Digital nomads are individuals who travel and reside in different places while working remotely, utilizing a laptop and internet access to fulfill their job obligations from any part of the globe. Although many digital nomads operate under a tourist visa, which is against the law, several countries have introduced digital nomad visas to offer legal means for foreigners to work while traveling.
These visas do not provide a means to attain permanent residence or citizenship, however they present a wonderful chance for nomads and freelancers who desire to travel and work remotely.
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?
To be eligible for digital nomad visas, individuals must either work for a foreign employer or have a globally manageable business. These visas enable individuals to work from a foreign country while remaining in their current occupation.
Eligibility Criteria For a Digital Nomad Visa
To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, you must meet certain criteria.
- You must be over 18 years of age.
- You must have a specific monthly income (the amount varies from country to country).
- You must have a job you can do from anywhere in the world.
Our List
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua & Barbuda is famous for its stunning beaches and sparkling blue water. The country is currently running a program called the ‘Nomad Digital Residence’ that allows individuals who can work remotely to stay for an extended period. Those who qualify will receive a ‘special-resident’ authorization, initially valid for a maximum of 24 months.
In order to qualify, applicants must provide proof of employment, whether self-employed or otherwise, and demonstrate payment of income tax in either their current place of residence or country of origin. Additionally, they must also submit a visa fee, which amounts to $1,500 for an individual, $2,000 for a couple, and $3,000 for a family of three or more.
Anguilla
In 2020, a scheme called ‘Lose The Crowd Find Yourself. Work. Life. Bliss.’ was launched by the British Overseas Territory of Anguilla. The program enables digital nomads, including individuals, families, and students, to reside in Anguilla for a duration of three to 12 months.
To stay for a period between 91 days and 12 months, individuals need to follow these steps: fill out an application form, present evidence of employment or a business incorporation certificate, and submit a payment of $2,000 for individuals and students, or $3,000 for a family consisting of four members (in addition to $250 for each extra dependent).
Aruba
Aruba has just introduced the ‘One Happy Workation’ program, which appears more like a vacation deal rather than a working opportunity. Under this initiative, individuals can stay for up to 90 days and enjoy various benefits such as free wifi, breakfast, inclusive meals and drinks, and access to exclusive local activities. Remarkably, working during the entire stay is not required.
The only catch is that it is currently exclusive to individuals who are citizens of the United States.
Only US nationals are eligible for this. The duration of stay can range from seven to 90 days. Those applying must present evidence of being employed by a company or being self-employed in their home country.
Barbados
In the year 2020, the ‘Barbados Welcome Stamp’ was introduced by Barbados. This stamp is a unique visa valid for 12 months that is exclusively available to remote workers who are employed by a company registered and conducting business outside of Barbados.
The requirements for applicants are that they need to earn a minimum annual income of $50,000 for the duration of their intended 12-month stay and submit a fee of $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for a family within 28 days after their application has been approved.
Bermuda
The ‘Work from Bermuda Certificate’ is a residency initiative introduced by the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda. This certificate allows executives and students to work and study remotely from Bermuda for a maximum of 12 months. The program offers various benefits such as discounted accommodation, car rentals, broadband, and access to remote workspaces.
In order to meet the requirements, applicants must provide evidence of their employment with a valid company or their own registered company, which must be operating outside of Bermuda. Additionally, applicants should have no criminal convictions, possess valid health insurance, demonstrate substantial financial resources or a steady source of yearly income, and complete a payment of $263.
Brazil
As of now, Brazil has become the sole South-American country to introduce a digital nomad visa, permitting individuals who work remotely to stay in the country for a maximum of 12 months. However, it is a requirement that the applicant is employed by a non-Brazilian organization.
Applicants must demonstrate either a monthly income of $1,500 for the past three months or possess $18,000 in funds. Additionally, they are required to undergo a police check and possess valid health insurance. Visa holders must complete the registration process at the Federal Police within 30 days of arriving in Brazil. They must also provide a copy of their visa application and pay the corresponding fee, which varies based on their country of origin.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands, a self-governing British Overseas Territory, has implemented the ‘Global Citizen Concierge Program’ which allows remote workers to remain in the country for a maximum of 24 months. This program specifically caters to a specific type of traveler, as individuals must demonstrate a minimum annual income of $100,000 or $150,000 for couples in order to be eligible.
In order to be eligible, applicants must have a job outside of the Cayman Islands, be able to present evidence of earning an annual salary of at least $100,000 for individuals or $150,000 for couples, and provide a bank reference that has been notarized, a police clearance statement, and proof of valid health insurance.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is already popular with expats, especially US retirees, and it has a freelancer visa called the ‘Rentista’ that permits foreigners to remain in the country for a maximum of two years.
Costa Rica has recently enacted a law that provides visas for digital nomads, enabling foreign individuals and their families to reside and work in the country for a minimum of 12 months, with the option to extend for another year. This visa exempts holders from local income tax payments, grants them the ability to establish a Costa Rican bank account, and permits them to drive using their respective foreign driving licenses.
Applications have not opened yet, but more information is expected to be announced soon.
To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $3,000. If applicants are traveling with a spouse or family, the required income is $5,000 per month. Additionally, applicants must possess valid medical insurance for their entire stay in Costa Rica. Furthermore, a single payment needs to be made to obtain the visa, the exact amount of which is yet to be determined.
Visa Application Process
To apply for a digital nomad visa, you must adhere to the instructions provided.
- Fill out the application form.
- Make an appointment with an embassy or consulate.
- Prepare your documents.
- Submit your application.
Fill Out The Application Form
The digital nomad visa application form must be completed according to the given instructions. In some countries, the procedure involves filling out the application online, printing it, and signing it. Meanwhile, in other countries, you must physically fill out the form at the embassy or consulate. It is important to provide precise and current information.
Set an Appointment With an Embassy or Consulate
When thinking in a sequential manner, it is necessary to find a visa office, which can be an embassy or consulate. It is important to note that embassies and consulates are not identical establishments. Depending on your place of residence, it may be necessary to apply at a nearby embassy. Despite this, once you have identified your visa office, you must arrange an appointment to deliver your application and participate in the visa interview.
Prepare Your Documents
Once you have completed your application, the next step is to get the remaining necessary documents ready. It might be necessary to translate certain documents or obtain an apostille stamp for their certification.
Submit Your Application
After preparing your documents, submit them along with your completed visa application to the embassy. Additionally, you must attend a visa interview and pay the visa fee. It is important to note that in certain countries, payment of the fee is required prior to submitting the application and the receipt must be included as part of the application documents.
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