Where to next?
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite destinations and quick guides on how to best land in those places.
Digital Nomad Visas
Digital nomad visas have gained popularity over the last few years and show no signs of stopping. We classify these as visas specifically designated for this purpose, allowing for stays of at least six months, and officially allowing for remote work and/or tax exemption.
The countries we’ve listed below have all updated their digital nomad visas over the last 12 months.
Malaysia
Malaysia has had its digital nomad visa for longer than most of its Southeast Asia counterparts and it shows in the government-sponsored benefits. Aside from the culture, natural beauty, and amazing food, there are also several nomad hubs that have partnered with the government. This has translated itself to discounted living and co-working spaces and other distinct offerings.
Canada
Canada’s program for Digital Nomads is actually an extension of it’s general Visitor program - anyone eligible for a Visitor Visa or a Visa Waiver is also eligible to work remotely while visiting Canada. This makes Canada one of the easiest countries for Digital Nomads to work in! Canada’s awesome landscapes, modern cities, and diverse population make it one of the premiere destinations for Digital Nomads globally.
New Zealand
New Zealand is the most recent country to double-down on efforts to attract digital nomads. Between relaxing visitor visas and not having a minimum monthly income requirement, this might be a new option but we think it will end up being a popular one.
Portugal
Portugal’s Remote Work Visa is a unique opportunity to work remotely and stay for longer periods in the European Union. With the ability to stay up to 5 years, and the possibility of Portuguese residency after (not to mention the vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and mediterranean climate) Portugal’s Remote Work Visa remains one of the most popular locations for digital nomads working in the EU.
Mexico
Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa has been around for a long time, and remains very popular for a good reason. Mexico’s unique combination of good weather, low cost of living, vibrant digital nomad community, combined with it’s long term (1-5 years!) Temporary Resident Visa program, make it one of the top destinations for digital nomads globally.
Thailand
Although the official visa has only debuted for less than a year, Thailand is perhaps one of the most popular places for digital nomads in Asia. We suspect it’s because of its low financial requirement (no constant income requirement!), ability to apply in the country, and long duration of visa.
South Korea
South Korea’s “workcation” visa is one of the more established Asian digital nomad visas. As it’s been around for over a year now, we appreciate that the process is a relatively well-oiled machine and that the visa itself is quite inexpensive.
temporary
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Typically visitors with no intention of immigration can stay up to six months in their intended destination.
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Are you traveling somewhere new temporarily? Although you may not plan to work or live in this location, not all new destinations require visas or other entry requirements — check here!
SHORT-TERM
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Usually for stays of 6+ months, your destination will require a short-term visa of some sort.
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This will likely be tied to your specific reason for being in the destination. A few examples may include moving for education programs and degrees or a temporary job with no intention of long-term immigration (including digital nomad visas).
LONG-TERM
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So you want to stay in this destination and build a life here? Great! Different countries will have different requirements for permanent residency.
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This is any stay with long-term, permanent intent that will eventually lead to citizenship.