Your laptop’s fully charged, your passport is itching for its next stamp and your office view changes with the seasons.
Whatever your version of remote working looks like, you are more than ready to embrace an exciting new lifestyle by taking advantage of the opportunities in countries with digital nomad visas.
But while working remotely across Europe sounds like a dream come true, the reality of hopping between tourist visas, 90-day limits and ever-changing border rules can get complicated fast – especially now that more countries are tightening entry requirements and keeping a closer eye on long-term stays.
That’s where the Digital Nomad Visa comes in.
Designed for freelancers, remote employees, and self-employed professionals, these visas offer a way to live and work legally in a European country without having to navigate grey areas or overstay your welcome.
In this complete guide, we cover:
- What a digital nomad visa is
- The main benefits
- What countries offer a digital nomad visa
- Where to apply
- What you’ll need to qualify
- Why having the right expat insurance still matters
What exactly is a digital nomad visa?
A digital nomad visa is a type of residence permit that allows remote workers, freelancers, or self-employed individuals to live and work legally in a foreign country without needing to be employed by a local company.
Unlike tourist visas which usually cap out at 30 to 90 days, digital nomad visas typically allow you to stay in a country for six months to two years, with the option to extend in many cases.
Some even come with tax perks or simplified bureaucracy.
In short: the digital nomad visa is a legal pathway for remote work abroad, designed specifically for the work-from-anywhere crowd.
Why are countries offering digital nomad visas?
Post-pandemic, countries around the world experienced a huge uplift in remote workers choosing to travel while working. That’s great for local economies, but pretty tricky from a legal and tax perspective.
By introducing dedicated visas for digital nomads, governments get a win-win by:
- Attracting high-earning professionals
- Boosting local spending without competing for local jobs
- Keeping immigration and taxation policies clear and enforceable
So what are the countries that offer digital nomad visas? So far, numerous countries around the world have launched digital nomad visa programs including Portugal, Spain, Estonia, Barbados, Costa Rica and many more. See further details below.
What are the benefits of a digital nomad visa?
Is it really worth the paperwork? Here’s what you get with a digital nomad visa:
- Longer stays – Forget the 90-day shuffle. Most digital nomad visas offer stays of 6 months to 2 years, often with renewal options. No more running to the border every few weeks.
- Legal work status – You won’t have to worry about working “unofficially” on a tourist visa. With a digital nomad visa, your remote work is legally recognised.
- Access to local services – Some countries allow digital nomad visa holders to open local bank accounts, access private healthcare, and even rent long-term housing more easily.
- Tax incentives – Some, but not all, visa programs offer tax breaks or simplified tax rules like a flat rate or exemption from local income tax if you’re earning abroad.
What do you need to qualify for a digital nomad visa?
Digital nomad visa requirements vary by country, but here’s what most applications will ask you for:
- Proof of remote employment or self-employment
- Minimum monthly income (usually between €2,000–€3,500)
- Valid health insurance
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of accommodation or your plans to secure a place to live
You don’t usually need a job from the country you’re applying to—just proof you can support yourself financially while living there.
What are the countries with digital nomad visas?
The list is growing fast, but here are a few popular countries that offer digital nomad visas:
- Barbados: The “Welcome Stamp” allows remote workers to enjoy island life for up to 12 months.
- Costa Rica: Its digital nomad visa requires proof of $3,000 a month income and is ideal for remote workers who love nature.
- Croatia: Apply for a digital nomad residence permit with proof of non-EU remote work, income of around €2,540/month, valid health insurance, and accommodation.
- Cyprus: Cyprus’s digital nomad visa requires non-EU applicants to prove remote work, earn at least €3,500/month, and secure local accommodation and insurance.
- Czech Republic: Apply for the Zivno visa (freelance trade license) by registering a trade license, proving your income and securing accommodation and health insurance.
- Estonia: One of the first EU countries to launch a digital nomad visa with clear rules and quick processing.
- France: Does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa but does allow remote workers to legally live and work in the country through existing visa options such as the Professional Libérale Visa and the Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)
- Germany: Existing visa options such as the Freelance Visa (Freiberufler) and the Self-Employment Visa (Selbständigkeit) allow digital nomads to live in Germany while working remotely, provided they meet certain criteria.
- Greece: Greece’s digital nomad visa requires proof of remote work, a minimum monthly income of €3,500, and comprehensive health coverage too.
- Hungary: Hungary’s “White Card” calls for remote workers to earn at least €2,000 a month, work for a company outside Hungary and have valid insurance and housing in place.
- Ireland: While Ireland does not currently offer a digital nomad visa, remote workers are welcome to stay in the country short-term under tourist status without working for Irish clients.
- Italy: Introducing a digital nomad visa in 2024 for highly skilled remote workers, Italy requires a minimum income, private insurance and tax registration.
- Latvia: Latvia’s digital nomad visa allows remote workers from OECD countries to work in the country, provided there is proof of a minimum monthly income and valid health insurance.
- Malta: Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit requires proof of remote work, a monthly income of €2,700, and health insurance for a one-year renewable stay.
- Netherlands: The Netherlands doesn’t offer a digital nomad visa, but self-employed workers can apply for a residence permit by presenting a viable business plan and financial means.
- Portugal: Offers a new visa under the D8 category for remote workers, with access to the NHR tax regime and incredible lifestyle perks.
- Romania: Romania’s digital nomad visa requires proof of remote work, a monthly income of at least €3,700, accommodation, and valid health insurance.
- Spain: Launched its digital nomad visa in 2023 with competitive tax incentives and access to public healthcare.
More and more countries are coming on board with digital nomad visas (here’s a list of 66 countries with them currently), so keep an eye out if your dream destination isn’t on the list just yet.
Why expat health insurance still matters
Just because you’re staying longer and living like a local doesn’t mean you should skip travel or health insurance. In fact, many digital nomad visas require proof of valid insurance to apply.
Here’s why it’s still essential:
- International healthcare isn’t free: Even in countries with public systems, you’ll usually need private coverage as a non-resident. A good travel insurance policy helps you avoid massive out-of-pocket medical costs.
- Emergencies and accidents happen: When you’re far from home, you’ll want and need support that speaks your language and knows what to do.
- Plans change: Remote work means freedom, but it also means flexibility is a must. Trip cancellation, early departures, or unexpected events can derail your stay. Insurance helps protect your plans and your bank account.
If you’re applying for a digital nomad visa—in Spain or anywhere else in the EU—having the right health insurance is one of the most important boxes to tick.
Feather’s expat health insurance is tailor-made for remote workers and freelancers on the move. It gives you instant coverage, so you’re protected from day one of your visa application.
What makes Feather ideal for digital nomads?
If you’re planning to apply for a digital nomad visa, Feather is built for you.
Here’s how:
- Visa-compliant health and travel insurance: Get proof of insurance instantly. Feather’s policies are tailored to meet visa requirements for digital nomads across Europe and beyond.
- Fully digital, totally paperless: Apply, manage, and claim online—no need to print or post anything. Wherever the destination, you’re always in control.
- Real support from people you can trust: Our team doesn’t work on commission. They’re here to help you find the right policy, not the most expensive one.
- Flexible coverage options: Choose the level of coverage that suits your lifestyle, including travel health, cancellation, and baggage protection.
- Trusted by nomads and expats: We’ve helped thousands of remote workers live and travel with confidence. Now it’s your turn.
No paperwork, no hidden fees — just straightforward, digital-first coverage made for modern nomads.
