What You Need to Get a Digital Nomad Visa

The world is your office—at least, it can be. If you believe this, you must understand what you need to get a digital nomad visa.

Imagine starting your mornings with a view of the Mediterranean, working from a beachfront café in Bali, or exploring Mexico City after a productive day. That’s the freedom a digital nomad visa offers.

But before you pack your bags, there’s a catch. Countries that offer these visas have strict remote work visa requirements—things like minimum income thresholds, proof of self-employment, and even health insurance coverage.

Without meeting these, your dream of working abroad could be over before it begins.

And here’s something most people don’t realise: Not all digital nomad visa countries are created equal. Some have an easy, streamlined process, while others involve months of paperwork.

So, what exactly do you need to qualify? How do you apply? Which countries offer the best options in 2025?

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is a special type of visa that allows remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to live in a foreign country while working for a company or clients outside that country.

Unlike traditional work visas, which often require employment with a local company, a digital nomad visa is designed for individuals who earn an income remotely.

These visas have gained popularity as remote work becomes more mainstream. According to a report by MBO Partners, there were 15.5 million digital nomads in the U.S. in 2021, a 42% increase from the previous year.

Countries offering this visa generally require proof of employment, a stable income, and health insurance. Some even provide tax benefits or exemptions, making them an attractive option for location-independent professionals.

But how is a digital nomad visa different from a tourist visa? Let’s take a look.

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Difference Between a Tourist Visa and a Digital Nomad Visa

At first glance, a tourist visa and a digital nomad visa might seem similar—both allow you to stay in another country for an extended period.

But here’s the key difference: A tourist visa is meant for short-term stays, typically for leisure, while a digital nomad visa is specifically designed for remote workers who want to live and work abroad legally.

A tourist visa usually comes with strict limitations. In most cases, you’re not legally allowed to work, and the stay is restricted to a few weeks or months. For example, the Schengen tourist visa allows non-EU citizens to stay in Europe for up to 90 days within 180 days but doesn’t permit any form of work.

On the other hand, a digital nomad visa grants longer stays—sometimes up to a year or more—with the legal right to work remotely for a foreign employer or as a freelancer.

Some visas even offer tax benefits, like Portugal’s digital nomad visa, which provides a flat 20% income tax rate under the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program.

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In short, if you plan to travel while working, a tourist visa might not cut it. A digital nomad visa gives you the legal flexibility to stay and work without worrying about visa violations.

Countries That Offer Digital Nomad Visas

More countries recognise the rise of remote work and offer digital nomad visas to attract skilled professionals. These visas allow remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to live legally in another country while working for companies outside that country.

Here’s a look at some of the best digital nomad visa countries:

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Europe

1. Spain – Offers a digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to stay for up to one year, with the option to extend up to five years. Applicants must earn at least €2,520 per month.

2. Portugal – Provides a digital nomad visa under the D7 Visa and the Temporary Stay Visa. The minimum income requirement is €3,040 per month.

3. Estonia – One of the first countries to introduce a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to stay for up to 12 months. Applicants must show a minimum monthly income of €4,500.

Latin America

4. Costa Rica – Offers the Rentista Visa, which is valid for two years and requires proof of $3,000 monthly income or $60,000 in a bank account.

5. Mexico – The Temporary Resident Visa allows digital nomads to stay for one to four years. The income requirement is about $2,595 per month.

6. Brazil – Launched its digital nomad visa in 2022, allowing a one-year stay with renewal options. Applicants must prove a monthly income of $1,500 or have $18,000 in savings.

Asia

7. Thailand – The Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa offers a 10-year stay for remote workers and freelancers. The minimum annual income requirement is $80,000.

8. Indonesia (Bali) – The Second Home Visa allows a five-year stay but requires proof of $140,000 in a local bank. Alternatively, the Business Visa is commonly used by digital nomads for shorter stays.

9. Malaysia – The DE Rantau Nomad Pass provides a 12-month stay, renewable for another year. Applicants must earn at least $24,000 annually.

With so many options, choosing the right country depends on factors like visa requirements, cost of living, and tax policies.

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Benefits of Having a Digital Nomad Visa

A digital nomad visa does more than just grant you legal permission to live in another country—it comes with several benefits that can enhance your remote work experience and lifestyle. Here’s why getting one is a game-changer.

1. Legal Residency and Stability

Unlike a tourist visa, which often limits stays to a few months, a digital nomad visa provides a longer-term solution. Depending on the country, it typically lasts between six months and five years. This allows remote workers to settle in without worrying about visa runs or overstaying.

2. Access to Local Services

With a digital nomad visa, you may gain access to essential services like opening a bank account, renting long-term accommodation, and even signing up for healthcare plans.

Digital nomads can also get a national ID in some countries, making their stay more convenient.

3. Better Work-Life Balance

Many digital nomad visa countries offer an improved work-life balance due to lower living costs, great weather, and access to co-working spaces. For example, Portugal and Mexico have thriving digital nomad communities where professionals can network and collaborate.

4. Potential Tax Benefits

Some digital nomad visas come with tax incentives. For example, Estonia’s digital nomad visa does not automatically make remote workers taxable residents.

Portugal’s NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) scheme also offers reduced tax rates for eligible individuals. However, checking local tax laws before moving is crucial to avoid surprises.

5. Opportunity to Bring Family

Several countries allow digital nomads to bring their spouses and dependents on a visa. For example, Costa Rica’s Rentista Visa and Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa provide options for family members to join the primary visa holder.

The bottom line? A digital nomad visa provides peace of mind, better access to essential services, and the freedom to live and work in some of the world’s most desirable locations.

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General Requirements for a Digital Nomad Visa

Each country has its own set of criteria for granting a digital nomad visa, but there are several common requirements that most applicants must meet. Here’s what you need to qualify.

Minimum Income Requirements

Many countries require digital nomads to support themselves while living abroad to prove a stable income. The amount necessary varies:

Portugal: At least €3,280 per month
Spain: Around €2,160 per month
Costa Rica: Minimum $3,000 per month for individuals ($4,000 for families)

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Some of the cheapest digital nomad visa options, like Indonesia, have lower income thresholds, making them more accessible to freelancers and remote workers.

Proof of Remote Work or Self-Employment

Applicants must show they work remotely for a company outside the host country or operate a business serving international clients. This is usually done by submitting:

Employment contracts
Business registration documents
Client invoices
Bank statements showing regular income

This requirement ensures that digital nomads do not compete for local jobs typically reserved for citizens and residents.

Health Insurance Coverage

Most countries require digital nomads to have international health insurance that covers medical expenses during their stay. The coverage amount varies, with some countries requiring policies worth at least $30,000.

For example, Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa mandates a minimum health insurance coverage of $50,000, while Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa requires comprehensive private health insurance.

Valid Passport and Background Checks

A passport with at least six months of validity is essential for any visa application. Some countries also require police clearance certificates to verify that applicants have no criminal record.

For instance, Brazil and Spain require an apostilled criminal background check as part of the digital nomad visa application process.

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How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa

The digital nomad visa application process varies by country, but the general steps remain similar. Here’s how to navigate the process successfully.

Step-by-step application process

1. Research visa options – Check the requirements for your desired country to ensure you meet the criteria.

2. Gather required documents – Prepare your proof of income, employment verification, health insurance, and other necessary paperwork.

3. Submit an online or in-person application – Some countries allow applications through their embassies, consulates, or official immigration websites.

4. Pay the application fee. Depending on the country, it can range from $50 to over $1,000.

5. Attend an interview (if required): Some countries, like Spain and Portugal, may request an in-person interview.

6. Wait for approval – Processing times vary, but approvals can take from a few weeks to several months.

7. Receive your visa and move abroad – Once approved, you can enter the country and start your new remote work life.

Common documents needed

To ensure a smooth application process, be prepared to submit:

Valid passport (with at least six months remaining)
Proof of remote work (employment contract or business registration)
Proof of income (bank statements or tax returns)
Health insurance policy covering the required amount
Police clearance certificate (for background checks)
Visa application form and passport-sized photos

How long does the approval process take?

The approval time varies based on the country and the volume of applications. Here’s an estimate for some popular destinations:

Estonia: 30 days
Portugal: 60 days
Spain: 3 to 6 months
Costa Rica: 2 to 3 months

Want to know the best part? Some countries offer fast-track processing for an additional fee, which can significantly shorten wait times.

Best Countries for Digital Nomad Visas in 2025

Europe: Spain, Portugal, Estonia

Spain offers a five-year digital nomad visa with a €2,200 monthly income requirement. Portugal’s visa requires €3,280 per month and provides tax benefits.

Estonia’s one-year visa requires €3,500 monthly income and supports business registration through its e-Residency program.

Latin America: Costa Rica, Mexico, Brazil

Costa Rica’s Rentista visa requires proof of $3,000 monthly income or a $60,000 bank deposit. Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa allows a four-year stay with a $2,595 monthly income requirement.

Brazil offers a one-year visa (renewable for another year) with a $1,500 monthly income requirement or $18,000 in savings.

Asia: Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia

Thailand’s Long-Term Resident visa allows a 10-year stay but requires an $80,000 annual income. Indonesia’s upcoming Bali Remote Worker Visa offers tax exemptions for foreign income.

Malaysia’s DE Rantau Nomad Pass allows a 12-month stay with a $24,000 annual income requirement.

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Conclusion

A digital nomad visa allows you to live and work legally in another country while enjoying new experiences. However, before applying, it is crucial to understand the requirements, tax obligations, and cost of living.

Choosing the right destination requires careful planning, whether you’re drawn to Europe’s structured programs, Latin America’s affordability, or Asia’s vibrant remote work hubs.

If you’re looking for expert guidance on visa sponsorship and immigration support, RKY Careers Services can help. Our team specialises in visa sponsorship assistance, helping professionals and remote workers easily navigate complex application processes.

Whether you need help securing a work visa, understanding sponsorship requirements, or ensuring a smooth transition to a new country, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to start your digital nomad journey? Contact RKY Careers Services today and take the first step toward your dream lifestyle!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which country has the easiest digital nomad visa to get?

Several countries offer straightforward application processes. Mexico, Estonia, and Portugal are among the easiest to apply for, with minimal paperwork and reasonable income requirements. Mexico, for instance, requires proof of $2,595 monthly income, while Estonia allows remote workers with a €3,500 monthly income.

Do I need to pay taxes with a digital nomad visa?

It depends on the country. Some countries, like Thailand and Indonesia, do not tax foreign-earned income, while others, like Spain, impose a 24% tax on digital nomads.

Can I bring my family on a digital nomad visa?

Yes, many countries allow dependents to join you. For example, Portugal and Spain offer family inclusion in their digital nomad visas, though additional income requirements may apply.

How much does a digital nomad visa cost?

Visa fees vary by country. Estonia charges around €100, Portugal’s visa fee is about €90, and Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa costs approximately $50. However, additional costs such as health insurance, background checks, and legal fees may apply.

What You Need to Get a Digital Nomad Visa

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?