Nations all over the world are launching new visas specifically designed for remote workers. EU digital nomad visas are now available for several European countries.
Visas for digital nomads allow remote workers to spend short or extended periods of time abroad working independently.
This article includes useful information on digital nomad visas in Europe, such as:
- What an EU digital nomad visa is and how it works
- How to become eligible for a remote work visa in Europe
- What countries have a digital nomad visa scheme and which ones will implement one soon
What is a digital nomad visa?
Usually, remote workers cannot apply for a traditional work visa, which requires a contract with a local company and/or an invitation letter.
Additionally, a tourist visa if often not suitable as the worker may want to stay in the country for longer than a tourist visa allows. Even those who do not need a visa to travel to Europe can only stay for a short period of time.
For these reasons, a number of countries have started to introduce digital nomad visas for Europe. This type of visa allows remote workers to stay in Europe and work legally.
Digital nomad visa vs. tourist visa
The main difference between a tourist visa and a digital nomad visa is how long the holder can stay in the country.
Tourist visas are for short stays, typically up to 3 months, whilst digital nomad visas allow for longer, often 1 year or more.
Foreigners who wish to do some remote work whilst on holiday in Europe can do so with a tourist visa, or visa-free if from an exempt country.
Note: From 2025, the ETIAS authorisation for Europe will be required for short, visa-free stays in the Schengen Area.
Remote workers only need to get a digital nomad visa if they will stay longer than the time permitted with a tourist visa. In this case, they have to meet the digital nomad visa requirements, which normally includes proof of funds.
It’s important to know that neither a digital nomad visa or a tourist visa allows the holder to be employed by a local company. To be employed by a company in Europe, non-EU citizens need a national work permit or EU Blue Card (if eligible).
How do digital nomad visas work?
Each country issuing digital nomad visas has its own policies and regulations. Some allow eligible citizens to conveniently apply online, while others require them to submit their application through an embassy or consulate.
Remote workers should check the digital nomad visa requirements and application process of their destination country. Diplomatic missions will be able to provide information and assistance on work and nomad visa opportunities.
A digital nomad visa applicant usually needs:
- Eligible and valid passport
- Proof of a steady remote income
- Completed application form
Many countries with digital nomad visas may also require the payment of an application fee.
Travellers should always check whether they need additional documents such as medical insurance, vaccine certificates, or any other European vaccine health requirements.
Who qualifies for a digital nomad visa?
Digital nomad visa applicants usually have to prove that they are remote workers.
They may need to show they can support themselves financially for the entire stay. This can be done by providing financial documents such as bank statements and receipts.
However, not all individuals are eligible for a digital nomad visa, even though they can prove to be working remotely.
Eligibility depends on several other factors, such as:
- Nationality of the applicant
- Visitor’s visa history
- Whether the applicant is considered a threat to the security or health of the country of destination
Remote workers should inquire about their eligibility before applying.
Digital nomad visas in Europe
Digital nomads are a relatively recent profession. Countries around the world have taken time working out how to include them in their visa policies. Many nations are now implementing specific rules and visas for them.
Europe is at the forefront of this change. EU countries hope to attract these professionals and benefit from the economic boost which they often bring.
Check the information below for each country that offers an EU digital nomad visa.
Croatia’s new digital nomad visa programme
Croatia launched a new visa programme for digital nomads in 2021, as part of its ‘Croatia your new office’ campaign. Requirements include proof of remote work, sufficient yearly income, health insurance, security background checks, and a rent contract.
The digital nomad residence permit includes tax exemptions and a validity period of up to 1 year.
Applicants can request their digital nomad visa for Croatia online. The standard processing time is approximately 20 days from the date of submitting the application.
Czech Republic: trade licence
The Czech Republic offers a special business visa (zivno visa or zivnostenské opravneni which means ‘trade licence’) that digital nomads from outside the EU can benefit from.
It must be requested in person at a Czech consulate or embassy. Processing times are significantly longer than those for tourist visas, from 90 to 120 days.
The visa requirements include an eligible trade licence, enough funds in a bank account, health insurance, and proof of accommodation for at least 1 year.
The application process includes an embassy immigration interview, during which the consular staff will ask the applicant about their business, accommodation and travel plans, and their reasons to choose the Czech Republic for remote work.
Estonia's digital nomad visa
Estonia was the first to adapt to change and implement an e-residency programme for foreign online entrepreneurs. In June 2020, it announced a digital nomad visa for freelancers and remote workers.
The Estonia digital nomad visa allows foreign nationals to work in the country for up to 1 year for their own business registered abroad or in a remote position for a foreign employer.
Applicants must earn at least €3,504 per month, but they will not have to pay taxes for the first 183 days.
Applications can be submitted through Estonian embassies and consulates abroad and are reviewed within 30 days.
Digital nomad freelance visas in Germany
In Europe, the first nation to create a freelance visa was Germany. There are 2 types of freelance visas (also called freiberufler visas): one for artists and one for other professionals.
Digital nomads must register with the German tax office and submit a series of documents such as their portfolio, bank statements, and in some cases, evidence of their expertise. Freelancers must have clients based in Germany.
Greece’s digital nomad visa now available
The new digital nomad visa for Greece is valid for a period of up to 12 months. Before the visa expires, the holder can apply for a Digital Nomad residence permit to stay longer.
To be eligible for Greece’s digital nomad visa, the applicant must provide evidence of sufficient funds (€3,500 per month).
The Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnautakis, hopes that the Greek digital nomad visa will boost the island’s "Work from Paradise" initiative. Work on extending the 5G network to encompass the whole island has already begun to entice digital nomads to come to Crete.
Digital nomad permit for Hungary: White Card
Hungary has recently introduced a new residency permit for digital nomads – the White Card. The policy allows foreigners to live in Hungary and still work for an overseas company.
The White Card will allow the holder to stay in Hungary for up to 1 year, with the option to extend it for another year.
Working in Iceland with a digital nomad visa
The digital nomad visa for Iceland allows foreign citizens to work remotely in Iceland for foreign companies long-term. The visa is intended to be used for stays longer than 6 months.
Digital nomads will be able to take their families to Iceland with them without the need of Icelandic IDs.
To obtain the Icelandic digital nomad visa, applicants must provide proof of employment and sufficient funds, as well as health insurance coverage.
Italy’s self-employment visa
Freelancers who set up legal residency in Italy are now offered 70% detaxation of all income they generate in the country.
While the Italian visa for digital nomads is currently on hold, non-EU nationals who wish to work remotely from Italy are able to apply for a self-employment visa.
This visa type is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, but it is also possible to obtain an extension once it expires.
To apply for this visa, it is necessary to make an appointment at an Italian embassy or consulate in the traveller's country of residence.
A range of supporting documents is required, including proof of suitable accommodation in Italy, and evidence of availability of income.
Nomad residence permit for Malta
The digital nomad visa for Malta is issued for 1 year and can be renewed. Applications are open for people who can continue in their current jobs whilst residing in Malta for a year.
Malta was the first EU country to have a nationwide 5G network. In addition, English is one of the official languages of Malta, making it a convenient option for English-speaking digital nomads.
To apply for a digital nomad visa for Malta, travellers must have proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 and take out health insurance.
To apply for a digital nomad visa for Malta, travellers must earn at least €2,700 gross per month and pay €300 for their application.
Portugal digital nomad visa
Portugal has designed a temporary resident visa that can be used by freelancers and entrepreneurs.
It allows its holder to stay in the country for longer than 1 year and can be extended. Unlike others mentioned in this page, this remote work visa can be used as a pathway to permanent residency.
The local government in Madeira launched the Madeira Digital Nomads project. Participants will be able to live in the Nomad Village in Ponta do Sol in either independent villas or hotel accommodation and enjoy free Wi-Fi, coworking stations, and special events.
Romania's new digital nomad visa
The Romanian Senate has started implementing a new digital nomad visa. The government hopes to attract around 2,000 remote workers annually.
Applications for Romania’s digital nomad visa must be made at a Romanian Embassy. Applicants need to provide proof of the company they work for, medical insurance, and information about recent income.
The minimum required revenue to get a digital nomad visa for Romania is approximately €3,500, or three times the average Romanian salary.
Spain digital nomad visa
Spain has introduced a digital nomad visa that allows people to stay and work remotely. The visa is originally valid for 12 months, and can then be renewed for up to 5 years.
Applicants must be non-EU nationals working for non-Spanish companies. They must prove they are qualified and experienced in their field, and that they earn €2,334 per month or €28,000 per year.
Norway’s digital nomad visa for Svalbard
A non-EU state, but a member of the Schengen Area, Norway has a unique visa for digital nomads who wish to relocate to the Svalbard islands. Norway’s digital nomad visa remains valid for the entirety of the traveller’s life.
There is also the Independent Contractor visa, which is designed for self-employed individuals who are working on a project for a Norwegian business.
BEST PLACES FOR REMOTE WORK IN THE EU
6 out of the top 8 most convenient cities for digital nomads are in Europe. This is based on broadband speed, cost of living, crime rates, and other factors.
The ranking is as follows:
- Madrid, Spain
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Tbilisi, Georgia
- Berlin, Germany
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Beijing, China
- Zagreb, Croatia
Non-European countries that offer digital nomad visas
Outside of Europe, several nations are also introducing visas to accommodate the needs of remote workers. These include:
- Anguilla
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Cape Verde
- Cayman Islands
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Curaçao
- Dominica
- Dubai
- Georgia
- Indonesia
- Mexico
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Thailand
In some countries, there are regional schemes for digital nomads.
The Western Cape provincial government is in favour of a digital nomad visa for the Cape Town region. This would allow foreign professionals to live in the South African capital, while continuing to serve their employer in their home country.
DOES THE USA HAVE A DIGITAL NOMAD VISA?
Some US states are also following the digital nomad trend. Oklahoma, Alabama, and Vermont all have programmes in place to encourage US citizens who can work remotely to relocate to their territories.
