What is a digital nomad visa?

The digital nomad visa authorizes you to work lawfully in a country for a longer period than a tourist visa and with fewer difficulties than a work visa.

Freelancers and digital nomads who are always on the go can now enjoy the convenience of staying in their preferred location for a period of 6 months to 2 years through the use of a digital nomad visa, with renewal being hassle-free.

Why get it?

Visa restrictions and immigration stand out as the two most significant challenges for digital nomads, as per their shared experience.

Prior to the creation of digital nomad visas, the only option for digital nomads was a travel visa. Unfortunately, this type of visa prohibits tourists from engaging in work activities within the country and frequently only permits stays of up to 90 days. Consequently, digital nomads and freelance travelers had to disguise work as sight-seeing.

Once their travel visa has expired, they must visit the immigration office, endure lengthy waiting periods, and incur fees in order to renew it. However, renewal may not be permitted in certain nations, causing digital nomads to utilize a workaround known as a “visa run,” whereby they briefly travel to neighboring countries before returning and receiving a new travel visa stamp (though this may not be a viable option in all countries).

Engaging in these activities for several years as a digital nomad can result in exhaustion across all three dimensions: physical, mental, and emotional.

If you qualify, it is recommended that you consider applying for a digital nomad visa as it removes the limitations of travel visas, the need to endure extended waiting periods at immigration offices, and the requirement to make visa runs. Moreover, it affords the opportunity to work in a novel environment that reinvigorates your ingenuity and productivity.

‍How to get it?

Although the processes and requirements may vary by country, here’s a basic outline of how to obtain a digital nomad visa.

Find out whether you are eligible by going to the country’s immigration website or embassy office in your or a nearby country.
Prepare all the necessary documents such as bank statements, passport, and proof of being a digital nomad or freelancer.
Submit all documents either by applying online or at the embassy office.
Wait for approval and processing while planning the long-anticipated travel.
Collect your digital nomad visa, book your flight tickets, and begin your long-term nomadic lifestyle!

To find out the requirements and eligibility for each participating country, click on the links at the end of this article.

Who is eligible for a digital nomad visa?

The eligibility requirements for a digital nomad visa vary per country. However, the following are typically the necessary requirements to apply:

You are location-independent.
You can work digitally and remotely.
You have a stable flow of income and earn more than the minimum requirement.
You are from one of the eligible countries (e.g, Europe allows people from certain countries to apply).
You have proof of employment or ownership of a company.
You have travel or health insurance.

How long does the process take?

The length of time required for the application of a digital nomad visa varies greatly depending on the country and may take a minimum of 3-4 months.

Can I bring my family members with me?

You can accompany your family members on certain countries’ digital nomad visas by paying an extra fee. Anguilla (UK), Antigua and Barbuda (Caribbean), Dubai (UAE), and Estonia (EU) are among the countries that permit accompanying family members.

What are the typical restrictions I need to be aware of?

The digital nomad visa is a legitimate visa acknowledged by countries that are part of the program, and individuals should have no issues carrying it with them while out and about.

If you’re not seeking trouble, having a visa will not save you.

How do I renew my digital nomad visa?

The process of renewing digital nomad visas typically involves paying a fee, but it is relatively simple. To renew before expiration, one may visit the immigration office and submit an application.

It is important to consider that certain countries impose a limit on the maximum duration of stay even after renewal. Estonia, for example, permits a maximum stay of 1.5 years in a row. If you choose to renew your stay after one year, your permitted duration will be limited to an additional 6 months.

Belize Digital Nomad Visa – Requirements & Process

About the Belize Digital Nomad Visa

In line with the increasing trend towards digital nomadism, Belize is among many nations seeking to attract remote workers who utilize digital technology. The Work Where You Vacation initiative includes the Belize digital nomad visa, allowing these individuals to reside in the country for a maximum of six months regardless of their nation of origin, provided they are employed by a non-Belizean company.

Although the visa is restricted to six months’ validity, individuals seeking to prolong their stay can opt for an extension. Upon obtaining the Belize digital nomad visa, an individual will be granted a work permit, enabling them to reside in Belize temporarily. The program permits applicants to have their dependents and spouses accompany them and obtain a student permit for their children to attend school in Belize.

Belize Digital Nomad Visa Eligibility

The Work Where You Vacation program does not impose any nationality limitations. Therefore, individuals from any nation are eligible to request the Belize digital nomad visa. Nevertheless, eligibility prerequisites exist, which are as follows:

You must be working for a company outside of Belize and can take up work remotely. Those who own a business outside Belize are also eligible for the visa.
You must be receiving a minimum annual salary of at least USD 75,000 for individual applicants or USD 100,000 for those bringing their spouses and dependents.
Have travel insurance with minimum coverage of $50,000.

Documents to Submit When Applying for the Belize Digital Nomad Visa

Make sure to collect all the necessary documents for the Belize digital nomad visa application prior to submission. Listed below are the documents required for the application.

Copy of your passport – it must be valid for at least six months from the time of application.
Criminal background check – you can get this from your local police department.
Proof of residence in Belize – you need to show proof of accommodation where you will live while in Belize.
Proof of employment – submit a contract from your employer stating some details about your work. The employer or company must be based outside of Belize.
Proof of income – document showing you earn a minimum annual salary of USD 75,000 for individual applicants or USD 100,000 for those with dependents.
Travel insurance policy – the insurance certificate must show a minimum coverage of $50,000 USD.

Applying for the Belize Digital Nomad Visa

Getting the Belize digital nomad visa is a simple process, and the following steps will assist you in smoothly completing it:

Gather all the documents – refer to the list above and acquire all the documents before you start the application. Having all the documents ready will make the process easier and faster. Make sure that all documents are in the English language and are original copies. Once you have sorted the documents, you can start with the application process.
Download the application form – you need to download the application form online. Refer to this link for the application form. The application form is also called the Temporary Residence Visa application form. Fill out the form completely.
Submit your application through the embassy or consulate of Belize – you need to submit the application form and the documents to the nearest embassy or consulate in your area. You can also send your application to the Immigration Department of Belize through these email addresses – visas@immigration.gov.bz and secretary@immigration.gov.bz.
Wait for the approval of your visa application – there’s no exact time frame as to how long it will take for them to process your application for the Belize digital nomad visa, but it should only take a few weeks. You will receive an email to inform you whether your application has been approved or not.
Travel to Belize and pay the visa fee – when your visa application is approved, you can now fly to Belize. Make sure to bring all the documents with you. When you arrive at the airport of Belize, you need to pay the $250 visa fee, and they will stamp your passport with the Belize digital nomad visa.

Paying Taxes in Belize as a Digital Nomad

The tax system in Belize is territorial, which means that only income earned within the country is subject to income tax. If you are working for a foreign company as a digital nomad and residing in Belize, you are not required to pay income tax. Additionally, Belize does not impose capital gains or inheritance tax.

Living as a Digital Nomad in Belize

Belize, an exquisite country situated on the eastern coast of Central America, shares borders with Mexico and Guatemala. Despite its small size, it boasts a plethora of fascinating attractions, including historic and cultural landmarks, breathtaking natural landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

Many visitors tend to overlook Belize in favour of its neighbouring countries, but there are numerous amazing things to discover there. For those seeking unconventional destinations, Belize is an excellent option. Additionally, the Belizean government is now allowing digital nomads to extend their stays, making it an opportune time for digital nomads to explore this country.

Residing in Belize offers an extended opportunity to immerse oneself in the country’s exceptional culture. Despite its location in Central America, Belize’s official language is English – a common misconception is that the country is Spanish-speaking. Consequently, digital nomads can seamlessly adapt to everyday life in Belize and interact with the locals. For digital nomads who desire a tranquil lifestyle amidst thrilling outdoor adventures, Belize is an impeccable destination.

Reliable internet plays a major role in the decision-making process of digital nomads who are planning to relocate. Belize is a suitable option as it provides reliable telecommunication services that ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity. Moreover, many places in the country now offer free internet access, which allows you to work from various locations other than your home. You can choose to work in charming cafés, restaurants, or beach bars that provide stunning views of the ocean while you work on your laptop.

Belize’s low cost of living is a major draw for many digital nomads, as evident from the fact that a studio apartment with basic facilities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and modern appliances can be rented for roughly $800 per month.

Despite its small size, Belize offers a plethora of natural beauty to be cherished, making it an ideal location to take a break from work. Consequently, as a digital nomad residing in Belize, you’re bound to achieve a harmonious work-life balance while also experiencing numerous pleasures. For nature enthusiasts, there’s the opportunity to spend their work breaks engaging in beach-side water sports such as diving and snorkelling. The nation boasts the world’s second-largest barrier reef, which spans over 180 miles and is safeguarded by reserves, many of which are accessible to visitors.

When in Belize, one of the amazing places to discover is the Great Blue Hole, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A cavernous collapse boasting of striking stalactites and vibrant corals, it is even possible to encounter schools of reef sharks while diving. For those seeking a place to unwind post-work, there are numerous pristine beaches, where one can bask in the breathtaking scenery while sipping cooling cocktails. Additionally, if one wishes to explore neighbouring countries, a weekend trip to Guatemala or Mexico may be feasible.

It’s high time to relocate to Belize and apply for the digital nomad visa, considering all the advantages of living in this country!