The 21st century has witnessed a significant disruption in the traditional concept of work, thanks to technology. Work tasks can now be performed and completed from anywhere, breaking free from the limitations of office spaces. This has given rise to a new lifestyle known as digital nomadism, where professionals use technology to work remotely while living a nomadic life in foreign countries.

As the popularity of digital nomadism grows, several countries have recognized the opportunity and started offering special visas tailored for this group. These digital nomad visas are designed to attract skilled workers from abroad, contributing to the host country's economy. Essentially, these visas permit remote workers, freelancers, and online entrepreneurs to enter and reside in a country for a specific period, facilitating their location-independent lifestyle. 

If you are planning to visit as a tourist and engage in sightseeing activities, make sure to acquire and review visa requirements and proceed with how to Apply for e-Visa with the application process for an e-Visa.

Benefits and Considerations

Digital nomad visas offer several benefits, such as the ability to legally live and work in a chosen country without local company ties and the potential for visa renewal. These visas often allow for the inclusion of immediate family members, though income requirements may be higher. Travel insurance is typically required to cover health and valuable equipment. Providing accurate and comprehensive information increases the likelihood of visa approval, as denials are often due to income proof or visa history issues.

Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas

Several countries around the world have recognized the value of attracting digital nomads and have introduced specific visas to cater to this growing trend.

Here are some countries that offer digital nomad visas:

Estonia

Estonia, known for its digital-forward policies, was one of the first countries to introduce a Digital Nomad Visa. This Baltic country offers digital nomads the opportunity to live and work in Estonia for up to a year.

Requirements

• Proof of ongoing work with a company registered outside of Estonia or as a freelancer for clients mostly outside of Estonia.
• Evidence of income that meets the minimum threshold set by the Estonian government.

Benefits

• Opportunity to live and work in one of the world's most digitally advanced nations.
• Access to the Schengen area, allowing travel to other European countries.
• High-speed internet and a welcoming environment for digital nomads.

Barbados

The Caribbean island of Barbados introduced the “Barbados Welcome Stamp” in July 2020, a visa that allows remote workers and their families to live in Barbados for up to 12 months.

Requirements

• Declaration and evidence that the intended work is location-independent, being conducted remotely.
• Health Insurance coverage.
• Income that meets the minimum threshold set by the Barbadian government.

Benefits

• Enjoy the idyllic Caribbean lifestyle, with beautiful beaches and tropical climate.
• High-quality infrastructure, with reliable internet and a safe environment.

Application Process

• Complete the online application form.
• Pay the visa fee.

Bermuda

Following Barbados, Bermuda also launched a one-year residential certificate for remote workers and students in August 2020.

Requirements

• Proof of employment with a legitimate company or your own company registered and operating outside of Bermuda, in the case of a remote worker.
• Proof of enrollment in a Research, Undergraduate, Graduate or Doctorate Program, in the case of a student.

Benefits

• Experience the stunning natural beauty of Bermuda, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
• Enjoy a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare and education services.

Application process

• Fill out the online application form
• Submit any required paperwork and pay the visa fee

Portugal

Portugal, particularly the cities of Lisbon and Porto, has become a popular destination for digital nomads, and the country offers a residence permit for independent workers and entrepreneurs.

Requirements

• Proof of income, either from a contract of services or intellectual or industrial property.
• Proof of adequate accommodation in Portugal.
• Health Insurance coverage.

Benefits

• Opportunity to live in one of Europe's most vibrant and historic countries, known for its rich culture and beautiful landscapes.
• Access to the Schengen area, allowing travel to other European countries.

Norway

Norway, famed for its stunning fjords and high quality of life, welcomes digital nomads with a 2-year Independent Contractor Visa. This prosperous nation, rich in oil and boasting a substantial sovereign wealth fund, provides an excellent infrastructure for digital nomads willing to meet its higher cost of living.

Requirements

• A valid passport.
• Proof of external self-employment – you must demonstrate that your business or work is based outside of Norway.
• Proof of income – To qualify for the independent contractor visa, you must earn a minimum of 35,719€ annually.
• Bank statements – You need to provide bank statements to validate your income.
• Contract with a Norwegian client – One of the conditions for the Norway digital nomad visa is to maintain at least one Norwegian client with a contract agreeing to pay you the minimum salary.
• Accommodation address – You must secure a residence in Norway and provide the address of this lodging during the application process.

Benefits

• Living in Norway grants access to a high standard of living, well-developed infrastructure, and stunning natural beauty.
• Under this visa, you're expected to pay local taxes and apply for a VAT number in Norway.
• The visa opens the opportunity to explore Norway's beautiful landscapes and fjords during your leisure time.

Armenia

The Eurasian country of Armenia invites digital nomads with the opportunity to apply for a residence permit, provided they operate a business within the nation. This implies registration as a sole proprietor with the Armenian tax office.

Benefits 

• Access to a thriving Eurasian market with an opportunity to tap into diverse business sectors. 
• Potential for reduced taxation under the "microbusiness" system. 

Steps to Obtain a Residence Permit

1. Travel to Armenia or send necessary documentation, such as a power of attorney and a validated passport copy to Armenia.
2. Register as a sole proprietor and obtain a taxpayer identification number.
3. Report business or employment income to the tax office and pay due taxes.
4. Apply for a residence permit. For remote applications, original passport needs to be mailed.
5. Wait for the review and approval of the residence permit application.
6. Receive the residence permit.

Cyprus

Cyprus, a Mediterranean gem, recently introduced a Digital Nomad Visa program. This permits a select number of non-EU applicants to live and work in the country.

Eligibility

• Applicants can be self-employed or freelance professionals.
• The visa is renewable annually for a maximum of three years.
• Dependents of visa holders can reside in Cyprus, given they do not engage in paid work.
• Applicants need to have a minimum monthly income of EUR 3,500, plus 20% for a spouse and 15% for each minor.
• A police clearance certificate from the applicant's home country is required.
• The program currently limits to 100 applicants.

Additional Perks

• Digital nomads need to stay in Cyprus for just 60 days per year to qualify as tax residents, leaving ample time for globetrotting.
• Cyprus is upgrading its digital capacity, implementing 5G networks across the country.

Colombia

Colombia, known for its vibrant culture and scenic landscapes, has recently introduced a Digital Nomad Visa, effective from October 22, 2022.

Essential Criteria

• Non-Colombian workers employed abroad can live and work in Colombia for up to two years under this new visa.
• The program is also open to those wishing to launch a digital tech startup in Colombia.
• Visa holders are not permitted to engage in paid work for a Colombian employer.
• Applicants must demonstrate monthly earnings equivalent to at least three times the legal minimum wage ($685 as of July 29).
• A letter of employment from one or more international companies the applicant works for is required.
• Evidence of health insurance covering accidents, illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization, death, or repatriation during the stay in Colombia is essential.
• The applicant's passport must have a minimum of six months validity from the application date, with no specific minimum validity period required.

Iceland

Iceland, a country renowned for its mesmerizing landscapes and natural wonders, offers a long-term visa for remote workers. This visa is valid for six months, or 90 days if applied for while travelling within the Schengen area.

Despite its high living costs and stringent application requirements, including a high monthly salary proof, the country's enchanting environment of mountains, ice fields, and snow-capped volcanoes makes it a unique destination for digital nomads.

Eligibility for a long-term remote work visa:

• Applicants must be from a country outside the EU/EEA/EFTA.
• They should not require a visa to travel to Iceland.
• They should not have been issued a long-term visa by the government in the past 12 months.
• The visa should be used exclusively for remote work in Iceland.
• The applicant should not intend to establish long-term residence in Iceland.

Latvia

Emerging as a favorite destination among travellers seeking a less-touristy experience in Eastern Europe, Latvia offers a digital nomad visa. This visa, introduced by the Latvian government, permits international individuals who are self-employed or working for an organization outside Latvia to work from Latvia for up to a year, with potential for extension.

Eligibility for this visa is restricted to individuals working for a company recognized by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) or self-employed individuals associated with a company registered in an OECD country.

Key requirements include:

• Possession of a valid passport.
• Citizenship or residence in an OECD country such as the U.S., Israel, Canada, Mexico, the U.K., Japan, New Zealand, Turkey, among others.
• Proof of remote income for at least six months through employment contracts or business documents with the same company.
• Bank statements demonstrating a monthly income of at least €2,857.50.
• Health insurance coverage for the duration of the visa.

Montenegro

Montenegro is set to launch its first Digital Nomad Visa soon, as announced by Jan de Jong, the president of the Digital Nomad Association Croatia. Digital Nomads will be able to apply for a permit valid for two years, extendable by another two years, during which they'll be exempt from income tax in Montenegro. The country plans to put a program in place for visa applications by 2025, with full operation of the initiative expected in the following years.

Hungary

Hungary's Parliament has approved the creation of a digital nomad visa, known as the White Card. This visa targets non-EU digital nomads, investors, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. 

The White Card will be issued to individuals with a confirmed employment relationship in a country outside Hungary, performing their work in Hungary using advanced digital technology, or those owning a profitable company outside Hungary and managing their work or company from within the country. 

This program opens doors for individuals from the UK, the US, Latin America, Africa, and Asian countries, including New Zealand and Australia.

Georgia

Georgia has initiated a program, "Remotely From Georgia", catering to digital nomads, remote workers, and entrepreneurs from 95 countries, including the United States, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Eligible individuals can live and work in Georgia for up to a year.

Eligibility

Applicants need to have a monthly income of $2000 or a bank balance of at least $24,000. Georgia levies a mere 1% tax on business turnover up to approximately $155,000 under the Individual Entrepreneur scheme.

Advantages

There is no application fee for this visa program! The visa's duration is up to 1 year, and those registering a business as an Individual Entrepreneur may also apply for permanent residency.

Application Process

The "Remotely from Georgia" application is free and can be completed online. Decisions are typically made within 10 working days.

Bahamas

The Bahamas has introduced the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay, a one-year residency permit targeting digital nomads, freelancers, remote workers, and students. It allows these individuals to work from any of the 16 tax-free islands that make up The Bahamas.

Eligibility

The total application and permit fee comes to $1,025 USD per person.

• Individual Applicants:

The application fee is $25 USD per person, and the permit fee is $1,000 USD.

 

• Family Applicants:

 

For each applicant and dependent, the application fee is $25 USD. The permit fee is $1,000 USD per applicant and $500 USD per dependent.

Applicants must provide a letter from their current employer or proof of self-employment showing income.

Advantages

The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay permit is valid for up to 1 year and may be renewed on a case-by-case basis for up to 3 years. Citizens from the USA, Canada, the EU, and Britain do not require an additional travel permit.

Malta

Malta has launched a Digital Nomad Residency program, targeted at remote workers and digital nomads who aspire to live alongside the Mediterranean Sea. The program offers a six-month visa, with an opportunity to acquire a one-year "Nomad Residence Permit."

Eligibility

Applicants need to either have an overseas business or be remote workers or freelancers with clients located abroad.

Requirements include:

• Passing a standard background check
• Purchasing health insurance
• Holding a valid passport
• Demonstrating a minimum monthly income of EUR 2,700
• Renting or buying a property
• Writing a letter of intent, expressing the reasons for wanting to move to Malta

Importantly, this opportunity is also open to non-EU nationals.

Antigua & Barbuda

Antigua & Barbuda has launched the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) visa, catering to self-sustaining digital nomads and their families.

Key Details

• The NDR visa grants a 2-year residency.
• Beneficiaries are required to obtain a health insurance plan.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants should own a location-independent business.
• If not a business owner, remote work for a company based outside of Antigua & Barbuda is acceptable.
• Minimum annual income of USD $50,000 is required.

Application Process

• Complete the online application form.
• Provide proof of employment and a police background check.
• Pay the visa fee

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands has launched the Global Citizen Concierge Program (GCCP), a digital nomad visa allowing individuals to live and work in the country for up to 2 years.

Eligibility

• Proof of an annual salary of at least USD $100,000 for individuals, or USD $150,000 for couples.
• Employment with a company outside of the Cayman Islands.
• Submission of a notarized bank reference letter.
• Background checks for all applicants.
• Requirement to obtain a health insurance policy.

Application Process

• Complete the online application form.
• Pay the application fee.

Croatia

Croatia has officially launched its digital nomad visa, allowing individuals to stay in the country for up to 12 months with no extension option. The visa is available to third-country nationals working for non-Croatian companies.

Application Process:

• Fill out the application form.
• Submit a copy of your passport.
• Purchase health insurance that includes coverage for Croatia.
• Provide proof of employment in communication technology for a non-Croatian employer.
• Maintain a bank account with a minimum balance as required.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic offers a freelancer visa called the Zivno, providing digital nomads with the opportunity to live and work in the country for 1 year, with the possibility of one extension.

Application Process:

• Obtain a trade license for an eligible trade.
• Provide proof of accommodation for at least 1 year.
• Submit bank statements demonstrating the required funds.
• Fulfill the local tax obligations.

Curaçao

The stunning island of Curaçao has introduced the @Home in Curaçao program, welcoming digital nomads and remote workers to its beautiful shores. Curaçao boasts a unique blend of cultures from Spanish, British, Dutch, and more.

Eligibility:

• Proof of a contract with a foreign company.
• Partnership or shareholding in a foreign company.
• Remote workers, digital nomads, or freelancers serving clients who reside outside Curaçao.

Required Documents:

• Submission of the passport identification page.
• Purchase of travel insurance covering COVID-19-related expenses.
• Application fee.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica, often referred to as the Switzerland of Latin America, is renowned for its stability, social programs, natural resources, and expat-friendly tax system. This captivating country now offers a new residency visa for digital nomads and remote workers.

Eligibility:

• Proof of a non-local monthly salary, fixed income, or average monthly income equal to or exceeding $3,000 per person or $4,000 per family.
• Alternatively, a deposit of $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank.

Application Process:

• Engage an immigration lawyer or navigate the registration process independently through the official website.
• Translate and authenticate all documents in Spanish from your home country.
• Obtain medical insurance coverage for your stay in Costa Rica.
• Pay a one-time visa fee.

Benefits:

• Complete exemption from income tax on the generated income.
• No import tax on personal items, such as computers, cameras, and phones.
• Possibility of extending the visa for an additional 12 months.

Dominica

Dominica, a Caribbean nation distinct from the Dominican Republic, has introduced its own "Work in Nature" visa, providing an opportunity for remote workers, digital nomads, and freelancers to reside and work in the island's natural surroundings for up to 18 months.

Eligibility:

• Clean criminal records.
• Capability to work remotely.
• Annual income of USD $50,000 or more.
• Visa fee.

Family members eligible for inclusion within the income requirement:

• Spouse or partner.
• Dependent children.
• Other family members (conditions apply).

In addition, there are plans to establish a remote working village specifically designed for digital workers, offering specialized services and venues.

Dubai

Dubai has recently introduced a remote work and travel visa, providing an opportunity for individuals to work and travel in the city. 

Requirements:

• Valid medical insurance with UAE coverage.
• Proof of employment from your employer.
• Documentation of a one-year contract and monthly salary statements (note: this requirement may be challenging for freelancers who do not have these specific documents).

Germany

Germany offers a digital nomad visa known as the "Freiberufler" visa, which can be extended for up to 3 years.

Requirements:

• The nature of your freelance job must be considered "liberal" by the local tax office to qualify for the visa.
• You will be required to pay taxes to the German government.
• Another option is the Aufenthaltserlaubnis für selbständige Tätigkeit, a freelance visa that allows digital nomads and self-employed individuals to reside in Germany for 6 months to 3 years.

Application process:

• Obtain a local address in Germany.
• Provide proof of health insurance.
• Demonstrate financial self-sustainability.
• Work with clients based in Germany to contribute to the local economy.
• Pay a visa fee.

Mexico

Mexico has implemented a trial effort at Cancun International Airport to phase out the use of FMMs (Multiple Migratory Format) and automatically grant visitors a 180-day stay. Visitors are still required to complete the FMM upon entry.

To obtain the Multiple Immigration Form electronically for air entry (FMME), applicants must have a valid and current passport. If their nationality requires it, they must also provide a valid and current visa.

Mexico is a popular destination for digital nomads and offers a temporary resident visa that allows individuals to live and work in the country for 1 to 3 consecutive years.

Requirements:

• Own a location independent business or work remotely for a company based outside of Mexico.
• Have a minimum monthly income of USD $1,620 or a bank balance of USD $27,000.

Application process:

• Fill out the application form.
• Schedule an appointment at a Mexican consulate to submit your documents in person.

Australia

The Australian Working Holiday Visa allows digital nomads to live and work in Australia for a duration of 1 year. However, applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old to be eligible for this visa.

An important note is that the visa can be extended for an additional year if the applicant engages in farm work in rural Australia. This requirement may not be suitable for most digital nomads who have little experience or interest in farm work.

Australia is known for its diverse wildlife, attracting many visitors interested in volunteering or working with animals. If you are considering such programs, it's worth exploring if they qualify for a visa extension. However, for most digital nomads, the extension may not be recommended due to the farm work requirement.

Temporary Resident Visa

Portugal offers temporary resident visas and residence permits for digital nomads and entrepreneurs. These visas can be extended for 1 to 5 years, with the option to apply for permanent residency after five years.

Requirements include proof of income from property, business, or other financial means, a minimum monthly income of €600, and private travel/health insurance. A criminal background check is also required.

Spain

Spain offers a visa for digital nomads and is working on another visa specifically for start-ups.

Self Employment Visa

This visa allows digital nomads from the EU and non-EU countries to live and work in Spain for 1 year.

Requirements include proving sufficient funds to establish and maintain employment and passing a background check.

Digital Nomad Visa (upcoming)

Starting in January 2023, Spain plans to introduce a Digital Nomad Visa for foreign remote workers.

The new Startup Law aims to remove administrative hurdles, provide tax benefits for start-ups and investors, and simplify procedures for emerging technology-based companies.

Non-Lucrative Visa

Spain also offers a Non-Lucrative Visa for individuals who want to live in Spain for 1 year, with a possible extension. However, work is not allowed on this visa.

Montserrat

Montserrat welcomes digital nomads to its new remote work program, the Montserrat Remote Work Stamp. This program allows foreign digital nomads to live and work on this Caribbean island for 12 months, with the possibility of an extension.

Requirements include:

• Payment of $500 per applicant. 
• Proof of employment with a foreign employer or ownership of a company overseas. 
• Proof of a minimum annual income of $70,000. Purchase of health insurance.

Approval for the program is typically granted within 7 business days.

Namibia

Namibia offers the Namibia Digital Nomad Visa program, allowing individuals to work and create lasting memories in this beautiful country. The visa fee for this program is approximately $62 USD.

Applicants must demonstrate the ability to support themselves and any dependents, with specific monthly income requirements: $2000 for the applicant, $1000 for an accompanying spouse, and $500 per accompanying child.

Valid travel documents, health insurance, and travel insurance covering international risks are also required. Upon arrival, the visa fee of $62 (NAD1100) must be paid.

Mauritius

Mauritius, an island country, has joined the list of destinations offering visas for digital nomads and remote workers. The temporary resident visa allows individuals to live and work in Mauritius for one year, with the possibility of renewal. Currently, the application for this visa is free.

Requirements for the Mauritius digital nomad visa include:

• Ensuring that your source of income is outside the country to avoid competition with local workers.
• Meeting the cost of staying in Mauritius, which is $1500 per month per person and an additional $500 per dependent below 24 years old.
• Purchasing travel insurance.
• Holding a valid passport.
• Purchasing a return ticket.

Argentina

Argentina is now offering a temporary resident visa for remote workers from other countries. This visa allows for a six-month stay, which can be extended once for the same period. Benefits include discounts on flights with Argentina's state-owned airline, Aerolíneas Argentinas.

The aim is to attract individuals who prioritize freedom and want to explore new places after the pandemic. Digital nomads, known for their higher purchasing power, spend an average of $3,000 per month, twice as much as regular tourists.

Requirements include:

• Citizenship from a country that does not require a tourist visa for entry to Argentina.
• Submission of a document proving the work relationship with at least one employer.
• CV submission.

Ecuador

Ecuador offers a "Rentista" visa that allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to two years.

How to apply for Ecuador's digital nomad visa:

To be eligible for the nomad visa, you need:

• A passport with a minimum validity of six months.
• A clean police record.
• Proof of at least €1,266 in monthly foreign income (equivalent to three times Ecuador's "basic salary").
• Evidence of Ecuadorian health insurance.
• Pay for the application fee.

The visa is available to applicants from most countries, with a few exceptions. Remote workers and digital nomads can apply through Ecuador's online consulate, with the process typically taking two to four months.

Malaysia

Malaysia is introducing the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, a new visa for digital nomads and remote workers.

The visa allows international remote workers to stay in Malaysia for up to one year, with the option to extend for another year.

Requirements for eligibility include:

• Earning a minimum of $24,000 annually.
• Working as a freelancer, independent contractor, or full-time remote employee.
• Providing proof of employment, such as freelance client contracts or a contract with a foreign corporation.
• Paying a visa fee.

Visa holders can also bring their partners and children for an additional fee.

Indonesia / Bali

Second-Home 10-year Stay Visa

Indonesia has introduced a visa that allows individuals to live, work, and invest in the country for up to 10 years. Applicants must bring a minimum of two billion Indonesian rupiahs (approximately $130,000) and deposit the funds in Indonesian state-owned banks.

Digital Nomad Visa

Indonesia is working on a digital nomad visa that will enable remote workers to work online for up to six months without paying taxes, using the existing B211A visa. The government is also considering a longer-term digital nomad visa, potentially up to five years.

Latest Update: Indonesia's Minister of Tourism, Sandiaga Uno, has mentioned that they are expediting the process for the new digital nomad visa, with further details expected soon.

The government aims to attract international tourists and maximize the economic impact of their visits.

Uruguay

Uruguay has implemented favorable tax and pension systems to attract ICT workers and encourage digital nomads and remote workers to choose the country as their base.

Applying for online residency in Uruguay is a straightforward process. You will need to provide a signed affidavit confirming your financial ability to support yourself and complete an online form with your personal details.

After residing in Uruguay for six months, you can apply for a six-month extension. For the extension, digital nomads must provide a clear criminal record from each country they have lived in for at least six months in the past five years.

Goa (State of India) – Coming soon

The government of Goa is in talks to introduce digital nomad visas to promote the local economy and attract more tourists. Discussions have begun with the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of External Affairs, and other relevant departments.

As a popular tourist destination, Goa aims to attract foreign visitors for extended stays by offering digital nomad visas.

Please stay tuned for updates on the development of the digital nomad visa program in Goa.

Italy (Upcoming)

Italy is planning to introduce a digital nomad visa for non-European Union residents. The visa will allow remote workers to live and work in Italy for up to a year.

The visa is expected to target "highly qualified" remote workers, although the specific criteria have not been defined yet. This could include a range of professions, from college professors to circus performers.

Italian MP Luca Carabetta stated that the government will work on a new bill to outline the procedures and requirements for the visa. These requirements may include suitable housing, adequate income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

While the proposal has been approved, there are still further steps to be taken.

Romania – Coming soon

Romania is currently working on introducing a new visa that will cater to digital nomads and their families, allowing them to live and work in the country for an extended period.

Key conditions for eligibility may include:

• Providing proof of employment or ownership of a company registered outside of Romania.
• Demonstrating proof of health insurance coverage.
• Presenting a clean criminal record.
• Visa fees are yet to be announced.

Greece – Coming soon

Greece is set to introduce a new visa for digital nomads. According to Law 4825/2021, remote workers must be employed by a company registered outside Greece or be independent contractors earning a minimum monthly income of €3,500 from sources outside Greece.

Applicants need to provide proof of an employment contract concluded outside Greece, either for an "indefinite period" or for a duration that matches the visa. Self-employed nomads must also disclose their income and provide any necessary contracts or proof of payment.

The exact launch date is yet to be confirmed. Stay tuned for updates on Greece's digital nomad visa.

Thailand – Coming soon

Exciting news for digital nomads and remote workers in Thailand! The country is set to introduce new visa options to attract professionals with high earning potential and exceptional skills.

1. Visa for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers (Up to 4 years): Thailand's Smart Visa program will soon include digital nomads and remote workers. This visa will allow them to work and live in the country for up to 4 years. Applicants will need to demonstrate their qualifications and professional experience.
   
   
2. Visa for Wealthy Digital Nomads, Remote Workers, and Retired Professionals (Up to 10 years): Thailand is planning a visa program targeting wealthy digital nomads, remote workers, and retired professionals. To be eligible, applicants must invest at least $500,000 in government bonds or real estate. They will need to show a minimum income of $80,000 per year (or $40,000 per year for retirees).

Accepted individuals will be able to live and work in Thailand for up to 10 years, with a five-year trial period starting in 2022.

Please note that specific details about the visa application process have not yet been released.

Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting visa options for digital nomads and remote workers in Thailand!

South Africa

South Africa is working on introducing a new work visa regime that includes a startup and digital nomad visa.

The proposed initiative will allow digital nomads and remote workers to live and work in South Africa for one year, with the possibility of extending their stay for an additional year.

While specific criteria have not been released yet, applicants may be required to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of $3,000.

In addition to proof of employment, remote workers will need to provide documentation of accommodation and health insurance.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa aims to make the country more accessible to this demographic.

Sri Lanka – Coming soon

Sri Lanka is set to introduce long-term one-year visas to attract digital nomads and remote workers. The decision, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on July 12, aims to boost off-season tourism by catering to individuals who are not restricted by seasonal travel.

While the specific eligibility requirements have yet to be announced, the Sri Lankan government is actively working on facilitating the entry of digital nomads and remote workers to the country.

Please refer to official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information on Sri Lanka's digital nomad visa program.

Egypt (Coming Soon)

Egypt has set an ambitious target of welcoming 30 million visitors by 2028 and is planning to introduce a new 5-year visa to attract tourists.

Here's what to expect:

• The visa application process will be straightforward for travelers from the 180 recognized countries.
• Applicants aged 16 and above will be able to apply for the visa online through the E-Visa portal.
• The 5-year visa will allow multiple visits to Egypt.
• The exact launch date has not been announced yet but is expected to be soon.
• The cost of the 5-year visa is set at $700.
• Additionally, visitors from eligible countries can also obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for $25.

Stay tuned for official updates on the availability and application process for Egypt's new 5-year visa.

FAQs

1. Digital Nomad Visa FAQs
   A. What is a digital nomad visa? A digital nomad visa is a permit that enables individuals to reside, travel, and work remotely in a foreign country.
2. Which countries offer a digital nomad visa?
   A. Currently, approximately 45 countries have established digital nomad visa or residency programs, allowing stays ranging from 6 months to 5 years.
3. Is there a digital nomad visa in the US?
   A. The United States does not currently offer specific visas or permits tailored for digital nomads or remote workers.

Q. Are digital nomad visas difficult to obtain?
A. The ease of obtaining a digital nomad visa varies depending on the specific requirements of each country, but generally, it is not overly challenging to meet the criteria and acquire a digital nomad visa