Want to move to Europe? Here are all the countries where you can apply for a digital nomad visa
Across Europe, countries are capitalising on remote work by offering digital nomad visas.
Since the pandemic, many of us have enjoyed the freedom to work from anywhere.
Recognising the potential to boost their flagging tourism industries, countries from Croatia to Spain are making it easier to gain temporary residency while working for a foreign company.
Not only does this help fill the low-season gaps in tourism-reliant destinations, it offers non-EU citizens the peace of mind and the chance to legally work remotely.
Digital nomad visas help host countries combat other problems, too, from brain drain to ageing populations.
If you’re looking to move to Europe, work remotely, and gain the right to travel in the Schengen Area, a digital nomad visa could be just the ticket.
Here’s a comparison of the remote work visas currently - or soon to be - available in Europe, including length of stay, application fees and income requirements.
Some have been specifically designed for remote workers while others are previously existing visas that have been adapted to people who want to work while travelling.
What digital nomad visas are available in Europe? Albania: For stunning nature and low cost of living
Visa length: One year, with possibility to renew for up to five years
Application fee: Based on reciprocity
Income requirement: Estimated €9,800/year
Digital nomads can apply for an Albanian residence permit that allows them to stay and work there for up to one year. Introduced at the start of 2022, the socalled 'Unique Permit' can be renewed up to five times in a row.
Remote workers must show proof of an employment contract for a company outside of the country that allows them to work remotely, as well as relevant qualifications. They must also have a local bank account, housing contract, health insurance and clean criminal record, as well as proof of funds to support themselves.
Croatia: For sunshine undamped by tax woes
Visa length: One year, with possibility to renew
Application fee: Around €60 Income requirement: Around €2,500/month
Croatia launched its one-year residence permit for digital nomads in 2021. The scheme is open to non-EU/EEA citizens working in ‘ communication technology’ - either through their own company registered abroad or as a remote employee for a company outside Croatia.
Provided they don't require a tourist visa to enter Croatia, remote workers can apply for a one-year residence permit after arrival. Close family members can also apply for temporary residence.
Remote workers are currently not subject to income tax in Croatia.
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Cyprus: For Mediterranean beaches and ancient history
Visa length: One year, with possibility to renew for two years Application fee: €70
Income requirement: €3,500/month
Open to non-EU nationals, Cyprus's remote work visa launched in 2021 with a cap of 100 nomads. In 2022, the government increased this ceiling to 500 visas.
To be eligible, you must work for an employer registered outside Cyprus.
Digital nomads are permitted to bring their families with them, though these people are not permitted to work in Cyprus.
Czech Republic: For affordable living and fairytale castles
Visa length: Up to one year Application fee: €200
Income requirement: Must have €5,000 in your bank account
Remote workers can apply for a long-term business or freelance licence in the Czech Republic. Colloquially known as the ‘zivno’ visa (short for Zivnostenske opravneni or trade authorisation), it is intended for non-EU citizens who freelance or run their own business.
It requires ties with a company in the Czech Republic, so can be used by those intending to gain local freelance work such as teaching.
Estonia: For digital-forward infrastructure on a budget
Visa length: One year, with possibility to extend by six months Application fee: €100
Income requirement: €4,500/month
Estonia launched its digital nomad visa in summer 2020. It lets people working remotely for companies abroad - or freelancers with clients mostly abroad - stay in Estonia for up to one year at a time. You can apply for an additional six-month visa after your initial one expires.
Applicants must have earned at least €3,500 net per month in the six months preceding their application.
If you remain in Estonia for more than half a year, you will gain tax residency and be subject to local taxes.
The country also offers ‘ e-residency’, which grants remote entrepreneurs digital access to Estonia’s e-services without providing residency. This can be used to run a company online, access banking, and declare taxes in Estonia without actually living there.
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Finland: For untouched nature in the world’s happiest country
Visa length: Six months Application fee: €400
Income requirement: €1,220/month
Finland’s self-employment visa is open to non-EU entrepreneurs who are self-employed or run an independent business. Applicants must meet the minimum income requirement and prove they have means.
Greece: For islandhopping and year-round sun
Visa length: One year, with possibility to extend with a residence permit
Application fee: €75
Income requirement:
€3,500/month
In 2022, Greece launched a scheme to allow non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in the country. To be approved, you’ll