20 Countries that Offer Remote Work Visas

As technology allows for more flexibility in the workplace, many countries have begun to offer remote work visas to accommodate these shifts. 

Sometimes referred to as digital nomads, remote visa holders have the flexibility to work a remote job, either with a company or as a freelancer. Many workers choose to make this leap to work remotely in a foreign country for both the cultural experience and for a cheaper cost of living.

For many countries, offering remote work visas is an excellent way to invigorate the global economy and promote global mobility on a smaller scale. Countries can boost their economies with new talent. Companies can reach a wider range of customers. 

In this guide, we’ll give you a breakdown on remote work visas and 20 countries that offer remote work visas. 

What is the difference between a digital nomad and a freelancer?

A freelancer can be a digital nomad, but there are some differences between the two when applying for a remote work visa. 

Freelancers: Freelancers are self-employed individuals who work for themselves or companies as contractors. Freelancers don’t have to work a set schedule, which means they can work remotely from home or travel while completing each individual project. 

Digital nomads: Digital nomads travel and work remotely. The main criteria for digital nomads is working while living a “nomadic lifestyle.” Digital nomads can work remotely full-time for a company or they can work remotely as a freelancer. 

The criteria for obtaining any of the remote work visas listed here applies to both freelancers and digital nomads. Most countries want you to simply be employed by a company outside of that country or show your 1099-contractor status. Both digital nomads and freelancers must prove that they make a certain amount per month over the monthly minimum wage in that country. 

How do taxes work for remote work visas? 

Some countries want you to pay full taxes while living there, some have special tax rates & deductions for remote workers, and others expect you to pay zero taxes because they know you are paying taxes in your home country. 

Most countries, however, expect you to have international health insurance and pay into the country's social security system. 

Below we’ll note how taxes are expected to be paid in each country. 

20 countries with remote work visas 

1. Australia

With Australia located seemingly at the bottom of the globe, many remote workers choose this location to escape. 

When applying to work remotely in Australia, first-time digital nomads will need to apply for the First Working Holiday Visa, which provides temporary residence for 1 year. After your trial year, you can apply for an extension for a Second Working Holiday Visa. 

 Eligibility for work visa: 

• Between 18-25 years old 

• Must be applying solo, no dependents are allowed

• Valid passport 

• Must have a freelance or remote work job in another country for at least 6 months prior to application

• Make enough money to support yourself (website recommends $5,000 AUD or $3,302 USD/month)  

How to apply: 

• Apply here (website will only work outside of Australia) 

• Normal processing time is around 14 days 

Taxes:  

• Zero taxes but you must be paying taxes in your employer’s country

2. Brazil 

In 2022, Brazil created digital nomad visas in order to boost the creator economy. Digital nomads can now apply to live and work remotely in the country for 12 months under this visa. Once expired, you have the ability to extend your stay for another 12 months. 

 Eligibility for work visa: 

• Must have a self-employed freelancer position or remote position at a country outside of Brazil 

• Must make at least $1,500 USD per month or have at least $17,000 USD in your bank account

• No criminal record

• International health insurance that is covered in Brazil 

• Confirmation from employer through a declaration letter that you can work through information technology channels 

• Payment of $100 USD for application fee 

How to apply: 

• You must apply in-person at a Brazilian consular office

• Processing time can take up to 1 month 

Taxes: 

• Zero taxes but you must be paying taxes in your employer’s country

3. Belize 

Belize is a tropical country that would make any remote worker swoon. The country recently launched their Work Where You Vacation remote work program for digital nomads. Remote workers have the ability to remotely work in Belize for up to 180 days under this visa. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Demonstrate employment outside of Belize

• Make a minimum of $75,000 USD per year for singles and $100,000 USD for couples applying together

• Share a notarized banking statement 

• Supply a clean criminal record

• Hold a valid passport

• Carry travel insurance with a policy minimum of $50,000 USD

How to apply:

• Fill out application and apply here

• Processing time is 2 weeks-1 month 

 Taxes: 

• Zero taxes but you must be paying taxes in your employer’s country

4. Colombia 

Colombia is quickly becoming a hub for digital nomads and for tech startups in Latin America. Colombia recently launched a remote work visa that allows foreign workers to live in Colombia for up to 6 months in 1 year. The visa is good for up to 2 years, so if you’re really planning to explore the digital nomad lifestyle, you can come and go from the country as you explore other countries in Latin America during this period. 

A Colombian employer-of-record can easily help you recruit and hire remote workers in the country without the confusion of navigating the visa process.

Eligibility for work visa: 

• No paid work from an employer within Colombia 

• Employment by a foreign company or starting a digital business that could be of interest to the Colombian economy 

• A monthly income of at least $900 USD

• Letter of declaration from employer proving that you work remotely for their company 

How to apply: 

• Submit a completed application online

• Processing time is up to 1 month

Taxes: 

• Remote workers will only have to pay taxes in Colombia if they stay for more than 180 days 

5. Costa Rica 

With San Jose being a hub for tech startups in Latin America, you’ll find both the rush of a cosmopolitan lifestyle mixed with the laid back beach bum vibes when you apply for Costa Rica’s digital nomad visa. Costa Rica allows remote workers to live and work within the country for up to 2 years. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Proof of monthly income of $2,500 USD or a deposit of $60,000 USD in a Costa Rican bank account 

• Self-employment or being employed by a company outside of Costa Rica 

• Having travel insurance of at least $50,000 USD

• Proof of payment of $100 USD for application 

How to apply: 

• You can either apply in-person at a Costa Rican consulate or online here 

• All documents in a language other than Spanish must be translated

• Processing time is up to 1 month 

Taxes: 

• Remote workers are exempt from paying income taxes in Costa Rica 

  6. Croatia 

Croatia offers both historical sites and the beach. Croatia’s remote work visa allows expats to live in the country for up to 12 months while working remotely. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Proof of self-employment or remote work from a foreign employer 

• Minimum of $370 USD in income or savings per month 

• A clean criminal background check in country of origin

• Proof of accommodation (lease or written agreement from landlord) if you’re staying for more than 10 days 

• Health and travel insurance 

How to apply: 

• Obtain a personal identification number for the social security system

• Complete the application form

• Provide 2 passport-sized photos 

• Pay $75 for application fee

• Processing time is 30-60 days 

Taxes: 

• Zero taxes but you must be paying taxes in your employer’s country

   7. Czech Republic 

The Czech Republic’s version of a remote work visa, the Zivno, can be a little more complicated to obtain than the others on this list. This visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed for an additional year. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Have an eligible trade license for one of these trades

• Proof of accommodation for at least 1 year

• Proof of at least $6,385 USD per person in your bank account 

How to apply 

• Make sure you have all the required documents

• Make an appointment with your local Czech Embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• $114 USD application fee 

• Processing time is anywhere from 90-115 days, so make sure you apply early 

Taxes: 

In the Czech Republic, you are required to pay around $80 USD in local taxes each month of your stay 

   8. Estonia 

Of all the countries on this list, Estonia is the first country to offer e-residency. This is a government issued digital identity that gives you transparent access to business and public services all over the country. Long-stay digital nomad visas in Estonia are 1 year. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Be self-employed, own a location agnostic business, or work for an employer outside of Estonia 

• Earn at least $3,500 USD per month

• Have a valid passport 

• Proof of accommodation 

• Have a work contract if remotely employed for an outside employer 

• Proof of health insurance coverage of at least $30,000 

How to apply: 

• Complete the application form 

• You can apply in person at an Estonian Embassy; you’ll have to make an appointment online

• Application fee is $80 USD

• Processing time ranges anywhere from 2-4 weeks 

Taxes: 

• Under 183 days no income taxes

• Over 183 consecutive days you will be taxed as you are now considered a resident 

    9. Germany 

Germany has one of the best transportation systems in Europe as well as a fast-paced business lifestyle. Thanks to a new Digital Nomad Visa in Germany, remote workers can live and work in Germany anywhere between 6 months to 3 years. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Work remotely or as a freelancer for a company outside of Germany 

• Prove that you have an income of at least $1,400 EUR per month 

• Proof of accommodation 

• Health insurance plan 

How to apply: 

• Gather all required documentation

• Schedule an appointment with the immigration office

• Pay application fee of $105 USD

• Processing time is between 5-6 weeks 

Taxes: 

In Germany, you are required to pay income and local taxes because you are considered a resident. You will need to register with the German Tax Agency. 

   10. Greece 

Some of the oldest culture in the world comes from Greece. The country offers the ability for remote workers to explore temples and islands. Remote work visas are good for up to 12 months. 

Eligibility for remote work visas: 

• Must be a non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen 

• Have a monthly income of at least $3,700 USD

• Self-employed or employed by a country outside of Greece

• No Greek tax residence for at least 5 of the last 6 years 

• Health insurance 

• Written agreement that you will not enter into employment with a Greek employer 

How to apply: 

• Fill out and submit your application at a Greek embassy

• Processing time is as low as 10 days 

• Application fee is $80 USD 

Taxes: 

• If you spend more than 6 months in Greece, you will have to pay taxes

• Under 6 months, digital nomads benefit from zero taxes 

    11. Hungary 

Budapest and the rest of Hungary are known for having a rich culture and amazing architecture. The remote work visa in Hungary is called the White Card and is good for 12 months. It can be renewed for an additional year. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Passport that is valid for 6 months before application 

• Bank statement that proves income of at least $2,111 USD per month 

• Employment or self-employment outside the country 

• Travel health insurance that includes Hungary 

• Lease or booking confirmation that proves accommodation once you arrive 

How to apply: 

• Complete your application with all required documentation 

• Submit documentation a local Hungarian consulate

• Pay application fee of $125 USD

• Processing time can be up to 1 month 

Taxes: 

• You will become a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in Hungary and will have to enroll for income tax deductions 

12. Indonesia/Bali 

One of the more popular places for digital nomads, Bali offers a low cost of living and a wide-range of beaches. Indonesia, where Bali is located, just recently launched a remote work visa. Right now the original digital nomad visa is only 60 days with the option to extend twice. The Indonesian government is hoping to launch a 5-year digital nomad visa in 2023. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Valid passport for at least 36 months after arriving 

• Self-employed, freelancer, or remote worker for a company outside of Indonesia 

• Proof of health insurance 

How to apply: 

• You can apply here 

Taxes: 

Right now, remote workers pay zero taxes because they aren’t able to stay longer than 183 days. Passage of the extended visa may require income tax deductions for those living in the country longer than 183 days. 

   13. Italy 

Another cultural hotspot, Italy offers both the fast-paced city life in places like Rome and quiet vibes in the seaside towns along the Amalfi coast. A remote work visa for digital nomads was passed in 2022, but the application has not officially launched yet. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Clean criminal record 

• Be a non-EU or EEA citizen 

• Proof of suitable income in the Italian state you plan to live 

• Have an annual gross income of at least $8,500 in the previous year

• Provide proof of accommodation 

• Work independently or for an employer outside of Italy 

• Health insurance coverage for the first 30 days in Italy 

How to apply: 

• Application will soon be live 

Taxes: 

• Right now, the tax situation is still unknown. However, most European countries require 0 residence taxes for the first 183 days, so it’s likely that taxes will be similar in Italy 

   14. Jamaica 

Although only available to digital nomads from the US, Jamaica is a great option for US-based remote workers because there are no minimum income requirements. Jamaica has a laid back atmosphere and proximity to the beach. The remote work visa is good for up to 2 years and allows for US-based dependents. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Provide proof of a US passport 

• Work for a company or be self-employed outside of Jamaica 

• No minimum income requirements 

• Have travel insurance

How to apply: 

• Apply at a Jamaican embassy

• Apply for travel authorization

• Processing time is only 10 days and the application is free

Taxes: 

• Zero taxes are deducted in Jamaica on income from those working remotely for a foreign employer 

   15. Mexico 

Mexico offers a temporary resident visa that remote workers can apply for that can last anywhere from 6 months to 4 years with proper documentation and renewal. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Proof of a valid passport 

• Self-employment or remote work for a company outside of Mexico 

• Proof of income of about $2,600 USD 

How to apply: 

• Complete the application form 

• Schedule an appointment with a Mexican embassy or consulate 

• Application fee is around $281 USD

• Processing time is between 4-6 weeks 

Taxes: 

• Zero income tax deductions in Mexico as long as you’re paying taxes in your home country 

If you partner with an EOR in Mexico, you will receive help along the way in every step of the visa process.

   16. New Zealand 

Immigrating to New Zealand permanently proves to be one of the more challenging tasks in the whole world. However, if you want to work remotely, they offer a Working Holiday visa similar to Australia’s holiday visa. In New Zealand, these visas are good for up to 1 year, with US and Canadian remote workers eligible to apply for up to 23 months. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Nationality requirements and eligibility will differ

• Between 18-35 years old 

• $210 USD per month of income and savings in your bank account 

• Work as your secondary purpose of visit 

• Pass an immigration health check 

• Valid passport for at least 15 months after application 

How to apply: 

• Apply for the visa online 

• Application fee varies depending on country of residence

• Processing time varies from 28 working days to 89 working days (so apply with plenty of time) 

Taxes: 

• You are not required to pay income taxes in New Zealand on anything other than income you’ve earned in the country 

    17. Norway 

The cost of living in Norway is a bit higher than the rest of Europe. However, the country strongly looks out for their residents and offers a wide range of public services. There is no set duration for Norway’s remote work visa; however, most digital nomads choose to live in the country for around 2 years. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Freelancer or employment for a company outside of Norway 

• Relevant qualifications that prove you are stable in your profession 

• Proof of accommodation in Norway (lease, written statement, and a copy of landlord’s ID) 

• Proof of income of at least $37,710 USD per year before taxes 

How to apply: 

• Fill out and provide all of the required documentation

• Fill out the application form 

• Schedule a meeting to drop off application form at a Norwegian embassy

• Application cost is $677 USD

• Processing time is around 2 weeks 

Taxes: 

• After 183 days in Norway, you are considered a tax resident and subject to income tax deductions on your remote employment 

     18. Portugal 

Remote workers who live in Portugal often find themselves falling in love with the country and applying for permanent residency. The Portuguese digital nomad visa is good for up to 1 year. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Proof of employment contract at a country outside of Portugal 

• Stable employment for at least 12 months 

• Formal letter from employer confirming that you can work remotely for 1 year

• 4 times the Portuguese monthly salary at $2,976 USD per month

• Clean criminal background 

• Proof of accommodation during your stay 

How to apply: 

• Fill out the application form 

• Schedule an appointment at the nearest Portuguese consulate

• The initial application is $180 USD and the residence permit is $303 USD

• Processing time ranges anywhere from 4-6 months 

Taxes: 

• In Portugal, you are required to pay income taxes. Your tax residency depends on your country of origin. 

   19. Spain 

The Spanish government just recently decided to create an extensive digital nomad program within the country, and the official visa will launch for remote workers in 2023. Upon approval, digital nomads will be able to live and work in Spain for up to 5 years as long as they’re remotely employed. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Work remotely for a company based outside the EU or EEA

• Prove that you have been working remotely for 1 year before submitting an application 

• Provide a valid employment contract

• Meet a minimum monthly income requirement of $2,111 USD 

• Pass a criminal background check 

How to apply: 

• The full requirements and application should open in March 2023

Taxes: 

• Tax deductions for remote workers will be determined when the visa goes live

    20. Thailand 

Another super popular destination for remote workers, Thailand offers the hustle and bustle of city life, alongside a stunning set of beaches. Cost of living in Thailand is relatively low compared to Europe and the US. The Long Term Residence Program in Thailand allows applicants to stay in the country for up to 10 years with proper documentation. 

Eligibility for work visa: 

• Valid passport for 6 months after application 

• $80,000 USD annual income per year

• Health insurance with coverage up to $50,000 USD

• Remote work proof, either self-employed or with an employment contract outside of Thailand 

How to apply: 

• Supply the proper documentation 

• Submit your application

• Application fee is around $1,440 USD

• Processing time is 30 working days 

Taxes: 

• Zero taxes are required for income earned outside of Thailand 

Why companies partner with Via 

Companies of all sizes want to hire remote employees around the world, but don’t know how to navigate sticky situations like remote work taxes, offboarding, terminations, and severance.

For businesses of all shapes and sizes, Via makes hiring talent around the world and building your global team seamless. With our easy-to-use platform and payment tools, Via helps you manage local HR processes for direct employment such as work visas & permits, employee data privacy compliance, benefits, global payroll solutions, background checks, and other legal products. Our team of local labor lawyers and on-the-ground experts ensure that your company remains compliant while expanding abroad. As your employer-of-record/entity abroad, Via assumes responsibility for employment liability, so that you can focus on what matters: recruiting and managing your team. 

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