Dubai: As the shift to remote work accelerates, countries worldwide are rolling out digital nomad visas to attract remote professionals. Today, 66 nations offer these visas, and the list is growing.
A digital nomad visa lets you live in one country while working remotely for a company based elsewhere. Whether you're a seasoned digital nomad or just starting your journey, these visas open doors to new possibilities.
Osama Rizvi, an economic analyst, stated to travelsdubai.com, “The visa allows you to work anywhere in the world. This flexibility, coupled with its cost-effectiveness compared to other citizenship options, will only enhance its appeal globally.” He further added, “This is particularly true for developing countries like Pakistan, where the income of freelancers has increased by 70% since 2017, and internet usage surged by 150% between 2015 and 2020.”
Top European destinations for digital nomads
Portugal: A remote work paradise
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (Type D) is a dream for non-EU/EEA citizens seeking a work-life balance by the Atlantic.
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Income requirements: €3,040/month for long-term, €3,280/month for short-term stays.
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Stay for up to five years, and you can apply for permanent residency or even citizenship.
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Application fee starts at €90.
Image credit: LexNetwork
Spain - work remotely, live fully
Spain’s Telework Visa invites remote workers to immerse themselves in the Spanish culture while earning a living.
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Requirements: A bachelor’s degree, professional experience, and a monthly income of €2,646.
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Eligibility: Available for non-EU/EEA citizens.
Greece - easy access to a remote lifestyle
Greece makes it simple for digital nomads to enjoy its sunny shores.
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Income requirement: €3,500/month, with higher thresholds for families.
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Cost: Visa application starts at €75.
Japan - new kid on the block
Launched in 2024, Japan’s digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live and work in the country for six months.
- Income requirement: 10 million JPY (€58,420/year).
- Visa fee: 3,000 yen for a single-entry, 6,000 yen for a multiple-entry visa.
Dubai (UAE) - tech hub with zero taxes
Dubai’s digital nomad visa allows you to live tax-free for a year while working remotely.
- Income requirement: $3,500/month for the digital nomad visa
- $5,000/month for the Virtual Working Program
- Fee: $611, covering processing, medical checks, and Emirates ID
How to apply for a digital nomad visa
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Research visa options: Identify countries that offer digital nomad visas and their specific requirements.
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Check eligibility: Ensure you meet criteria such as proof of employment, minimum income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
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Gather documents: Prepare required documents, including:
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Valid passport
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Proof of income (e.g., bank statements)
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Employment contracts or business registration
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Health insurance details
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Criminal background check
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Passport-sized photos
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Complete the application form: Fill out the visa application form available on the country’s official immigration website.
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Submit application: Send your application and documents online or in-person at a consulate/embassy.
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Pay Fees: Pay any applicable application fees.
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Attend interview (if required): Be prepared for an interview to discuss your work and travel plans.
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Wait for processing: Check the processing time and remain patient.
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Receive your visa: Once approved, review the conditions of your visa.
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Plan your move: Arrange accommodation and local registrations if needed.
Tips
Stay updated on visa regulations and consider potential tax implications of working abroad.
The new way to live and work
The rise of digital nomad visas has redefined what it means to work remotely. From Portugal’s beaches to Dubai’s skyline, these visas offer the chance to blend work and travel in a way that was unimaginable just a few years ago.
Find your ideal destination and start living the digital nomad dream!