Top 10 Countries with Digital Nomad visas 2025: A Comprehensive List

World wide many countries with digital nomad visas allow you to live and work remotely.  More and more countries are understanding the benefits of offering this type of visa, and every year additional countries are offering the opportunity to come work and live in their country.  

It is important to understand what type of visa is required if you intend to stay for an extended period of time in a particular destination.  Below is a list of the most popular and remarkable locations around the world to become a digital nomad.  Make sure to do your research and due diligence once you decide where you want to go, as the requirements are different for each country.  

If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the bureaucracy and all the hoops you seem to be jumping through to get your move to happen, check out my How to Move Abroad e-book to help you make the right decisions and make your transition as smooth as possible.

After having worked and traveled in every country on this list, we would very happily be a digital nomad in any of them! 

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The list below provides a diverse group of countries to explore a life as a digital nomad.  Each has its pros and cons, but all have incredible opportunities for those seeking a life as a remote worker.  

1. Estonia

Estonia is a beautiful country and not always at the top of the list when people think of moving and working abroad.  However, due to a variety of factors, Estonia is an ideal location for digital nomads and a hidden gem in Europe.  Estonia not only has majestic natural beauty, with beautiful beaches and forests, but it also has rich cultural attractions and history.

Estonia’s location in Europe also makes for an ideal spot in which to visit and travel to other European countries, and is much less touristed than other popular locations. 

Estonia has a high rating in terms of quality of life, safety, commuting and pollution.  When people ask for our recommendations about where to embark on a digital nomad visa they are often surprised to hear that Esontia tops our list!

Estonia was the first country in the world to have a digital nomad visa.  In June of 2020, Estonia created a one year digital nomad visa that allows you to work and live in the country.  In order to apply for Estonia’s 1 year D-Visa you need to be eighteen years old, prove to be financially stable and illustrate that you are a freelancer or digital nomad.  The application process is streamlined and straightforward, but tis visa won’t get you permanent residency or the right to citizenship.

Internet fixed: 60.0 Mbps

Internet mobile: 56.3 Mbps

It’s actually one of the most advanced digital countries in the world.  The country has invested tremendously in technology and offers free internet access.  Estonia is a very internet focused country with reliable and fast connections throughout the country, including remote locations.  Believe it or not it is also the country that invented Skype!

Visa Costs: $105

Visa Length: 1 year

Income Requirements: $37,000/year

Who Can apply: anyone

Apply from abroad: yes, you can apply remotely

Cost of living index:  54.8 – (43rd out of 140) 

The cost of living in Estonia is very reasonable and while your overhead is lower than most European countries, the quality of life is high.  

Germany

Germany is a popular destination for tech workers and digital nomads.  The country has great infrastructure, stability and very high standards of living.  

Germany is also one of the safest countries in the world, making it a popular destination for many solo female workers.  There is excellent healthcare and access to the rest of Europe both by train and air. It is a very well run country which allows for an ideal digital nomad experience. 

Germany offers the Freelancer Visa which is a residency permit for up to three years.  This allows freelancers that work in specific liberal professions (artists, writers, teachers) or the self-employed to live in Germany and work remotely.  The process is a bit more involved and may take up to four months to receive approval, but the amenities that the visa allows are very enticing for many digital nomads.  Strong economics, good jobs, clean environment, great public transportation and many cultural attractions are just some of the benefits of moving to Germany to become a digital nomad.  

Internet fixed: 83.2 Mbps 

Internet mobile: 57.22 Mbps 

Germany is still working to get the internet available in more remote parts of the country, however, it is very reliable in the bigger cities and improving all the time.  

Visa Length: Up to 3 years

Visa Costs: $105

Who Can apply: Freelancers working in certain liberal professions.

Income Requirements: Prove that you are self-sufficient

Apply from abroad: apply from your local German embassy

Cost of living index: 62.91 – (30th out of 140)

The cost of living is a bit higher in Germany, but it allows the country to feel very safe, clean and predictable which is appealing to many digital nomads.

Portugal 

Portugal is a beautiful and laid back country with miles of beaches and a wonderful climate. There is a high quality of life, great food, culture and low living costs.  You can enjoy the cities of Lisbon and Porto, as well as the beach communities in the Algarve and Azores. It has been a popular destination for many Americans looking to move abroad. 

The D7 visa in Portugal is popular for digital nomads and valid for one year.  You can renew it for up to five years, making it an attractive option for people who want to live permanently in Portugal.  

Portugal recently discontinued its digital nomad visa, but the golden Visa as well as the D7 are great options.

Internet fixed: 131.91 Mbps

Internet mobile: 69.08 Mbps 

Despite having a reputation for being an easy going and relaxed country, Portugal has extensive and fast internet throughout much of the country.

Visa Costs: 87 $

Visa Length: 1 year renewable until 5 years is reached.

Income Requirements: 8925$

Who Can apply: anyone can apply

Apply from abroad: You can apply remotely

Cost of living index: 45.3 – (66th out of 140)

One of the reasons Portugal is so popular is because of the reduced cost of living, despite what many remote workers describe as a beautiful and high quality of life.  The infrastructure and pace is slower than many other parts of Europe, so if you have a more laid back lifestyle Portugal might be the place for you!

Mexico

Some people claim Mexico is the best location to relocate to as a digital nomad. Mexico has busy and fascinating cities, as well as picturesque beaches and villages.  There are adventurous activities throughout the country and considerable freedom and flexibility to work remotely.  Many people who move to Mexico to work end up staying indefinitely because of the relaxed lifestyle and amazing people.

As a digital nomad there are two main types of visas you can apply for in Mexico.  The temporary resident visa is good for six months to four years, and the permanent resident visa allows you to stay indefinitely.  The process to apply is much easier and quicker than most European digital nomad visas.  

Internet fixed: 50.15 Mbps

Internet mobile: 26.11 Mbps

There are public Wi-Fi hotspots throughout Mexico, including some surprisingly rural areas.  

Visa Costs: 150$- 350$

Visa Length: initially 1 year renewable up to 4 years

Income Requirements: $2,600 /month

Who Can apply: anyone

Apply from abroad: You need ti apply at a Mexican embassy or consulate outside of Mexico.

Cost of living index: 37.3 – (92nd out of 140)

The cost of living in Mexico is a main driver for many digital nomads.  Many remote workers report having significantly more amenities in Mexico due to the low cost of living such as a car, housekeeping and ample disposable income for travel and eating out.  

Spain

Spain is a country like no other in terms of natural beauty and a rich, one of a kind culture.  Having spent considerable time in Spain we can honestly say it offers a quality of life unique in the world.  There is a real emphasis on family and work life balance.

The weather is exceptional and after years of exploring the beaches, mountains and charming villages we continue to find magical and new experiences and locations throughout the country.  We have a first-hand account of being digital nomads in Spain and can say that it is an ideal location for remote workers.   Many people who move or travel to Spain find they never want to leave!

After a much-anticipated wait, Spain officially launched its digital nomad visa in 2023! The program is in its infancy, but was created to attract freelancers and digital nomads to work and live in Spain.  The visa allows you to live and work remotely in Spain for up to three years and can be renewed for up to five.  In order to qualify applicants must show proof of financial means, a reliable income, a valid passport, and health insurance.   

Internet fixed: 180.3 Mbps M

Internet mobile: 38.36 Mbps

There is free internet access throughout much of Spain, but largely focused on the bigger cities.  The country is working hard as part of its economic recovery to digitize and prioritize internet access, so availability and quality should continue to rise!

Visa Costs: $265

Visa Length: One year renewable up to 4 years.

Income Requirements: $2,215 per month

Who Can apply: you must have been working remotely for at least one year and you must not have been a Spanish resident for the last five years.

Apply from abroad: You can apply remotely

Cost of living index: 50.61 – (53rd out of 140)

The cost of living in Spain is extremely reasonable (generally but can vary a lot based on region) and one of the main reasons people want to move and retire to this sun-kissed country.  Even though your cost of living is lower than in the United States, or other parts of Europe, people report enjoying considerable amenities and increased quality of life.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a favorite among digital nomads. It is an old country with beautiful old architecture and rich history.  It is located in the heart of Europe, making it an ideal place from which to travel easily and see the world.  English is widely spoken, and it is ranked as a very safe country, as well as one of the most peaceful.

The Zivno digital nomad visa is valid for a period of six months to one year. Since the digital nomad visa for the Czech Republic is more like a long-term business visa, you are allowed to stay and work there for a year. The visa requires proof of liquid funds and is a bit more complicated than other digital nomad applications.  However, people describe living in Prague like living in a fairytale, and report that seeking a visa is well worth the effort required upfront.  

Internet fixed: 55.52 Mbps 

Internet mobile: 45.62 Mbps 

The Czech Republic has fast, reliable, and free internet throughout the country.  

Visa Costs: Around 150$

Visa Length: 6 months to 1 year

Income Requirements: $5200 in your bank account

Who Can apply: Anyone

Apply from abroad: You must apply from your local embassy or consulate. It takes quite a long time to get, so beware!

Cost of living index: 48.9 – (55th out of 140)

The Czech Republic is not the least expensive place in Europe, but has a relatively low cost of living for its location and quality of life.  Digital nomads report finding beautiful flats in incredible locations for lease at a reasonable cost.  

Thailand

Thailand is a country like no other, offering a unique culture as well as spectacular scenery.  It is a favorite for many remote workers for this reason, along with it´s low cost of living.  Thailand offers a diversity of settings, including bustling and vibrant cities such as Chiang Mai and Bangkok, as well as staggeringly beautiful beaches and forests.  

After a very long wait, Thailand finally launched its Long Term Residency (LTR) Visa in September 2022.  This Visa is not for everyone, and is designed to attract those with more cash reserves and an income of $80,000 a year.  However, for those that have fallen in love with the country, the visa is ideal and allows people with liquid funds, investors, or retirees to live in the country for up to ten years while only paying 17% in taxes! Most digital nomads who don’t have as much cash just stay on the tourist visa for up to 90 days for a part of the year.

Internet fixed: 203.28 Mbps

Internet mobile: 40.1 Mbps 

Thailand offers impressive internet speed and availability.  

Visa Costs: $600

Visa Length: 10 years

Income Requirements: Make $80,000 per year

Who Can apply: Anyone who meets the criteria

Apply from abroad: online application is easy.

Cost of living index: 40.7 – (79th out of 140)

Thailand has a low cost of living, particularly outside the big urban areas.  Explore all the details with Lonely Planet Thailand.

Canada

Canada is an exceptional country that allows for ideal attractions when moving abroad.  Traits like low crime, abundant natural resources, excellent education, and a diverse setting are some of the reasons digital nomads love working in this country.   It is an immigrant-friendly country and has a growing economy. 

There is not a specific digital nomad visa in Canada, however, there is a self-employment visa that allows you to stay longer than six months.  Additionally, there is the startup visa program designed for entrepreneurs who are immigrating from another country.  Both visas accommodate digital nomads, and Canada is actively trying to welcome these types of workers.  

Internet fixed: 109.28 Mbps

Internet mobile: 99.1 Mbps 

The Internet is comparatively slow to other parts of the world and costs are a bit higher, but the country is prioritizing making advances in this area.  

Visa Costs: $2,385.00

Visa Length: up to 24 months

Income Requirements: over 10,000$ is recommended

Who Can apply: Professionals in certain fields who have at leat 2 years work experience

Apply from abroad: The whole process is electronic.

Cost of living index: 66.1 – (26th out of 140)

The cost of living is higher in Canada, but most digital nomads feel the safety, security, and amenities well outweigh the higher overhead.   More info in the Lonely Planet Canada guide.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is famous for its relaxed lifestyle, gorgeous beaches, and amazing landscape of jungle, volcanoes, and waterfalls. It has an extremely laid-back lifestyle and there are huge populations of expats and English speakers.

The digital nomad visa is a new things which was recently instated. It allows foreigners to stay for a 1 to two-year period. This visa is primarily designed for entrepreneurs or the self-employed.  This is one of the most accessible digital nomad visas around the world and is quick and easy to get.  

Internet fixed: 66.59 Mbps M

Internet mobile: 25.72 Mbps

The Internet is spotty in many locations throughout Costa Rica, so pay attention to the specific location you are planning to move to.  

Visa Costs: $190

Visa Length: 1 years with 1 more year extension

Income Requirements: at least $3,000 per month, or $4,000 if you have dependants

Who Can apply: Anyone who works for a company outside Costa Rica

Apply from abroad: You can apply online and the processing is very fast!

Cost of living index: 48.8 – (56th out of 140)

The cost of living in Costa Rica is low and the quality of life is high, with a peaceful and laid-back ethos.   

Georgia

Georgia is a remarkable country and destination for digital nomads.  It is located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, making for a one-of-a-kind location and setting.  It has beautiful mountain villages, as well as stunning beaches on the Black Sea.  It has beautiful architecture set in quaint towns.  The capital of Tbilisi is picturesque and has cobblestone streets and parks throughout the city.

Georgia is one of the most attractive Digital Nomad visas on the market today, and one that we highly recommend!  It’s easy and fast to process the application, and the cost of living is as low compared to other digital nomad favorites. While Georgia doesn’t have a digital nomad visa per se, they allow you to work and stay for up to one year.  Georgia also allows almost anyone to open a bank account on arrival which can be very helpful when trying to get established in a new city. 

Internet fixed: 25.37 Mbps 

Internet mobile: 30.53 Mbps 

Most residential users in Georgia have access to a good internet connection. Quality and stability may vary somewhat by region and neighborhood, but the country is dedicated to improving speed and availability and making headway rapidly.  

Visa Costs: Free!

Visa Length: One year

Income Requirements: $2,000 per month

Who Can apply: citizens from 95 specific countries

Apply from abroad: The whole application process is electronic.

Cost of living index: 38.9 – (84th out of 140)

The cost of living is low despite the high quality of life and significant amenities. It appeals to digital nomads due to its well-connected location and uncrowded cities.   More details in the Lonely Planet Georgia guide.

Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

Applying for a digital nomad visa might feel a bit overwhelming at first, but the process is usually straightforward once you know what to expect. Some countries make it super simple with quick processing times, while others require a bit more patience and paperwork. The key is to plan ahead and stay organized!

In most cases, the steps are quite similar across the board. You’ll need to gather some essential documents, such as a copy of your valid passport, proof that your job allows remote work, evidence of a steady income, and sometimes confirmation of where you’ll be staying. These requirements ensure that you can support yourself financially while living abroad.

Many countries allow you to apply online, streamlining the process, but others may require you to visit the nearest Embassy or Consulate to submit your application in person. Be prepared for an interview as part of the process, followed by a waiting period before you get the final approval. While it might take some effort, the reward—a chance to live and work in an exciting new location—is absolutely worth it!

Final Words…

This list above offers a wide spectrum of climates, cultures, costs of living, and lifestyles for digital nomads. Make sure to pay attention to the pace of life you are after before making the move.  Do you want a laid-back vibe or do you want a more cultural environment in a professional and urban setting?  Carefully consider the application process, your line of work, and what you are seeking to achieve by becoming a digital nomad.

We believe we could live happily-ever-after as digital nomads in any of these countries.  But there is no substitute for exploring a potential life in a place first-hand, so plan a scoping trip!

Discover the ultimate opportunities for digital nomads! Explore the best jobs that offer freedom and flexibility. Embrace a life of adventure and work on your terms.

Elevate your nomad lifestyle with these essential hacks! Unearth expert tips for thriving while on the move. Master the art of wanderlust and make every journey unforgettable. Your guide to a successful nomadic adventure awaits!

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How to Move Abroad

A Workbook to help you make the right choices

Use our easy to follow roadmap to help you find the perfect location to start your new life.

DOWNLOAD NOW!