From Island Paradises to Cultural Capitals, These Nations Are Rolling Out Digital Nomad Visas To Attract Remote Workers

In recent years, more and more professionals have decided to work remotely online. Working online allows us to work from anywhere and enjoy a more flexible lifestyle. Many countries have started offering digital nomad visas to keep up with this trend and entice more visitors. A digital nomad visa permits a digital nomad to work remotely in a foreign country.

As a result, we now have more freedom to travel the world and live in places we’ve only ever dreamt of. However, deciding where to move is challenging. Luckily, we’re here to help. To show you where you can live on a digital nomad visa, here are 12 countries with digital nomad visas.

Swipe and Vote: See What Travelers Recommend

Which country should host your WFH?

This is a swiper quiz, swipe right for yes, swipe left for no.

12 European Countries for American Digital Nomads

Greece 1/5

European Cities with Stunning Winter Landscapes Tromso, Norway

Norway 2/5

European City to Visit Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland 3/5

12 European Cities for a Luxurious Getaway

Italy 4/5

Small Towns in Europe for an Affordable Getaway_Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Germany 5/5

Results

Greece

1 2

Norway

2 1

Iceland

1 2

Italy

1 2

Germany

0 3

Greece

The first country on our list is Greece, where digital nomads with a digital nomad visa can live and legally work for up to one year. Greece is one of the best countries in which to live as a digital nomad because it has so many beautiful and exciting places to visit. Furthermore, it is renowned for having some of the best weather in Europe.

In Greece, you’ll relax on white sand beaches, swim in turquoise water, eat traditional Greek food, and explore historic sites. However, deciding where to live isn’t easy because you have the mainland and 220 inhabited islands. However, popular places to live in Greece include Athens, Crete, Mykonos, and Rhodes.

Acropolis Museum in Athens: Visit the Acropolis Museum to explore Greece’s rich history. The entry fee is 20 EUR (22.53 USD). It is open daily from 08:00 to 20:00, with shorter hours on Fridays (08:00 to 22:00) and Mondays (09:00 to 17:00).
Dinner with a View in Crete: In Crete, enjoy a stunning dinner experience at the lakefront restaurants of Agios Nikolaos. One standout is Piato, a highly-rated restaurant offering traditional Greek cuisine such as lamb kleftiko and seafood dishes.

Germany

To be a digital nomad in Germany, you must apply for one of two visas: self-employment or freelance. Under both visas, digital nomads can legally live and work in Germany. However, there are certain requirements you must meet to obtain one of these visas. For example, your profession must benefit the German economy.

Germany is a fantastic place to live for several reasons. For starters, Germany is home to some of Europe’s most famous destinations, such as Munich and Berlin. Secondly, Germany is a transport hub for European travel. You can easily reach other European countries, including France, Denmark, and the Netherlands, from places like Berlin. Finally, Germany boasts digital nomad essentials, including high-speed WiFi and coworking spaces.

Museum Island in Berlin: Discover five world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum and Neues Museum, on Museum Island in Berlin. The combined entry for all museums is 19 EUR (~20.50 USD), and opening hours are from 10:00 to 18:00 Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on Thursdays until 20:00.
Dinner at Haxnbauer in Munich: For a taste of authentic Bavarian food, visit Haxnbauer in Munich. Known for their crispy pork knuckles, this restaurant is highly rated and located in the heart of the city. Reservations are recommended, particularly in the evenings.

Read also: World’s Most Beautiful Flags

Norway

If we could only pick one place to live as a digital nomad, it would be Norway. This breathtaking country, best known for its vibrant cities, lush mountain landscapes, and picturesque fjords, offers nomads an exceptional living experience. When you’re not discovering historic landmarks, you’ll find yourself hiking in the great outdoors.

Norway offers a renewable digital nomad visa, allowing travelers to live there for up to two years. You can visit many extraordinary destinations in those two years, such as Lofoten, Bergen, Oslo, and Svalbard. Norway also has high-speed WiFi, coworking spaces, and affordable accommodation options like Germany. What’s not to like?

Vigeland Park in Oslo: This unique sculpture park, home to over 200 works by Gustav Vigeland, is free to enter and open 24/7 year-round. Located in Frogner Park, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation or a break from work.
Torget Fish Market in Bergen: Experience fresh Norwegian seafood at Torget Fish Market. Try the Norwegian salmon or king crab while soaking in views of Bergen’s waterfront. It’s open daily from 10:00 to 21:00, making it a perfect lunch or dinner spot.

Italy

You’re in luck if you love white-sand beaches, historic cities, magnificent landscapes, and tasty Italian food. Not too long ago, Italy introduced a digital nomad visa that allows highly skilled self-employed individuals, freelancers, and foreign company employees to live in the country for one year.

We don’t know about you, but that sounds like more than enough time to stuff our faces with pizza and pasta and visit the nation’s most magical destinations. When you’re not working, get lost in the winding streets of Old Town Florence, explore the Colosseum in Rome, climb Mount Vesuvius in Pompeii, and soak up the sun on a beach in Sardinia.

Uffizi Gallery in Florence: The Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Da Vinci, is a must-visit for art lovers. Entry costs 25 EUR (~27 USD). The gallery is open from 08:15 to 18:50, closed on Mondays.
Lunch at Roscioli in Rome: For a culinary treat in Rome, visit Roscioli, a highly-rated delicatessen and restaurant known for its Cacio e Pepe and its curated selection of Italian cheeses and cured meats. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for lunch or dinner.

Iceland

Outdoor enthusiasts looking for their next adventure should consider getting a digital nomad visa for Iceland. This stunning volcanic island in Northern Europe is famed for its rugged landscapes, epic hiking trails, picturesque natural attractions, and the Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. You’ll never tire of exploring the island’s fascinating scenery.

🏨 Explore all your hotel options here

The Iceland digital nomad visa allows freelancers, self-employed individuals, and remote workers of companies outside of Iceland to live in the country for six months. We recommend basing yourself in Reykjavik, the capital city. You’ll find all your essential amenities and a handful of attractions, such as Hallgrimskirkja. You’ll also have easy road access to iconic Iceland attractions, including Gullfoss Falls, Skógafoss, and the Silfra Fissure.

Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik: This iconic modern Lutheran church offers panoramic views of Reykjavik from its tower. Entry to the tower costs 1,200 ISK (~9 USD) for adults. It is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00 during winter and 09:00 to 21:00 during summer. Check out the official website for up-to-date hours and tickets.
Lunch at Icelandic Street Food in Reykjavik: For hearty Icelandic comfort food, visit Icelandic Street Food. Their lamb soup and traditional plokkfiskur (fish stew) come highly recommended. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and unlimited soup refills make it a popular dining choice.

South Africa

World Wild Schooling - https://worldwildschooling.com From Island Paradises to Cultural Capitals, These Nations Are Rolling Out Digital Nomad Visas To Attract Remote Workers - https://worldwildschooling.com/countries-with-digital-nomad-visa-in-the-world/ — poco_bw / Adobe Stock

Moving away from Europe, South Africa is the following country on our list. Renowned for its diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, vibrant cultures, and world-class wines, South Africa’s digital nomad visa allows foreign remote workers to live and work in the country for as many as three years. However, there is one key detail you mustn’t forget.

Digital nomads will only be granted a digital nomad visa to live and work in South Africa if they earn at least one million Rand, roughly $56,000 annually. If you do, you’ll be on safaris looking for lions in no time. Cape Town, home to the iconic Table Mountain and infamous Robben Island, is one of the most popular places in South Africa.

Save this

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later.

Robben Island Museum in Cape Town: This UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, provides guided tours led by former political prisoners. Tickets cost 600 ZAR (31 USD) for adults and include transportation by ferry from the V&A Waterfront. The museum is open daily, with tours departing at 09:00, 11:00, and 13:00, weather permitting.
Lunch at Fyn Restaurant in Cape Town: For an upscale dining experience, try Fyn Restaurant, known for its fusion of Japanese techniques with South African ingredients. Their tasting menu, which includes signature dishes like Karoo lamb and cured game fish, is an unforgettable culinary experience. Reservations are essential.

Thailand

Like Bali, Thailand is known for its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, magical temples, and delicious cuisine. No matter where you stay in the country, you can expect to find many exciting things to see and do. However, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pai are our favorite places to visit.

Highlights from these three places include Pai Canyon, Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, the Grand Palace, and Wat Chedi Luang. Under the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), you can stay in Thailand for up to 180 days. Digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers working for companies outside Thailand can apply for the DTV, valid for up to five years.

Dinner at Khao Soi Khun Yai in Chiang Mai: For authentic khao soi, a northern Thai noodle curry dish, visit the highly-rated Khao Soi Khun Yai. The restaurant is family-run and revered by locals. It is open daily from 10:00 to 14:00 except Sundays, and the dish costs around 50 THB (1.50 USD).
Hiking Pai Canyon in Pai: Explore Pai Canyon for stunning views of the rugged landscape and a bit of adventure. This natural site is free to visit and offers hiking trails and incredible sunset views. It is best to visit early in the morning or late afternoon due to the heat.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is perfect if you dream of finishing work and relaxing at the beach. It may only be a small island nation, but it certainly packs a punch, offering travelers and digital nomads many unforgettable experiences. Sri Lanka currently offers freelancers, business owners, and remote workers a one-year digital nomad visa.

🏨 Explore all your hotel options here

If you like it, there is potential to extend your visa. With so many beautiful places to stay, deciding where to live in Sri Lanka is challenging. However, some places stand out above the crowd, including Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Tangalle. Meanwhile, significant points of interest on the island include Mirissa Beach, Udawalawe National Park, and Sigiriya Rock.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. The entry fee is 30 USD (~9,600 LKR) for foreigners, and it is open daily from 07:00 to 17:30. Climbing Sigiriya Rock offers stunning views and fascinating ruins.
Seafood at Zephyr Restaurant & Bar in Mirissa: Head to Zephyr Restaurant & Bar for premium seafood dishes served in a laid-back beachfront setting. Their grilled tuna steak and jumbo prawns are highly recommended. Open daily from 11:00 to 23:00, it’s an excellent spot for dinner with sunset views.

Peru

Heading over to South America now, Peru is an excellent place to live if you love the great outdoors, history, and a low cost of living, which, let’s face it, we all do. One of the things we love most about Peru is its diversity. The nation is famous for many things, including parts of the Amazon Rainforest and Incan Ruins.

More specifically, Peru is best recognized for Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel perched atop verdant hills in the Peruvian Andes. If you move to Peru on a digital nomad visa, you’ll be able to explore ancient sites like Machu Picchu and more. The Peru digital nomad visa permits one year of entry to Peru.

Machu Picchu: A bucket list destination, Machu Picchu requires advance planning. Tickets cost 152 PEN (~40 USD) for adults, and it is open daily from 06:00 to 16:00. Choose either the general circuit or include a challenging hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for an additional fee.
Lunch at Restaurant Cala in Lima: For a coastal dining experience with exceptional Peruvian seafood, visit Restaurant Cala. Located by the Miraflores coastline, it offers dishes like ceviche and tiradito, paired with stunning ocean views. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for lunch or dinner.

Belize

Did you know it’s possible to live in the Caribbean on a digital nomad visa? Yes, you read that right. You can enjoy pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and Caribbean culture while working legally and remotely. You can do this by applying for a digital nomad visa in Belize.

Famed for its coral reefs, tropical cays, Caribbean cuisine, and lively resorts, the Belize digital nomad visa permits nomads to live in the country for up to six months. However, you must show proof of employment outside Belize and meet the minimum salary requirement of $75,000. Notable places to stay in Belize include Ambergris Caye, Belize City, and Corozal.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve: This marine reserve is a snorkeling and diving paradise, featuring colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life. The entrance fee is 10 USD (~20 BZD) per person and includes access to Shark Ray Alley. Tours start at around 50 USD (~100 BZD), including gear and a guide.
Breakfast at Estel’s Dine by the Sea in San Pedro: Enjoy delicious fry jacks or a Belizean-style breakfast at Estel’s Dine by the Sea, located steps from the beach in Ambergris Caye. Highly rated for its fresh, homestyle dishes, it’s open daily from 07:00 to 14:00, making it perfect for a morning meal with ocean views.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is one of the most popular digital nomad-friendly countries in the world. During your visit to the island, you’ll find many people working from a beach bar with a cold beer in hand. There are currently two types of visas digital nomads can apply for to live in Bali: the E33G Remote Worker Visa and the C-Type Visa 211A.

The E33G visa grants one-year entry to digital nomads who work for a company outside of Indonesia. Meanwhile, the C-Type Visa 211A allows digital nomads and remote workers to live on the island for up to 180 days. Popular things to do in Bali include partying at Finn’s Beach Club, surfing in Uluwatu, hiking in Ubud, and visiting the island’s many temples and craft markets.

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka in Ubud: For authentic Balinese cuisine, visit Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka, famous for its suckling pig dish, a local delicacy. The crispy skin and tender meat are the highlights. It’s open daily from 11:00 to 18:00, with meals priced around 50,000 IDR (3.30 USD).
Hiking Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud: This free activity offers a peaceful 2-kilometer hike through rice fields and lush landscapes, making it ideal for sunrise or sunset walks. The trail is accessible at any time, but early mornings ensure cooler temperatures.

Spain

The final country on our list with a digital nomad visa is Spain, one of Europe’s most highly sought-after destinations. Spain’s digital nomad visa is aimed at self-employed individuals, freelancers, and remote workers working for a company based outside the country. This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed.

In Spain, you can explore historic cities, hike in the Pyrenees, sunbathe on tropical-esque beaches, and eat until your heart’s content in authentic food markets. Some of the best places you can live in Spain include Mallorca, Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and San Sebastian. Even with a year to see it all, you better move quickly.

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona: This world-famous basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is a must-see architectural masterpiece. Tickets cost 26 EUR (~28 USD) for the basic entry. It is open daily from 09:00 to 20:00.
Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid: Located near Plaza Mayor, this food market offers a variety of Spanish delicacies, including jamón ibérico, fresh seafood, and paella. It’s open daily from 10:00 to 01:00, making it perfect for lunch or a late-night snack.