10 Best Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas in 2023

Introduction

Take a moment and imagine this: You’re perched on a barstool in a rustic, Balinese café, tapping away on your laptop to the rhythmic soundtrack of the nearby sea. Or perhaps you’re in a chic co-working space in the heart of Lisbon, pausing to sip an impeccably brewed espresso as you hit “send” on that all-important email. This isn’t a dream, it’s the increasingly attainable reality of the digital nomad. As technology blurs the boundaries of work and play, traditional offices with their soulless cubicles are rapidly becoming as outdated as a dial-up internet connection. Countries around the globe have caught on to this seismic shift and are rolling out the red carpet to digital nomads with tailor-made visas. But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to pick your ideal ‘office view’. Worry not, dear reader. We’ve done the hard yards and compiled a list of the 10 best countries offering digital nomad visas, each one promising a unique blend of culture, adventure, and a killer work-life balance. Buckle up, your 9-to-5 is about to get a serious upgrade!

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Indonesia

Get ready to wake up to the sounds of the surf, fire up your laptop while sipping a robust cup of Sumatran coffee, and take a quick dip in the azure waters during your lunch break. Welcome to Indonesia, digital nomad! A sprawling archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, this Southeast Asian nation is renowned for its stunning landscapes, intriguing cultures, and the alluring vibe of places like Bali – a veritable Mecca for the digital nomad community.

Visa

Currently, Indonesia offers the B211A visa which is valid for 60 days from your arrival in Indonesia. The visa can be extended twice, each time for 60 days, for six months total. The visa requires a proof of life expense for the applicant and/or their family while in Indonesia of at least USD 2,000 or equivalent. Indonesia also offers the Second Home Visa for investors, tourists and elderly/retiree tourists and their family. The visa requires proof of funds in the form of an account owned by the applicant with a value of at least 2,000,000,000 IDR (approx. USD 130,000) or equivalent. Second Home Visa allows one to live in Indonesian territory for a period of five or ten years.

Pros

• Balmy weather and sun-soaked beaches.
• The cost of living is low, so your dollar stretches further.

Cons

• Indonesia also has a monsoon season. 
• The internet speed can be patchy, especially in remote areas.

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Greece

Start your day in a quaint café by the Aegean, drafting proposals against a backdrop of ancient ruins, and taking midday breaks to the rhythm of sirtaki. Welcome to Greece, the cradle of Western civilization and a promising hotspot for the modern digital nomad. From the vibrant streets of Athens to the breathtaking tranquility of Santorini, Greece blends history, culture, and a riveting Mediterranean lifestyle. Enrich your work days with Greek mythology, your meals with delectable Greek cuisine, and your free time with explorations into millennia of recorded history.

Visa

If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you have the right to enter and move freely within Greece, according to EU law. For third-party nationals, you can apply for a Digital Nomad Visa which gives you legal residence as a remote worker for up to a year, after which you can apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, if you want to stay longer. You’ll need to prove that you have sufficient resources for the length of your stay or a salary of at least €3,500 per month after taxes as a dependent employee or a self-employed person working remotely with employers outside Greece. The monthly amount increases by 20% if you’re accompanied by your spouse or a cohabitant and 15% for each child. The Digital Nomad Residence Permit is valid for up to two years (renewable every 2 years for 2 more years). Note that you won’t have the right to work for a Greek company during this period, either on a permanent or freelance basis.

Pros

• Whether you’re a history buff or a beach lover, Greece has plenty to keep you entertained.
• Low cost of living compared to other European countries.
• Greek hospitality is legendary. You’re sure to make friends quickly.

Cons

• The Greek summer can get scorching hot. 
• Greek isn’t the easiest language to learn.
• Greece has slow internet speed compared to other European countries.

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Portugal

Portugal, with its picture-perfect landscapes, vibrant culture, and modern amenities, is increasingly becoming the ‘it’ place for digital nomads around the world. This sun-drenched corner of Europe, where rich heritage meets emerging tech hubs, strikes a perfect work-life balance for any globetrotting professional. You can wrap up your work amidst the faded grandeur of Porto’s historic buildings, kick back with a glass of the famous Port wine, or take leisurely strolls along the sandy stretches of Algarve.

Visa

Portugal offers a D7 visa for independent workers that is valid for one year. The applicant needs to buy or rent housing and prove a monthly passive income of at least €760 from overseas. The D7 visa can be renewed twice, each time for an additional two years. After 5 years you have the option to go for permanent residency. Portugal has also launched a digital nomad visa that is valid for one year. This one comes with less paperwork than the D7 visa but will not give you a pathway to permanent residency.

Pros

• Low cost of living compared to other European countries.
• English is widely spoken in urban areas, easing day-to-day communication.
• The country’s burgeoning tech scene, particularly in Lisbon and Porto, fosters a vibrant networking environment.

Cons

• Portugal’s bureaucracy could slow down processes.
• Winters can be cold.

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Italy

Ah, Italy! This country of ancient ruins, rolling vineyards, and masterpieces of art and architecture is opening its arms to digital nomads with a tailored visa, allowing you to take your work to one of the most beautiful offices in the world – the Italian landscape. As a digital nomad in Italy, expect to be charmed by the languid pace of La Dolce Vita, with mid-morning cappuccinos in sunlit piazzas, lunch breaks filled with the freshest pasta, and evenings drowned in gelato. From the romantic canals of Venice to the rustic allure of Tuscany, Italy provides a visual and sensory feast that’s sure to inspire your work. In a nutshell, if you’re ready to work amidst centuries-old culture, enjoy world-class cuisine, and navigate the maze of Italian idiosyncrasies, Italy promises an enriching digital nomad experience like no other. Just remember – when in Rome, do as the Romans do!

Visa

A non-EU citizen wishing to work as a self-employed person in Italy must obtain an authorisation for self-employed work and a visa before entering Italy, and a residence permit within eight days of entering Italy. Italy operates a quota-system, fixed annually. Authorisations for performing independent activities are granted for a maximum of two years. Residence permits are issued for the period of time and the purpose indicated in the visa.

Pros

• Italian food is undoubtedly a highlight. Get ready for the best meals of your life!
• Italy’s health care system provides universal coverage largely free of charge at the point of delivery. 

Cons

• The cost of living can be high, especially in popular cities like Rome, Florence, or Milan.
• The law might not be designed to welcome everyone since these visas are aimed to attract “highly qualified” remote workers only.

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Spain

Bienvenidos a España! This vibrant country, known for its rich history, lively culture, and breathtaking landscapes, also offers an attractive environment for digital nomads seeking a European destination. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse opportunities, Spain has become a popular choice for remote workers looking to combine work and leisure in one captivating package. As a digital nomad in Spain, you can bask in the Mediterranean sunshine, indulge in delectable tapas, and immerse yourself in the energetic rhythm of Spanish life. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the serene beaches of Costa del Sol, Spain offers a myriad of experiences to enhance your work-life balance.

Visa

Spain now has a teleworking visa also known as a “digital nomad” visa. This is a new visa for those foreign nationals (non-European nationals) who want to live in Spain and work in a self-employed capacity or as employees for companies that are outside Spain for up to one year, with the possibility to apply for a three-year residence permit and afterwards for two-year renewals. Qualified professionals include graduates or postgraduates from recognised universities, recognised professional training and business schools, with a minimum of three years’ professional experience.

Pros

• Spain’s vibrant culture, lively festivals, and world-class cuisine provide ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
• The country’s well-developed infrastructure ensures reliable internet connectivity and access to co-working spaces.
• A moderate cost of living, especially outside major cities, makes Spain an affordable choice for digital nomads.

Cons

• The bureaucracy in Spain can be time-consuming and require patience when dealing with administrative processes.
• The siesta culture, while charming, may require adjustments to work schedules for those accustomed to different routines.

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Croatia

If the idea of a morning swim in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea before tackling your inbox or coding a new app gets your heart racing, then pack your bags and head to Croatia! This stunning jewel of the Mediterranean, known for its historic cities and breathtaking islands, is beckoning digital nomads. As a digital nomad in Croatia, you can indulge in a Mediterranean lifestyle while working against the backdrop of Roman ruins or serene landscapes. Think of lunch breaks featuring fresh seafood and evening strolls through the charming, ancient streets of Dubrovnik or Split. In essence, if you’re ready to balance your spreadsheets with stunning sunsets and merge your coding with cobblestone streets, then Croatia is a compelling choice for your digital nomad adventure. Just remember to pack your swimwear along with your laptop!

Visa

For Croatia, temporary stay is granted to digital nomads for up to a year and it cannot be extended. A new application for regulating a stay of digital nomads can be submitted 6 months after the expiry of the previously granted temporary stay of digital nomads. Close family members of the digital nomad may join them. The visa application requires proof of funds. Currently, the amount required on a monthly basis is a minimum of 2,539.31 EUR. Alternatively, if you intend to stay for 12 months, you can provide proof that you have a minimum of 30,471.72 EUR already available in your account.

Pros

• Affordable cost of living, especially compared to other European destinations.
• An abundance of natural beauty and historic sites for your leisure days.

Cons

• English proficiency can be hit-or-miss, especially outside tourist areas, and learning Croatian can be challenging.
• Internet speed and reliability may vary, particularly on the islands.

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Malta

Welcome to Malta, the tiny Mediterranean archipelago in Southern Europe where millennia-old history meets crystal-clear waters, and where your office view might just include ancient fortresses and turquoise bays. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Well, it’s a dream Malta is eager to turn into your reality, courtesy of the digital nomad visa. From exploring the stunning walled city of Mdina to enjoying a leisurely seaside lunch in Valletta, Malta offers a unique blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes to explore when you’re off the clock. And with the Maltese digital nomad visa, you get to soak up the sun, sea, and the enviable Mediterranean lifestyle.

Visa

Malta offers the Nomad Residence Permit. The applicants must prove they can work remotely, using telecoms. In addition, applicants must prove they fall under any one of the following three categories: work for an employer registered in a foreign country under a contract; conduct business activities for a company registered in a foreign country and of which the applicant is partner/shareholder; or offer freelance or consulting services, to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom the applicant has contracts. Moreover, an applicant must have a minimum gross yearly income of €32,400. The initial Nomad Residence Permit is issued for 1 year. The Permit may be renewed twice, for a total stay of a maximum of three years. The main applicant can include family members in his/her application.

Pros

• English is an official language, so communication is a breeze.
• A vibrant expat community ensures you’ll never feel alone.
• Cost of accommodation is affordable compared to most developed countries. 

Cons

• The small size of the islands could feel restrictive to some.
• Public transportation can be slow and unpredictable, but it is improving.

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Bahamas

Welcome to the Bahamas, where white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back island lifestyle beckon digital nomads from around the world. A country on the northwestern edge of the West Indies, Bahamas is located south-east off the coast of Florida (USA) and north of Cuba. If you’ve ever dreamt of working with your toes in the sand and the sound of gentle waves as your background music, then the digital nomad visa offered by the Bahamas is your ticket to paradise. As a digital nomad in the Bahamas, you’ll find yourself in a tropical haven, where palm trees sway in the breeze and stunning sunsets paint the sky each evening. With the digital nomad visa, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant Bahamian culture, savor fresh seafood delicacies, and enjoy water activities during your leisure time.

Visa

Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) initiative allows visitors to work and study remotely across the country’s 16 islands for up to a year. Applications for annual renewals are considered for a maximum period up to three years. The main applicant can include dependents in his/her application under the Work Remotely program. Applications are processed within 5 business days.

Pros

• Pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provide an idyllic backdrop for work.
• The Bahamian people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature.
• The low population density and serene surroundings offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
• The government does not collect personal income tax, capital gains tax, corporate tax or inheritance tax. 

Cons

• The cost of living can be higher compared to other destinations.
• Internet connectivity on some of the more remote islands may be less reliable.

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Philippines

Welcome to the Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands in South-East Asia where breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality await digital nomads seeking a tropical paradise to call their office. As a digital nomad in the Philippines, you can start your day with a sunrise beach walk, explore lush rainforests during your lunch break, and unwind with a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters. The country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes provide a stimulating backdrop for both work and play.

Visa

Recently, the Philippines has proposed to introduce a new digital nomad visa. The proposed visa term is 12 months and is renewable for an additional 12 months. 

Pros

• The country’s low cost of living provides excellent value for money.
• The Filipino people are renowned for their warm hospitality and English proficiency.

Cons

• Internet speeds can vary across different regions and islands, so remote work may be challenging in some areas.
• High humidity levels and occasional typhoons are factors to consider when planning your stay.
• Manila, Mandaluyong, and Pasay City are highly crowded places.

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Dominica

The lush Caribbean island of Dominica with vibrant rainforests, pristine beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle await digital nomads seeking an exotic paradise to call their temporary home. With its focus on sustainable development, Dominica has launched a unique Digital Nomad Visa program, inviting remote workers to experience the island’s natural beauty while maintaining a productive work-life balance. As a digital nomad in Dominica, you can wake up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, enjoy a morning hike through the dense jungle, and then settle down to work with a view of palm-fringed beaches. This tropical escape offers an ideal blend of relaxation, adventure, and tranquility.

Visa

The Work In Nature (WIN) program offers an ideal environment for remote workers, digital nomads, and families to function effectively and stress-free for up to 18 months. As the main applicant, you may apply for your family members via the same application. An applicant for the WIN program must be at least 18 years of age, of good character, without a criminal record, and can expect to earn an income of US$50,000 or more over the next 12 months and/or have the means to support yourself, your spouse/partner, and their other family members accompanying you during your extended stay in Dominica. 

Pros

• The island’s commitment to sustainability ensures an environment conducive to a peaceful and eco-conscious lifestyle.
• With a lower cost of living compared to other Caribbean destinations, your budget can stretch further.
• The applicant isn’t obligated to pay income, capital gains, or dividend taxes during their stay.

Cons

• Limited infrastructure and slower internet speeds may pose occasional challenges for remote work.
• The country is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes, which can cause significant damage and disruption.

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Conclusion

The world is opening its doors to digital nomads, offering exciting opportunities to work remotely from some of the most captivating destinations on the planet. From the stunning beaches of the Bahamas to the ancient ruins of Greece, and from the tropical paradise of the Philippines to the vibrant streets of Spain, each country on our list offers its own unique blend of culture, lifestyle, and visa options for digital nomads.

While the allure of a flexible work schedule, breathtaking scenery, and new cultural experiences may be enticing, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each destination. From visa requirements and cost of living to internet connectivity and language barriers, these factors can significantly impact your digital nomad experience.

As a digital nomad, the world becomes your office. Each country on this list offers a unique opportunity to merge work and adventure, create lifelong memories, and embrace the freedom of a location-independent lifestyle. So, pack your laptop, your sense of adventure, and a healthy dose of adaptability, because the digital nomad journey awaits. Happy travels and may your Wi-Fi signal always be strong!