TRAVELWISE

Introduction

The rise of remote work has spurred governments to compete for digital nomads. By early 2025 there were more than sixty digital nomad visas globally[1], allowing remote workers to live legally in another country while maintaining their job or business. This post offers a comprehensive guide to the most popular visas, key requirements and associated costs. Whether you want to spend a year in Portugal, six months in Barbados or launch a global travel lifestyle, we’ll help you choose the right program.

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is a residence permit (often temporary) that allows foreign nationals to work remotely while living in the issuing country. Unlike tourist visas, it legalises longer stays—typically six months to two years—and may permit renewal. Visas usually require proof of remote income, health insurance and a clean criminal record. Some countries provide tax benefits or exemptions for nomads.

Why Countries Offer These Visas

Digital nomads contribute to local economies through rent, food and leisure spending without taking local jobs. Countries see them as a way to boost tourism income year‑round and attract skilled professionals who may invest in the community.

Top Digital Nomad Visa Programs (2025)

Portugal

Portugal’s D8 “remote worker” visa allows nomads to live in Portugal for one year, renewable for up to five years. Applicants must earn at least €3,040/month (four times the Portuguese minimum wage), prove accommodation and purchase health insurance. Visa fees total around €200. Once approved, holders may travel within the Schengen Area. Portugal’s low cost of living and vibrant expat community make it highly attractive.

Spain

Spain introduced its digital nomad visa in early 2024, offering one‑year residency with extensions up to five years. Required income is €2,520/month (200% of Spain’s minimum wage). Applicants need private health insurance and a clean criminal record. Expect around €400 in visa fees. Spain’s major cities provide excellent infrastructure and cultural richness.

Croatia

Croatia’s digital nomad visa (technically a temporary stay permit) allows up to one year in the country with no extensions. Income requirement is roughly €2,300/month and applicants need a background check and health insurance. Visa fees are approximately €80–€130. Croatia’s Adriatic coast, medieval towns and affordable living costs have attracted thousands of nomads.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s “Rentista” program lets remote workers stay for up to two years, renewable. Applicants must prove $3,000/month income (or $4,000 for families) and pay a fee of about $250. Costa Rica offers lush jungles, beaches and stable internet infrastructure.

Barbados

The Barbados Welcome Stamp offers one‑year residency for remote workers earning at least $50,000/year. The application fee is $2,000 for individuals. Barbados boasts beautiful beaches and a reliable digital nomad community.

Georgia

Georgia allows citizens from over 90 countries to stay visa‑free for one year. While not a formal digital nomad visa, this visa‑free scheme, combined with affordable costs and an easy online tax registration system, makes Georgia an attractive option. Income requirements are minimal compared with other programs.

How to Choose the Right Visa

1. Income requirements. Make sure your remote salary or business revenue meets the minimum threshold.
2. Tax obligations. Some visas exempt foreign income from local taxes; others require partial or full tax payments after a certain duration. Consult a tax advisor.
3. Cost of living. Combine visa fees with expected living costs. See our post Cost of Living in Lisbon (internal link) for details on Portugal.
4. Lifestyle and infrastructure. Coworking availability, language barriers, safety and community size differ widely.
5. Renewal rules. Check whether you can extend the visa or transition to a long‑term residence permit.

Application Tips

• Prepare documents early. Gather income statements, police certificates and bank records. Some documents need to be apostilled or translated.
• Use official government portals. Many countries allow online applications; avoid third‑party agencies that charge high fees.
• Plan your timeline. Processing times vary from two weeks to three months. Begin planning at least three months before your intended departure.
• Consider health insurance. Many countries require proof of health coverage valid in the host nation. Choose a plan like SafetyWing or Cigna that meets requirements.

Conclusion

Digital nomad visas have transformed the remote‑work landscape by giving location‑independent professionals legal pathways to live abroad. With programs spanning Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, you have more options than ever. Evaluate income thresholds, visa fees and lifestyle preferences to choose the program that fits your goals. And remember, even visa‑free countries like Georgia can be excellent bases for a nomadic lifestyle.