24 Digital Nomad Visa Countries in Europe
Introducing Digital Nomad Visa
In recent years, there has been a growing interest among companies and professionals in embracing the benefits of remote work. This trend has led to an increase in remote job opportunities and has prompted governments worldwide to seek ways to attract remote workers. The Digital Nomad Visa presents remarkable opportunities.
The year 2020 marked a significant shift towards remote work, driven by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of people were compelled to work from home, accelerating the adoption of remote working practices.
While the growth in remote work experienced a decline since 2020, with the percentage of remote workers dropping from 71% in 2020 to 59% in 2022 according to Credit Summit, the opportunity for remote jobs remains significant in 2024.
Recognizing that advancements in technology and telecommunications have blurred the lines between professional development and travel, governments are now making it easier for individuals to work while travelling. They are achieving this by introducing or expanding their digital nomad visa programs.
If you are a digital nomad seeking your next destination or contemplating a transition to the digital nomad lifestyle, let us assist you. We provide a comprehensive list of 24 digital nomad visa programs available across countries in Europe.
About Digital Nomad Visa
A digital nomad visa serves as a temporary permit enabling individuals to reside in a country while engaging in remote work. Many countries offer these visas, typically with a duration of 12 months and the option for extension.
While digital nomad visas may not suit everyone, they allow remote workers to explore the world while continuing their work remotely. Additionally, they contribute to the economic growth of host countries by attracting foreigners for prolonged stays.
These visas are typically granted to individuals who can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves (and their dependents, if applicable) while working for a company outside the issuing country.
Differentiating from tourist visas, digital nomad visas allow for longer stays and permit work activities. Moreover, some countries offer additional benefits, such as tax exemptions, with a digital nomad visa.
Requirements for Digital Nomad Visa
Navigating the application process for a digital nomad visa may appear daunting at first glance. While some countries may have lengthier processing times or stricter document requirements, others offer a more streamlined and expedited visa issuance process.
Generally, the application procedures are quite similar across countries. They typically entail gathering essential documents such as valid passport copies, evidence of remote work eligibility, proof of income, and accommodation confirmations.
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Most countries allow online application submissions, although some may necessitate in-person visits to the nearest Embassy or Consulate to complete the application process. Additionally, applicants often have to undergo an interview and endure a waiting period before receiving visa approval.
For specific country requirements, consult this website! It provides comprehensive information on digital nomad visa offerings across various countries.
Why You Should Get a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa suits those desiring to work remotely and reside in foreign lands.
While some digital nomads prefer frequent relocation, a 12-month visa may not align with their preferences. However, for those seeking an extended stay to fully immerse themselves in a country while continuing remote work, these visas are ideal.
With a digital nomad visa, you not only gain the ability to stay for an extended duration compared to a tourist visa but also enjoy tax advantages, explore diverse attractions, and embrace the local lifestyle.
It presents an excellent chance to broaden your horizons!
Digital Nomad Visa Options in Europe
More than 50 countries within Europe provide digital nomad visas or special permits for remote workers.
Below is a comprehensive list detailing the available options in each European country, along with essential information for each.
Spain
Spain is expected to release their digital nomad visa soon, with applications starting at the beginning of 2023. This new digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live in Spain while they continue working at their remote jobs.
Old Town, Calp, Spain (Photo by Sam Williams on Unsplash)
To qualify, you must have been working remotely for at least one year. Additionally, you must not have been a Spanish resident for the last five years.
Visa Cost
$265
Income Requirements
At least $2,215 per month
Visa Length
One year, with the chance to reapply for up to four additional years.
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone who isn’t an EU/EEA/Swiss national.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply while abroad.
Bonuses/Incentives
This new visa will allow remote workers to live in Spain for up to a year, with the possibility of an extension.
Portugal
Portugal recently launched their digital nomad visa, known as the ‘Portugal Temporary-Stay Visa.’ They also have other visa options, like the D7 Passive Income Visa, the D2 Entrepreneur Visa, and Portugal Golden Visa.
The best option for digital nomads is the Temporary-Stay Visa, which works if you can provide proof of an independent income.
Portugal Temporary-Stay Visa
Visa Cost
The exact amount is unknown, but you can expect to pay around $190 for your initial visa application.
Income Requirements
At least $2,950 a month.
Visa Length
One year, extended for up to 4 years.
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone can apply. However, if you are from the EU, an EEA country, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter, live, and work in Portugal.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply anywhere in the world at the closest Portuguese Embassy.
Bonuses/Incentives
It has a standard tax rate of 15%, and Portugal offers an affordable cost of living and excellent visa conditions
D7 Passive Income Visa
Visa Cost
$87
Income Requirements
$8,925 per year
Visa Length
One year, extended for up to 5 years.
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone can apply. However, if you’re you are from the EU, an EEA country, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to enter, live, and work in Portugal.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply anywhere in the world at the closest Portuguese Embassy.
Bonuses/Incentives
You can also apply with your family. Portugal offers an affordable cost of living, an extensive digital nomad community, and excellent visa conditions
Italy
In March 2022, the digital nomad visa for Italy was officially voted into law. There isn’t much information yet on all the details of this digital nomad visa. Instead, it is designed for non-EU digital nomads or highly qualified workers who work remotely, autonomously, or for a company that is not resident in the territory of the Italian state.
Colosseo, Rome, Italy (Photo by L A L A S Z A on Unsplash)
Italy also has other visas available, like the Self-employment Visa or the Intra-company Visa, which are also worth checking out.
Visa Cost
Unknown (TBA)
Income Requirements
Unknown (TBA)
Visa Length
One year with the possibility to extend.
Citizens that Qualify
Non-EU citizens
Can You Apply Remotely?
Unknown; applications are not open yet.
Bonuses/Incentives
Italy offers great infrastructure, excellent work-life balance, and a fantastic Mediterranean climate.
Croatia
Croatia is another country quickly becoming a popular destination for many digital nomads. It is home to many iconic pop-culture sites and has a lot to offer its visitors.
They offer a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, which allows you to live and work in Croatia as a digital nomad. It was first introduced in January 2021 and may work as a temporary residence permit rather than a visa.
Visa Cost
$73 for the visa and $66 for the temporary residence.
Income Requirements
At least $2,658 per month
Visa Length
From 6 months to One year.
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone who is not a citizen of an EU or EEA country.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes! You can submit your application online while living abroad.
Bonuses/Incentives
You may apply with your family. Additionally, the Croatian government will not charge you any income tax.
Germany
Germany has its digital nomad option known as the Freelancer Visa.
The application process for this visa can be long and complicated. Unfortunately, you must deal with German bureaucracy, and it may take up to 4 months to get approval.
Additionally, the freelance visa is only available to self-employed that work in specific liberal professions (artists, writers, teachers, architects, etc.).
Visa Cost
$105
Income Requirements
Enough to be self-sustainable
Visa Length
Up to three years
Citizens that Qualify
Those working in certain liberal professions
Can You Apply Remotely?
You must apply at your local German embassy
Bonuses/Incentives
Your German Freelance visa entitles you to temporary residence in Germany for up to three years.
Greece
The Greek digital nomad visa is considered the easiest to obtain, Greece is a well-known destination, and it has a lot to offer to all visitors.
With their digital nomad visa, you can live and work remotely in Greece for a whole year, with the possibility of extending for up to two years. The work-life balance is easily achieved in Greece. You’ll find after-work socializing options close by, no matter where you’re living.
The landscape of Oia, in Santorini Island, Greece (Photo by Massimiliano Morosinotto on Unsplash)
Visa Cost
$79
Income Requirements
$3,690 per month.
Visa Length
One year with the possibility to extend.
Citizens that Qualify
Non-EU citizens
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, but you must apply at a Greek Embassy or Consulate.
Bonuses/Incentives
The visa is easy to obtain, and it gives you permission to live and work from Greece, and you can also travel freely in the Schengen area. You may also be eligible for a 50% tax reduction.
Estonia
Estonia made history when it became the world’s first country with an official digital nomad visa program. In 2020, they created their digital nomad and freelancer visa. It allows you to stay in the country and work remotely.
You can apply for a short-stay visa (C-Visa) or a long-stay visa (D-Visa). However, this visa won’t provide you with the right of citizenship or permanent residence in Estonia or the EU.
Short-Stay Visa (C-Visa)
Visa Cost
$85
Income Requirements
$37,000
Visa Length
3 months
Citizens that Qualify
Any foreigner! There are no nationalities restrictions.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes
Bonuses/Incentives
This visa allows remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer or company registered abroad.
Long-Stay Visa (D-Visa)
Visa Cost
$105
Income Requirements
$37,000
Visa Length
One year
Citizens that Qualify
Any foreigner! There are no nationalities restrictions.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes
Bonuses/Incentives
This visa allows remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer or company registered abroad.
Malta
This small Mediterranean country is very friendly towards digital nomads and remote workers. Malta has three visa options: the Short Stay Visa, the Long Stay Visa, and a Digital Nomad Visa.
The digital nomad visa was introduced in June 2021, allowing digital nomads to stay in Malta for an entire year.
Visa Cost
$316
Income Requirements
$3,800 per month
Visa Length
One year with the possibility to renew.
Citizens that Qualify
Third-country nationals
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, but you must submit your application at the closest consular office of Malta.
Bonuses/Incentives
This visa lets you stay in Malta for up to 2 years. It has a nationwide 5G network, and English is one of the official languages.
Norway
Norway went above and beyond when it designed its digital nomad visa. It allows digital nomads and remote workers to live in Svalbard for two years with an Independent Contractor Visa.
The visa is only available for Svalbard, an archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole.
Visa Cost
$632
Income Requirements
$37,680
Visa Length
2 years with the possibility to extend.
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone; there are no nationality restrictions.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes! You can submit your application online.
Bonuses/Incentives
The processing time usually takes 15 days. Norway offers a unique and exciting experience with well-balanced work and leisure lifestyle.
France
France is a wonderful destination for digital nomads. While a France digital nomad visa is not available yet, the country has an option called “The Long Stay Visa”, which allows remote workers to live and work from France.
This France remote work visa is meant for any remote worker who wants to undertake an industrial, manufacturing, handcraft, or agriculture operation or engage in a new development sector in France.
Paris, France (Photo by Anthony DELANOIX on Unsplash)
Visa Cost
$106 approximately
Income Requirements
You need a minimum income of at least €615 per month.
Visa Length
1 year
Citizens that Qualify
Non-EU or EEA citizens
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply online.
Bonuses/Incentives
14 days application timeline. You can move around other EU countries
Iceland
Iceland is a beautiful country with unique landscapes. The capital city, Reykjavík, is the leading destination for many digital nomads, and it is known as the world’s safest city.
Iceland was one of the first Schengen countries to introduce a remote work visa designed specifically for digital nomads. To be eligible, you must be self-employed or work for a company that is based outside of Iceland.
Visa Cost
$96
Income Requirements
$7,763 per month
Visa Length
180 days (6 months)
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone who works remotely
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, but applications are only received through the mail.
Bonuses/Incentives
You will not be subject to taxes with this visa. English is a commonly used language in Iceland, and the locals are open-minded and friendly.
Ireland
Sadly, there is no Ireland digital nomad visa available. However, other visa options fit perfectly the digital nomad lifestyle.
The best option is a short-stay visa, which allows you to stay in the country for 90 days. It is also possible to extend that time for an additional 90 days, but the extension is usually reserved for special cases or unexpected changes in your circumstances.
Visa Cost
$64 for a one-entry visa. $107 for a multiple-entry visa.
Income Requirements
There is no minimum income requirement, but you should make at least the average salary in Ireland, $4,050 a month.
Visa Length
90 days with the possibility to extend.
Citizens that Qualify
There are only certain countries that need to apply for a visa to enter Ireland. Some countries, like the US, do not need a visa to enter.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes! You can apply online.
Bonuses/Incentives
It can be extended under special circumstances. US Citizens do not need a visa
Romania
For many years, Romania has been a favourite destination of digital nomads due to its fast internet, stunning landscapes, and accessibility.
It is one of the newest countries offering a digital nomad visa. It was officially announced on December 21st, 2021. The program is provided exclusively to digital nomads, which the Romanian authorities describe as “a foreigner who is employed with an employment contract by a company registered outside Romania or who owns a company registered outside Romania and may work as an employee or within the company, remotely.”
Visa Cost
Unknown
Income Requirements
$3,900 per month
Visa Length
One year, and it can be extended for one more year
Citizens that Qualify
any Non-EU citizen
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes
Bonuses/Incentives
The application process is straightforward and usually takes around 10 to 14 working days.
Netherlands
The Netherlands does not have a specific visa for digital nomads. Instead, they offer the opportunity for digital nomads to register as independent workers in the country and live with a long-stay visa.
The long-stay visa is also known as a self-employed residence permit, allowing you to enter the Netherlands and reside there as a foreign professional.
Visa Cost
The price varies, but you can expect to pay around $407 plus additional fees.
Income Requirements
Approximately $1,340 per month.
Visa Length
90 days or more.
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone can apply, but citizens from specific nations will be in a better position to qualify for the self-employed residence permit.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, but you must apply at the closest Dutch embassy or consulate.
Bonuses/Incentives
You can work in the Netherlands as a self-employed person and even launch a startup. You may also work for Dutch companies on a freelance basis, and if you have existing clients in the Netherlands, it may help you to obtain Dutch residency.
Georgia
Georgia is one of the most open countries to digital workers. They have several options for remote workers, including dedicated programs for anyone who works online.
They launched the “Remotely From Georgia” campaign to fight the losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though technically, this is not a visa category for digital nomads, it is treated as such.
The program aims to allow citizens from 95 countries to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for Georgia, allowing them to live and work remotely in the country.
Visa Cost
No cost!
Income Requirements
$2,000 per month.
Visa Length
One year
Citizens that Qualify
Citizens of one of these 95 countries.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes! The application process can be conducted entirely online.
Bonuses/Incentives
This program does not have a visa fee, and you can apply with your family.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is one of the most popular digital nomads’ destinations because of its beautiful cities.
They have a freelancer visa, known as the Zivno. Unfortunately, obtaining this visa can be a little complicated. A trade license visa allows you to do business in the Czech Republic by taking advantage of the Trade Licensing Act combined with a long-term business visa.
Visa Cost
Around $117 plus $46 for the trade license.
Income Requirements
You must have at least $5200 in your bank account.
Visa Length
One year with the possibility of extension.
Citizens that Qualify
Non-EU Citizens
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply at your local embassy or consulate, but be aware that it takes a long time.
Bonuses/Incentives
You can apply with your family. The Czech Republic is a very welcoming country with an excellent work-life balance.
Hungary
The Hungarian digital nomad visa is known as the White Card, launched in November 2021, and it might be one of the easiest European digital nomad visas to obtain.
This visa works as an individual residence permit; unfortunately, it does not allow couples or families to apply. Their primary target is singles under 40.
Visa Cost
$116
Income Requirements
$2,110 per month.
Visa Length
One year with the possibility of extension.
Citizens that Qualify
Third-country nationals
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes. While you can’t apply online, you may apply at the closest Hungarian embassy or consulate.
Bonuses/Incentives
It has a low monthly income requirement, and the application process usually does not take longer than a month.
Montenegro
The Montenegro authorities have announced that they plan to launch a Digital Nomad Visa soon. Even though the visa is in the making, their goal is “to improve the digital environment, not only for nomads but also for all citizens, so the introduction of new electronic services was also recognized through the program.”
Many remote workers who visit the Balkans and Eastern European cities are attracted to Montenegro because of how beautiful and affordable the country is.
Visa Cost
expected to be $26
Income Requirements
Unknown (TBA)
Visa Length
2 years with the possibility to extend.
Citizens that Qualify
Citizens of countries that are not part of the European Union
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, but applications are not open yet.
Bonuses/Incentives
Anyone living in Montenegro under the digital nomad visa will be exempt from paying income tax in Montenegro.
Latvia
Latvia has a digital nomad visa, allowing you to live there for one year while working remotely. However, this visa is only available to foreign nationals working for an employer or business registered in an OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) country.
The visa is still being worked on, so there’s some information that is still not available.
Brīvības pieminekļa laukums, Central District, Rīga, Latvia (Photo by Ivars Utināns on Unsplash)
Latvia is a popular stop for many backpackers and travellers who want to get away from the touristic cities in Eastern Europe. As an up-and-coming destination, Latvia is highly affordable, with loads of available options for accommodation and activities.
Visa Cost
approximately $65
Income Requirements
$3,020 per month
Visa Length
One year, and it can be renewed for another year.
Citizens that Qualify
OECD countries
Can You Apply Remotely?
The application process is still unknown
Bonuses/Incentives
The visa will allow you to live in Latvia for up to 2 years. Additionally, Latvia is a very safe country to travel to.
Albania
Albania is a great destination for digital nomads with excellent internet infrastructure and plenty of internet cafes and coworking spaces in the larger towns and hamlets.
The Albania digital nomad visa is known as the Type D Long Stay visa. This visa is meant for self-employed people, investors, research, highly qualified employees, and pensioners.
Visa Cost
Albania uses a reciprocal system for determining the cost of visas. The visa fee is determined by the equivalent fee that an Albanian citizen would be expected to pay to apply for a visa for your home country.
Income Requirements
The minimum income for the Albania digital nomad visa is estimated to be $9,800 per year.
Visa Length
1 year
Citizens that Qualify
Digital Nomads Self-Employed or Employed Abroad
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply online.
Bonuses/Incentives
You can extend the visa for one year, up to five times. Most long-term visa requests for Albania are approved within four to six weeks. Albania is 50% cheaper than the United States
Cyprus
In October 2021, the government of Cyprus approved the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa Scheme. It allows nationals from non-EU and non-EEA countries to reside temporarily in Cyprus.
They first started with only 100 residence permits issued; however, as of March 2022, the Council of Ministers has increased the ceiling to 500 residence permits.
Visa Cost
$78
Income Requirements
$37,000 per year after taxes.
Visa Length
One year, and you can renew for two more years.
Citizens that Qualify
Non-EU and non-EEA citizens
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply online.
Bonuses/Incentives
This visa allows you to live in Cyprus while working remotely for up to 3 years. Cyprus has an excellent quality of life and many business start-ups and taxation advantages.
Serbia
The digital nomad visa for Serbia has yet to be available, but it is expected to become official very soon. However, to work remotely in Serbia as an entrepreneur, you must register your business and get a work permit.
Even though the digital nomad visa is still in the making, Serbia has other options for remote workers. For example, you can apply for short or long-stay visas or even a temporary residence permit.
Living in Serbia as a digital nomad allows you to live very comfortably. Remember you must make at least $3,500 a month, which is a little steep compared to its neighboring countries, Romania and Croatia.
Visa Cost
Unknown (TBA)
Income Requirements
$3,500 a month
Visa Length
One year
Citizens that Qualify
Anyone; there are no nationality restrictions.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Unknown (TBA)
Bonuses/Incentives
Digital nomads are exempt from tax for the first 90 days of stay.
Armenia
Armenia offers a residency program. While this might not be an Armenia digital nomad visa, it is still a very good option for freelancers and remote workers. The residency program allows digital nomads, freelancers, and foreign business owners to live in Armenia for one year.
Visa Cost
From $270 to $360
Income Requirements
Digital nomads are not required to demonstrate any minimum income.
Visa Length
1 year
Citizens that Qualify
No citizenship restrictions.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes, you can apply online.
Bonuses/Incentives
Can be renewed for up to 5 years. After the five years, you’re eligible for a permanent residency in Armenia. You can apply with your family (spouse and kids).
North Macedonia
In February 2021, North Macedonia has been talking about a digital nomad visa. However, a North Macedonia digital nomad visa has not been implemented yet. However, they might launch one this year!
Visa Cost
The cost of the digital nomad visa has not been announced yet.
Income Requirements
The minimum income has not been announced yet.
Visa Length
There is no current information about the length of the North Macedonia digital nomad visa.
Citizens that Qualify
Not available yet.
Can You Apply Remotely?
Applications are not open yet.
Bonuses/Incentives
North Macedonia has a low cost of living. Great internet connection
This post was originally published on Citizen Remote Website