required to legally work from a country of which you're not a citizen is that it often comes with a hefty price tag.
Constant change of scenery and location can put a strain on current friendships and romantic partnerships, and can prevent new ones from developing. There is little purpose in setting down roots somewhere you won't be living in a year or so, unless the country allows you permanent status after your temporary visa expires. This lack of attachment can be considered as a positive by people who prize autonomy, but anyone contemplating a lengthy stay overseas should give serious thought to the potential for social isolation.
Where Can You Find Visas to Work Remotely?
Anguilla:
Remote employees have the opportunity to relocate to the British Overseas Territory of Anguilla for a period of one year as part of the Beyond Extraordinary Anguilla initiative. There is a trip cost of $2,000 USD for individuals who wish to undertake remote work from the island, and there is a travel price of $3,000 USD for families with up to four people (plus $250 USD for each additional member of the family).
In order for applicants to arrange a trip, they need to submit an application form that has been filled out in its whole along with any supporting evidence (proof of employment, copy of a birth certificate, etc.). The approval process for the remote job program typically takes around 14 days to complete. The provision of proof demonstrating that a test for COVID-19 was negative is required before travel authorization may be granted.
The Nomad Digital Residence offers long-term programs for digital nomads in both Antigua and Barbuda. These programs may be found on both islands. The visa is valid for two years and costs $1,500 USD per individual, $2,000 USD per couple, and $3,000 USD for each family of three or more members in the United States. In order to be considered for this program, candidates need to complete the application and provide up to eleven supporting papers, such as evidence that they have an annual income of at least $50,000 USD.
Bahamas:
An ETS visa allows travelers to stay in the Bahamas for up to a year, during which time they are free to work remotely from any of the country's sixteen islands.
In order to submit an application, you are required to pay a $25 USD application fee, provide a copy of the information page from a valid passport, show that you have medical insurance, and verify that you have employment. Applications are typically handled within a span of five days, on average. If you are granted the Work Remotely permit, you will need to pay $1,000 USD (plus $500 USD for each dependant) to receive it.
Barbados:
As a result of the introduction of the Barbados Welcome Stamp, it is now possible for non-citizens from other countries to remain in the island for up to a year while working remotely. The fee for individuals is $2,000, while the fee for families is $3,000. The application must be accompanied by a passport photo, a copy of the biographical data page from the passport, and evidence of a dependent connection (if applicable). In addition, applicants need to demonstrate that they have adequate cash to meet their annual living expenditures, which are estimated to be $50,000 USD.
Bermuda:
Results From Bermuda Digital nomads will be able to work from any location in the globe for a period of one year if they have this qualification. In addition to the fee of $263 USD for the application, we want evidence that you are currently employed and have health insurance coverage. The candidate's past convictions are a deal breaker for the employer. There is no predetermined level of minimum income; nonetheless, candidates should have at least enough money saved up to support themselves for a full year. There is a fee, and individual applications are necessary for each member of the family; however, they must all be filed on the same day. The turnaround time is often less than five full working days.
Caos del Verde:
The Cabo Verde Remote Working Program is open to workers from the CPLP, the ECOWAS, as well as Europe and North America (CEDEAO).
The following are some of the qualifications required of applicants:
Individuals need to demonstrate that they have a reliable source of income and a minimum bank account balance of €1,500 (1,500 euros), while families need to show that they have €2,700 (2,500 euros).
Add a passport as well as confirmation that you have health insurance among the other five pieces of documentation that are necessary to finish the application.
When you reach one of the 10 islands, you will be required to provide the border officials with a total of 10 different papers.
The duration of the processing period is often close to two weeks. The first visa is valid for a duration of six months, and subsequent renewals can be for a total of twelve months.
The Cayman Islands:
The Global Citizen Concierge Program focuses on providing services to more affluent remote workers. The minimum annual salary criterion for people is one hundred thousand dollars in United States currency.
The annual charge for the certificate is $1,469 USD for a couple, with an additional cost of $500 USD for each dependent child. In addition to that, there is a credit card processing charge that amounts to seven percent of the whole application total.
Those individuals who are successful in surmounting such a challenging barrier to entry will be granted the opportunity to spend the following two years working from the convenience of their very own island.
In addition to the application, you will need to submit a bank reference that has been notarized, a valid passport, and confirmation that you have health insurance.
Costa Rica:
If they obtain what is known as a Rentista visa, temporary residents of this Central American nation enjoy the opportunity to work remotely for a period of up to two years.
Visitors are required to demonstrate that they have a consistent monthly income of at least $2,500 USD. The number has the potential to increase if there are more individuals who rely on you.
In some cases, obtaining a visa will additionally need the payment of fees, the submission of fingerprint data, and a copy of the applicant's birth certificate. It will be possible to renew authorization after all of the requirements have been satisfied.
Croatia:
Despite the fact that Croatia does not require visas for visitors, the government has a scheme designed specifically for digital nomads. Any individual and their immediate family members are eligible for a temporary stay of up to one year; however, this stay cannot be renewed. The lapse of time that must pass before a new application may be submitted is six months.
Applicants who submit their applications in person are required to produce a variety of supporting papers, including Form 1a. Candidates are required to provide proof that they have a minimum income that is either 17,822.50 kunas (HRK) per month or 213,870.00 HRK per year. It is about comparable to $2.377.47 and $28,529.76 in United States money. The totals are increased by 10% for every new member of the family that is added.
The applicant is responsible for paying the fees, which vary from 350 HRK (about 46.69 USD) to 460 HRK (approximately 61.36 USD).
Curaçao:
This Dutch Caribbean island offers residents the opportunity to participate in the at-HOME in Curacao initiative. Working remotely makes you eligible for a residence that lasts for six months and can be extended for an additional six months at a time.
In addition to the application fee of $294, you will also be required to give a photo for your passport, evidence that you are financially stable, and confirmation that you have medical insurance. The processing of your order will take about two weeks.
Each person who might be interested in applying has to fill out their own application. Those who are financially reliant on the principal applicant are eligible to submit an application for the program on their own behalf. There will be an additional fee levied for any family members that accompany you.
The Czech Republic:
The Zivno visa, which is required for anyone working as independent contractors in the Czech Republic, is notoriously difficult to get. Together with the variable cost and evidence of a minimum income of 124,500 Czech Koruna (CZK), which is equivalent to around $5,121.62 in United States Dollars, applicants are asked to present documents such as a passport, documentation of accommodation, a criminal record, etc.
Everyone who is interested in applying is required to first get a professional license in one of the fields that are listed below. You'll need to find a way to mix working remotely with a job in the area, even if it's only a temporary position. Successful performance in an immigration interview is also required of applicants. The visa is valid for twelve months, and the approval procedure might take anywhere from ninety to one hundred and twenty days.
Dominica:
Dominica, known as the Nature Isle in the Caribbean, offers digital nomads an extended stay visa that allows them to work in nature for up to 18 months.
Applicants over the age of 21 are needed to demonstrate that they have an annual income of at least $50,000. In addition, applicants must pay a $100 application fee, as well as a cost of either $800 for a single visa or $1,200 for a family visa.
Together with the application, you need to submit a copy of your health insurance card, the biodata page from a passport that is still valid, and a letter of reference written by a bank representative.
You should receive a letter of acceptance sometime between 14 and 28 days after submitting the application.
Estonia:
With the support of a brand new visa program known as the Digital Nomad Visa, Estonia will begin enabling remote workers to remain in the country for up to a year beginning on August 1, 2020. Applicants for visas are required to demonstrate that they have a minimum annual income of €3,504 and pay a state charge of €80 or €100, depending on whether they are applying for a Type C (short stay) or Type D (long stay) visa. Applicants for visas are required to show that they have a minimum annual income of €3,504.
Other requirements include having health insurance and a document that is still valid for travel. In addition to this, a successful background check is necessary. The filing of applications must be done in person at the closest Estonian Embassy or Consulate, and the processing period might range anywhere from 15 to 30 days.
Georgia:
Because of a program called Remotely From Georgia, digital nomads and their families have the opportunity to spend a year working and living in the country of Georgia, which was formerly a part of the Soviet Union.
Participants can come from as many as 95 different countries, including the countries of the United States and the European Union (EU). The majority of the nations on this list are ones whose nationals did not require a visa to enter Georgia up until around one year before the epidemic began.
Those who are interested need to submit an application via the website and include evidence that they are financially stable (how much is not mentioned).
Germany:
Freelancers and other self-employed workers in Germany are entitled to submit an application for a residence visa that is initially valid for three months and can be renewed for an additional two years, for a grand total of three years.
In addition to the visa application form and the price of €60, digital nomads are required to provide photocopies of certain documents. These documents include, but are not limited to, the following items:
- Identification such as a passport
- Two sets of identifying photos
- Letter of introduction
- A sample of your prior work as a freelancer
To submit an application, personally visit the German Embassy or Consulate that is located closest to you. To be eligible for a resident permit in Germany, prospective visitors must first establish residency in the nation and register their address with the local Residence Registration Office. Only then may they submit an application for a resident permit. It is required to have a health insurance policy, a tax identification card, and a bank account in Germany.
Iceland:
The European Union, the European Economic Area, and the European Free Trade Association are not qualified to participate in the long-term visa for remote workers program; nevertheless, digital nomads from any other nation are invited to submit an application.
If applicants can demonstrate that they have a monthly income of one million (Icelandic Krona; ISK), which is about $7,261.11 USD, or 1.3 million ISK, which is approximately $9,439.44 USD, they will be eligible for a visa that is valid for up to 180 days.
There is a charge of 12,200 ISK (about $88.59 USD) for the application, and each candidate is required to submit their own application.
Other criteria for applications include a passport photo (taken within the previous six months), copies of passports, evidence of health insurance, verification of the applicant's stated purpose for visiting Iceland, and, in some instances, a criminal background check.
You have the option of submitting your application in person at the Directorate of Immigration, which is located at Dalvegur 18, 201 Kópavogur, or you can send your paperwork there.
Malta:
Individuals who have successfully applied for and been granted a Nomad Residence Permit are given the opportunity to live and work from anywhere in the archipelago for a duration of one year. Only people who currently reside in countries that are not part of the EU can submit a renewal application.
Family members of those who work remotely are required to fill out a separate application.
In addition to having a monthly gross wage that is at least €2,700, candidates are required to additionally have a current travel document, health insurance, a signed lease or purchase agreement, and a clear criminal background check.
You will get payment instructions for the €300 administrative charge once you have successfully submitted the application along with all of the supporting papers by email to the address given.
Mauritius:
With the Premium Travel Visa, you have the ability to maintain a remote job for a whole year, and you have the option to extend it. What's even better? There are no out-of-pocket expenses involved in obtaining a Premium Travel Visa.
It is still necessary for applicants to provide evidence that they have a minimum income of $1,500 per month for themselves and $500 per month for each dependent child or young adult under the age of 24. In addition to a copy of the couple's marriage certificate, prospective passengers are required to submit a copy of their current passport, proof that they have travel and health insurance, and other similar documents along with their online application.
The assessment of your application will take place during the next 48 hours.
Mexico:
The Temporary Resident Visa that is granted by Mexico is a benefit that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Remote workers in Mexico have a work visa that is valid for anything from 180 days to four years.
There is a minimum monthly income requirement of $2,720 CAD ($2,166.11 USD) or a minimum average monthly bank balance of $45,334 CAD ($36,102.41 USD) for the last 12 months (precise amounts may vary depending on the circumstances of the application) (precise amounts may vary depending on the circumstances of the application). In addition, they need to cover:
- A valid form of identification and/or travel documentation
- A headshot measuring 3.9 x 3.1 centimeters
- Visa Application Form #38 and supporting documentation
- Family members of a digital nomad can join them provided they fill out the Family Unity Application and verify they fulfill the financial and paperwork conditions set out by the host nation.
The application cost for consular services starts at $371 CDN ($284.67 USD) but could go up dependent on the facts of the case.
Montserrat:
After obtaining a Montserrat Remote Work Stamp, you will be able to engage in remote work for an entire calendar year. With evidence of a yearly income of $70,000 USD, the cost for families with up to three dependents is $750, and the charge for each additional dependent is $250. Families must also provide proof of income.
Documentation showing proof of health insurance coverage, a copy of the biographical information taken from the passport, a photocopy of the passport, a report on one's criminal background, and either a certificate of employment or a certificate of incorporation for a business are also necessary.
When an application has been submitted, the review procedure will take place within seven business days.
Norway:
Due to the Independent Contractor Visa, remote employees have the opportunity to apply for residency in Norway for a period of up to two years. The application for the visa, which costs €600, must be accompanied by proof of a yearly salary of at least €35,719.
In the online checklist of important papers provided by the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration, some of the materials that are required are a passport, two pictures, and certification that the applicant resides in Norway. It is required that the application and the checked-off checklist be sent in at the same time. The closest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate must receive all applications and accompanying documentation in order to process them.
Portugal:
Those who are self-employed have the option of applying for Portugal's D7 Passive Income Visa, which is valid for one year. It can be renewed twice for an additional four years on each occasion. The cost of obtaining a visa is €83, and the cost of obtaining a residence permit is an extra €72.
Prospective residents are required to submit the application form, along with a valid passport, two photos in the size of a passport, proof of residence, proof of sufficient income or a term of responsibility signed by a citizen or resident of Portugal, proof of ownership of a business entity (or a contract for providing services), and a declaration by an authority that the applicant is qualified to work in their sector (if applicable).
There is a second category of residency permit that can be obtained specifically for the purpose of reconnecting with family and friends.
Seychelles:
Workcation in Seychelles is a program that allows digital nomads to work remotely from any of the archipelago's 115 islands. Participants in the program can choose to stay for as little as a few weeks or as long as a year.
In addition to paying €45, applicants are required to provide a valid passport, evidence of job or company ownership, proof of income (the exact sum is not stated), and a valid medical and travel insurance policy.
Additional members of the applicant's immediate family are allowed to accompany them as guests provided that they are able to satisfy the criteria and produce sufficient evidence of their identification (such as a birth or marriage certificate).
Taiwan:
Nonetheless, the Taiwan Work Gold Card is not a genuine digital nomad visa, which differentiates Taiwan as a unique case. This versatile piece of paper performs the functions of a work visa, permanent residency card, alien registration card, and re-entry authorization all in one convenient package.
The price of the card can range anywhere from $100 USD to $310 USD, with the specific cost being determined by the nationality of the applicant as well as the anticipated length of their stay in Taiwan.
If extra documentation is necessary, the approval procedure might take anywhere from fifty to sixty days longer. It is not necessary for prospective travelers to already have a job lined up in Taiwan prior to applying for the program; rather, qualifying is based on an examination of the applicant's professional skills.
It is possible for digital nomads to be requested to present additional documents in addition to the normal passport and picture identification, although this will depend on the particular skill set for which they are applying.
What Can You Do Next?
In conclusion, obtaining a digital nomad visa can open up a world of possibilities for those who are looking to work remotely and travel the world. However, the application process and requirements can vary greatly depending on the country you're interested in, and it's important to have a thorough understanding of the process before beginning. If you're interested in pursuing a digital nomad visa and would like more information on the tax benefits, and financial strategies you can implement to make the most out of your relocation process, I invite you to schedule a consultation directly with me. I'm here to answer any questions you may have and help guide you through the process and tax-saving options.
