I, like millions of self-proclaimed digital nomads, have dreamt of traveling the world and working online from my laptop.
In most places, it is technically illegal to work from foreign countries while traveling on a tourist visa.
It can be challenging to extend tourist visas if you desire to prolong your stay, as they generally lapse within 30-90 days.
Despite the complexity it brings, the ability to work while traveling is not hindered by the aforementioned circumstance. However, the current COVID-19 travel restrictions impose additional challenges to international work and travel endeavors.
Most countries’ visa laws are inadequate for addressing the challenge posed by this emerging group of modern nomads who reside and work remotely across different parts of the globe.
There has been a shift in recent times with certain countries acknowledging the necessity for “digital nomad visas”, “remote work visas”, or “freelancer visas” to attract foreign individuals who can work and make a positive impact on their economies.
Digital nomad visas
Does it sound appealing to you? The only thing you need to do is seek permission from your employer and complete an application for a nomad visa. Working overseas is dependent on two entities: employers and immigration offices. When the pandemic started, numerous companies desired their employees to return to the office promptly. They were concerned that without direct supervision, productivity would decline. However, multiple studies have since disproven that worry, leading influential companies such as Twitter to authorize and promote remote work even after the lifting of COVID restrictions.
Governments also contribute to the promotion of working abroad through programs commonly known as “digital nomad visas.” These visas are immigration documents that grant individuals the ability to reside in a specific country for an extended duration. The appeal of digital nomad visas is evident as they allow employees to seek a different rhythm and environment. Moreover, these visas provide a culturally immersive encounter beyond the ordinary vacation, enabling employees to fully integrate into their new surroundings while continuing their professional pursuits without interruption.
Every country has its own distinct entry requirements, including digital nomad visa applications, which typically require proof of income and remote employment. These conditions are in place to ensure that individuals, referred to as “digital nomads” when they travel abroad, can sustain themselves during their stay without needing to compete for local jobs. Obtaining travel insurance is another mandatory requirement for digital nomads due to obvious reasons. Generally, these visa applications have a cost of approximately $1,000 and permit stays ranging from 6 months to 2 years, with the option to extend the visa if desired.
The unexpected benefits of nomad visas
In addition to digital nomads, journalists, psychologists, and economists have also acknowledged the advantages of nomad visas for the global economy. The primary benefit is the facilitation of worker mobility across various regions. This is particularly significant in countries like Japan, which have stringent immigration regulations, resulting in lengthy waits for work or residency permits for employees and their families.
An article recently published in Harvard Business Review challenges the apprehensions of critics regarding nomad visa programs. These critics are concerned that foreign workers could potentially claim local jobs. However, the article disputes this notion by asserting that digital nomads contribute to the local economy through their time and financial investments. Additionally, they form connections with local knowledge workers, fostering mutually beneficial relationships between remote workers and the local community.
Our list
Antigua & Barbuda
The Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) is a digital nomad visa recently introduced by the Caribbean nation of Antigua & Barbuda. This visa is specifically designed for remote workers who are able to demonstrate enough financial resources to sustain themselves and their accompanying family members.
Visitors will be required to maintain their own health insurance plan while staying within the country and enjoying its 365 different beaches, as this visa is valid for 2 years.
Basic Conditions
- You own a location independent business (and/or)
- You work remotely for a company based outside of Antigua & Barbuda
- You earn at least $50,000 per year
- You have your own travel/health insurance plan
How To Apply
- Fill out the online application form
- Provide proof of employment and a police background check.
- Pay the visa fee: $1,500 for one person, $2,000 for a couple, $3000 for a family of 3 or more.
Bali
The stunning island of Bali, Indonesia has always been a favored destination for remote workers to establish their presence. Although specific information is not yet available, there has been an announcement that Bali is planning to introduce a fresh digital nomad visa in the upcoming year.
The Bali remote work visa is valid for a maximum of 5 years, and individuals holding the visa are exempt from paying taxes on their income generated outside of Bali. This announcement is significant, and I will ensure to share any forthcoming information regarding the specifics of Bali’s digital nomad visa. Undoubtedly, numerous nomadic individuals would appreciate the opportunity to legally work from Bali by utilizing such a visa.
Barbados
Barbados has additionally welcomed digital nomads and remote workers, who wish to seek refuge from the pandemic while establishing their residence in a stunning island getaway.
Why not work from home in Barbados and live next to the beach with the option to renew the special 12-month visa for remote workers for even longer?
Basic Conditions
- You own a location independent business (and/or)
- You work remotely for a company based outside of Barbados
- You earn at least $50,000 per year
- You must undergo mandatory COVID-19 test and 48-hour quarantine
How To Apply
- Fill out the online application form
- Submit all required paperwork and pay the $2000 visa fee.
Bermuda
Bermuda is now a member of the remote work visa club as they have introduced the “Work From Bermuda” digital nomad visa. This new visa is an extension of an existing residency program that enables digital nomads and remote workers to reside in the country for a maximum duration of one year.
The new visa aims to appeal to professionals who typically work remotely from home and are interested in establishing their base in an island destination for an extended period of time.
Basic Conditions
- You own a location independent business (and/or)
- You work remotely for a company based outside of Bermuda
- No minimum income requirement!
- You must undergo mandatory COVID-19 test
- Show proof of travel insurance
How To Apply
- Fill out the online application form
- Submit any required paperwork and pay the $263 visa fee.
Cayman Islands
The Global Citizen Certificate (GCC) was launched by the Cayman Islands as a special visa for digital nomads, enabling them to stay in the islands for a duration of up to 2 years.
However, the income criteria in this list are more demanding compared to other countries: individuals need to furnish evidence of earning at least $100,000 per year, while couples must show a minimum annual salary of $150,000.
Basic Conditions
- You must be employed by an entity outside of the Cayman Islands.
- A notarized bank reference letter.
- Applicants are subject to background checks.
- Show proof of health insurance coverage.
How To Apply
- Fill out the online application form
- Submit required paperwork and pay the application fee of $1,469.
Leave a Reply