22 Countries With Digital Nomad Visas for Long-Term Workcations

If there’s anything that this work-from-home new normal has proven, it’s that many office tasks can actually be accomplished from anywhere. While some companies have already been doing a remote work setup even before the pandemic, others have considered shifting to this in the long term. Now more than ever, living as a digital nomad — whether through remote or freelance work — has become quite an alluring idea. After all, wouldn’t it be great to travel at your own pace while earning moolah? (In other words: limited vacation leaves, who?) 

At the same time, many countries are reviving their tourism industries by offering long-term-stay visas to attract remote workers from all around the globe. Some of these cater to digital nomads of all types, whereas others have more specific classifications. Some come at a heftier price, while others are relatively more affordable.

Below is a guide to the best countries for digital nomads (especially those from Southeast Asia!) that you might want to consider temporarily moving to. We know that deciding the best option can be tricky, so we’ve included some of the key factors that you need to know before applying and booking a one-way ticket.

Also read: 18 Career Paths That Will Open You Up to Travel Opportunities

Asia

1. Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Yes, we know we said “countries for digital nomads” instead of just cities, but this one’s a special case. Last October, Dubai launched its one-year virtual working program that permits remote workers, as well as their families, to stay in this glamorous oasis-slash-megalopolis. With this, aspiring digital nomads (and their families) will get access to telecoms, utilities, and schooling options. 

Income to prove: US$5,000 (S$6,747.75) monthly

Visa application cost: US$287 (S$389.39) per person

Average monthly cost of living: د.إ3,490.26 (S$1,282.37) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 186.76Mbps

Climate: Subtropical desert, with mild winters and hot, humid summers

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

2. Georgia

Got Georgia (as in the country, not the American state) on your mind? Granted, it’s one of the more underrated destinations, yet those who have been there would rave about the fascinating mix of medieval and futuristic attractions! If you’re curious to see these, then why not apply for the Remotely from Georgia program? It allows remote workers from 95 countries, including Singapore and Malaysia, to live in and work there for at least a year — without even applying for a visa!

Income to prove: US$2,000 (S$2,700) monthly

Program application cost: Free

Average monthly cost of living: ₾1,308 (S$537.53) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 32.24Mbps

Climate: Subtropical on the coast and in the western plains; continental or temperate in the central and eastern inland areas; year-round winter in alpine regions

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

3. Malaysia

On 1 Oct 2022, Malaysia launched its digital nomad visa under the De Rentau program — making it the first Southeast Asian country to offer such a visa! Foreigners will receive a Professional Visit Pass that will allow them to stay for between three and 12 months. After which, this can be renewed for an additional 12 months. Digital freelancers, independent contractors, and remote workers (whether full- or part-time) are welcome to apply. 

Income to prove: US$24,000 (S$32,590) annually

Program application cost: RM1,000 (S$307) for the main applicant; RM500 (S$154)  for additional dependents 

Average monthly cost of living: RM4,505 (S$1,383.64) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 91.5Mbps

Climate: Tropical climate with a rainy and dry season, as well as two monsoon seasons 

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 7 Affordable Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals in Kuala Lumpur

4. Thailand

While not exclusively for digital nomads, Thailand’s Long-Term Resident Visa is an attractive option for remote workers and freelancers. However, they must be employed under well-established companies that are based outside Thailand. This visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows for the possibility to obtain a work permit later on — hence the pricey income requirements and application fee. But given the significantly cheaper cost of living in Thailand, it might just be worth the investment.

Income to prove: 

• US$80,000 (S$108,660) annually in the past two years; or
• US$40,000 (S$54,330) annually in the past two years, if the applicant has at least a master’s degree or owns intellectual property 

Program application cost: ฿50,000 (S$1,942) 

Average monthly cost of living: ฿25,000 (S$970.70) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 205.63Mbps

Climate: Tropical climate with a rainy and dry season, as well as two monsoon seasons 

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 10 Best Destinations in Thailand for Culture and History

Europe

5. Estonia

Did you know that Estonia is actually the first country to cater to remote workers? Back in 2014, they created an e-residency program that lets foreign entrepreneurs license an EU-based online business. And then last August, the country launched its official Digital Nomad Visa for foreigners who own a location-independent business and/or work remotely for a company based outside of Estonia. You can apply for either Type C (up to 90 days) or Type D (longer than 90 days).

Income to prove: €3,500 (S$5,576.53) monthly

Visa application cost: €80 (S$ 127.46) for Type C; €100 (S$159.33) for Type D

Average monthly cost of living: €1,400 (S$2,230.76) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 65.79Mbps

Climate: European continental, with warm and dry summers and fairly severe winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

6. Spain

You’ve probably already heard that Spain is one of the easiest countries to migrate to. But if that feels like too much of a commitment for now, then why not try out their Self-Employment Visa first? This one allows you to live there while carrying out freelance work or professional self-employment activities. Just like most countries with digital nomad visas, this one is valid for one year but can be renewed if all the conditions are still met.

Income to prove: €1,075 (S$1,713.24) monthly

Visa application cost: Starts at €205 (S$326.71) depending on your citizenship

Average monthly cost of living: €900 (S$1,434.34) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 137.21Mbps

Climate: Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild yet rainy winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 8D7N Itinerary Around Spain: Barcelona, Valencia and Madrid

7. Portugal

Another one of the easiest countries to migrate to that also offers digital nomad visas is Portugal. Here, you have several options. The first is the Temporary Stay Visa that’s valid for less than a year with multiple entries. There’s also the Residency Visa that allows you to stay for two years and also serves as a pathway to permanent residency. Both visas are valid for those self-employed individuals, freelancers, and even those living on passive income. 

The country also recently launched its D7 Visa, which is valid for a year and allows for the possibility of permanent residency. However, this one is geared towards retirees and those who earn from “passive” income streams, such as rent or investments.

P.S. — On the island of Madeira, there’s even the newly launched Digital Nomads Village! How cool is that?

Income to prove: €822.50 (S$1,185.60) monthly

Visa application cost: Starts at €75 (S$120.05) depending on your citizenship

Average monthly cost of living: €1,408 (S$2,253.69) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 119.06Mbps

Climate: Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild yet rainy winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 10 Airbnbs Homes & Vacation Rentals in Lisbon Close to the Capital’s Sights

8. Germany

In Germany, there’s a freelance residence permit called the Aufenthaltserlaubnis für selbständige Tätigkeit. (Yep, we try saying that out loud without pause.) Though, for the sake of brevity, most refer to it as the Freelance Visa, and it has a validity period of anywhere between six months and three years. The most commonly given one is good for one year, but you can definitely reapply if you wish. 

As its name suggests, this permit is for self-employed individuals planning to live and work there on a relatively long-term basis. By ‘self-employed,’ this could either mean a freelancer (Freiberuflich), or a business owner (Gewerbetreibende). Just keep in mind that the occupation for which you received your visa must remain your main one throughout your stay. 

Bank account balance to prove: ~€4,000 (S$6,376.03) 

Visa application cost: €100 (S$159.40)

Average monthly cost of living: €860 (S$ 1,370.85) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 85.73Mbps

Climate: Typical European continental, with warm, dry summers and cold, cloudy, and snowy winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

9. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a long-term visa that’s commonly referred to as the Zivno Visa. Essentially, it’s an abbreviation for ‘Zivnostenske opravneni,” which means a visa based on your Zivnostenské opravneni: the Czech word for a trade, freelancing, or business license. Just like the digital nomad visa equivalent in Germany, this is also for those who wish to move to the country as either a freelancer or business owner. It’s valid for one year, but as part of the application requirements, you’ll have to prove a set accommodation in order to qualify.

Bank account balance to prove: 124,500Kč (S$7,501.17)

Visa application cost: 2,500 Kč (S$150.63)

Average monthly cost of living: 17,900Kč (S$1,078.64) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 52.78Mbps

Climate: Typical European continental, with warm, dry summers and cold, cloudy, and snowy winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 10 Youngest Countries in the World Every History Buff Should See!

10. Croatia

Early in 2021, Croatia made waves when it announced a special residence permit for digital nomads. Although, do take note that the country’s legislation has a specific definition for “digital nomads,” which are those living outside of the EU and working through communication technology for a company (whether their own or not) that is not registered in Croatia. 

Anyway, this digital nomad visa is available for different lengths of time, with a maximum of 12 months, and it cannot be extended. To renew, you’ll need to wait six months after the expiry of the previous visa. 

Income to prove: 16,907.50 kn (S$3,567.40) monthly

Visa application cost: 420 kn (S$88.62) if submitted to a Croatian embassy or consulate

Average monthly cost of living: 7,841 kn (S$1,657.34) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 65.8Mbps

Climate: Mediterranean climate in coastal areas; European continental climate in inland areas

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 15 Airbnb Homes & Vacation Rentals in Croatia for a Relaxing Mediterranean Holiday

11. Iceland

Ever dreamt of staying for months in Iceland to catch the Northern Lights… while also not having to leave work? Yup, it’s now possible with their Work in Iceland program, which gives long-term visas to remote workers that’s valid for up to six months. Recipients may also bring along their spouse, children under the age of 18, and/or cohabiting partner. The only catch is that you’ll need to have a passport that doesn’t require a tourist visa for Iceland. 

Income to prove: 1,000,000Íkr (S$10,581.44) monthly if solo; 1,300,000Íkr (S$13,0151.73) monthly with companion/s

Visa application cost: 7,800Íkr (S$82.54) 

Average monthly cost of living: 415,271Íkr (S$4,401.71) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 216.5Mbps

Climate: Cold and windy maritime climate, with short summers and long winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 13 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Iceland

12. Norway

Another Nordic country that’s ideal for living as a digital nomad? Norway, which also happens to be among the happiest countries in the world! Foreign remote workers and freelancers can stay there for up to two years through the Independent Contractor Visa. However, there’s a caveat: You have to be self-employed with a contract to work on a project with a Norway-based client.

Income to prove: €35,719 (S$57,084.86) annually

Visa application cost: €600 (S$958.90) 

Average monthly cost of living: 10,835kr (S$1,728.73) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 118.20Mbps

Climate: Marine climate in western areas with comparatively cool summers and mild winters; continental climate in eastern areas with warm summers and cold winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: My Journey on Norway’s Incredible Flåm Railway

13. Malta

This underrated archipelago might be one of the lesser-known European countries for digital nomads, but it has a lot to offer like its more popular neighbours. Think ancient temples and ruins, medieval towns, and pristine beaches where you can bask in the Mediterranean sun. Remote workers from non-EU countries can stay here for at least a year (with a chance for renewal) through the Nomad Residence Permit. 

Income to prove: €2,700 (S$3,831.29) monthly

Visa application cost: €300 (S$425.70) 

Average monthly cost of living: €740 (S$1,049.79) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 89.35Mbps

Climate: Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild yet rainy winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

14. Greece

From the mythic sights in Athens to the coastal wonders of Santorini and Mykonos, it’s no surprise Greece remains a crowd favourite that needs no introduction. It’s also a relatively new addition to the growing list of countries for digital nomads, having launched the Greek Digital Nomad Visa in September 2021. This allows non-EU citizens to live and work in the country for a year, with the option to extend for another year. To be eligible, one must be working for a company/client based outside Greece, or own a business registered overseas. 

Income to prove: €3,500 (S$4,962.63) monthly

Visa application cost: €225 (S$319.03) 

Average monthly cost of living: €650(S$921.42) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 42.79Mbps

Climate: Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild yet rainy winters in the lowland and island regions 

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: Top 20 Airbnb and Vrbo Vacation Homes in Greece for Your Dream Getaway

15. Hungary

In January 2022, Hungary introduced the White Card for foreign nationals who wish to live and work remotely there. What sets it apart from other European countries with a digital nomad visa is its relatively lower cost of living. And just like other similar long-term permits, holders can stay for a maximum of two years. You can choose to apply from either your country of origin, or within Hungary already. 

Income to prove: €2,000 (S$2,838.42) monthly – including six consecutive months before entry

Visa application cost: €110 (S$156.11) if outside Hungary; 39,000Ft (S$135.55) if within Hungary

Average monthly cost of living: 196,181Ft (S$681.85) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 123.17Mbps

Climate: Typical European continental climate, with hot dry summers and mildly cold snowy winters

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 10 Best European Countries That Won’t Break the Bank

Africa

16. Mauritius

Feeling like going beyond the usual and expected? Well then, the East African country of Mauritius just might be the right choice for you — especially since it introduced a Premium Visa. Aside from remote workers, this visa is also open to visitors, retirees, and parents with children studying in Mauritius. In a nutshell, it’s for those who wish to live in the country for up to a year, as long as they do not enter the Mauritian workforce during this period. 

Income to prove: US$1,500 (S$2,101.55) monthly

Visa application cost: US$30 (S$42.03) for standard processing time

Average monthly cost of living: Rs26,540 (S$897.83) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 26.53Mbps

Climate: Tropical maritime climate, with relatively little seasonal variation in temperatures

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

17. Seychelles

Home to some of the world’s most photogenic beaches, Seychelles is definitely among the ideal countries for digital nomads. The Seychelles Workcation Program allows remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to stay there for a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 12 months. And the best part? There’s no specific income requirement — although, given that it’s one of the most expensive places in Africa, you might want to allot your budget accordingly. 

Income to prove: Not specified

Visa application cost: €45 (S$63.81)

Average monthly cost of living: 31,650 SR (S$3,446.05) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 34.46Mbps

Climate: Tropical climate with a rainy and dry season, and relatively little seasonal variation in temperatures

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

The Americas

18. Mexico

While Mexico‘s Tourist Visa allows you to stay in the country for up to six months, there’s also the Temporary Resident Visa for those who wish to stay longer. The latter is good for one year and can be renewed annually for another three years — so that’s a maximum of four years! Its main advantages over the Tourist Visa include being authorised to open a Mexican bank account, legally register a vehicle, and freely leave and reenter Mexico throughout your stay. 

Like with others, the Temporary Visa allows you to work during your stay, as long as you are not hired by a company based there. And, of course, you’ll have to prove your financial capability.

Income to prove: US$1,945 (S$2,616.80) monthly over the past six months; or at least US$32,400 (S$43,590.96) overall account balance

Visa application cost: Mex$4,271 (S$282.86) per year

Average monthly cost of living: Mex$1,890 (S$125.17) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 49.91Mbps

Climate: Tropical climate with a rainy and dry season, and relatively little seasonal variation in temperatures

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 46 Essential Spanish Phrases for Your Next Vacation

19. Barbados

Yes, there’s more to Barbados than its beaches and, well, being the homeland of Rihanna. Thanks to the 12-Month Barbados Welcome Stamp, it’s also one of the ideal countries for digital nomads. As the name suggests, it lets you work remotely in this sunny island country for up to a year… and even bring your family along! You can also apply for renewal if you happen to enjoy your stay and wish to extend it. 

Income to prove: US$50,000 (S$67,282.25) annually

Visa application cost: US$2,000 (S$2,691.29) for individuals; US$3,000 (S$4,036.93) for married couples/families

Average monthly cost of living: Bds$1,500 (S$1,003.04) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 78.27Mbps

Climate: Tropical monsoon climate, with a rainy and dry season, and relatively little seasonal variation in temperatures

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

20. Bermuda

Bermuda is another Caribbean nation that recently joined the digital nomad visa squad. With their One Year Residential Certification, you can work and/or study remotely for a year. That said, it’s open to remote workers, self-employed entrepreneurs, and even university students with only online classes. Oh, and if you have children coming along, you can also enrol them in a local school. While you are not entitled to a renewal of this certification, you can still file another application after a year. 

Income to prove: N/A; Enough to support

Visa application cost: US$263 (S$353.92) per person

Average monthly cost of living: BD$3,025  (S$4,069.83) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 73.60Mbps

Climate: Subtropical climate, with relatively fewer hurricanes and storms compared to other Caribbean nations

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

21. Dominica

Dominica is an English-speaking island in the eastern Caribbean. It’s also quite the off-the-beaten-path destination since you’ll need to take a sea ferry or a connecting flight from nearby countries (like Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe, and Martinique) to get there. Nonetheless, their Work in Nature Extended Stay Visa is available for foreign remote workers aged 18 and above who wish to live there for up to 18 months! Those planning to bring their families along can opt for the country’s program that encourages children to attend a local school. 

Income to prove: US$50,000 (S$66,379.50) annually

Visa application cost: US$100 (S$132.76) 

Average monthly cost of living: EC$2,206 (S$1083.19) per person, rent not included

Average broadband internet speed: 82.11Mbps

Climate: Mostly tropical rainforest climate, with some areas bordering on a tropical monsoon climate 

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

22. Costa Rica

And last but definitely not least, we have Costa Rica — which is also visa-free for several Southeast Asian countries! Though, if you’d like to stay (and work) there for more than the allotted 90 days, you can apply for the Rentista Visa, which grants temporary residency for up to two years, with an option to extend. 

Rentista Visa holders can either work on their own (as long as they’re not employees of a Costa Rica-based company) or establish a business. They’ll also be eligible to apply for permanent residency after three or more years — without having to renounce their previous nationality! 

Income to prove: US$2,500 (S$3,364.72) monthly for the next two years; or US$60,000 (S$80,753.40) deposit in a Costa Rican bank

Visa application cost: US$250 (S$336.47) per person

Average monthly cost of living: ₡704,902 (S$1,549.94) per person, rent included

Average broadband internet speed: 65.30Mbps

Climate: Mostly tropical climate, with select highland areas having temperate climate; relatively fewer hurricanes and storms compared to other Caribbean nations

For the complete requirements and process, click here.

Also read: 10 Items That Will Make Your Digital Nomad Life A Whole Lot Easier

Fortunately, most of these countries for digital nomads have done away with COVID-19 travel restrictions. Feeling a bit anxious about how to fit in once you’re there? Well then, you might want to read up on how to effortlessly make friends during your working holiday! 

Or, better yet, have you already tried living as a digital nomad in one of these countries before? Go ahead and tell us all about it on our Facebook page.

---

Feature image credit: sorincolac via Canva Pro