Working from home has become the usual practice since the outbreak of the pandemic. All you need to do is open your laptop and initiate your work from anywhere, be it your bedroom, a coffee shop or even a park, as long as you have internet connectivity.

Consequently, the global trend of remote work has led to a surge in demand for digital nomad visas. Various nations have joined the bandwagon of providing such visas to lure overseas employees to operate from their residences located in foreign countries.

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

To work remotely for a foreign country while residing in a different nation, one can avail the digital nomad visa. It is mandatory to possess a work permit and be registered as a taxpayer to work in another country. Relocating from one’s homeland is usually compulsory for such work.

On the contrary, temporary residency in a foreign country is a perk of possessing a digital nomad visa, as you work and pay taxes in your home country. Typically, digital nomads are exempted from paying taxes in their destination country.

Many countries around the world have introduced digital nomad visas, including EU countries. Each country has its own rules regarding the application process and other requirements.

HOW DO DIGITAL NOMAD VISAS WORK?

Different policies and regulations apply to digital nomad visas issued by each country. Some countries enable qualified citizens to easily apply online, while others mandate that applicants submit their application via an embassy or consulate.

Individuals who work remotely should review the requirements and procedures for obtaining a digital nomad visa in their desired destination. Diplomatic agencies can offer guidance and aid with respect to work and nomad visas.

Typically, a candidate seeking a digital nomad visa requires the following:

• Eligible and valid passport
• Proof of a steady remote income
• Completed application form

An application fee may be necessary in numerous countries that offer digital nomad visas.

It is important for travelers to confirm if they require any extra documentation, including medical insurance, vaccine certificates, or other mandates related to health requirements in Europe.

WHO QUALIFIES FOR A DIGITAL NOMAD VISA?

Proof of being a remote worker is typically required from those applying for a digital nomad visa.

In order to prove their financial stability throughout their entire visit, it may be necessary for them to present financial records like bank statements and receipts as evidence.

Although some people can demonstrate that they work remotely, they may not all qualify for a digital nomad visa.

Several other factors determine eligibility, including:

• Nationality of the applicant
• Visitor’s visa history
• Whether the applicant is considered a threat to the security or health of the country of destination

Before applying, remote workers should confirm whether they are eligible.

DIGITAL NOMAD VISAS IN EUROPE

The profession of digital nomads is relatively new, and it has taken countries worldwide some time to figure out how to incorporate them into their visa policies. As a result, several nations are now establishing particular regulations and visas for them.

This change is being led by Europe, as EU member states aspire to draw in these experts and utilize the often accompanying economic upturn.

Review the details listed for each country that provides an EU digital nomad visa.

How Digital Nomads Make Money

If you’re eager to experience a nomadic lifestyle, there’s a crucial step you need to take before quitting your current job – learning how to earn money remotely.

Fortuitously, there are numerous choices available that are expanding year by year as enterprises downsize and engage remote employees to lessen expenses associated with physical workspace.

This transformation has been further expedited due to the worldwide pandemic.

You have the option to work remotely for other companies or launch your own business that operates online as an entrepreneur.

Digital Nomad Job Examples

Although it is impossible to compile a comprehensive list of remote jobs, I have encountered several common ones in my travels. For more extensive job options that enable you to travel, visit this link.

For me, I have my own travel blog which I find both enjoyable and suitable for my skills. Various blogging options are available, such as DIY blogs, food blogs, personal finance blogs, photography blogs, hiking blogs, gear blogs, and more.

Remote Work & Entrepreneurship Resources

One of the major obstacles to achieving location independence is determining your income source as a digital nomad.

Regrettably, I am unable to provide specific instructions as everyone possesses distinct capabilities, knowledge, and likes. You will have to discover the solution on your own.

I am capable of guiding you towards helpful books and websites that have proved beneficial to me throughout the years.

I received assistance from them in the past, so I am confident that they will also assist you in achieving success.

BOOKS

• Remote: No Office Required by Jason Fried aims to help you convince your boss why it makes sense to allow you to work remotely.
• The 100 Dollar Startup by Chris Guillebeau interviews 50 different people who started successful businesses for as little as $100.
• The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss gives tips for working less and earning more by starting a business and hiring others to run it.
• Job Escape Plan by Jyotsna Ramachandran explains the steps of building a location independent business on the side before quitting your job.
• Rework by Jason Fried shows you how succeed with starting a business as quickly and easily as possible in the modern world.

WEBSITES

• Flexjobs has an updated job board for remote work opportunities.
• Remote.co is dedicated to resources for remote workers.
• How To Become A Freelancer shares the basics of a freelance career.
• Power To Fly lists dream jobs around the world.
• We Work Remotely is the largest remote work community online.
• Working Traveller is a place where employers can hire digital nomads.

Which EU Countries Offer Digital Nomad Visas?

Digital nomad visas are offered by the following EU countries:

• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Estonia
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Latvia
• Malta
• Romania
• The Netherlands
• Norway (only in Svalbard)

Croatia Digital Nomad Visa

To apply for a Croatia digital nomad visa, it is essential to adhere to the eligibility criteria listed below:

• You must prove that you have a monthly income of around 2,300€.
• You must work for a company outside of Croatia.

Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa

In order to apply for a Cyprus digital nomad visa, you must satisfy the eligibility criteria listed below.

• You work for an employer registered outside Cyprus.
• You will work by using telecommunications technology.
• You prove that you have a monthly income of at least €3,500.

Estonia Digital Nomad Visa

To apply for an Estonia digital nomad visa, you need to meet the eligibility requirements specified below.

• You must be over the age of 18.
• You can work remotely using telecommunication technology.
• You have an employment contract with a company registered outside Estonia.
• You must prove that you are a freelancer or a digital nomad.
• You must prove that you have enough financial means.

Greece Digital Nomad Visa

When submitting your application for a Greece digital nomad visa, you need to meet the eligibility criteria listed below.

• You must be able to prove that you are a digital nomad.
• You must prove that you will work by using telecommunications technology.
• You must have an employment contract with a company registered outside Greece.
• You must have a monthly salary of at least €3,500.

Hungary Digital Nomad Visa

When applying for a digital nomad visa in Hungary, it is necessary to meet the eligibility requirements listed below.

• You work for an employer registered outside Malta.
• You will work by using telecommunications technology.
• You are a partner/shareholder in a company registered in a foreign country.
• You have a minimum of €2,000 monthly income.

Iceland Digital Nomad Visa

In order to apply for an Iceland digital nomad visa, the eligibility criteria listed below must be met.

• Your country has a visa-free travel agreement with Iceland.
• You have not acquired another Iceland long-term visa in the last year.
• You must prove that you will work remotely.
• You must prove that you have a monthly income of ISK 1,000,000 (appx. €7,300).

Latvia Digital Nomad Visa

When applying for a Latvian digital nomad visa, it is necessary to adhere to the eligibility criteria.

• Be employed by a company registered in an OECD country or self-employed with a business registered in an OECD country.
• Proof of employment with an employer registered abroad for at least six months.
• Can work remotely.
• Have an income of at least €2,875.50.
• Proof of health insurance for your entire stay.

Malta Digital Nomad Visa

When submitting an application for a Malta digital nomad visa, it is necessary to meet the eligibility requirements outlined below.

• You must have a monthly income of at least €2,700.
• You must work for an employer registered outside Malta, or
  • You must be a partner/shareholder in a company registered in a foreign country.
• You will work by using telecommunications technology.

Romania Digital Nomad Visa

In order to apply for a Romania digital nomad visa, you must meet the eligibility requirements listed below.

• You must work for a company registered outside Romania.
• You will work by using telecommunications technology.
• Have an income of at least €3,700 per month.

Netherlands Digital Nomad Visa

Applying for a Dutch digital nomad visa requires meeting the eligibility requirements listed below.

• You work for an employer registered outside the Netherlands.
• You will work by using telecommunications technology.
• You have sufficient income to cover your stay.

Svalbard Digital Nomad Visa

Complying with the eligibility standards is mandatory when seeking a Svalbard digital nomad visa.

• You receive an annual income of at least €35,720 a year.
• You must work for a company registered abroad.
• You will work by using telecommunications technology.

Pros & Cons Of Location Independence

The Downsides

For numerous individuals, the idea of being able to work from any location is a desirable goal. Nonetheless, just like any decision made in life, living a nomadic way of life has its benefits and drawbacks. Below are a few of the negative aspects:

• Moving constantly is exhausting
• Your productivity can suffer
• Digital nomads often battle loneliness
• Finding stability is difficult
• A general lack of private space
• Travel loses its luster & wow factor

My wife, child and I returned to the United States and purchased a home after a decade of globetrotting, due to the negative experiences catching up with us.

What Are the Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa?

Acquiring a digital nomad visa in an EU country will entitle you to the following advantages.

• Traveling. If you obtain a digital nomad visa, you will be able to see new places and work at the same time. You do not need to worry about asking for holiday leave because you will simply be working on your laptop and then exploring new places after your schedule.
• Meet new people. When you start working remotely from another country as a digital nomad, you can meet new people of different cultures and traditions. You can make new friends in different coffee shops, coworking places, or wherever you choose to work from your laptop.
• No double taxes. Typically, you are not required to pay taxes in the host country; you do pay taxes in the country in which you are registered as a worker.
• New cultures. With the digital nomad visa, you will have the chance to learn more about yourself as you immerse in different cultures.
• New cuisines. It is no doubt that once you start living in a new country, you will try their food. You have the opportunity of exploring new dishes and add new favorites to your food list.