What Are The Best Digital Nomad Visas In 2021-2022? – that will be the topic of today’s article.
Being a digital nomad is simultaneously living your best life, exploring the world, sipping a mojito, and working. Traveling around the globe with your work device is the best way to break free from the hassle of a 9-5, and nothing sets the ground for motivation to work as a new scenery.
Aside from the perk of exploding our taste buds with different cuisines, experiencing diverse cultures, and basking in the beauty of various tourist attractions, being a digital nomad has an additional benefit of exposing us to learning new ideas.
These ideas could improve our work productivity and creativity; however, a vital factor that gives you the badge of a digital nomad is a visa. A visa is the first motivation to turn in your resignation letter, sell your house, and go on a work tour.
A digital nomad visa is your ride or die to live a nomadic life; it’s the ticket to living and working legally in another country. Regardless of being a student or worker, you can have the nomadic visa sitting pretty in your hands, although the requirements to getting onediffers.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been a switch-up in how the world works, specifically the travel industry. Nonetheless, we will give you a detailed guide to the best digital nomad visa in 2021-2022 for the best work and tour trip of your life. Without further ado, let’s get you visa ready!
Digital Nomad Visa Versus Tourist Visa
Although being a digital nomad is like working with a vacation vibe, it shouldn’t get confused with tourism. It’s easy to think, “oh well, it’s similar to a tour anyways,” and get a tourist visa; however, that’s illegal in some countries.
A digital nomad visa differs from a tourist visa; working on a tourist visa is not allowed in most countries, and it’s issued for tourist activities only.
A digital nomad visa is strictly issued for technological nomads to work legally and remotely in the country. Nevertheless, an upside to this law is that it applies to workers hired by local companies; nomads or freelancers who work independently online can use the tourist visa, especially if they don’t plan to stay in a country for long.
Requirements and Eligibility to Accessing a Digital Nomad Visa
There are different requirements and policies to obtaining a Nomad Visa depending on the country; some countries might require you to tender an application through their embassy, while some provide an online platform.
Additional requirements might include an application fee, a valid passport, proof of your remote job and income, vaccine certificates, medical insurance, and tons more.
Aside from the requirements, there are specific eligibility conditions that are vital to acquiring a nomadic visa, these include;
- Your nationality
- Your visa history
- Your criminal and health record
Nonetheless, it’s advisable to contact the consulate or embassy of your desired travel country on their visa requirements and eligibilityfactors.
Countries with the Best Digital Nomad Visas in 2021-2022
As the world is battling and recovering from the coronavirus pandemic, not every country has open arms to visitors exploring their land.
Nonetheless, few countries don’t shy away from digital nomads; they offer you not only a visa but a lifetime of fun and productive working environment.
These countries with the best digital nomad visa in 2021-2022 are majorly European; however, we’ll also dive into non-EU countries that issue visas for a work and tour experience.
European Countries that Issue Digital Nomad Visas
Estonia
Estonia stands as the first country to create a residency program for foreign entrepreneurs, specifically those who work online. Expanding the program, the country implemented the digital nomad visa for remote workers and freelancers.
Aside from its stunning scenery, the European country offers warm, open arms to visitors to broaden the economy to an international level.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your employment by a local company within or outside Estonia
- Proof of your job being remote and digital
- Proof of having a minimum income of €3504
Application Process
- Obtain the application form online and select a visa type; Estonia has two digital nomad visa types (Visa C, for a short stay costs €80, while Visa D, issued for a lengthy stay, costs €100)
- Fill out the form and submit it at any Estonian consulate or embassy. You’ll need to wait a month for your application to be reviewed and approved.
Croatia
Croatia isn’t far behind on issuing digital nomad visas, as the European country decided 2021 was the year to give remote workers a place in its land. However, the visa is only valid for a year; if you plan on staying longer, you’ll need to re-apply again.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of a remote job, either self-employed or hired by a company outside Croatia
- As a digital nomad, you can’t work in any Croatian company
- A clean criminal background record
- A medical insurance
- Proof of your accommodation within the country
- Proof of a minimum income of €2500 monthly
Application Process
- Apply at the Croatian consulate or embassy
- Provide a valid passport with two passport-sized photograph
- Payment for application is necessary
- Obtain a personal identification number (OIB) from the embassy
Germany
The German digital nomad visa is specifically for freelancers, and it’s termed “Frieberufler Visa,” however it’s also issued to other remote workers.
Although the Frieberufler visa officially states a three-month stay duration, it can be extended to three years. A necessary condition to obtaining the visa is your profession must be within a freelance or remote niche.
The German embassy also offers an “artist visa,” specifically for painters, musicians, or artists; however, it’s only accessible in Berlin.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of a home address in Germany
- A medical insurance
- Your digital job has to be within niches that add value to the country’s economy.
- Proof of a self-sustainable income
Application Process
- Fill out the application form online with the required fee
- Submit the form at any German embassy with a passport-sized photograph, travel insurance, biometric photograph, and financial documents
- Secure a residence in the country
Czech Republic
Home to grand castles and mouth-watering curd cheese, Czech is a dream city for every digital nomad. The European country offers one of the best digital nomad visas, in addition to a low cost of living and free, rapid wifi summing up a perfect work environment.
Although the Czech Republic visa is valid for a year, it comes with a perk of extending it; however, securing accommodation is vital to obtaining the visa.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of residence that correlates with your period of stay in the country
- Proof of an income within the €5000 threshold
- Willing to pay Czech monthly tax of 1,800 K¢
- Clean criminal background record
- Proof of your digital job
Application Process
- Apply directly at any Czech Embassy
- An interview is involved in the application process
Portugal
Situated along the Atlantic ocean, home to the famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, a hub for sardines with a sprinkle of a beachy vibe, Portugal is the ideal European country for digital nomads.
Portugal is fast evolving in its economy, becoming an ideal work environment for businesses. The Portuguese digital nomad visa is categorized into two; The Golden Visa and the D7 Visa.
The Golden Visa requires to invest in the country first before applying for a residency, while the D7 requires zero investment, and it’s ideal if you are self-employed.
The D7 visa is also ideal if you decide to stay permanently in Portugal, but the golden visa is a better option if you are constantly on the move.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of a self-sustainable income
- Clean criminal record
- Health history and insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of flight ticket
- A valid passport
Application Process
- Apply directly at the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate with the required eligibility documents
Norway
A Scandinavian country of green spaces, mountains, museums, and glaciers, Norway is perfect for all kinds of remote work. Norway embraces you and provides you with a comfortable working and touring environment.
The digital nomad visa in Norway is termed “the independent contractor visa,” and it’s valid for two years; EU nationals are eligible to work in the country without acquiring a visa.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your remote job
- Qualifications that proves your expertise in your job
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of a €35 719 yearly income
Application Process
- Fill out the application form online and submit it at any Norwegian embassy with the necessary documents.
Malta
The list of European countries isn’t complete without Malta, home of stunning archipelagos; this country deserves a spot on the list of best digital nomad visas in 2021-2022.
An environment where you can finish your day’s work and reward yours with savory Maltese cuisines. Malta issues a residence permit to digital nomads, valid for a year.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your freelance or remote digital job
- Proof you work for clients outside the country
- Proof of a minimum income of €2700
Application Process
- Apply directly at a Maltese Embassy
Spain
Spain is one of the most toured countries globally, a country full of warmth to foreigners. The Spaniards are kind and welcoming; thus, you won’t have an issue making friends while working.
The non-lucrative Spanish visa for digital nomads grants you a one-year stay in the country, working and cheering for the goals of the football club.
Eligibility Conditions
- You won’t work in any registered Spanish company
- Proof that your work is remote and digital
- Proof of a self-sustainable income
- A valid health insurance that correlates with the duration of your stay in the country
- A clean criminal background
Application Process
- Apply directly at the nearest Spanish embassy with the required documents, which must be translated into Spanish
- Visa application fee costs $140
- Sign an agreement that you won’t work in any Spanish company
Iceland
The land of volcanoes and glaciers, encompassing beautiful waterfalls, Iceland makes you work and glow on a different level. However, the European country only offers a three-month duration to work and bask in its dreamy scenery.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof that you are working independently or working for a company outside Iceland
- You must have a minimum income of 1,000,000 ISK ($7,360) monthly
- Health history and insurance
Application Process
- Fill out the application form online and submit it at any Iceland immigration office.
- Pay an application fee of 7800 ISK.
- Application takes three weeks to be reviewed and approved.
The Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa is crucial to staying in most European countries; the visa has a short-term validity of 90days. The visa is available for tourist or business purposes and allows the holder to travel within the Schengen area without border restrictions.
Countries like the Czech Republic, Iceland, Portugal, and Spain require digital nomads within the Schengen area to obtain the Schengen visa; however, the visa has a strict validity of 90days.
You can’t return to any country within the Schengen area until after 90 days; thus, if you plan on staying longer than the required number of days, it’s advisable to opt for long-term visas.
Eligibility Requirements
- A valid passport
- Two passport-sized photographs
- A travel insurance
- Proof of your flight reservation
- Proof of accommodation and self-sustainable income
Application Process
- Select your purpose of moving to the country and fill out the form online
- Submit at the nearest European embassy
- An interview is involved in the application process
Non-European Countries with the Best Digital Nomad Visa in 2021-2022
Dubai
There’s no denying that the United Arab Emirates is always on its toes implementing rules for a comfortable stay in the country. The luxurious country makes working a worthwhile experience independently, as the Burj Khalifa is enough to ease your work tension.
The Dubai remote work visa offers top-notch infrastructures and a safe environment for a productive work-life.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your digital job, either self-employed or not
- Health history and insurance
- A self-sustainable income or proof of a minimum salary of $5000
- A valid passport
Application Process
- Apply for the visa online with the required documents
Antigua & Barbuda
Trying to live your best life while working? Obtain a digital nomad visa to Antigua and Barbuda; this Caribbean nation sets an excellent environment to work remotely, sipping a glass of wine and sun-tanning on its beautiful beach.
The nomadic visa termed “Nomad Digital Residence” is one of the best visas to acquire if you are constantly moving. The visa is valid for two years and allows you to bring their family alongside their work tour.
Aside from the aesthetic beach view, the Nomadic visa allows you to enjoy the nation’s top-notch telecommunications services and other amenities.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your freelance or remote job
- An income of $50,000
- A clean criminal background check
- A valid passport and two passport photographs
- A medical insurance
Application Process
- Application is carried out online at the nation’s official immigration website.
- Application fee ranges; $1500 for a single applicant and $2000 for couples
Barbados
Barbados is a dream destination for every tourist or remote worker; Barbados snags a spot on the list of nations that issue digital nomad visas in 2021-2022.
A perfect location to shake off the hassles of a 9-5 and embrace the comfort of independent working. Tagged as the “Barbados Welcome Stamp,” the Caribbean nation visa welcomes you to luxurious working life.
Eligibility Conditions
- You must work remotely, either self-employed or at a company outside of Barbados.
- An income of $15,000 yearly
- A clean criminal and health background check
- You must undergo a covid-19 test and be quarantined for two days
Application Process
- Application is carried out online with a visa fee of $2000
- Application is reviewed within a week
Anguilla
What better to spice up your life as a digital nomad other than touring the Caribbean nation with a touch of British. Anguilla is a nation with cheerful locals and calm scenery to cool off your work stress. The nation is open to remote workers and offers a visa with one-year validity.
Eligibility Conditions
- You must have accommodation that correlates with your desired length of stay in the country.
- A clean criminal and health background check
- An income of $50,000
Application Process
- Application is carried out online with a visa fee of $2000 for a single applicant and $3000 for families.
Bermuda
Bury your legs in the pink sand beaches while working digitally and soaking in the blissful atmosphere of Bermuda. The British island nation has jumped on the “remote job” train and offers virtual workers a safe working space with a one-year valid visa.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your remote job, either self-employed or working for a company outside of Bermuda
- Travel and health insurance coverage
- No income requirement
- You must undergo a covid-19 test
- A clean criminal background
- You must be 18 years of age and above
Application Process
- Application is carried out, reviewed, and approved online within an hour with a visa fee of $263
Mauritius
The movies never fail to tell us how great Mauritius is; however nothing beats stamping that fact like visiting the Indian island for yourself. Mauritius recently opened its arms to digital nomads, implementing a free, one-year valid visa for freelancers and digital nomads.
Eligibility Conditions
- Proof of your virtual work, either self-employed or hired by a company outside Mauritius.
- Proof of your accommodation on the island
- Travel and health insurance
Application Process
- Application is carried out for free online
Australia
Are you looking for the perfect country for a road and work trip? Reserve a flight to Australia. Home to koalas and kangaroos, the oceanic country provides a stress-free work environment to carry out projects and experience wildlife.
If your stay in the country is on a short-term basis, the “Visitors Visa” is an excellent remote work visa; however, the visa prevents you from re-visiting the country once you leave.
Eligibility Conditions
- You must not work in any registered Australian company
- Evidence of your remote digital job
- Health insurance coverage for your stay in the country
- You must be proficient in English
Application Process
- Applications are carried out online
Mexico
Working remotely in Mexico exposes you to a lifetime of beautiful culture and mouth-watering tacos and tortillas; the North American country is every digital nomad’s dream destination.
Mexico issues virtual workers a “Temporary Resident Visa” with a one-year validity which is renewable if you plan on extending your stay.
Eligibility Conditions
- Evidence of your digital job with a minimum income of $1620 per month and a bank account balance of $27,000
- You won’t work in any registered Mexican company
Application Process
- Fill out the form online and submit it to the nearest Mexican embassy
Costa Rica
Through their stunning snapshots, the Kardashians have proved to us that Costa Rica is a country for every digital nomad. The sisters can be seen grooving to the vacation vibes while carrying out one or two work tasks.
Costa Rica offers freelancers or remote workers a “Rentista” visa to work independently in the country for two years with a possibility of extending the validity.
Eligibility Conditions
- A minimum income of $3000
- A medical insurance coverage for your stay in the country
Application Process
- Application is carried out on the country’s official immigration website
- The required documents must be translated into Spanish
Basic Tips to Obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa in 2021-2022
- Always apply for a digital nomad visa the moment you’ve decided on a country. Leaving the application process to a dire moment is not advisable as some visa application process takes 1-2 months which could delay your trip
- Make adequate research on your desired nomadic country and its visa requirements. Always reach out to visa authorities or travel agencies for an additional guide to obtaining the digital nomad visa
- Pay attention to every requirement on the application form and carefully fill it out
- Try learning the language of your desired country to help you settle in quicker
- Make your research on the country’s laws, cost of living, and other basic amenities
Conclusion
The crucial part of going on a road or flight trip with your remote job in 2021 is obtaining the best digital nomad visa. Hence why we worked harder than the FBI to provide you with a detailed guide to the best digital nomad visas in 2021-2022, an ideal handbook for your nomad trips.
