Many employees no longer need to go to an office to advance in their careers. The pandemic has not only made telecommuting more accessible, but it has also resulted in an increase in remote work or freelance profiles dedicated to traveling the world while working. The so-called digital nomads can set up shop wherever and immerse themselves in various cultures.
However, not all locations generate the same enthusiasm.
The top three countries in the world, according to a rating established by the travel portal Kayak, are European, especially Portugal, Spain, and Romania. Many places on the continent have adapted to this lifestyle, particularly in terms of Internet access, quality of life, and the ability to obtain a special visa that allows remote employment.
Spain is among the first to be chosen, with a score of 93 out of 100 for its inexpensive pricing, pleasant climate, and high service quality. It isn't, however, the only one. Iceland, on the other hand, is in eighth place and has the highest telecommuting score. Users appreciate not just the speed of the Internet, but also the wide number of coworking spaces available in their area.
Getting a digital nomad visa
Only 13 of the 40 European nations featured in this ranking provide a visa specifically designed for freelancers or digital nomads. Obtaining them might be difficult, since individuals will often have to deal with each country's bureaucracy and defend their professional area.
Let's have a look at what they are and how to obtain them.
- Portugal: The country has a digital nomad visa that can be used to stay for a short time or to apply for a resident permit. Temporary visas must be for a duration of less than one year, although individuals who wish to stay longer can apply for a residence permit for the pursuit of independent professional activity or the Startup Visa for entrepreneurs.
- Spain: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides remote workers the opportunity to pursue their vocation in the country. The document must, however, be requested at least 90 days prior to the scheduled relocation date.
- Romania: At least two weeks prior to departure, an application must be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This visa allows users to stay in the country for a maximum of 12 months, either self-employed or remotely.
- Malta: Malta provides a wide range of living and working opportunities on its island. Workers can discover an ideal place to perform their job from a distance for a term of one year with the option to extend for longer through the 'Nomad Visa Malta.'
- Czech Republic: According to their website, users will need to obtain a business license in order to practice in the country.
- Germany: This country has a residence permit for employed workers, although this is subject to a number of conditions, including the practice of certain professions.
- Croatia: digital nomads can stay in the nation for six months on a special temporary visa that allows them to practice their trade.
- Iceland: Iceland offers a special visa for remote workers, making it one of the countries with the most prospects for digital nomads. It has a 90-day term in this case, but it can be extended up to 180 days if necessary.
- Albania: Last year, the Albanian government authorized a special permit for teleworkers and digital nomads to live in the nation, although this is not yet in force.
- Georgia: During the crisis of the pandemic, the country wanted to start a project to make remote work easier. Entrepreneurs, freelancers, and digital nomads who desire to stay at least one year in their city are sought by 'Remotely from Georgia.'
- Estonia: this digital nomad visa allows remote employees to live in the country and work freelance or for other companies for extended periods of time.
- Greece: Is another country that has recently implemented a special visa that can be used for up to a year. Applicants may also bring the rest of their family with them.
- Norway: All remote workers who wish to live and work in Norway can do so with the help of a special visa that is valid for a maximum of two years.
