How to Get a Digital Nomad Visa (Step‑by‑Step)?

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a whole new kind of entrepreneur emerge—people who work entirely online, usually with just a laptop and a good internet connection. These folks can work from almost anywhere: cafes, hotel rooms, beaches—you name it. They’re called digital nomads, and they live a mobile lifestyle, untied to any one place.

Thanks to technology, digital nomads can work remotely across the globe. But there’s a catch—you can’t just set up shop in another country without checking the legal side of things. That’s where digital nomad visas come in.

In today’s post, we’ll explore everything you need to know:

• What a digital nomad visa is
• How it works
• Who needs it
• The application process
• And the countries that offer it

Let’s dive in!

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa gives you legal permission to live in a foreign country while working remotely. It’s different from a tourist visa because it’s designed for people who want to stay longer and continue working for an overseas employer or their own business.

Some countries give these programs unique names—for example, the Cayman Islands calls theirs the Global Citizen Concierge Program. Others might simply refer to it as a “residence permit.”

It’s not just for employees either—students, freelancers, and business owners can also apply, though the requirements and costs vary.

Also Read: How Much Does it Cost to be a Digital Nomad?

Do You Always Need a Visa to Be a Digital Nomad?

Not always. If you’re only staying in a country for a short time, a tourist visa might be enough. But if you plan to live and work there for a few months or longer, then yes—you’ll probably need a digital nomad visa.

Just remember: neither tourist nor digital nomad visas allow you to get a job with a local company. You still have to work for a company based outside the country.

How Does a Digital Nomad Visa Work?

Every country has its own rules, but here’s a general idea:

Some countries let you apply online, while others require you to visit an embassy or consulate in person. You’ll usually need to prove two things:

• That you have a steady income from remote work
• That your passport is valid

You’ll also likely need:

• Health or travel insurance
• Proof of vaccinations (in some places)
• Other personal documents (like a birth certificate or resume)

Even if you have all the documents, approval also depends on things like:

• Your nationality
• Your visa history
• Whether you pose any security or health risks to the country

It’s important to research and stay updated on each country’s specific visa requirements.

Also Read: Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2025

How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Fill Out the Application
Start by filling out the digital nomad visa form. Some countries let you do this online, while others may require you to do it on paper. Be honest and double-check your info.

Step 2: Book an Appointment at the Embassy or Consulate
Find the nearest embassy or consulate where you’ll submit your application. If your country doesn’t have one nearby, you might need to visit one in a neighboring country.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need things like:

• A completed application form
• A valid passport
• Passport-sized photos
• Proof of remote income
• Health insurance
• Any supporting documents (like your work contract, business license, or CV)

Some documents may need to be translated or certified.

Step 4: Submit the Application
Hand in your application and documents at your appointment. You may need to attend an interview and pay the visa fee—sometimes upfront, depending on the country.

Why You Might Want a Digital Nomad Visa

Tourist visas usually don’t allow remote work, even though many people do it anyway. And while it’s true that authorities often don’t monitor cafés or co-working spaces, things are changing.

With more digital nomads popping up, border officials are starting to ask more questions. If you plan to stay in a country long-term and work remotely, it’s safer to get a proper visa.

A digital nomad visa gives you:

• Legal work status
• Peace of mind
• Access to temporary resident perks in some countries

Also Read: Best Credit Cards for Digital Nomads

25 Countries That Offer Digital Nomad Visas

Here are some popular places offering digital nomad programs (as of July 2021):

Country	Key Details
Costa Rica	2-year visa. Need $2,500/month income or $60,000 bank deposit.
Croatia	1-year visa. Must show ~$2,670/month income. Fee: 420–880 HRK.
Estonia	1-year visa. Need €3,504/month income. Fee: €80–€100.
Germany	Freelancers can apply. 3 months to 3 years. Fee: €60.
Mexico	180 days–4 years. Monthly income: ~$2,166. Fee: $56+.
Norway	2-year visa. Need €35,719/year. Fee: €600.
Portugal	1-year visa, renewable. Fee: €83 + €72 resident permit.
Czech Republic	1-year Zivno visa. Must show ~$5,750 income.
Iceland	180-day visa. Fee: ~$98. Income requirements apply.
Hungary	1-year “White Card”. Must show €2,000/month. Fee: €110.
Bahamas	1–3 years. $25 app fee + $1,000 per person.
Barbados	1-year visa. Costs $2,000. Must earn $50,000/year.
Bermuda	1-year visa. Fee: $263. No income minimum, but high cost of living.
Cayman Islands	2-year visa. Must earn $100K (single), $150K (couple), $180K (family). Fee: $1,469.
Dominica	18 months. Must earn $70,000/year. Total cost: ~$900 (single).
Brazil	1-year, renewable. Need $1,500/month income.
Dubai	1-year virtual visa. Fee: $287. Income: €5,000/month.
Taiwan	Gold Card. Flexible. Income: ~$5,700/month or skill-based entry.
Montserrat	1-year visa. Fee: $500 (single), $750+ (family). Must earn $70,000/year.
Malta	1-year renewable. Must earn €2,700/month. Fee: €300.
Greece	Up to 2 years. Offers 50% tax reduction for some nationalities.