You may be surprised to learn that there are now over 50 digital nomad visas available to wanderlusters around the globe, with that number quickly rising thanks the ever-evolving updates in technology and post-pandemic work flexibility.
So if you’ve forever daydreamed of a seachange or a big city swap, there’s never been a better time to explore your options and take that exciting leap into the unknown.
Here are some of the best digital nomad visas to get around.
Czech Republic
Prague is a massive favourite among digital wanderers flocking to Europe, and for good reason - this city seems to have it all with all the awe-inspiring culture and history alongside an uber cool culinary and bar scene that young people seek out. Their Zivno Freelance Visa is slightly complex for some, requiring you to have a trade license in particular fields such as manufacturing, design, photography, education or medicine, however if you can make it work, then it’s truly worth an exploration.
Indonesia
Five years living poolside in Canggu? Say less. The recently formalised Indonesian digital nomad visa is offering up to five (we repeat FIVE years) where travellers can work remotely with their Nomad Visa that will exempt them from paying tax if conducting online work for the first six months of their stay. The government has hopes to turn Bali and beyond into the nomad capital of the globe which has been such an adored tropical vacation paradise for Aussies already for so many decades.
Ecuador
The Rentista for Remote Work Visa offers a two year guaranteed stay for those looking to experience the vibrant sights and sounds of all that South America has to offer. This Spanish-speaking country bordered by Colombia and Peru is an ideal gateway to chasing thrills and soaking in some of that vivacious Ecuadorian hospitality whilst still advancing your career at an extremely low cost of living.
Portugal
One of the arguably most underrated destinations on the planet, Portugal offers up the D7 Visa which initially sets you up for one fabulous year before allowing you to renew for up to five years (which we know you won’t be able to refuse once you’re there). Whether you’re keen for the big city vibes of Lisbon, the stunning coastline of the Algarve or the dreamy rolling vines of Porto, this country is completely whimsical and worth considering in your adventures.
Iceland
Though slightly shorter than others, no one can deny a six-month stint in Iceland with one of their Long Term Visas For Remote Work would be beyond incredible. As one of the best places in the world to see the Aurora Borealis, Iceland offers up some seriously stunning natural landscapes, be it their glaciers, hot springs, waterfalls, geysers and ancient volcanoes. Spend some time in Reykjavik (Iceland's capital), visit a geothermal spa known as the Blue Lagoon and dig into hákarl (a type of fermented shark meat part of traditional Icelandic cuisine for centuries). Keep in mind, Iceland does have a higher cost of living (it’s in fact one of the most expensive places to live in the world) so it’s important that you’ve saved those pennies so you have some savings to get you through those settling months.
Greece
These magical islands have begun welcoming foreigners to live, work and play in their city with a two-year renewable Freelance Visa in aims to bring some economic stability back after a shaky few years. Imagine sifting through those spreadsheets with the Mediterranean Sea lapping up at the shore beneath your feet—yes please. You are required to apply through your local Greek Consulate and it’s important to note that nomads are exempt from paying local income tax for the first six months, however after this point like many visas stipulate, you are expected to continue paying income tax in the country of your employer.
Bahamas
The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) Permit offers up to one initial year’s stay with the option to renew up to three years based on a formal review and interview process. The government is thrilled to invite cross-continental visitors to its pristine ocean paradise giving you a chance to find your rhythm and make this authentic island experience your own for a year. The permit is far more straight-forward than many other visas making it easy to follow and lodge without all the drama and back and forth which we love.
Croatia
After some initial teething problems in 2021, the Croatian Digital Nomad Visa now offers a great low-cost option to stay and work remotely around Europe with its temporary residency permit that can be applied for either when already in Croatia (which is a massive bonus) or at Croatian consulates and embassies in your home town. This majestic city surrounded in azure seas and packed to the brim with medieval history and architecture is a dreamy base pad to work just a stone’s throw away from plenty of other wonderful European cities to explore at your leisure without all the nasty paperwork.
Mexico
Street tacos, fiestas and phenomenal architecture’s the name of the game when it comes to Mexico, so imagine the festivities and frivolity you could immerse yourself in with a glorious year working abroad over here. We’re not going to lie, there is quite an extensive process for attaining one of these Temporary Resident VISAs along with an expectation of a certain pay rate from the previous quarter, however we think a year here would be worth jumping through all the hoops—and if successful, there’s even the possibility to extend your VISA out for an additional three years. Viva Mexico!
Mauritius
A slightly closer to home option than some of the other VISAs, Mauritius’ Premium Visa allows remote workers to live in the country initially for 12 months with the option to renew. A real selling point is that the application is actually free to file saving you some $$$ and is known for its straight-forward uncomplicated hoops to jump through. Better still, the cost of living in the country is incredibly reasonable with transport, utilities and food prices all extremely competitive, so you don’t have to hemorrhage all of those hard earned savings on your journey. How good.
Read on for the all best places to visit in Australia.
Image credit: Aleh Tsikhanau