Digital Nomad Guide: Best Countries for Long-term Travel and Work

The trend of becoming a digital nomad is on the rise more and more with every passing year. Digital nomads are always looking for countries offering digital nomad visas for long-term stays. With over 40 countries providing visas for digital nomads, it can be challenging to choose a country. We gathered the best countries for long-term travel and work to make things easier for you. Every country we will mention has something to offer to digital nomads, and it’s up to you to decide which one you want to go to.

One of the pros of becoming a digital nomad is that it allows you to mix work and travel; who wouldn’t want that? Our digital nomad guide will help you decide and choose your next destination carefully. We will compare digital nomad visas in some of the best countries for long-term travel and work. But before we do this, you must know the meaning behind a digital nomad visa.

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What Is A Digital Nomad Visa?

There are different kinds of visas, but we need to focus on a digital nomad visa. With a digital nomad visa, you can work remotely and legally stay in a foreign country. This kind of visa usually lasts longer than other visas directed at tourists. As we mentioned, over 40 countries in the world offer digital nomad visas. However, the requirements for a digital nomad visa differ depending on the country.

Some basic requirements don’t change that much from one country to another. For starters, you need a job that can be done remotely from anywhere worldwide. You could also be a freelancer who could work in any location. There is also the fact that you will need to meet a minimum monthly income to qualify for a digital nomad visa. When you meet all requirements, you can have a digital nomad visa.

What Makes A Country Great for Digital Nomads?

Many countries offer digital nomad visas, but you must look carefully at each. You need to look for some criteria in each country before you decide to head there. The best countries for long-term travel and work should have some key elements that put them at the top of your list; after all, not all countries offering digital nomad visas are good for you. Here are some elements you need to look for in each country:

• Reliable Internet Speed: Part of being a digital nomad depends on reliable Internet speed. This is why you need to ensure that the country you are going to has a good, reliable internet connection and good speed. Without a good internet connection, the whole purpose of being a digital nomad can’t be achieved.
• Affordable: The country you think of applying for a digital nomad visa should be affordable. That means that you should choose a country that is within your income range. This will allow you to live a comfortable life without worrying about not being able to afford things. So, make sure to research the costs in every country.
• Safe: This element is quite essential. Before considering going to any country, you must be safe there. If you are a woman, research whether women are safe there. You should also research whether the said country accepts diversity. Finally, you should do some research on the crime rate; if it’s quite high, then it’s better to look for another country.
• A Community: While being a digital nomad has many pros, it can also get quite lonely. This is why you should look beforehand if the country you are planning to go to has a nomad community. Being surrounded by people similar to you and your interests can make your time more enjoyable.
• Similar Time Zone: If your work requires you to work during a certain time zone, you should look for a country with a compatible time zone. This way, you will work more efficiently without worrying about a difference in time.
• Easy Visa Process: If you are in a hurry, you should look for a country with an easy process for gaining a digital nomad visa. Many countries are now relying on online visa applications, but don’t forget to check the waiting time and choose what’s suitable for you.
• Activities: Finally, you should look for countries with activities you would be interested in. Life as a digital nomad isn’t just about work; there is also time to have some fun. So look for countries where you can have fun during your free time.

We can now tell you about some of the best countries for long-term travel and work.

Portugal

One of the best countries for long-term travel and work is Portugal. It has recently started to become an attraction for digital nomads, which has put it in high demand. You can get a D7 visa (also known as a temporary resident visa), which allows you to enter and stay in Portugal for less than a year. There is also a residency visa, which allows two entries and is valid for 4 months; if you had this visa, you’d be required to request a residency permit with the Immigration and Border Services. The application fees range from $83 to $100.

The beauty of Portugal is one of the main attractions that makes digital nomads head there. It isn’t just one of the best countries for long-term travel and work but also great for sightseeing. You can stay in amazing places like Cascais, Porto, or Lisbon. The people of Portugal are very welcoming, and the country is also affordable. You can enjoy the place and be surrounded by many activities, such as hiking.

• The average monthly cost of living ranges between $1,600 and $2,700. (Of course, living costs differ depending on how you spend your money.)
• Minimum income required: $3,646 per month.
• Internet Connectivity: Portugal has excellent internet infrastructure that could be valuable for digital nomads. The internet speed is usually high but might be slower in rural areas.

Costa Rica

The next country on our list of best countries for long-term travel and work for digital nomads is Costa Rica. The good thing about Costa Rica is that they have a digital nomad program. This program allows you to extend your 90-day tourist visa to a full year with the option to renew for another year. You also must be a foreign national. The application will cost you $100, while the visa costs $90. You must also ensure that all application materials are submitted in Spanish; this is a requirement.

Costa Rica can be the perfect destination for digital nomads looking for the best countries for long-term travel and work. Living there is relatively affordable. Plus, you will be surrounded with the beautiful nature there. The stunning beaches and the low cost of living are enough reasons to make you consider Costa Rica your home while being a digital nomad. You will also find many places with a good internet connection, such as co-working spaces. Perhaps the best part about being a digital nomad in Costa Rica is that you will be exempt from taxes. Who wouldn’t like that?

• The average monthly cost of living ranges between $1200 and $2500.
• Minimum income required: $3000 or $4000 monthly if you apply with dependents.
• Internet Connectivity: Costa Rica aims to improve the internet connection with each passing year. The internet speed there will allow you to perform remote work. Of course, urban areas will have better internet connections.

Thailand

Another great country for long-term travel and work is Thailand. With Thailand’s Destination Thailand Visa, you can live the life of a digital nomad just like you want. This visa allows digital nomads to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days per visit. You can enter the country multiple times, and the visa is valid for five years. This visa will cost you 10000 Thai Baht, around $295. More requirements for this visa include the age factor: you have to be at least 20 years old. You must also have at least 500000 Thai Baht in your bank account. This equals $14714.54.

One of Thailand’s pros is its good weather, especially since winter isn’t bad there. Some places you could stay include Chiang Mai and Bangkok; you wouldn’t want to miss all the beautiful sights there. Some people consider Chiang Mai a digital nomad hub due to the number of digital nomads that it attracts. You will find other digital nomads with whom you can form a relationship. It’s always better to be surrounded by people than be alone. In addition to all of this, the food in Thailand is very delicious, and that’s a great reason to head there.

• The average monthly cost of living ranges between $1000 and $2500.
• Minimum income required: You must have at least $14714.54 in your bank account.
• Internet Connectivity: Thailand’s internet connection is excellent, especially if you are staying in urban areas such as Chiang Mai. It can reach a speed of 250 Mbps.

Croatia

The next country that is perfect for long-term travel and work is Croatia. In Croatia, you can quickly become a digital nomad. Croatia offers a digital nomad visa program, which you can apply for. This program gives remote workers residency for up to one year. You also have the chance to live there with your family. This is because Croatia allows residency for the family members of the visa applicant. This is permitted if your family meets the country’s income requirements.

Once you get your visa, you can begin your journey as a digital nomad in Croatia. With affordable housing and the chance to meet other digital nomads, you won’t feel like a stranger there. Enjoy the fantastic views and the coastlines while you spend time surrounded by the digital nomad community in Croatia. The only downside is that you must check the internet connection to stay in a rural area. It might not be good enough for you to carry out your work. Other than that, Croatia is an excellent destination for digital nomads.

• The average monthly cost of living ranges between $1200 and $2500.
• The minimum income required is $3035.54 per month, or you can have a minimum of $36425.47 in your bank account.
• Internet Connectivity: Croatia has a good internet connection, especially in urban and tourist-centric areas. Some cities where you can find reliable internet are Zagreb, Zadar, and Dubrovnik.

Greece

Our next recommendation for the best countries for long-term travel and work is Greece. In 2021, Greece started offering a Digital Nomad Visa. This program allows non-EU digital nomads who meet the minimum income required to stay in Greece for 12 months. Once you have your digital nomad visa, you will love Greece. The housing there is very affordable, which will help you save money. Even food and shopping are affordable. Greece’s affordability is enough reason to add it to our list.

After your visa ends, you can renew it, but as a residence permit, it is valid for two years. That option would be valuable if you plan on staying in Greece; you probably would once you experience life there! While the internet connection isn’t bad, it could be better in other countries. However, the views in Greece make up for any cons, especially in places such as Athens and Thessaloniki. The Greek way of life is something you should experience, and who knows? You might never want to leave. Plus, Greece has fantastic food, so you are guaranteed to enjoy your time there.

• Average monthly cost of living ranges between $1300 and $2500.
• The minimum income required €3500, which equals $3697.57. If you bring a spouse, it will be €4200; if you bring your spouse plus your children, it will be $4725.
• Internet Connectivity: Greece has good internet connectivity for digital nomads, but the quality differs depending on the place.

Spain

Another country that is perfect for digital nomads, plus long-term travel and work, is Spain. Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa has several requirements that might limit the number of digital nomads who head there. The applicant “must have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a University, College or Business School of prestige, or have at least 3 years of work experience in his/her current field of activity,” according to the official website. The good part is that your partner and kids can also obtain the visa.

Another requirement that should be met is that the applicant should earn “at least 200% of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage.” The minimum wage in Spain is set at €1,134 per month. Therefore, you have to earn at least €2,268. While the requirements might burden some digital nomads, it is worth it. Spain is such a beautiful country that it will make up for its visa requirements. If you are one of the lucky people who meet all the requirements, you don’t want to miss the chance to witness Spain’s beauty by living there. The only downside of Spain is the rise of anti-tourist protests, which might affect the country’s tourism industry and safety.

• Average monthly cost of living: It differs depending on your city. The average monthly cost of living in cities like Barcelona and Madrid can range between $2,000 and $3,500. Less crowded cities like Valencia or Seville are more affordable, as the average monthly cost of living can range from $1,500 to $2,000.
• Minimum income required: €2,268, which equals $2394.82.
• Internet Connectivity: The internet connection in Spain is perfect for digital nomads since its connectivity is quite excellent.

Malta

Malta is another excellent destination for long-term travel and works with many requirements for a visa. Malta offers what is called the Nomad Residence Permit. The country already welcomes digital nomads from the EU, so this visa is eligible for other individuals. It allows those from a country outside the EU and EEA to become digital nomads there. The Nomad Residence Permit will enable you to keep your job elsewhere while legally staying in Malta for one year, which could be renewed.

However, this visa has several requirements that must be met. For starters, you must have health insurance. You also should have a rental or purchase agreement in place. Another requirement is to have a valid travel document and pass a background check. Despite all these requirements, Malta is a great place for digital nomads. Its climate is enjoyable. Plus, it is close to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. You will fit in easily in Malta, especially since English is one of its official languages. All of these reasons make Malta an excellent place for digital nomads.

• Average monthly cost of living: If you include rent, the average monthly cost in Malta is around $972 to $2,160. Of course, the rent differs depending on the place itself.
• Minimum income required: The required minimum gross annual income is around $44348.43
• Internet Connectivity: The internet connection in Malta is excellent for digital nomads, especially if you are staying in an urban area. A stable connection will make your work go smoothly.

Mauritius

Mauritius is one of the best countries for long-term travel and work, looking to attract digital nomads. They offer a Premium Travel Visa in hopes of attracting tourists. The official website states, “The Premium Visa aims at encouraging foreign nationals willing to come for a long stay as a tourist, retiree or a professional.” The Premium Travel Visa allows foreigners to stay with their families, carry out their business, or work remotely from Mauritius. So, this is one of the perfect visas for digital nomads. You would be able to stay there for up to one year.

Mauritius is a great place to stay, especially if you are looking for a quiet place. Amazing beaches will surround you in this mesmerizing East African country. Plus, there is a growing digital nomad community there. This will allow you to socialize and be surrounded by like-minded people. Enjoy the diverse cuisines and cultures there as you live your best life. We recommend that you go and see Flic en Flac and Grand Baie. Mauritius is a tropical paradise where you can relax while working.

• The average monthly cost of living ranges between $1000 and $1500, depending on your lifestyle and where you live.
• Minimum income required: Applicants must provide evidence that they have enough funds to support their stay travel and medical insurance.
• Internet Connectivity: There is good internet connection in highly-populated and urban areas. It will enable you to do your work without worrying about connectivity issues. To ensure nothing goes wrong, you should try to stay in places with good and stable internet connection.

Indonesia

Our next destination, which is perfect for long-term travel and work, is Bali, Indonesia. Bail recently introduced a visa that is perfect for digital nomads. The Remote Worker Visa (E33G) allows digital nomads to work from Bail for one year. It is a must that the company you are working for be based outside of Indonesia. Bali has a lot of co-working spaces, so you don’t have to worry about struggling to find a place to work from. You will fall in love with the weather there, plus the amazing beaches.

Some might argue that Bali was made to be filled with digital nomads. You might think the same once you get there. The laid-back lifestyle goes hand in hand with digital nomadism. By now, Bali is synonymous with remote work and digital nomadism. You can live an affordable life there, which many digital nomads look for. The best part about Bali? We have to choose the cultural experiences you will have the chance to try.

• Average monthly cost of living: The cost of living in Bali differs based on your lifestyle. If you opt for a budget-friendly lifestyle, it ranges between $750 and $1000. A mid-range lifestyle can cost between $1200 and $2000. Of course, the cost of living will increase as the quality of life increases.
• Minimum income required: Yearly income of at least $60,000
• Internet Connectivity: The internet connection is good for digital nomads, but the quality might be affected depending on where you stay.

South Africa

Our last recommendation is South Africa, which recently launched a remote work visa. The good thing about this visa is that it allows you to stay for at least 3 months and up to 3 years. The requirements include the applicant having an income of at least 650,796 South African Rand. Applicants also must have a valid foreign-based employment contract. We can consider South Africa as one of the best countries for digital nomads in Africa.

Once you get there, you will discover an up-and-running digital nomad community. Explore the diverse landscapes in South Africa in your free time so that you can create unforgettable memories. You should go explore popular areas such as Cape Town and Johannesburg. With this recently launched visa, your journey as a digital nomad can find its next stop in South Africa.

• The average monthly cost of living starts at $800 and can go up to $3000, depending on your lifestyle.
• Minimum income required: Around $36,000
• Internet Connectivity: The internet connection is good if you work in an urban area or a co-working space. Rural areas might experience power cuts.

We have told you everything you need to know about the best ten countries for long-term travel and work. Our digital nomad guide can help you know your next destination as a digital nomad. Now you know about the best countries and what makes a country good for digital nomads.