Finding Your Digital Nomad Utopia

Publishing Date :

16 November, 2022

Read time:

3 Minutes

There are many advantages to being a digital nomad but maybe the most attractive of its perks is the ability to do your job abroad. Crossing international boundaries to work in exciting locales on your own schedule, and the freedom of movement that comes with it, sounds like a dream come true. Yet as wonderful as it seems, it is important to understand that with different countries comes different rules and regulations, and it is imperative to know what nations and regions are most amenable to this type of work if you are to gain the most productive and enjoyable experience.

What Makes a Great Digital Nomad Location

As technology has changed traditional employment models, it has caused gray areas in the status of work visas that can be difficult to understand and troublesome if you run afoul of them. While many digital nomads simply work in countries while carrying a travel visa, the increased and ever evolving regulations and requirements can be a challenge and may render this strategy ineffective.

When considering foreign locations, beyond the scenery, sights, attractions, and your desire to work in a specific environment, there are other important factors to consider. The ease of obtaining a visa, the length of stay it entitles its holder, the financial requirements, documentation, insurance, and other regulations should be factored into your decision. In addition, its infrastructure and internet
capabilities must also be conducive to your job.

However, there are those countries that are more welcoming to this new genre of worker, and because of their efforts and more liberal approach, they represent the best environment for a digital nomad.

Our List

Barbados

The image of being able to work on sandy beaches with swaying palm trees and a cool drink under a cabana is one that many of us have dreamt of, and for a digital nomad, Barbados can turn this dream into reality. Barbados is one of the friendliest locales for remote workers as its specific visas are a year in duration and can be extended upon request.

The documentation needed is quite simple, with only proof of working for a company outside its borders and an annual income of $50,000 being required. After filling out an online application and providing those items, you pay your $2000 fee, and then your remote tropical beach location will be waiting.

Portugal

Western European countries have become increasingly strict on digital nomads as increased visa requirements and changes in taxation have made once desirable locations not as conducive to this model of work, but a notable exception is Portugal. Unlike many other countries on the continent, Portugal offers one-year digital nomad permits and though it has a few more requirements related to proof of income and health insurance, it is freelancer-friendly. With its rich history, culture and amazing activities, Portugal should be at the top of any digital nomad’s list.

The Cayman Islands

If you still desire the tropical experience but Barbados is not your style, then you should consider the Cayman Islands, as it may be one of the friendliest locales for a freelancer. The Cayman Islands takes a different approach to digital nomads, relabeling them under their Global Citizen Concierge category.

This permit provides a two-year stay in their tropical paradise, but it does not come cheap. To be eligible, you must provide proof of an annual income of $100,000, show a notarized bank letter, and undergo a background check. However, if you do not mind jumping through the extra hoops, it is worth the effort.

Costa Rica

Latin America has some particularly good opportunities for digital nomads, but maybe the best is in Costa Rica. With extraordinary scenery, beautiful beaches and mountains, and some of the best sightseeing opportunities in Latin America, the small nation is a great location to set up shop. Along with the picturesque landscapes, Costa Rica offers a liberal stay of two years with the ability to extend
it upon request. The requirements are modest, with only the proof of a monthly income of $3000 and transferable medical insurance needed to be presented along with your application.

The Czech Republic

There are few locations on this list that combine the amount of history and amazing scenery as does the Czech Republic. Its incredible museums, landscapes, and attractions are some of the most stunning in Europe. During those times that you are not partaking in all the attractions this Central European
country has to offer, it does have many of the working conveniences that are absent in other locales.

With their comfortable cafes you will also enjoy one of the fastest internet connections on the continent. However, it can be a little trickier when applying for a visa as they only grant them to specific trades and require a bank statement showing a $6000 balance. In addition, they do charge
an $80 per month tax and are not as liberal with granting extension requests.

Hungary

Hungary is an outlier on this list as it has been one of the friendliest locations for digital nomads for years. Beyond its many historical sites and the gorgeous city of Budapest, they have upped their game by offering their new “White Card”. This is a special one-year long residency program, with a fairly easy option to extend for an additional 12 months.

The requirements are also quite simple to meet, with the only restrictions being you cannot be from an EU country. By simply providing proof of $2240 a month in earnings, you demonstrate the only financial sustainability standard that you must meet to make this your new place of work.

Malta

There are few countries that actively recruit digital nomads and Malta is one of them. This island in the Mediterranean has made a concerted effort for several years to make their small country a destination spot by creating a strong internet infrastructure which includes nationwide 5G.

This is coupled with a population well-versed in English, a location that straddles Europe, Africa and the Middle East, and an island lifestyle, making it a particularly attractive spot for the freelancer. The online application procedure is simple, offers up to a three-year stay, and requires only a reasonable $3000-a-month salary and a $300 fee.

Greece

The birthplace of western civilization offers unmatched history combined with amazing beaches, sights, and the best in Mediterranean cuisine, making it one of the most desirable spots for digital nomads to plant down their computers and get to work.

Greece offers a specialized visa specific to freelance work that can be extended to three years. It also features one of the most advantageous tax structures, offering a 50% cut to selected nationalities. Visas are inexpensive, costing less than $100, and they also extend visa invitations to spouses and children.

Thailand

This Southeast Asian nation has been a popular locale for digital nomads for years, and it has now become one of the most freelance friendly nations as well. It offers great food, beautiful scenery, and one of the most affordable costs of living on this list, maintaining its status as a digital nomad haven.

Previously, there was a great deal of gray area to the legality of freelance work, but that has now changed as their new LTR visa provides for extended periods of time to work legally. Applicants, once they show proof of an $80.000-a year-income and $50,000 in health insurance coverage, are welcomed with open arms.

Do Your Research and Ensure Success

It is important that once you decide on the qualities you are looking for in a location, that you thoroughly investigate the requirements of each of those nations you are considering. Regulations and restrictions can change, and sometimes under the radar. So, knowing what you will be required from a visa and financial standpoint is critical. Once you perform your research and make your selection from a place of knowledge, you will better ensure that your international digital nomad experience is a great one.