Best Countries For Digital Nomads

• Spain, Croatia, Romania, and Thailand are some of the best countries for digital nomads where they can live, work, and experience different cultures. 

• Consider essential factors such as cost of living, stable internet connectivity, and digital nomad visa when deciding the best destination for remote work. 

• Carry travel insurance with you to avoid expenses for medical emergencies and any other unforeseen situations. 
   

Are you looking for the best countries for digital nomads that offer work bliss? If yes, then you must read this article well. You might be aware of the fact that digital nomadism has changed the focus of individuals toward work and travel. Now, they have the flexibility to work from anywhere and experience the countries and cultures around them. 

This way of living provides more freedom; however, you also have to choose the appropriate place to support your journey. So, consideration of factors such as cost of living, consistent internet access, quality of life, and digital nomad visa plays an important role. A digital nomad visa is offered to remote workers so that they can live and work legally in a foreign land. 

In this article, you will learn about some of the best digital nomad visa countries. These countries will give you a stable work base and quality of life. Also, you will get a chance to network with fellow remote workers, which can help you grow in your career. 

Best Countries for Digital Nomads to Live In 

Digital nomadism is popular nowadays, and many countries are allowing freelance workers to work this way. Let’s have a look at some of the best countries for digital nomads that have now become the most visited and offer great opportunities for work, travel, and lifestyle. 

Spain 

With a lively atmosphere, great weather, and low living expenses, Spain is one of the best European countries to live in as a digital nomad. The best time to go is spring and fall when the weather is mildest. If we talk about the most visited cities, then Barcelona and Madrid are the ones as they have a lot to offer in terms of contemporary and ancient history. The cost of living in this country may go around $1,200 to $1,500 per month, which will cover your housing rent, food, and transportation.  

Spain has a digital nomad visa, which enables freelancers to live and work in the country for up to 1 year with the option to extend. When applying, you need to submit proof that you must be earning 200% of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage, along with other requirements. 

From different natural landscapes, like beaches and mountains, to cultural hubs, such as museums and festivals, Spain has a lot to offer to those who prefer to blend in work and travel. 

Argentina 

For a cheaper and more adventurous place to travel as a digital nomad, Argentina is also a great option. You can visit this country from December to March during the summer of the Southern Hemisphere. As the internet service is reliable and fast in every major city around the country, you can enjoy your work remotely in cities such as Mendoza and Buenos Aires. These cities are the hotspots for remote work. 

A digital nomad visa in Argentina allows you to work remotely for up to 180 days. When applying, you need to submit the request for labor demand, contract, or any other document showcasing your remote employment.  

In Argentina, your living expenses might go around $1200, depending on where and how you live. The country, with its vibrant culture, beautiful scenic views, and pocket-friendly prices, has so much to offer. 

Romania 

Romania is becoming one of the best countries for digital nomads thanks to the high-speed internet and reasonable cost of living. Here, you can stay in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, which offer the healthiest options for work-life balance. 

Romania does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa, but freelancers can apply for a long-stay visa meeting specific requirements. As an applicant, you need to share proof of employment with a company operating outside Romania. You must submit a record of the last six months from the application submission date showing that you earn three times the average gross salary in Romania. Also, the same remuneration will be paid for the rest of your stay in the country. 

The average cost of living here is quite cheap, i.e., €900 to €1,000 every month, covering food, stay, and transportation. The best time to visit is probably the spring and summer in ideal weather. 

United Arab Emirates (Dubai) 

Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is a popular destination for those who want to work in a cosmopolitan city. Consider visiting from November to March during the cooler months. To work here, you need to apply for Dubai’s Virtual Work Visa, which offers one year of residency in the city without any UAE sponsor. 

You need to fulfill the requirements, such as an employment contract from a non-UAE company with a contract of at least one year. Also, a proof showing your monthly income, which can be at least USD 3500 or AED 12,856.  

While the cost of living in Dubai is higher than in other countries, it offers tax benefits and world-class infrastructure to remote workers. In fact, you can also sponsor your family members when working in this city in UAE. 

Thailand 

Thailand is a favorite for digital nomads due to its serene living, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities. You can stay for up to 5 years in the country on its Destination Thailand Visa under Workcation. In the country, Chiang Mai and Bangkok are the main hubs for remote workers, offering reliable co-working spaces and a friendly atmosphere.  

Like any other country, Thailand also needs a valid employment contract showing that you are working as a freelancer for the company. Also, you need to submit evidence of your income, such as a sponsorship letter and bank statements that prove your income from remote work is not less than 500,000 THB. 

Your stay in Thailand as a digital nomad can cost you around $700 to $1000, which is around 24000 Thai Baht each month. The tropical climate, rich culture, and welcoming locals are some of the reasons that Thailand is one of the best countries for digital nomads. 

Portugal 

Another name in the list of digital nomad visa countries is Portugal, which is attractive because of the mild climate and excellent work-life balance. You must consider visiting this country during the spring and fall seasons to witness the pleasant weather. 

The two most popular cities in the country are Porto and Lisbon, where you will find most of the freelancers working and enjoying the surroundings at the same time. When visiting the country, make sure that you must be able to pay around $2000 to $2400 monthly. 

To enter Portugal as a remote worker, you must have a temporary stay visa that permits you to enter and stay in the country for less than a year. While having this visa, you are allowed to have multiple stays in the country. 

Malta 

For remote workers, Malta is one of the best European countries to live in. The country attracts visitors for its history and beautiful coastal areas, which makes this destination a great place for digital nomads. It also offers excellent work-life balance as well as favorable weather conditions, especially between May and October. Valette and Sliema are some of the major hubs for freelancers. 

Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit for nationals who require a visa to travel to the country. This visa has a validity of one year and can be renewed on the basis of meeting the specific criteria. The average cost of living in the country is around €1500 to €2,000 every month with reliable internet connectivity. 

Croatia 

This country in the Balkans area has become popular for digital nomads. The beautiful coastline and budget-friendly lifestyle make this place a must-visit for those who like to blend travel and work. The two major cities that are popular among remote workers are Zagreb and Dubrovnik, which offer cultural experiences and workspaces with a strong and trustworthy internet connection. 

What makes the Republic of Croatia unique for freelancers is its rich history, outdoor activities, amazing beaches, and work culture. The cost of staying in the country depends on your lifestyle, generally costing you between €500 and €1200. 

If you are not from the EU or EEA or a Swiss citizen, then you need to apply for a temporary stay to get permission to stay in the country as a digital nomad. This visa permits you to stay up to a year or less without any extension. If you want to extend your stay in Croatia, you have to wait for six months after the expiry of your previous temporary stay as a digital nomad. 

General Travel Tips for Digital Nomads 

The countries mentioned here will give you the best experience and opportunities as a remote worker or a digital nomad. However, there are important travel tips that should be taken into consideration when wandering through some of the best countries for digital nomads.  

• Purchase Travel Insurance: When moving to another country, buying a travel insurance policy is going to protect you in medical emergencies and other unforeseen circumstances such as baggage loss or possible trip disruptions.  Make sure that your travel insurance policy provider will cover you for every possible situation that might go wrong while you are in a foreign country. 

• Consider Pocket-Friendly Stays: You must check out the trustworthy hostels, Airbnb, or co-living spaces that majorly offer services to remote workers.  

• Carry Work Essentials: During your stay abroad as a digital nomad, keep a portable wi-fi device to get internet access in remote locations. Also, check your laptop and the battery condition, as it is your primary tool for work. 

• Learn Few Local Phrases: Having knowledge of a few local phrases helps to build a bridge to communicate with the locals. Also, learn about local customs and etiquette to make a positive impact. 

• Download STEP: As per the US Department of State, make sure that you are registered on the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) app to get updates on weather and other potential threats to your destination. Also, the app will help the embassy contact you in case of an emergency when you are in a foreign land. 
   

FAQs 

1. How much money do I need to live as a freelancer? 

The living cost may vary depending on the country you are traveling to. Generally, it may cost around $800 to $2500. 

2. How do I find a reliable internet connection as a remote worker? 

Consider conducting research about the place where you are planning to stay as a remote worker. Check the reviews of other freelancers and book your stay accordingly. Also, you can carry your personal portable wi-fi device to get access at places where internet connectivity is hard to find. 

3. Do I need to pay taxes as a digital nomad? 

Tax obligations vary as per the country, so consult your tax professional to get guidance on how remote work impacts your tax situation in your home country and in the country you are planning to stay in as a freelancer. 

4. Can I meet other digital nomads while traveling in a foreign land? 

Definitely! You are going to meet and connect with like-minded people when traveling as a digital nomad. Whether in hostels or in coworking spaces, you will get to meet a lot of people and get opportunities to network with them.