Digital Nomad Visa: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

David Davies

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July 27, 2025

With the evolution of the world of work to allow remote working in many cases, individuals are often no longer tied to a specific location and increasingly seek to identify the ideal location for them to fit their lifestyle. Countries have not been slow to recognise this, and many offer digital nomad visas, which allow for extended residency and the right to work for such individuals.

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Generally, to reside and work in a country of which a person is not a citizen requires some form of visa, work permit or residency permit or a combination of the foregoing.

Due to technological advances and a widening range of professions, more and more people are not tied to a specific location to carry out their work, and many countries have put in place programmes which recognise and meet this need. The visas granted under such programmes are generically known as digital nomad visas. They are sometimes referred to as remote working visas or independent contractor visas, but all achieve the same result, and this blog will use the term digital nomad visa to refer to all such programmes.

Digital nomad visas are permits which allow a person to live and work in a country for a specified period (which can often be extended). As such, they can be differentiated from tourist visas, which are typically shorter-term and do not permit working.

There are over sixty countries currently offering digital nomad visas, and it can be expected that this number will continue to grow as more countries are launching programmes on a regular basis. The requirements for a digital nomad visa vary from country to country, but typically require proof of sufficient income from a source outside the destination country and health insurance.

Which countries offer digital nomad visas?

The list is long, and the countries offering digital nomad visas at the time of writing are set out below, with many more expected to follow.

Europe: Albania, Andorra, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Montenegro, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Türkiye.

Americas: Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama and Peru.

Caribbean: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Puerto Rico and Saint Lucia.

Oceania: Australia and New Zealand

Asia: Bali (Indonesia), Goa (India), Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Middle East: Abu Dhabi (UAE), Dubai (UAE) and Türkiye.

Africa: Cabo Verde, Kenya, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles and South Africa.

Why is a digital nomad visa required and desirable?

Firstly, it is generally prohibited to work in a country while visiting there as a tourist, whether or not a tourist visa is required. Most countries will not have an issue with the occasional work call or virtual meeting, but work for reward is subject to sanction and potentially removal from the country.

In addition, the length of stay as a tourist is usually limited. Obtaining a digital nomad visa ensures that you can stay for an extended period and work within the law.

What are the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa?

The requirements vary from country to country but typically include proof of income from a source outside the country or a minimum level of savings (the level of which varies from country to country quite substantially, for example, Iceland requires earnings of EUR 7,000 per month whereas Norway only requires EUR 35,000 per year and Germany only requires proof that an applicant can cover their expenses) and proof of health insurance. Other requirements can include proof of work and proof of accommodation.

How long are digital nomad visas valid for?

Again, this varies considerably from country to country. The shortest is 6 months, and the longest currently is up to 36 months. Most can be extended.

How long does it take to obtain a digital nomad visa?

Of course, this varies, but it typically takes about a month without factoring in the time to prepare the application and supporting documentation.

What are the costs of the application?

Application costs vary from as little as EUR 100 to USD 1,500, but most are in the range of a couple of hundred USD.

What are the tax implications?

Holding a digital tax nomad visa does not in itself usually affect your tax status. Your tax residency is usually determined by where you spend most of your time (typically set at over 183 days), and so you may become a tax resident in the country for which you hold a digital nomad visa if you spend most of your time there. If you do become tax resident locally, it is important to consider any double tax treaties which may apply and whether the tax years of the holder’s home country and digital nomad jurisdiction align (for example, the UK tax year is 6 April to 5 April, whereas most countries follow a calendar year). It may well be worth obtaining some basic tax advice to ensure that no problems arise down the line.

Final Thoughts

Digital nomad visas are relatively new, with Estonia being the first to launch a programme in 2020. They are increasing in popularity, and it is expected that more countries will introduce programmes in the coming months and years to meet growing demand.

Digital nomad visas are low-cost and quick to obtain. They give the holder the right to reside in a country of their choice while continuing to work remotely. Given the general movement towards and the availability of remote working due to technological advances, there is no obvious reason why this should not be thousands of miles away.

It all sounds very exciting and romantic, and it certainly can be. But applicants should consider many other factors, such as the effect of time differences, availability of healthcare, costs of living in the desired location and potential social isolation, as well as potential tax complications. Having lived in many countries myself, my advice would be to decide where you want to spend some time and then see whether that has a digital nomad visa programme rather than the other way around.

If you want to learn more, read about your second passport options, a thorough explanation what is a dual citizenship and learn about the most powerful passports on our insights page.

FAQs on Digital Nomad Visas

Do all countries offer digital nomad visas?

Currently, over sixty countries offer digital nomad visas, and it is expected that more will follow.

What are the application costs?

Application costs vary from country to country, but are typically in the region of a couple of hundred US dollars.

Can my family join me?

Many countries offering digital nomad visas will also extend the offering to family members, subject to meeting the specific programme’s requirements, which typically involve a requirement of dependency and a higher required level of income.

What documentation is required?

This varies from programme to programme but typically includes proof of income, proof of health insurance and sometimes proof of accommodation as well as proof of identity and a passport with validity at least six months past the end of the visa period. A police certificate is often not required, but, as is typical with all types of visa applications, the visa may be denied or revoked if the applicant has a criminal record.

Do I need to be employed to obtain a digital nomad visa?

Generally not. The programmes are designed at least in part for freelancers, and such persons are welcome. However, freelancers may have more difficulty proving the required income and required remote work levels.

How much do I need to earn to qualify for a digital nomad visa?

This varies considerably and is typically two to three times the minimum wage in the relevant country, with requirements from as low as USD 750 per month for Mexico to EUR 7,000 for Iceland. Some countries will grant a digital nomad visa on the basis of sufficient savings.

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David Davies

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David Davies

Antigua and Barbuda enjoys a tropical maritime climate, characterised by warm temperatures year-round, with an average of 27°C (81°F). The islands have a relatively dry season from January to April, with a wetter season from May to November. The islands have robust infrastructure and emergency systems in place to manage such events.

Originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, the islands were colonised by the British in the 17th century. The cultural landscape is a blend of African, British, and indigenous influences. This rich history is reflected in local music, dance, and festivals, with calypso, reggae, and steelpan music being particularly popular. Cricket, a legacy of British rule, is the most popular sport, and sailing is also popular, reflecting the islands' strong maritime culture.

Antigua and Barbuda boasts 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, along with coral reefs, lagoons, and lush vegetation. The country’s landscape is primarily flat, with rolling hills and volcanic rock formations. The islands are also home to rich biodiversity, making them a haven for nature lovers.

Antigua and Barbuda have a stable democratic government based on the British parliamentary system. The country is generally regarded as having a manageable level of bureaucracy, with a reasonably straightforward process for interacting with government agencies. Retirees will find that essential services like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining necessary permits are relatively simple, although some processes can be slow due to limited resources. The government has been making strides in digitising services to reduce in-person visits and streamline processes.

Antigua and Barbuda is known for its lively events and festivals, particularly Carnival, one of the year's most anticipated events. Antigua Sailing Week is another major event, attracting sailors and spectators from around the world. These festivals are deeply rooted in the local culture and provide a vibrant social scene for retirees.

Dominica has a tropical rainforest climate, with high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly on the windward side of the island. Temperatures are warm year-round, averaging 26°C (79°F), with cooler conditions in themountainous interior. The island’s lush greenery is a result of its abundantrainfall.

Dominica's culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous Kalinago heritage, African traditions, and European colonial influences, particularly French and British. The island was originally settled by the Kalinago people, and their influence is still present today, especially in the Kalinago Territory. African traditions have also left a profound mark, particularly in the island’s music, dance, and festivals. Dominica’s outdoor sports are heavily influenced by its rugged terrain, with hiking and diving being popular among locals and expatriates alike, although there is of course cricket for those with more sedentary dispositions.

Known as the "NatureIsland," Dominica is characterised by its rugged terrain, rainforests ,waterfalls, and geothermal activity. The island is home to the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, as well as numerous rivers and lakes. Dominica’s unspoiled natural beauty is a major draw for retirees who appreciate ecotourism and outdoor adventures.

Dominica’s government operates under a parliamentary democracy, with a legal system rooted in English common law. While the country’s bureaucracy is smaller and more accessible, some processes can be slow, particularly in rural areas. However, the government is generally cooperative and accommodating, particularly for expatriates. It’s advisable to have local assistance or a legal advisor to navigate more complex processes, such as property transactions or dealing with land registries.

Dominica hosts several unique cultural events, including the World Creole Music Festival and Carnival. The island’s festivals are deeply connected to its Creole heritage, offering retirees a chance to immerse themselves in local traditions and music. Dominica’s Independence celebrations also feature traditional dances, music, and cuisine.

Grenada has a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging around 28°C (82°F). The dry season runs from January to May, while the wet season is from June to December. Although Grenada is located on the southern edge of the hurricane belt and is less impacted the another Caribbean islands, it is not immune to these storms as has been seen recently with Hurricane Beryl. The island has since improved its hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience and the value of these improvements has led to greater preparedness for such events.

The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples before being colonised by Europeans. Grenadian culture is characterised by a strong sense of community, vibrant music, and dance traditions, such as calypso and soca. French influence on the island is evident in its place names and culinary traditions. Cricket and football are the most popular sports, and sailing and water sports are also widely enjoyed.

Known as the "SpiceIsle," Grenada is famous for its aromatic plantations, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. The island’s volcanic origin provides a diverse landscape of mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas. Grenada’s natural beauty is complemented by its extensive marine life, making it ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Grenada also follows a British-style parliamentary democracy. The country’s bureaucracy is relatively user-friendly, with many government processes being straightforward and accessible. Retirees generally find it easy to interact with government departments for routine tasks such as registering a vehicle, renewing licences, or paying taxes.

Grenada’s Spicemas Carnival is the island’s most significant cultural event, celebrated with colourful parades, music, and dance. The island also hosts the Grenada Sailing Festival and the Pure Grenada Music Festival, both of which attract international visitors. These events provide a lively social calendar for retirees.

Saint Kitts and Nevis has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F) throughout the year. The islands have a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. Located within the hurricane belt, Saint Kitts and Nevis is vulnerable to hurricanes, especially between June and November, but the islands have strong building codes and disaster response plans in place to reduce the impact of the senatural events.

The cultural heritage of Saint Kitts and Nevis is shaped by its history of indigenous Carib and Arawak inhabitants and European colonisation. Saint Kitts was the first Caribbean island to be colonised by the British, and Nevis has a rich history as a major sugar producer. The islands' cultural roots are a blend of African, British, and French influences, reflected in the local cuisine, music, and festivals. Cricket and football are deeply ingrained in the local culture and, along with sailing and hiking, are integral to the islands' cultural life.

The twin islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis are known for their volcanic mountains, rainforests, and beaches. The islands are home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Brimstone Hill Fortress and offer stunning views from places like Mount Liamuiga. The islands’ natural beauty is one of their strongest appeals to retirees.

Saint Kitts and Nevis operates under a stable parliamentary democracy, with governance structures similar to those of other Commonwealth countries. The islands have a relatively low level of bureaucracy, and dealing with the government on a day-to-day basis is generally straightforward. Most routine administrative tasks, such as obtaining permits, paying taxes, or registering property, are manageable, although some processes can take longer than expected due to limited staffing. The government is trying to modernise its operations, including digitising more services, which should help reduce delays and improve overall efficiency.

The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis host several vibrant festivals, including Carnival, the Saint Kitts Music Festival, and Culturama, which is unique to Nevis. These events celebrate local culture, music, and heritage, offering retirees plenty of opportunities to engage with the community and enjoy local traditions.

Saint Lucia enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F). The dry season extends from December to May, while the wet season is from June to November. Saint Lucia is situated near the edge of the hurricane belt, making it prone to hurricanes and tropical storms but less so than those further north. The government has invested in improving hurricane preparedness and infrastructure resilience to protect the island from future storms better.

Saint Lucia's culture is a unique blend of African, French, and British influences, reflecting its complex history of colonisation. The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak and later the Carib people, before being contested by the French and British for centuries. The French influence is particularly strong in the island's Creole language, cuisine, and Catholic traditions, while British colonial rule has left its mark on the legal system and sports, particularly cricket. The island’s dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor sports like hiking and diving, which are popular among locals and retirees alike.

Saint Lucia is famous for its dramatic Pitons, volcanic peaks that rise sharply from the sea. The island’s landscape includes rainforests, beaches, andSulphur Springs, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano. Saint Lucia’s natural beauty is among the most striking in the Caribbean, attracting retirees who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.

Saint Lucia’s government is a parliamentary democracy, and the country has a reputation for a relatively efficient bureaucracy compared to other Caribbean nations. For retirees, dealing with the government is typically hassle-free for most day-to-day tasks like renewing a driver’s licence, paying taxes, or obtaining residency permits. Saint Lucia has been proactive in improving its e-government services, allowing for easier access to information and quicker processing of certain requests online.

Saint Lucia is famous for its Jazz and Arts Festival, which attracts international artists and music lovers. The island’s Carnival is another major event, featuring parades, music, and dancing. Additionally, the La Rose and La Marguerite festivals celebrate the island’s unique cultural heritage, offering retirees a rich cultural experience.

Digital Nomad Visa: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

Which countries offer digital nomad visas?

Why is a digital nomad visa required and desirable?

What are the requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa?

How long are digital nomad visas valid for?

How long does it take to obtain a digital nomad visa?

What are the costs of the application?

What are the tax implications?

Final Thoughts

FAQs on Digital Nomad Visas

Do all countries offer digital nomad visas?

What are the application costs?

Can my family join me?

What documentation is required?

Do I need to be employed to obtain a digital nomad visa?

How much do I need to earn to qualify for a digital nomad visa?

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