Not long ago, if you told someone you were working from a beach, they’d assume you were on a sabbatical or freelancing under the radar. Today? You might just be on a digital nomad visa.

Since the rise of remote work, dozens of countries have rolled out special visa schemes targeting location-independent professionals, inviting them to live and work legally. If you're itching to pack your bags and plug in from somewhere new, here’s a breakdown of the easiest countries to move to right now, plus what makes them remote worker-friendly.

Also read: Beyond the basics: Smart ways to grow as a digital nomad

What is a digital nomad visa?

A digital nomad visa is a residence permit that allows remote workers, typically freelancers, business owners, or full-time employees with foreign clients or employers, to live in another country while working online.

Unlike tourist visas (which often prohibit remote work),digital nomad visas are tailor-made for location-independent professionals and usually allow stays of 6–24 months, with the option to extend.

Also read: How to travel the world without quitting your job

What makes a country easy for digital nomads?

“Easy” means different things to different people, but when we talk about easy digital nomad visas, we’re looking at:

• Simple application process: Online submissions, minimal paperwork, quick approvals.
• Low-income requirements: Many nomad visas require proof of steady income, some more than others.
• Reasonable fees: No one wants to pay huge amounts just to work abroad.
• Access to essentials: Strong internet, remote-friendly infrastructure, coworking spaces, and an international community.

Top countries with the easiest digital nomad visas in 2025

1. Portugal

Portugal’s D7 visa is one of Europe’s most flexible long-term visa options. The country also offers excellent healthcare, interesting cities, and a growing remote work culture.

• Minimum income required: About €820/month
• Visa duration: 1 year, renewable for up to 5 years
• Perks: Path to residency, visa-free Schengen travel
• Application tip: Although the D7 wasn’t designed just for digital nomads, many use it for that purpose.

2. Spain

Spain launched its official digital nomad visa in 2023, with one of the lowest income thresholds in Western Europe and access to a special tax scheme.

• Minimum income required: About €2,200/month
• Visa duration: Up to 1 year, extendable to 5 years
• Perks: 15% tax rate for 4 years, access to public services
• Application tip: Your employer or clients must be located outside Spain.

3. Costa Rica

The Rentista visa used to be the go-to, but Costa Rica’s new digital nomad visa is tailor-made for remote workers. The country is peaceful and naturally stunning and is already a hotspot for US-based nomads.

• Minimum income required: $3,000/month (or $4,000 for families)
• Visa duration: 1 year, renewable
• Perks: No local tax on foreign income, easy renewal process
• Application tip: Proof of income must come from outside Costa Rica.

4. Mauritius

Mauritius offers a free premium visa for remote workers who want to live in paradise for up to a year. Some of the requirements include:

• Minimum income required: $1,500/month
• Visa duration: 12 months
• Perks: No visa fee, stunning island life, strong expat support
• Application tip: Must show a return ticket and accommodation booking.

5. Estonia

Estonia was the first EU country to launch an official digital nomad visa.

• Minimum income required: €4,500/month (last 6 months)
• Visa duration: 1 year
• Perks: Strong digital government, vibrant startup scene
• Application tip: It’s one of the most transparent application processes in Europe.

Tips before you apply

• Check health insurance requirements: Many visas require private insurance before arrival.
• Get your income proof ready: This is often bank statements, invoices, or employment letters.
• Know your tax obligations: Some countries don’t tax foreign income, others do.
• Look for community: Coworking spaces, Slack groups, and expat meetups can make all the difference.

Also read: Can you work remotely while travelling on a tourist visa?

How Grey helps digital nomads settle anywhere

Living and working abroad is fun, until it’s time to get paid. That’s where Grey comes in.

As a digital nomad, you can open a global USD, EUR, or GBP account in minutes, right from your phone. Receive international payments, hold multiple currencies, and convert money at the best rates on the market, without needing to visit a local bank.

There’s never been a better time to be a digital nomad, especially now that governments are rolling out the red carpet. If you’re ready to swap your city skyline for ocean views or ancient architecture, start exploring your visa options and pack smart.

Just don’t forget your charger. And your Grey account. Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking designed to carry your dreams across borders.

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