Working remotely has now gotten easier for persons seeking to combine work and travel. Remote work has become increasingly popular in today’s digital age, and many countries are now offering special visas for remote workers. This opportunity is perfect for digital nomads who are interested in relocating while they work online. The digital nomad visas allow those working remotely to legally reside in foreign countries. The best part is that these visas accommodate those working outside the host country they are relocating to. Here are six of the top destinations for remote workers and the unique benefits that they offer.
1. Spain: A Blend of Culture and Connectivity
At the top of our list of countries offering digital nomad visas is Spain. This country, located in Southwestern Europe, offers a relatively affordable visa program of around $88. To be qualified for the digital nomad visa in Spain, workers must earn at least twice the Spanish minimum wage, which is approximately $2,565 per month in 2024, according to research. Workers are also required to have health insurance coverage. The workers approved for the digital nomad visas will be allowed to stay for a year, and their visas can be renewed annually. Remote workers may consider Barcelona and Madrid to relocate because these cities offer vibrant social scenes, strong infrastructure, and coworking spaces.
2. Portugal: Affordable and Vibrant
In Southwestern Europe, Portugal offers an affordable and flexible visa program. Persons who relocate to this country can enjoy a lower cost of living when compared to many Western countries. The country also has a warm climate and historical cities like Lisbon and Porto. To be qualified for this program, remote workers are required to earn a monthly income of at least $3,511. They are also required to pay around $89 for the program and $78 for a residency card. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of accommodations and maintain health insurance coverage. Approved digital nomad visas will last for a year, and they can be renewed up to four times.
3. Malta: A Mediterranean Escape
Remote workers interested in going to Southern Europe can apply for a digital nomad visa in Malta. This country, located in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, charges $323 for their visa program and $30 for a residency card. This program welcomes visitors to a scenic island with lovely landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and a pleasant climate. Applicants are required to have an income of at least $45,233 annually. They are also required to provide proof of remote work capability and a clean background check.
4. Estonia: A Digital Pioneer
Estonia is located in Northern Europe near the Baltic Sea. This area is perfect for those seeking a quieter and more innovative lifestyle. This country is among the first countries to offer digital nomad visas. The visa program offers short-term stays of under 90 days, which cost about $86, and long-term stays of up to a year, which cost around $108. To be approved for this visa, applicants are required to have a minimum monthly income of $4,846. They must also pass their background checks.
5. Norway: High Standards and Opportunities
Norway, situated in Northern Europe, features a higher cost of living but boasts amazing landscapes and robust infrastructure. This destination provides a visa program for professionals with substantial earning potential and specific work arrangements. The program is approximately $641, and applicants are required to have an annual income of at least $38,162. Applicants must also have a contract with a Norwegian client and earn at least approximately $17 per hour from the client.
6. Romania: Affordable and Flexible
In Southeastern Europe, Romania offers an accessible program, allowing applicants to apply in person or online. This country welcomes visitors to enjoy its coworking spaces, fast internet, and a rich cultural backdrop, particularly in cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. Applicants will only be approved for digital nomad visas if they are earning at least $4,000 monthly. They must also have valid health insurance and proof of employment or self-employment outside Romania.
