You can now travel and work without restriction from any nation worldwide. Different governments are developing digital nomad visa programs to keep up with the vibrant trend of digital nomadism.
Also, the population of digital nomads is expanding as more organizations accept the idea of remote work, thanks to employees having greater negotiating power coupled with the availability of digital workspaces.
The Digital Nomad Visa trend has been embraced by several of the major tourist destinations around the globe to increase the number of digital nomads visiting their nations and increase tourism-related income.
Digital nomad visa programs are partly a result of the global changes in the adaptation process. For example, Estonia was the first nation to launch a digital nomad visa in 2020 hence the realization that digital nomadism is a trend that governments can no longer afford to overlook.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa confirms the ability to live and work in any nation of your choice. The term “residency permit” is also used to refer to it. After receiving your digital nomad visa, you are permitted to work remotely for a predetermined period with an organization or employer that has its corporate headquarters abroad.
Since most jobs require a laptop and steady internet, work and travel have become a reality. Most countries usually allow for 12 months with the option of an additional year or years.
However, in some nations, a digital nomad permit may limit the frequency of travel and the duration of visits. But not everyone is eligible for these visas, which are the substance of digital nomads’ dreams.
There is a possibility that many digital nomads will continue using tourist visas because of their affordability or the flexibility that comes with them. Imagine the freedom that comes with spending only a few months at each one of your destinations.
Several countries have created different stipulations and benefits for digital nomad visa holders. Various trends have led to the creation of such visas; hence every country has its regulations.
The pandemic, the sharp decline in tourism earnings, the rise of online learning and employment, and Value Added Tax (VAT) receipts are a few trends that have influenced the creation of nomad visa programs.
As a result, you ought to do your homework before choosing a destination. For example, some nations demand full tax payment from nomads, others demand none, and yet others provide preferential rates and tax breaks.
There are already visa options for digital nomads available in 24 nations. In addition, many other countries have made plans to establish visa systems for digital nomads. The best visa programs for digital nomads are listed below.
Estonia
With the introduction of the first visa created particularly and expressly for digital nomads, Estonia soon established itself as a center for nomads in Europe. Numerous nomads move to the nation for its great environment for remote workers.
In addition, the nation’s e-residency initiative enables international business owners to operate more efficiently and with digital signatures in the EU.
Estonia is the ideal place to spend several months calling home because it is wedged between Russia and Scandinavia and has a long beach along the Baltic Sea. It also has historic cities, extensive lush forests, charming cafes, and modern conveniences.
In addition, it provides two types of digital nomad visas: C-Visa, which is given to nomads remaining for a brief period (up to three months), and D-Visa, which is given to nomads staying up to one year.
Nomads must provide proof of a monthly income of at least €3,504 to participate in the program, which costs €80 for a short-stay visa and €100 for a long-stay visa.
Croatia
The picturesque country has gained popularity among digital nomads and major European destinations. 2021 saw the start of Croatia’s “Croatia your new workplace” campaign, which included the introduction of a new visa category for digital nomads.
The Croatian “digital nomad visa” entitles holders to a stay of up to one year, with the option of further renewal. This visa offers many benefits for long-term tourists and remote employees.
The nation has much more to offer visitors than merely practical residence regulations. You may tour medieval towns, castles, and forts, bounce from island to island along the breathtaking coastline and eat delectable Croatian cuisine.
No matter where you are in the country, you’ll find it easy to make friends here because of the sizable ex-pat, digital nomad, and long-term traveler communities.
In addition, traveling throughout Europe is simple and reasonably priced thanks to the region’s proximity to other Mediterranean hotspots and excellent transportation connectivity.
You will need to pay $150 for the visa and provide proof of $2400 in income or $29000 in savings.
Malta
Malta is the ideal location for adventurous travelers to spend the weekend exploring other nearby nations because it is between Italy and the northern coast of Africa.
Malta, a group of numerous little islands at the meeting point of several cultures, is renowned for having year-round weather that is consistently pleasant and bright.
Malta is a great, central location to explore neighboring countries and is well connected for transit. The little island nation makes a perfect destination for nomads by providing cutting-edge workspaces and fast Wi-Fi.
For budget-conscious nomads, the comparatively inexpensive cost of living compared to other European locations is also an incredible pleasure. You should budget approximately €1500 every month.
You must pay €300 for each applicant’s visa, valid for one year and has a three-year renewal option. With 20% median earnings for dependent family members, Malt’s income criteria are set at €2700 per applicant.
Bahamas
The Bahamas has established itself as one of the top summer vacation spots in the past and offers arguably the easiest digital nomad visa you will ever find. The island off the coast of Florida is becoming a top destination for digital nomads.
After a long day at work, taking a plunge in the clear, green water and fine, white sand is frequently an excellent way to unwind. You must pay $25 for the application and wait only five days for a digital nomad visa.
After that, each applicant must pay $1000 upon approval, plus an additional $500 for each dependent. Applicants receive a QR code after payments have been made.
Mauritius
With each stay lasting up to a year, Mauritius does not charge fees for visa applications for digital nomads. Furthermore, no income tax is assessed unless a deposit is placed into an account in Mauritius.
Applicants for the program may also include dependents. You will have to present proof of accommodation during your stay, just like in most other nations.
Bank statements from the past three months are also required. The beautiful island in the Indian Ocean, located off the coast of Africa, boasts first-rate amenities to support its claim of having the most exemplary visa policy for digital nomads.
Aside from that, Mauritius is a great place to visit, thanks to its top-notch internet speeds and high health and safety ratings.
Pearce Kibaale is a freelance writer, content creator, and CEO of Trip Dhow.
